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Kotila-Ioannou A, Morrell JM, Ntallaris T, Gargallo M, Skidmore L, Malo C. Use of a sperm-Hyaluronan binding assay for evaluation of sperm quality in dromedary camels. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 270:107596. [PMID: 39288730 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107596] [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: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the ability of camel spermatozoa to bind in the Hyaluronan Binding Assay (HBA), to determine if conventional sperm quality parameters, in vitro fertilization capacity, and precursor of A-Kinase Anchoring Protein 4 (proAKAP4) values correlate with HBA results. The potential to predict post-thaw fertilization performance from HBA for fresh dromedary camel sperm was also evaluated. Semen samples were collected and assessed both fresh and post thawing, at 0 h and 1.5 h. Conventional semen analysis, HBA, and a proAKAP4 biomarker-test were used to validate sperm quality. A heterologous sperm penetration assay using zona pellucida-free goat oocytes was used to assess in vitro sperm fertilizing capacity. The results showed that dromedary camel spermatozoa bound to hyaluronan with no correlation between results from fresh samples and after thawing. Furthermore, the proAKAP4 test results showed a negative correlation with HBA at 0 h after thawing (r = - 0.62; P = 0.03). In the conventional analysis, only progressive motility (r = 0.65; P = 0.02) and straightness correlated with HBA for fresh semen (r = 0.69; P = 0.01). In the sperm penetration assay, a moderate but non-significant correlation was identified between fresh sperm HBA and penetration (r = 0.52; P = 0.07). In conclusion, results suggested that HBA can be used to assess camel sperm properties, but further investigation is needed to understand its correlation with other sperm quality parameters. The HBA score from fresh dromedary camel sperm was unable to predict post-thaw fertilization performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kotila-Ioannou
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sweden
| | - J M Morrell
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sweden
| | - T Ntallaris
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sweden
| | - M Gargallo
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza 50009, Spain
| | - L Skidmore
- Camel Reproduction Centre, PO Box 79914, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - C Malo
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), Zaragoza 50009, Spain; Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza 50018, Spain.
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Ganeva R, Parvanov D, Vidolova N, Handzhiyska M, Ruseva M, Vasileva M, Nikolova K, Ivanova I, Shaban M, Shabarkova J, Hristova R, Miladinova M, Stamenov G. Sperm selection by zona adhesion improves assisted reproductive treatment outcomes. Andrology 2024; 12:1373-1380. [PMID: 38225818 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zona pellucida is one of the main selective barriers for the spermatozoa before reaching the oocyte. Using native zona in the sperm selection prior to Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) has been proven effective but inconvenient approach in In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) laboratory. The application of autologous solubilised zonae pellucidae in the sperm selection prior to ICSI has not been studied yet. OBJECTIVES To compare the assisted reproductive treatment (ART) outcomes (implantation, pregnancy, live birth, and miscarriage rates) after ICSI performed with spermatozoa selected on their ability to adhere to immobilised solubilised zonae pellucidae and conventionally selected spermatozoa. MATERIALS AND METHODS In total, 500 couples fulfilled the inclusion criteria and 368 of them were included in the study. After random allocation, 192 couples had spermatozoa selected by sperm-zona adhesion for ICSI (study group) and 176 patients underwent standard ICSI (control group). In the study group, patients' own zonae were acid solubilised and immobilised on petri dishes. The partner's motile spermatozoa were placed in the dishes and the adhered spermatozoa were used for ICSI. For the control group, the conventional sperm selection by morphological criteria was applied prior ICSI. All women underwent frozen ET with euploid embryos. Chi square test was used to compare the data. RESULTS The sperm selection by zona adhesion resulted in significantly higher implantation rate (50.4% vs. 37.0%, p = 0.003), clinical pregnancy rate (43.8% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.018) and live birth rate (38.0% vs. 25.9%, p = 0.004) and significantly lower incidence of miscarriage (11.3% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.044) in comparison to the conventional method of the sperm selection. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The application of solubilised zonae pellucidae in the sperm selection for ICSI benefits ART outcomes in couples with unexplained infertility. Moreover, sperm-zona selection significantly reduces the risk of miscarriages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumiana Ganeva
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Parvanov
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nina Vidolova
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Handzhiyska
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Margarita Ruseva
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Magdaleva Vasileva
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Kristina Nikolova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivka Ivanova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Miray Shaban
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Joanna Shabarkova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rayna Hristova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Milena Miladinova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Stamenov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Batra V, Dagar K, Diwakar MP, Kumaresan A, Kumar R, Datta TK. The proteomic landscape of sperm surface deciphers its maturational and functional aspects in buffalo. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1413817. [PMID: 39005499 PMCID: PMC11239549 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1413817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Buffalo is a dominant dairy animal in many agriculture-based economies. However, the poor reproductive efficiency (low conception rate) of the buffalo bulls constrains the realization of its full production potential. This in turn leads to economic and welfare issues, especially for the marginal farmers in such economies. The mammalian sperm surface proteins have been implicated in the regulation of survival and function of the spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Nonetheless, the lack of specific studies on buffalo sperm surface makes it difficult for researchers to explore and investigate the role of these proteins in the regulation of mechanisms associated with sperm protection, survival, and function. This study aimed to generate a buffalo sperm surface-specific proteomic fingerprint (LC-MS/MS) and to predict the functional roles of the identified proteins. The three treatments used to remove sperm surface protein viz. Elevated salt, phosphoinositide phospholipase C (PI-PLC) and in vitro capacitation led to the identification of N = 1,695 proteins (≥1 high-quality peptide-spectrum matches (PSMs), p < 0.05, and FDR<0.01). Almost half of these proteins (N = 873) were found to be involved in crucial processes relevant in the context of male fertility, e.g., spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and protection in the FRT, and gamete interaction or fertilization, amongst others. The extensive sperm-surface proteomic repertoire discovered in this study is unparalleled vis-à-vis the depth of identification of reproduction-specific cell-surface proteins and can provide a potential framework for further studies on the functional aspects of buffalo spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Batra
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Komal Dagar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Maharana Pratap Diwakar
- Cell Science and Molecular Biology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
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Fietz D, Sgaier R, O’Donnell L, Stanton PG, Dagley LF, Webb AI, Schuppe HC, Diemer T, Pilatz A. Proteomic biomarkers in seminal plasma as predictors of reproductive potential in azoospermic men. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1327800. [PMID: 38654926 PMCID: PMC11035875 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1327800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Azoospermia, characterized by an absence of sperm in the ejaculate, represents the most severe form of male infertility. While surgical sperm retrieval in obstructive azoospermia (OA) is successful in the majority of cases, patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) show retrieval rates of only about 50% and thus frequently have unnecessary surgery. Surgical intervention could be avoided if patients without preserved spermatogenesis are identified preoperatively. This prospective study aimed to discover biomarkers in seminal plasma that could be employed for a non-invasive differential diagnosis of OA/NOA in order to rationalize surgery recommendations and improve success rates. Methods All patients signed written informed consent, underwent comprehensive andrological evaluation, received human genetics to exclude relevant pathologies, and patients with azoospermia underwent surgical sperm retrieval. Using label-free LC-MS/MS, we compared the proteomes of seminal plasma samples from fertile men (healthy controls (HC), n=8) and infertile men diagnosed with 1) OA (n=7), 2) NOA with successful sperm retrieval (mixed testicular atrophy (MTA), n=8), and 3) NOA without sperm retrieval (Sertoli cell-only phenotype (SCO), n=7). Relative abundance changes of two candidate markers of sperm retrieval, HSPA2 and LDHC, were confirmed by Western Blot. Results We found the protein expression levels of 42 proteins to be significantly down-regulated (p ≤ 0.05) in seminal plasma from SCO NOA patients relative to HC whereas only one protein was down-regulated in seminal plasma from MTA patients. Analysis of tissue and cell expression suggested that the testis-specific proteins LDHC, PGK2, DPEP3, and germ-cell enriched heat-shock proteins HSPA2 and HSPA4L are promising biomarkers of spermatogenic function. Western blotting revealed a significantly lower abundance of LDHC and HSPA2 in the seminal plasma of men with NOA (SCO and MTA) compared to controls. Discussion The results indicate that certain testis-specific proteins when measured in seminal plasma, could serve as indicators of the presence of sperm in the testis and predict the success of sperm retrieval. Used in conjunction with conventional clinical assessments, these proteomic biomarkers may assist in the non-invasive diagnosis of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Raouda Sgaier
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter G. Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura F. Dagley
- Advanced Technology and Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew I. Webb
- Advanced Technology and Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Diemer
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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McPherson NO, Nottle M, McIlfatrick S, Saini A, Hamilton H, Bowman E, Tully CA, Pacella-Ince L, Zander-Fox D, Bakos HW. Clinical use of progesterone in human sperm preparation media for increasing IVF success. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103625. [PMID: 38402675 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103625] [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: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can the addition of progesterone and neurotensin, molecular agents found in the female reproductive tract, after sperm washing increase the fertilization potential of human spermatozoa? DESIGN (i) Cohort study of 24 men. Spermatozoa selected by swim-up were incubated in either progesterone or neurotensin (0.1-100 µM) for 1-4 h, and hyperactive motility and binding to hyaluronan (0.1-100 µM) were assessed. The effect of progesterone 10 µM on sperm function was assessed in a blinded manner, including: hyperactive motility, binding to hyaluronan, tyrosine phosphorylation, acrosome reaction and oxidative DNA damage. (i) Embryo safety testing [one-cell mouse embryo assay (MEA), endotoxin and sterility counts (n = 3)] in preclinical embryo models of IVF (murine and porcine, n = 7 each model) and a small preliminary human study (n = 4) of couples undergoing standard IVF with oocytes inseminated with spermatozoa ± 10 µM progesterone. RESULTS Progesterone 10 µM increased sperm binding to hyaluronan, hyperactive motility and tyrosine phosphorylation (all P < 0.05). Neurotensin had no effect (P > 0.05). Progesterone 10 µM in human embryo culture media passed embryo safety testing (MEA, endotoxin concentration and sterility plate count). In preclinical models of IVF, the exposure of spermatozoa to progesterone 10 µM and oocytes to progesterone 1 µM was not detrimental, and increased the fertilization rate in mice and the blastocyst cell number in mice and pigs (all P ≤ 0.03). In humans, every transferred blastocyst that had been produced from spermatozoa exposed to progesterone resulted in a live birth. CONCLUSION The addition of progesterone to sperm preparation media shows promise as an adjunct to current methods for increasing fertilization potential. Randomized controlled trials are required to determine the clinical utility of progesterone for improving IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O McPherson
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Mark Nottle
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephan McIlfatrick
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anmol Saini
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | | - Cathryn A Tully
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Leanne Pacella-Ince
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Hassan W Bakos
- Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Memphasys Ltd, Homebush, Australia
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Gómez-Torres MJ, Huerta-Retamal N, Sáez-Espinosa P, Robles-Gómez L, Avilés M, Aizpurua J. Molecular Chaperone HSPA2 Distribution During Hyaluronic Acid Selection in Human Sperm. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1176-1185. [PMID: 35819578 PMCID: PMC10160204 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01031-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
During fertilization, sperm hyaluronidase activity is essential for spermatozoa to successfully penetrate the hyaluronic acid-enriched extracellular matrix of the cumulus cells. Since molecular chaperones, as the heat shock protein A2, are typically involved in bringing hyaluronic acid receptors to the cell surface, here we evaluated the presence and spatial location of HSPA2 on human spermatozoa based on its hyaluronic acid binding capacity. This study included 16 normozoospermic sperm samples from volunteering donors. The location of HSPA2 was studied in cells before and after 1-h incubation under capacitating conditions, as well as in spermatozoa selected according to their ability of binding to hyaluronic acid. Our results showed no significant differences in HSPA2 immunofluorescent cells before and after 1 h of incubation in capacitating conditions. Nevertheless, after hyaluronic acid selection, the percentage of HSPA2-labelled cells increased significantly, indicating that the interaction with hyaluronic acid may induce the unmasking of HSPA2 epitopes. Furthermore, after swim-up and hyaluronic acid selection, spermatozoa presented a highly immunostained equatorial band with a homogeneous fluorescence throughout the acrosomal region. This distribution has been previously suggested to have important implications in male fertility. Noteworthy, a homogeneous fluorescence among the acrosomal region with a more intense labelling at the apical region was observed only in hyaluronic acid bound sperm cells, which may be associated with primary gamete recognition. Our findings suggest that the hyaluronic acid selection technique and HSPA2 biomarker should be considered candidates to complement the classic seminal analysis before recommending an appropriate assisted reproduction technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690, Alicante, Spain.
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain.
| | | | - Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690, Alicante, Spain
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690, Alicante, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología Celular E Histología, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sociosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), 30003, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Medicina Reproductiva, 03540, Alicante, Spain
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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Regulation of germline proteostasis by HSF1 and insulin/IGF-1 signaling. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:501-512. [PMID: 36892215 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
Protein homeostasis (proteostasis) is essential for cellular function and organismal health and requires the concerted actions of protein synthesis, folding, transport, and turnover. In sexually reproducing organisms, the immortal germline lineage passes genetic information across generations. Accumulating evidence indicates the importance of proteome integrity for germ cells as genome stability. As gametogenesis involves very active protein synthesis and is highly energy-demanding, it has unique requirements for proteostasis regulation and is sensitive to stress and nutrient availability. The heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), a key transcriptional regulator of cellular response to cytosolic and nuclear protein misfolding has evolutionarily conserved roles in germline development. Similarly, insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) signaling, a major nutrient-sensing pathway, impacts many aspects of gametogenesis. Here, we focus on HSF1 and IIS to review insights into their roles in germline proteostasis and discuss the implications on gamete quality control during stress and aging.
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Nixon B, Schjenken JE, Burke ND, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Hart HM, De Iuliis GN, Martin JH, Lord T, Bromfield EG. New horizons in human sperm selection for assisted reproduction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1145533. [PMID: 36909306 PMCID: PMC9992892 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1145533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a commonly encountered pathology that is estimated to be a contributory factor in approximately 50% of couples seeking recourse to assisted reproductive technologies. Upon clinical presentation, such males are commonly subjected to conventional diagnostic andrological practices that rely on descriptive criteria to define their fertility based on the number of morphologically normal, motile spermatozoa encountered within their ejaculate. Despite the virtual ubiquitous adoption of such diagnostic practices, they are not without their limitations and accordingly, there is now increasing awareness of the importance of assessing sperm quality in order to more accurately predict a male's fertility status. This realization raises the important question of which characteristics signify a high-quality, fertilization competent sperm cell. In this review, we reflect on recent advances in our mechanistic understanding of sperm biology and function, which are contributing to a growing armory of innovative approaches to diagnose and treat male infertility. In particular we review progress toward the implementation of precision medicine; the robust clinical adoption of which in the setting of fertility, currently lags well behind that of other fields of medicine. Despite this, research shows that the application of advanced technology platforms such as whole exome sequencing and proteomic analyses hold considerable promise in optimizing outcomes for the management of male infertility by uncovering and expanding our inventory of candidate infertility biomarkers, as well as those associated with recurrent pregnancy loss. Similarly, the development of advanced imaging technologies in tandem with machine learning artificial intelligence are poised to disrupt the fertility care paradigm by advancing our understanding of the molecular and biological causes of infertility to provide novel avenues for future diagnostics and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brett Nixon,
| | - John E. Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan D. Burke
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Hanah M. Hart
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Geoffry N. De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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9
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Leung ETY, Lee BKM, Lee CL, Tian X, Lam KKW, Li RHW, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Ou JP, Chiu PCN. The role of spermatozoa-zona pellucida interaction in selecting fertilization-competent spermatozoa in humans. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1135973. [PMID: 37020592 PMCID: PMC10067631 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1135973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Human fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the zona pellucida (ZP) surrounding a mature oocyte. Defective spermatozoa-ZP interaction contributes to male infertility and is a leading cause of reduced fertilization rates in assisted reproduction treatments (ARTs). Human ejaculate contains millions of spermatozoa with varying degrees of fertilization potential and genetic quality, of which only thousands of motile spermatozoa can bind to the ZP at the fertilization site. This observation suggests that human ZP selectively interacts with competitively superior spermatozoa characterized by high fertilizing capability and genetic integrity. However, direct evidence for ZP-mediated sperm selection process is lacking. This study aims to demonstrate that spermatozoa-ZP interaction represents a crucial step in selecting fertilization-competent spermatozoa in humans. ZP-bound and unbound spermatozoa were respectively collected by a spermatozoa-ZP coincubation assay. The time-course data demonstrated that ZP interacted with a small proportion of motile spermatozoa. Heat shock 70 kDa protein 2 (HSPA2) and sperm acrosome associated 3 (SPACA 3) are two protein markers associated with the sperm ZP-binding ability. Immunofluorescent staining indicated that the ZP-bound spermatozoa had significantly higher expression levels of HSPA2 and SPACA3 than the unbound spermatozoa. ZP-bound spermatozoa had a significantly higher level of normal morphology, DNA integrity, chromatin integrity, protamination and global methylation when compared to the unbound spermatozoa. The results validated the possibility of applying spermatozoa-ZP interaction to select fertilization-competent spermatozoa in ART. This highly selective interaction might also provide diagnostic information regarding the fertilization potential and genetic qualities of spermatozoa independent of those derived from the standard semen analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica T. Y. Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Brayden K. M. Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinyi Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kevin K. W. Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ernest H. Y. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian-Ping Ou,
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian-Ping Ou,
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10
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Gómez-Torres MJ, Sáez-Espinosa P, Manzano-Santiago P, Robles-Gómez L, Huerta-Retamal N, Aizpurua J. Sperm Adhesion Molecule 1 (SPAM1) Distribution in Selected Human Sperm by Hyaluronic Acid Test. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102553. [PMID: 36289815 PMCID: PMC9599839 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The failures of binding to the oocyte zona pellucida are commonly attributed to defects in the sperm recognition, adhesion, and fusion molecules. SPAM1 (sperm adhesion molecule 1) is a hyaluronidase implicated in the dispersion of the cumulus-oocyte matrix. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the SPAM1 distribution in the different physiological conditions of human sperm. Specifically, we evaluated the location of the SPAM1 protein in human sperm before capacitation, at one and four hours of capacitation and after hyaluronic acid (HA) selection test by fluorescence microscopy. Sperm bound to HA were considered mature and those that crossed it immature. Our results detected three SPAM1 fluorescent patterns: label throughout the head (P1), equatorial segment with acrosomal faith label (P2), and postacrosomal label (P3). The data obtained after recovering the mature sperm by the HA selection significantly (p < 0.05) highlighted the P1 in both capacitation times, being 79.74 and 81.48% after one hour and four hours, respectively. Thus, the HA test identified that human sperm require the presence of SPAM1 throughout the sperm head (P1) to properly contact the cumulus-oocyte matrix. Overall, our results provide novel insights into the physiological basis of sperm capacitation and could contribute to the improvement of selection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-903-878
| | - Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, 03540 Alicante, Spain
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11
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Targeted Analysis of HSP70 Isoforms in Human Spermatozoa in the Context of Capacitation and Motility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126497. [PMID: 35742939 PMCID: PMC9224233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
HSP70s constitute a family of chaperones, some isoforms of which appear to play a role in sperm function. Notably, global proteomic studies analyzing proteins deregulated in asthenozoospermia, a main cause of male infertility characterized by low sperm motility, showed the dysregulation of some HSP70 isoforms. However, to date, no clear trend has been established since the variations in the abundance of HSP70 isoforms differed between studies. The HSPA2 isoform has been reported to play a key role in fertilization, but its dysregulation and possible relocation during capacitation, a maturation process making the spermatozoon capable of fertilizing an oocyte, is debated in the literature. The aim of the present study was to investigate the fate of all sperm HSP70 isoforms during capacitation and in relation to sperm motility. Using Multiple-Reaction Monitoring (MRM) mass spectrometry, we showed that the relative abundance of all detected isoforms was stable between non-capacitated and capacitated spermatozoa. Immunofluorescence using two different antibodies also demonstrated the stability of HSP70 isoform localization during capacitation. We also investigated spermatozoa purified from 20 sperm samples displaying various levels of total and progressive sperm motility. We showed that the abundance of HSP70 isoforms is not correlated to sperm total or progressive motility.
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12
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Abstract
The proteostasis network (PN) regulates protein synthesis, folding, and degradation and is critical for the health and function of all cells. The PN has been extensively studied in the context of aging and age-related diseases, and loss of proteostasis is regarded as a major contributor to many age-associated disorders. In contrast to somatic tissues, an important feature of germ cells is their ability to maintain a healthy proteome across generations. Accumulating evidence has now revealed multiple layers of PN regulation that support germ cell function, determine reproductive capacity during aging, and prioritize reproduction at the expense of somatic health. Here, we review recent insights into these different modes of regulation and their implications for reproductive and somatic aging.
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13
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Corda PO, Silva JV, Pereira SC, Barros A, Alves MG, Fardilha M. Bioinformatic Approach to Unveil Key Differentially Expressed Proteins in Human Sperm After Slow and Rapid Cryopreservation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:759354. [PMID: 35145967 PMCID: PMC8821918 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.759354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, two conventional freezing techniques are used in sperm cryopreservation: slow freezing (SF) and rapid freezing (RF). Despite the protocolar improvements, cryopreservation still induces significant alterations in spermatozoon that are poorly understood. Here, available proteomic data from human cryopreserved sperm was analyzed through bioinformatic tools to unveil key differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) that can be used as modulation targets or quality markers. From the included proteomic studies, 160 and 555 DEPs were collected for SF and RF groups, respectively. For each group, an integrative network was constructed using gene ontology and protein-protein interaction data to identify key DEPs. Among them, arylsulfatase A (ARSA) was highlighted in both freezing networks, and low ARSA levels have been associated with poor-sperm quality. Thus, ARSA was selected for further experimental investigation and its levels were assessed in cryopreserved samples by western blot. ARSA levels were significantly decreased in RF and SF samples (∼31.97 and ∼39.28%, respectively). The bioinformatic analysis also revealed that the DEPs were strongly associated with proteasomal and translation pathways. The purposed bioinformatic approach allowed the identification of potential key DEPs in freeze-thawed human spermatozoa. ARSA has the potential to be used as a marker to assess sperm quality after cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro O Corda
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Vieira Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Department of Chemistry, QOPNA and LAQV, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara C Pereira
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alberto Barros
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA and LAQV, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Centre for Reproductive Genetics A. Barros, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Anatomy and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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14
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Nowicka-Bauer K, Malcher A, Włoczkowska O, Kamieniczna M, Olszewska M, Kurpisz MK. Evaluation of seminal plasma HSPA2 protein as a biomarker of human spermatogenesis status. Reprod Biol 2021; 22:100597. [PMID: 34959194 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, testicular Heat shock-related 70 kDa protein 2 (HSPA2) is a chaperon strictly linked to spermatogenesis status, whereas its presence in spermatozoa ensures successful oocyte fertilization. However, there is little information on this protein in seminal plasma in infertile males. Based on our previous two independent studies, we have selected HSPA2 to evaluate this seminal plasma protein is a potential biomarker of correct spermatogenesis. Using immunoblotting and mass spectrometry (MS) we have screened human seminal plasma samples for the presence of HSPA2. Samples were obtained from individuals with normozoospermia, cryptozoospermia, non-obstructive and obstructive azoospermia. Our results showed a lack of HSPA2 in seminal plasma in all azoospermic males however, in cryptozoospermia the results were extremely diversified. Additionally, the application of 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) indicated the presence of additional protein isoforms suggesting possible mechanisms underlying the male infertility. Our findings suggest seminal plasma HSPA2 protein as a possible biomarker not only of spermatogenesis status, especially in cryptozoospermic males, but also as a biomarker predicting the success of reproductive treatment including assisted reproductive techniques (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agnieszka Malcher
- Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Olga Włoczkowska
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Marta Olszewska
- Institute of Human Genetics Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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15
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Abstract
Sperm selection in the female reproductive tract (FRT) is sophisticated. Only about 1,000 sperm out of millions in an ejaculate reach the fallopian tube and thus have a chance of fertilizing an oocyte. In assisted reproduction techniques, sperm are usually selected using their density or motility, characteristics that do not reflect their fertilization competence and, therefore, might result in failure to fertilize the oocyte. Although sperm processing in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) bypasses many of the selection processes in the FRT, selection by the cumulus mass and the zona pellucida remain intact. By contrast, the direct injection of a sperm into an oocyte in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) bypasses all natural selection barriers and, therefore, increases the risk of transferring paternal defects such as fragmented DNA and genomic abnormalities in sperm to the resulting child. Research into surrogate markers of fertilization potential and into simulating the natural sperm selection processes has progressed. However, methods of sperm isolation - such as hyaluronic acid-based selection and microfluidic isolation based on sperm tactic responses - use only one or two parameters and are not comparable with the multistep sperm selection processes naturally occurring within the FRT. Fertilization-competent sperm require a panel of molecules, including zona pellucida-binding proteins and ion channel proteins, that enable them to progress through the FRT to achieve fertilization. The optimal artificial sperm selection method will, therefore, probably need to use a multiparameter tool that incorporates the molecular signature of sperm with high fertilization potential, and their responses to external cues, within a microfluidic system that can replicate the physiological processes of the FRT in vitro.
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16
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Wang Y, Zhao W, Mei S, Chen P, Leung TY, Lee CL, Yeung WSB, Ou JP, Liang X, Chiu PCN. Identification of Sialyl-Lewis(x)-Interacting Protein on Human Spermatozoa. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:700396. [PMID: 34354992 PMCID: PMC8329450 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.700396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Capacitated spermatozoa initiate fertilization by binding to the zona pellucida (ZP). Defective spermatozoa-ZP binding causes infertility. The sialyl-Lewis(x) (SLeX) sequence is the most abundant terminal sequence on the glycans of human ZP glycoproteins involving in spermatozoa-ZP binding. This study aimed to identify and characterize the SLeX-binding proteins on human spermatozoa. By using affinity chromatography followed by mass spectrometric analysis, chromosome 1 open reading frame 56 (C1orf56) was identified to be a SLeX-binding protein of capacitated spermatozoa. The acrosomal region of spermatozoa possessed C1orf56 immunoreactive signals with intensities that increased after capacitation indicating translocation of C1orf56 to the cell surface during capacitation. Treatment with antibody against C1orf56 inhibited spermatozoa-ZP binding and ZP-induced acrosome reaction. Purified C1orf56 from capacitated spermatozoa bound to human ZP. A pilot clinical study was conducted and found no association between the percentage of capacitated spermatozoa with C1orf56 expression and in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate in assisted reproduction treatment. However, the percentage of C1orf56 positive spermatozoa in the acrosome-reacted population was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in cycles with a fertilization rate < 60% when compared to those with a higher fertilization rate, suggesting that C1orf56 may have functions after ZP-binding and acrosome reaction. A larger clinical trial is needed to determine the possible use of sperm C1orf56 content for the prediction of fertilization potential of sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Weie Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si Mei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Physiology, Medical College, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Panyu Chen
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tsz-Ying Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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17
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Liang J, Zheng Y, Zeng W, Chen L, Yang S, Du P, Wang Y, Yu X, Zhang X. Proteomic Profile of Sperm in Infertile Males Reveals Changes in Metabolic Pathways. Protein J 2021; 40:929-939. [PMID: 34213690 PMCID: PMC8593027 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-021-10013-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to investigate the differences in the proteomic profiles of sperm from infertile males with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia requiring intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and normal control sperm from fertile males. Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation labeling and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was performed for identifying proteins in the sperm of infertile and fertile males. Differentially expressed proteins were analyzed via the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases through the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery, and protein-protein networks were produced using the Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes. Immunofluorescence and western blotting verified the differential expression of Y-box-binding protein 1(YBX1), adenylate kinase 1 (AK1), and aconitase 2, mitochondrial (ACO2) proteins. Altogether, 3444 proteins were identified in the sperm of infertile and fertile males, and 938 were differentially expressed between the two groups. Pairwise comparisons revealed that 226 and 712 proteins were significantly upregulated and downregulated in infertile males, respectively. These proteins were significantly enriched in metabolic pathways as per KEGG enrichment analysis. YBX1 expression was upregulated in the sperm heads of patients requiring ICSI treatment, whereas AK1 and ACO2, which are critical enzymes involved in energy metabolism, were downregulated in the sperm tails of the same patients. This result indicates that metabolism may have a crucial role in maintaining normal sperm function. Overall, our results provide insights that will further help in investigating the pathogenic mechanisms of infertility and possible therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Liang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Yichun Zheng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China.
| | - Weihong Zeng
- Children Inherit Metabolism and Endocrine Department, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Liuqing Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaofen Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Peng Du
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Yujiang Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingsu Yu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiqian Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, No. 521 Xingnan Road, Guangzhou, 511400, Guangdong, China.
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18
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Pujianto DA, Oktarina M, Sharma Sharaswati IA, Yulhasri. Hydrogen Peroxide Has Adverse Effects on Human Sperm Quality Parameters, Induces Apoptosis, and Reduces Survival. J Hum Reprod Sci 2021; 14:121-128. [PMID: 34316226 PMCID: PMC8279063 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_241_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background One of the causes of male fertility disorders is the exposure of oxidative stress on the human sperm. Understanding the mechanism of disturbance is important to develop a better treatment for infertile or subfertile patients. Aims The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on human sperm quality parameters and cell survival. Settings and Design This study used an experimental design. Materials and Methods Sperm cells from 15 donors were washed in a Percoll gradient and dissolved in Biggers, Whitter, and Whittingham medium. Cells were incubated with H2O2 at various concentrations from 0 to 250 μM for 2 h. Sperm viability was examined by eosin assay, sperm kinetic by computer-assisted sperm analyzer, sperm penetration by cervical mucus penetration assay, and membrane integrity by hypo-osmotic swelling test. Sperm capacitation, apoptosis, and cell survival were analyzed using western immunoblotting. Statistical Analysis Used One-way ANOVA on SPSS 21 combined with post hoc LSD test was used to analyze differences among the groups. A P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results Sperm viability and kinetic were significantly reduced at H2O2 concentrations of 200 and 250 μM. H2O2 reduced sperm capability to penetrate cervical mucus and also damage cell membrane integrity at all concentrations used. H2O2 significantly inhibited sperm capacitation, indicated by reduced total tyrosine phosphorylation. H2O2 exposure stimulated activation of caspase 3 and significantly reduced phosphorylated AKT at all concentrations used. Conclusions H2O2 comprehensively inhibits sperm qualities related to the capacity to fertilize oocyte, stimulates caspase activity, and inhibits cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Mona Oktarina
- Master Program for Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ida Ayu Sharma Sharaswati
- Master Program for Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yulhasri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
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19
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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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20
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Gómez-Torres MJ, Huerta-Retamal N, Robles-Gómez L, Sáez-Espinosa P, Aizpurua J, Avilés M, Romero A. Arylsulfatase A Remodeling during Human Sperm In Vitro Capacitation Using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM). Cells 2021; 10:cells10020222. [PMID: 33498624 PMCID: PMC7912702 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Capacitation drives sperm biophysical and biochemical changes for sperm-oocyte interactions. It is a well-known fact that the molecular complex arylsulfatase A (ARSA), hyaluronidase sperm adhesion molecule 1 (SPAM1), and heat shock protein 2 (HSPA2) plays a significant role in sperm-zona pellucida (ZP) binding. However, the time-dependent capacitation effects on the sperm surface ARSA presence and specific topographic distributions remain to be elucidated. Here, we quantified the ARSA density and specific membrane domain locations before (US) and after in vitro capacitation (one and four hours; CS1-CS4) in human sperm using high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and immunogold labeling. Our results showed a significant and progressive capacitation-mediated increase of labeled spermatozoa from the US (37%) to CS4 (100%) physiological conditions. In addition, surface mapping revealed a close relationship between the ARSA residues and their acrosomal repositioning. Compared with the ARSA surface heterogeneous distribution found in US, the CS1-4 conditions exhibited clustering on the peri-acrosomal region, showing that time-dependent capacitation also induced a ARSA residue dramatic translocation on sperm surfaces. Our findings provide novel insights into the molecular remodeling events preceding sperm-oocyte interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (N.H.-R.); (L.R.-G.); (P.S.-E.); (A.R.)
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, 03080 Alicante, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-965-90-38-78
| | - Natalia Huerta-Retamal
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (N.H.-R.); (L.R.-G.); (P.S.-E.); (A.R.)
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (N.H.-R.); (L.R.-G.); (P.S.-E.); (A.R.)
| | - Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (N.H.-R.); (L.R.-G.); (P.S.-E.); (A.R.)
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, 03080 Alicante, Spain;
- IVF Spain, Medicina Reproductiva, 03540 Alicante, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sociosanitaria (IMIB), 30003 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Alejandro Romero
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (N.H.-R.); (L.R.-G.); (P.S.-E.); (A.R.)
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21
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Schallmoser A, Bakjaji F, Königsberger S, John J, Färber C, Schmidt E, Breitenbach-Koller H, Allam JP, Verguts J, Sänger N. Effect of mild α-chymotrypsin treatment of highly viscous semen samples on fertilization rates. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:448-454. [PMID: 33532332 PMCID: PMC7844487 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-1013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Highly viscous semen reduces sperm motility significantly and can contribute to infertility. When processing semen samples, few techniques exist to induce liquefaction in case of seminal hyperviscosity such as different washing steps and mechanical treatment. The use of α-chymotrypsin seems controversial due to possible negative effects on fertilisation rates after in vitro fertilization (IVF). The main objective of this study was to examine the influence of mild α-chymotrypsin treatment of semen samples on the fertilisation rate after artificial reproductive treatment (ART). Methods The fertilization rate of 52 ART cycles was examined following IVF using a low dose of α-chymotrypsin to induce liquefaction of highly viscous semen and was compared to a control group of 88 ART cycles. Results There was no significant difference in the fertilization rates of α-chymotrypsin treated semen samples compared to the control group; pregnancy rates were unaffected. Conclusions The use of mild α-chymotrypsin treatment of semen samples in case of hyperviscosity does not appear to impact negatively on the fertilization rates after ART and could be regarded as an additional method to induce liquefaction of highly viscous semen samples in IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schallmoser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Fadi Bakjaji
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Julia John
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Cara Färber
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Jasper Verguts
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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22
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Huerta-Retamal N, Sáez-Espinosa P, Robles-Gómez L, Romero A, Aizpurua J, Gómez-Torres MJ. [Localization of Arylsulfatase A during in vitro incubation of human spermatozoa in capacitation media]. Rev Int Androl 2020; 19:129-136. [PMID: 33342716 DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the localization and distribution of the ArylsulfataseA receptor (ARSA) in human spermatozoa before and after their incubation in capacitation medium for 1 and 4hours. MATERIAL AND METHODS Semen samples were obtained from five normozoospermic donors. Capacitation was by swim-up technique using capacitation medium for 1 and 4hours. Localization of the ARSA receptor was assessed by indirect immunofluorescence using confocal microscopy. A minimum of 200cells were observed in each physiological condition. RESULTS Before incubation, no representative pattern was observed among the cells positive for this biomarker (8.61%). This percentage increased significantly after incubation in the capacitation medium for 1 and 4hours (61.86% and 63.38% respectively). A majority pattern was observed among the capacitated cells, with intense labelling in the acrosomal region (27.11% and 28.20% after 1 and 4hours respectively). It should be noted that the pattern corresponding to fluorescence at the level of the periacrosomal region was not observed in the spermatozoa prior to incubation. Only after incubation in capacitation medium for 1 and 4hours, 9.13% and 12.78% of cells with such distribution were detected. CONCLUSIONS In vitro capacitation, regardless of time, favours the immunolocalization of ARSA in the cephalic region of the spermatozoa. The most representative subpopulation after this process was the one in which ARSA was intensely and homogeneously distributed in the acrosome region, involved in primary gamete recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, España
| | - Alejandro Romero
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, España
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Medicina Reproductiva, Alicante, España; Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, España
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, España; Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, España.
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23
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Gahlay GK, Rajput N. The enigmatic sperm proteins in mammalian fertilization: an overview†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1171-1185. [PMID: 32761117 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization involves a physical interaction between a sperm and an egg followed by molecular interactions amongst their various cell surface molecules. These interactions are initially mediated on the egg's outermost matrix, zona pellucida (ZP), and then its plasma membrane. To better understand this process, it is pertinent to find the corresponding molecules on sperm that interact with ZP or the egg's plasma membrane. Although currently, we have some knowledge about the binding partners for egg's plasma membrane on sperm, yet the ones involved in an interaction with ZP have remained remarkably elusive. This review provides comprehensive knowledge about the various sperm proteins participating in mammalian fertilization and discusses the possible reasons for not being able to identify the strong sperm surface candidate (s) for ZP adhesion. It also hypothesizes the existence of a multi-protein complex(s), members of which participate in oviduct transport, cumulus penetration, zona adhesion, and adhesion/fusion with the egg's plasma membrane; with some protein(s) having multiple roles during this process. Identification of these proteins is crucial as it improves our understanding of the process and allows us to successfully treat infertility, develop contraceptives, and improve artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagandeep Kaur Gahlay
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | - Neha Rajput
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
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24
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Huerta-Retamal N, Sáez-Espinosa P, Robles-Gómez L, Avilés M, Romero A, Aizpurua J, Gómez-Torres MJ. Human sperm chaperone HSPA2 distribution during in vitro capacitation. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 143:103246. [PMID: 33246276 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Human fertilization success depends on the ability of the spermatozoa to undergo capacitation. Even though this process can be conducted in vitro, the optimal time for a sperm cell to complete capacitation in vitro is still under discussion due to the lack of proper capacitation biomarkers. Here, we evaluated the influence of in vitro capacitation time on HSPA2 distribution over human sperm head testing this chaperone as a potential capacitation biomarker. The chaperone was assessed in human spermatozoa from 16 normozoospermic donors using indirect immunofluorescence in uncapacitated, one and four-hour capacitated spermatozoa. The percentage of HSPA2 immunofluorescent cells before and after one hour of capacitation did not differ significantly. However, after four hours of capacitation, we observed a significantly higher percentage of HSPA2 labelled cells. In fluorescent cells analysed before capacitation, we could not identify a predominant distribution pattern. Meanwhile, after capacitation, most sperm showed a highly labelled equatorial band accompanied by a homogeneous fluorescence throughout the acrosomal region. Our findings suggest that HSPA2 needs more than one hour of in vitro capacitation for being correctly distributed in the anterior region of the sperm head. In conclusion, the present study provides solid evidences for the utility of HSPA2 as a biomarker of human sperm in vitro capacitation. Due to its importance during egg-sperm recognition, the use of HSPA2 as a biomarker before an artificial reproduction technique may be suggested, in addition to a longer capacitation time during sperm preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, 03690, Spain
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, 03690, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología celular e Histología, Universidad de Murcia, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Sociosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, 30003, Spain
| | - Alejandro Romero
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, 03690, Spain
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Medicina Reproductiva, Alicante, 03540, Spain; Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, 03690, Spain; Cátedra Human Fertility, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, Spain.
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25
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Gao L, Chang S, Xia W, Wang X, Zhang C, Cheng L, Liu X, Chen L, Shi Q, Huang J, Xu EY, Shan G. Circular RNAs from BOULE play conserved roles in protection against stress-induced fertility decline. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:6/46/eabb7426. [PMID: 33177084 PMCID: PMC7673749 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abb7426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large family of newly identified transcripts, and their physiological roles and evolutionary significance require further characterization. Here, we identify circRNAs generated from a conserved reproductive gene, Boule, in species from Drosophila to humans. Flies missing circular Boule (circBoule) RNAs display decreased male fertility, and sperm of circBoule knockout mice exhibit decreased fertilization capacity, when under heat stress conditions. During spermatogenesis, fly circBoule RNAs interact with heat shock proteins (HSPs) Hsc4 and Hsp60C, and mouse circBoule RNAs in sperm interact with HSPA2. circBoule RNAs regulate levels of HSPs by promoting their ubiquitination. The interaction between HSPA2 and circBoule RNAs is conserved in human sperm, and lower levels of the human circBoule RNAs circEx3-6 and circEx2-7 are found in asthenozoospermic sperm. Our findings reveal conserved physiological functions of circBoule RNAs in metazoans and suggest that specific circRNAs may be critical modulators of male reproductive function against stresses in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuze Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Shuhui Chang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Wenjuan Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Chenwang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Liping Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Qinghua Shi
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
- CAS (Chinese Academy of Sciences) Centre for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Juan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
| | - Eugene Yujun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China.
- Department of Neurology, and Center for Reproductive Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ge Shan
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
- CAS (Chinese Academy of Sciences) Centre for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai 200031, China
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26
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Nixon B, Cafe SL, Eamens AL, De Iuliis GN, Bromfield EG, Martin JH, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Dun MD. Molecular insights into the divergence and diversity of post-testicular maturation strategies. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 517:110955. [PMID: 32783903 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Competition to achieve paternity has coerced the development of a multitude of male reproductive strategies. In one of the most well-studied examples, the spermatozoa of all mammalian species must undergo a series of physiological changes as they transit the male (epididymal maturation) and female (capacitation) reproductive tracts prior to realizing their potential to fertilize an ovum. However, the origin and adaptive advantage afforded by these intricate processes of post-testicular sperm maturation remain to be fully elucidated. Here, we review literature pertaining to the nature and the physiological role of epididymal maturation and subsequent capacitation in comparative vertebrate taxa including representative species from the avian, reptilian, and mammalian lineages. Such insights are discussed in terms of the framework they provide for helping to understand the evolutionary significance of post-testicular sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.
| | - Shenae L Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew L Eamens
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew D Dun
- Cancer Signalling Research Group, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; Priority Research Centre for Cancer Research Innovation and Translation, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Lambton, NSW, 2305, Australia
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27
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Caroselli S, Zwergel C, Pirolli A, Sabatino M, Xu Z, Kirsch G, Mai A, Colotti G, Altieri F, Canipari R, Valente S, Ragno R. Discovery of the First Human Arylsulfatase A Reversible Inhibitor Impairing Mouse Oocyte Fertilization. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:1349-1357. [PMID: 32239919 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Arylsulfatase A (ARSA) plays a crucial role in the reproduction of mammals due to its involvement in the specific gamete interaction preceding sperm and egg fusion leading to fertilization. Recently, it has been shown that zona pellucida (ZP) sperm binding and in vivo fertilization in mice are markedly hampered by using a specific anti-ARSA antibody. Herein, the design and discovery of the first ARSA small molecule inhibitor based on a coumarin-containing polycycle are presented. Through a structure-based approach applied on our in-house library, compound 1r was identified as an ARSA reversible inhibitor (ARSAi); then its activity was validated through both surface plasmon resonance and biochemical inhibition experiments, the first providing a KD value of 21 μM and the latter an IC50 value of 13.2 μM. Further investigations highlighted that compound 1r induced 20% sperm death at 25 μM and also impaired sperm motility; nevertheless both the effects were mediated by ROS production, since they were rescued by the cotreatment of 1r and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Interestingly, while 1r was not able to hamper the ZP/sperm binding, it markedly decreased the in vitro oocyte fertilization by mouse sperm up to 60%. Notably, this effect was not hampered by 1r/NAC coadministration, hence allowing the ruling out of an ROS-dependent mechanism. In conclusion, herein is reported the first ever hit of ARSAi as a chemical tool that will enable better exploration of ARSA's biological role in fertilization as well as provide a starting point for developing 1r structure optimization aimed at increasing enzyme inhibition potency but also providing a deeper understanding of the involvement of ARSA in the fertilization pathway mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Caroselli
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Clemens Zwergel
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli, University of Campania, Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Adele Pirolli
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Information Technology, IRBM Science Park, Via Pontina km 30, 600, 00071 Pomezia, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Sabatino
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Zhanjie Xu
- Université de Lorraine, UMR CNRS 7565, Structure et Réactivité des Systèmes Moléculaires Complexes, Equipe 3 (HECRIN), 1 Boulevard Arago, 57078, Metz Technopôle, France
| | - Gilbert Kirsch
- Université de Lorraine, UMR CNRS 7565, Structure et Réactivité des Systèmes Moléculaires Complexes, Equipe 3 (HECRIN), 1 Boulevard Arago, 57078, Metz Technopôle, France
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Colotti
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council, c/o Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Canipari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Valente
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rino Ragno
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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28
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Gaikwad AS, Anderson AL, Merriner DJ, O'Connor AE, Houston BJ, Aitken RJ, O'Bryan MK, Nixon B. GLIPR1L1 is an IZUMO-binding protein required for optimal fertilization in the mouse. BMC Biol 2019; 17:86. [PMID: 31672133 PMCID: PMC6824042 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-019-0701-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The sperm protein IZUMO1 (Izumo sperm-egg fusion 1) and its recently identified binding partner on the oolemma, IZUMO1R, are among the first ligand-receptor pairs shown to be essential for gamete recognition and adhesion. However, the IZUMO1-IZUMO1R interaction does not appear to be directly responsible for promoting the fusion of the gamete membranes, suggesting that this critical phase of the fertilization cascade requires the concerted action of alternative fusogenic machinery. It has therefore been proposed that IZUMO1 may play a secondary role in the organization and/or stabilization of higher-order heteromeric complexes in spermatozoa that are required for membrane fusion. Results Here, we show that fertilization-competent (acrosome reacted) mouse spermatozoa harbor several high molecular weight protein complexes, a subset of which are readily able to adhere to solubilized oolemmal proteins. At least two of these complexes contain IZUMO1 in partnership with GLI pathogenesis-related 1 like 1 (GLIPR1L1). This interaction is associated with lipid rafts and is dynamically remodeled upon the induction of acrosomal exocytosis in preparation for sperm adhesion to the oolemma. Accordingly, the selective ablation of GLIPR1L1 leads to compromised sperm function characterized by a reduced ability to undergo the acrosome reaction and a failure of IZUMO1 redistribution. Conclusions Collectively, this study characterizes multimeric protein complexes on the sperm surface and identifies GLIPRL1L1 as a physiologically relevant regulator of IZUMO1 function and the fertilization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash S Gaikwad
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - D Jo Merriner
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Brendan J Houston
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia.
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
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29
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Zhao Y, Gao N, Li X, El-Ashram S, Wang Z, Zhu L, Jiang W, Peng X, Zhang C, Chen Y, Li Z. Identifying candidate genes associated with sperm morphology abnormalities using weighted single-step GWAS in a Duroc boar population. Theriogenology 2019; 141:9-15. [PMID: 31479777 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) has been used as a routine technology globally in the pig production industry since 1930. One of the preferable advantages of AI technology is that the semen of elite boars can be disseminated to the commercial sow population rapidly. Understanding the genetic background of semen traits may help in developing genetic improvement programs of boars by including these traits into the selection index. In this study, we utilized weighted single-step genome-wide association study (wssGWAS) to identify genetic regions and further candidate genes associated with sperm morphology abnormalities (proximal droplet, distal droplet, bent tail, coiled tail, and distal midpiece reflex) in a Duroc boar population. Several genomic regions explained 2.76%-9.22% of the genetic variances for sperm morphology abnormalities were identified. The first three detected QTL regions together explained about 7.65%-25.10% of the total genetic variances of the studied traits. Several genes were detected and considered as candidate genes for each of the traits under study: coiled tail, HOOK1, ARSA, SYCE3, SOD3, GMNN, RBPJ, STIL, and FGF1; bent tail, FGF1, ADIPOR1, ARPC5, FGFR3, PANX1, IZUMO1R, ANKRD49, and GAL; proximal droplet, NSF, WNT3, WNT9B, LYZL6, FGFR1OP, RNASET2, FYN, LRRC6, EPC1, DICER1, FNDC3A, and PFN1; distal droplet, ARSA, SYCE3, MOV10L1, CBR1, KDM6B, TP53, PTBP2, UBR7, KIF18A, ADAM15, FAAH, TEKT3, and SRD5A1; and distal midpiece reflex, OMA1, PFN1, PELP1, BMP2, GPR18, TM9SF2, and SPIN1. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed the potential function of the identified candidate genes in spermatogenesis, testis functioning, and boar spermatozoa plasma membrane activating and maintenance. In conclusion, we detected candidate genes associated with the coiled tail, bent tail, proximal droplet, distal droplet, and distal midpiece reflex in a Duroc boar population using wssGWAS. Overall, these novel results reflect the polygenic genetic architecture of the studied sperm morphology abnormality traits, which may provide knowledge for conducting genomic selection on these traits. The detected genetic regions can be used in developing trait-specific marker assisted selection models by assigning higher genetic variances to these regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Zhao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, 18 Jiangwan Street, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong Province, China; Guangxi Yangxiang Agriculture and Husbandry Co.,LTD, Guigang, 537100, China
| | - Ning Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, North Third Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xinyun Li
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Saeed El-Ashram
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, 18 Jiangwan Street, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhiquan Wang
- Department of Agricultural, Food & Nutritional Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lin Zhu
- Guangxi Yangxiang Agriculture and Husbandry Co.,LTD, Guigang, 537100, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Guangxi Yangxiang Agriculture and Husbandry Co.,LTD, Guigang, 537100, China
| | - Xing Peng
- Guangxi Yangxiang Agriculture and Husbandry Co.,LTD, Guigang, 537100, China
| | - Conglin Zhang
- Guangxi Yangxiang Agriculture and Husbandry Co.,LTD, Guigang, 537100, China
| | - Yilong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of the Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - Zhili Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, 18 Jiangwan Street, Foshan, 528231, Guangdong Province, China.
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Mohanty G, Jena SR, Nayak J, Kar S, Samanta L. Proteomic Signatures in Spermatozoa Reveal the Role of Paternal Factors in Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. World J Mens Health 2019; 38:103-114. [PMID: 31385471 PMCID: PMC6920069 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify the paternal factors responsible for aberrant embryo development leading to loss of foetus in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) through proteomic analysis of ejaculated spermatozoa. Materials and Methods This prospective study consisted of male partners of RPL patients (n=16) experienced with two or more consecutive unexplained miscarriages and with no female factor abnormality as revealed by gynaecologic investigation including karyotyping and age matched fertile healthy volunteers (n=20). All samples were collected during 2013 to 2015 after getting institutional ethical approval and written consent from the participants. Seminal ejaculates were collected by masturbation after 2 to 3 days of sexual abstinence and analyzed according to World Health Organization 5th criteria 2010. Two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis followed by mass spectrophotometric analysis was used to identify differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Western blotting was used for validation of the key proteins. Results The data identified 36 protein spots to be differentially expressed by more than 2-fold change with p<0.05 considered as significant. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight/mass spectrometry identified GPx4, JIP4, ZN248 to be overexpressed while HSPA2, GSTM5, TF3C1, CC74A was underexpressed in RPL group. Western blot analysis confirmed the differential expression of key redox associated proteins GPx4 and HSPA2 in the RPL group. Functional analysis revealed the involvement of key biological processes that includes spermatogenesis, response to oxidative stress, protein folding and metabolic process. Conclusions The present study provides a snapshot of the altered protein expression levels consistent with the potential involvement of the sperm chromatin landscape in early embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Mohanty
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India
| | - Soumya Ranjan Jena
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India
| | - Jasmine Nayak
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India
| | - Sujata Kar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kar Clinic and Hospital Private Limited, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Luna Samanta
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India.
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Raimondo S, Gentile T, Gentile M, Morelli A, Donnarumma F, Cuomo F, De Filippo S, Montano L. p53 Protein Evaluation on Spermatozoa DNA in Fertile and Infertile Males. J Hum Reprod Sci 2019; 12:114-121. [PMID: 31293325 PMCID: PMC6594126 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_170_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Objectives: Protein p53 role in the spermatogenesis is demonstrated, it guarantees both the appropriate quality and quantity of mature spermatozoa. In this observational study we evaluate the eventual correlation between “corrected” p53 concentration on human spermatozoa DNA and male fertility potential. Materials and Methods: Our work is based on an observational study made of 169 male in a period between March 2012 and February 2017. The entire study group is composed by 208 male partners aged between 26-38 years with ejaculate volume from 0.6 to 5.8 mL and heterogeneous seminal valuation: 86/208 (41,3%) normospermic; 19/208 (9,1%) mild oligospermic; 51/208 (24,5%) moderate oligospermic to; 52/208 (25,1%) with severe oligospermic. The “control” group A includes 39 male partners considered “fertile”, because we did the p53 “corrected” test on their spermatozoa after 28 ± 3,5 days from the positives of their partners pregnancy test (betaHCG> 400 m U/m L). The group B, subdivided in B1, B2 and B3, includes 169 male partners for a observational period of 60 months. This partners don't report previous conceptions, they aren't smokers, don't make use neither of alcohol nor drugs and don't present pathologic varicocele studied with ecoColorDoppler. They are all married or stable cohabitants from a period of 27-39 months and report to have frequent sex without protection with their partners. Determination of p53 procedure: To separate the spermatozoa from seminal fluid we utilized the Differex™ kit System and the DNA IQ™ kit (Promega). For the p53 test we used the direct DuoSet IC kit and quantitative (R&D System). The p53 values were corrected in respect to the spermatozoa concentration expressed in ng/millions of spermatozoa. Results: Group A (39 male) presents “correct” p53 values that vary from 0.35 to 3.20 ng/millions of spermatozoa and group B presents values that vary from 0.68 to 14.53. From group B (48 male) in the observational period we have recorded 21 pregnancies with initial “correct” p53 values that vary from a minimum of 0.84 to a maximum of 3.29. In the subgroup B1 we obtained 8 pregnancies from male partners with a “correct” p53 concentration included between 0.84 to 1.34. In the subgroup B2 we obtained 13 pregnancies from male partners with a “correct” p53 concentration included between 1.66 and 3.29. In the subgroup B3 (121 male) there weren't neither pregnancies nor miscarriages and “correct” p53 values were included between 3.58 and 14.53. Conclusion: The results show that the member of the group A with values of 'corrected' p53 between 0.35 and 3.20 were considered “Fertile”, although in the observational period 3 miscarriages happened for 3 partners. 36 partners on 39 (92,3%) had a p53 concentration inferior to 1.65, this value were considered as the extreme to identify this group. The member of the group B1 had “corrected” p53 concentration that were included in the group. In the group B2 were observe 13 pregnancies, so its member were considered “potentially fertile” In the group B3 (121 male) weren't observe neither pregnancies nor miscarriages, so its member were considered “potentially infertile”. If further studies confirm these data, we will consider the p53 test ELISA inspected in “correct” p53 as a new and accurate marker of the potential of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tommaso Gentile
- Laboratory Research "Gentile s.a.s." 80054 Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Alessia Morelli
- Laboratory Research "Gentile s.a.s." 80054 Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Felice Cuomo
- Laboratory Research "Gentile s.a.s." 80054 Gragnano, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit, "Saint Francis of Assisi" Hospital, 84121 Salerno, Italy
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Swegen A, Smith ND, Gibb Z, Curry BJ, Aitken RJ. The serine protease testisin is present on the surface of capacitated stallion spermatozoa and interacts with key zona pellucida binding proteins. Andrology 2018; 7:199-212. [PMID: 30549223 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Serine proteases are emerging as important players in the spermatozoon's acquisition of functional competence. This study aimed to characterize the serine protease testisin (PRSS21) in stallion spermatozoa, examining its surface expression, possible origins in the testis and epididymis, and changes in response to capacitation and acrosome reaction, as well as its capacity to form high molecular weight complexes and interact with other proteins. MATERIALS AND METHODS The role of serine proteases in spontaneous capacitation and acrosome reaction of stallion spermatozoa was established using the serine protease inhibitor, AEBSF. Testisin localization, before and after exposure of stallion spermatozoa to capacitating conditions and calcium ionophore, was examined using live cell immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Immunohistochemistry of testicular and epididymal tissues was used to further dissect the origins of sperm testisin. Testisin's participation in high molecular weight protein complexes and identification of its interacting partner proteins were investigated using Blue Native PAGE, co-immunoprecipitation, and mass spectrometry, with interrogation of protein-protein interaction databases and gene ontology analysis of partner proteins used to further explore the potential roles of the testisin-containing complex in sperm function. RESULTS Testisin surface expression increased significantly in capacitated spermatozoa (p < 0.001), increased further following acrosome reaction (p < 0.01), and was localized to the equatorial region of the sperm head. Testisin was also detected in luminal fluid within the caput and corpus regions of the epididymis, epididymal spermatozoa, and epididymal epithelial cells. Testisin formed several multiprotein complexes; co-immunoprecipitation revealed interactions of testisin with a multitude of zona pellucida-binding proteins, including ZPBP, ZAN, acrosin, several heat-shock proteins, and components of the TCP1 complex. CONCLUSION Testisin appears to form part of the zona pellucida-binding complex in stallion spermatozoa and may be involved in the proteolytic cascade that prepares the sperm surface for interaction with the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Swegen
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - N D Smith
- Analytical and Biomolecular Research Facility, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Z Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - B J Curry
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - R J Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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33
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Gao H, Gao Y, Yang C, Dong D, Yang J, Peng G, Peng J, Wang Y, Pan C, Dong W. Influence of outer membrane vesicles of Proteus mirabilis isolated from boar semen on sperm function. Vet Microbiol 2018; 224:34-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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34
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Human sperm proteins identified by 2-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry and their relevance to a transcriptomic analysis. Reprod Biol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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35
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Jin SK, Yang WX. Factors and pathways involved in capacitation: how are they regulated? Oncotarget 2018; 8:3600-3627. [PMID: 27690295 PMCID: PMC5356907 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, fertilization occurs via a comprehensive progression of events. Freshly ejaculated sperm have yet to acquire progressive motility or fertilization ability. They must first undergo a series of biochemical and physiological changes, collectively known as capacitation. Capacitation is a significant prerequisite to fertilization. During the process of capacitation, changes in membrane properties, intracellular ion concentration and the activities of enzymes, together with other protein modifications, induce multiple signaling events and pathways in defined media in vitro or in the female reproductive tract in vivo. These, in turn, stimulate the acrosome reaction and prepare spermatozoa for penetration of the egg zona pellucida prior to fertilization. In the present review, we conclude all mainstream factors and pathways regulate capacitation and highlight their crosstalk. We also summarize the relationship between capacitation and assisted reproductive technology or human disease. In the end, we sum up the open questions and future avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Kai Jin
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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36
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Bromfield EG, Aitken RJ, McLaughlin EA, Nixon B. Proteolytic degradation of heat shock protein A2 occurs in response to oxidative stress in male germ cells of the mouse. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:91-105. [PMID: 27932549 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw074] [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: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does oxidative stress compromise the protein expression of heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2) in the developing germ cells of the mouse testis? SUMMARY ANSWER Oxidative stress leads to the modification of HSPA2 by the lipid aldehyde 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) and initiates its degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Previous work has revealed a deficiency in HSPA2 protein expression within the spermatozoa of infertile men that have failed fertilization in a clinical setting. While the biological basis of this reduction in HSPA2 remains to be established, we have recently shown that the HSPA2 expressed in the spermatozoa of normozoospermic individuals is highly susceptible to adduction, a form of post-translational modification, by the lipid aldehyde 4HNE that has been causally linked to the degradation of its substrates. This modification of HSPA2 by 4HNE adduction dramatically reduced human sperm-egg interaction in vitro. Moreover, studies in a mouse model offer compelling evidence that the co-chaperone BCL2-associated athanogene 6 (BAG6) plays a key role in regulating the stability of HSPA2 in the testis, by preventing its ubiquitination and subsequent proteolytic degradation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Dose-dependent studies were used to establish a 4HNE-treatment regime for primary culture(s) of male mouse germ cells. The influence of 4HNE on HSPA2 protein stability was subsequently assessed in treated germ cells. Additionally, sperm lysates from infertile patients with established zona pellucida recognition defects were examined for the presence of 4HNE and ubiquitin adducts. A minimum of three biological replicates were performed to test statistical significance. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Oxidative stress was induced in pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids isolated from the mouse testis, as well as a GC-2 cell line, using 50-200 µM 4HNE or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and the expression of HSPA2 was monitored via immunocytochemistry and immunoblotting approaches. Using the GC-2 cell line as a model, the ubiquitination and degradation of HSPA2 was assessed using immunoprecipitation techniques and pharmacological inhibition of proteasomal and lysosomal degradation pathways. Finally, the interaction between BAG6 and HSPA2 was examined in response to 4HNE exposure via proximity ligation assays. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE HSPA2 protein levels were significantly reduced compared with controls after 4HNE treatment of round spermatids (P < 0.01) and GC-2 cells (P < 0.001) but not pachytene spermatocytes. Using GC-2 cells as a model, HSPA2 was shown to be both adducted by 4HNE and targeted for ubiquitination in response to cellular oxidative stress. Inhibition of the proteasome with MG132 prevented HSPA2 degradation after 4HNE treatment indicating that the degradation of HSPA2 is likely to occur via a proteasomal pathway. Moreover, our assessment of proteasome activity provided evidence that 4HNE treatment can significantly increase the proteasome activity of GC-2 cells (P < 0.05 versus control). Finally, 4HNE exposure to GC-2 cells resulted in the dissociation of HSPA2 from its regulatory co-chaperone BAG6, a key mediator of HSPA2 stability in male germ cells. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While these experiments were performed using a mouse germ cell-model system, our analyses of patient sperm lysate imply that these mechanisms are conserved between mouse and human germ cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study suggests a causative link between non-enzymatic post-translational modifications and the relative levels of HSPA2 in the spermatozoa of a specific sub-class of infertile males. In doing so, this work enhances our understanding of failed sperm-egg recognition and may assist in the development of targeted antioxidant-based approaches for ameliorating the production of cytotoxic lipid aldehydes in the testis in an attempt to prevent this form of infertility. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (APP1101953). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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37
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Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A, Sharma R, Samanta L. Treatment of semen samples with α-chymotrypsin alters the expression pattern of sperm functional proteins-a pilot study. Andrology 2018; 6:345-350. [PMID: 29409138 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Semen hyperviscosity delays the liquefaction of semen sample and is subjected to limited proteolysis by addition of α-chymotrypsin to reduce the viscosity. α-Chymotrypsin is a proteolytic enzyme involved in degradation of the proteins and polypeptides. Even though α-chymotrypsin improves the handling of hyperviscous samples, its effect on the sperm proteins is not clear. This study was aimed to evaluate the alteration in the expression of sperm functional proteins in samples treated with α-chymotrypsin. Among all the proteins examined in both donor and patient samples, HSPA2 (70 KDa), BAG6 (150 KDa), HIST1H2BA (14 KDa), SPA17 (17 KDa formed after cleavage of C-terminal calmodulin-binding domain), and OXPHOS complexes were undetectable in α-chymotrypsin-treated samples, while the expression of the native SPA17 (20 KDa) was significantly decreased in the α-chymotrypsin-treated samples in comparison with controls. The use of α-chymotrypsin for liquefaction of hyperviscous samples degrades functional proteins of spermatozoa. Intracellular proteins, such as OXPHOS complexes and HIST1H2BA, and sperm surface proteins (HSPA2, BAG6, and SPA17) were degraded in all treated samples. Whether treatment of samples with α-chymotrypsin affects the global proteomic outcome is unclear. More in-depth calibration studies are required to determine the appropriate concentration of α-chymotrypsin for processing hyperviscous semen samples without compromising its protein expression and function. Similarly, the effects of altered protein function on assisted reproductive techniques (ART), such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome, are not known and require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Panner Selvam
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - A Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - R Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - L Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
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Intasqui P, Agarwal A, Sharma R, Samanta L, Bertolla RP. Towards the identification of reliable sperm biomarkers for male infertility: A sperm proteomic approach. Andrologia 2017; 50. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- P. Intasqui
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland OH USA
- Department of Surgery; Division of Urology; Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - A. Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland OH USA
| | - R. Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine; Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland OH USA
| | - L. Samanta
- Department of Zoology; Ravenshaw University; Cuttack India
| | - R. P. Bertolla
- Department of Surgery; Division of Urology; Human Reproduction Section; Sao Paulo Federal University - Sao Paulo Hospital; Sao Paulo Brazil
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39
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Marchiani S, Tamburrino L, Benini F, Fanfani L, Dolce R, Rastrelli G, Maggi M, Pellegrini S, Baldi E. Chromatin Protamination and Catsper Expression in Spermatozoa Predict Clinical Outcomes after Assisted Reproduction Programs. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15122. [PMID: 29123209 PMCID: PMC5680250 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of parameters predicting assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) success is a major goal of research in reproduction. Quality of gametes is essential to achieve good quality embryos and increase the success of ARTs. We evaluated two sperm parameters, chromatin maturity and expression of the sperm specific calcium channel CATSPER, in relation to ART outcomes in 206 couples undergoing ARTs. Chromatin maturity was evaluated by Chromomycin A3 (CMA3) for protamination and Aniline Blue (AB) for histone persistence and CATSPER expression by a flow cytometric method. CMA3 positivity and CATSPER expression significantly predicted the attainment of good quality embryos with an OR of 6.6 and 14.3 respectively, whereas AB staining was correlated with fertilization rate. In the subgroup of couples with women ≤35 years, CATSPER also predicted achievement of clinical pregnancy (OR = 4.4). Including CMA3, CATSPER and other parameters affecting ART outcomes (female age, female factor and number of MII oocytes), a model that resulted able to predict good embryo quality with high accuracy was developed. CMA3 staining and CATSPER expression may be considered two applicable tools to predict ART success and useful for couple counseling. This is the first study demonstrating a role of CATSPER expression in embryo development after ARTs programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marchiani
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - L Tamburrino
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - F Benini
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - L Fanfani
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - R Dolce
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Rastrelli
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - S Pellegrini
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - E Baldi
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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40
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Wong CW, Lam KKW, Lee CL, Yeung WSB, Zhao WE, Ho PC, Ou JP, Chiu PCN. The roles of protein disulphide isomerase family A, member 3 (ERp57) and surface thiol/disulphide exchange in human spermatozoa-zona pellucida binding. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:733-742. [PMID: 28175305 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Study question Are multimeric sperm plasma membrane protein complexes, ERp57 and sperm surface thiol content involved in human spermatozoa-zona pellucida (ZP) interaction? Summary answer ERp57 is a component of a multimeric spermatozoa-ZP receptor complex involved in regulation of human spermatozoa-ZP binding via up-regulation of sperm surface thiol content. What is known already A spermatozoon acquires its fertilization capacity within the female reproductive tract by capacitation. Spermatozoa-ZP receptor is suggested to be a composite structure that is assembled into a functional complex during capacitation. Sperm surface thiol content is elevated during capacitation. ERp57 is a protein disulphide isomerase that modulates the thiol-disulphide status of proteins. Study design, size, duration The binding ability and components of protein complexes in extracted membrane protein fractions of spermatozoa were studied. The roles of capacitation, thiol-disulphide reagent treatments and ERp57 on sperm functions and sperm surface thiol content were assessed. Participants/materials, setting, methods Spermatozoa were obtained from semen samples from normozoospermic men. Human oocytes were obtained from an assisted reproduction programme. Blue native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, western ligand blotting and mass spectrometry were used to identify the components of solubilized ZP/ZP3-binding complexes. The localization and expression of sperm surface thiol and ERp57 were studied by immunostaining and sperm surface protein biotinylation followed by western blotting. Sperm functions were assessed by standard assays. Main results and the role of chance Several ZP-binding complexes were isolated from the cell membrane of capacitated spermatozoa. ERp57 was a component of one of these complexes. Capacitation significantly increased the sperm surface thiol content, acrosomal thiol distribution and ERp57 expression on sperm surface. Sperm surface thiol and ERp57 immunoreactivity were localized to the acrosomal region of spermatozoa, a region responsible for ZP-binding. Up-regulation of the surface thiol content or ERp57 surface expression in vitro stimulated ZP-binding capacity of human spermatozoa. Blocking of ERp57 function by specific antibody or inhibitors against ERp57 reduced the surface thiol content and ZP-binding capacity of human spermatozoa. Large scale data N/A. Limitations, reasons for caution The mechanisms by which up-regulation of surface thiol content stimulates spermatozoa-ZP binding have not been depicted. Wider implications of the findings Thiol-disulphide exchange is a crucial event in capacitation. ERp57 modulates the event and the subsequent fertilization process. Modulation of the surface thiol content of the spermatozoa of subfertile men may help to increase fertilization rate in assisted reproduction. Study funding/competing interest(s) This work was supported by The Hong Kong Research Grant Council Grant HKU764611 and HKU764512M to P.C.N.C. The authors have no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wai Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kevin K W Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Wei E Zhao
- The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Pak-Chung Ho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Philip C N Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
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41
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Bromfield EG, Mihalas BP, Dun MD, Aitken RJ, McLaughlin EA, Walters JL, Nixon B. Inhibition of arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase prevents 4-hydroxynonenal-induced protein damage in male germ cells†. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:598-609. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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42
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Li S, Winuthayanon W. Oviduct: roles in fertilization and early embryo development. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:R1-R26. [PMID: 27875265 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Animal oviducts and human Fallopian tubes are a part of the female reproductive tract that hosts fertilization and pre-implantation development of the embryo. With an increasing understanding of roles of the oviduct at the cellular and molecular levels, current research signifies the importance of the oviduct on naturally conceived fertilization and pre-implantation embryo development. This review highlights the physiological conditions within the oviduct during fertilization, environmental regulation, oviductal fluid composition and its role in protecting embryos and supplying nutrients. Finally, the review compares different aspects of naturally occurring fertilization and assisted reproductive technology (ART)-achieved fertilization and embryo development, giving insight into potential areas for improvement in this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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43
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Heat Shock Protein A2 (HSPA2): Regulatory Roles in Germ Cell Development and Sperm Function. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2017; 222:67-93. [PMID: 28389751 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-51409-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Among the numerous families of heat shock protein (HSP) that have been implicated in the regulation of reproductive system development and function, those belonging to the 70 kDa HSP family have emerged as being indispensable for male fertility. In particular, the testis-enriched heat shock 70 kDa protein 2 (HSPA2) has been shown to be critical for the progression of germ cell differentiation during spermatogenesis in the mouse model. Beyond this developmentally important window, mounting evidence has also implicated HSPA2 in the functional transformation of the human sperm cell during their ascent of the female reproductive tract. Specifically, HSPA2 appears to coordinate the remodelling of specialised sperm domains overlying the anterior region of the sperm head compatible with their principle role in oocyte recognition. The fact that levels of the HSPA2 protein in mature spermatozoa tightly correlate with the efficacy of oocyte binding highlight its utility as a powerful prognostic biomarker of male fertility. In this chapter, we consider the unique structural and biochemical characteristics of HSPA2 that enable this heat shock protein to fulfil its prominent roles in orchestrating the morphological differentiation of male germ cells during spermatogenesis as well as their functional transformation during post-testicular sperm maturation.
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44
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Marchlewska K, Filipiak E, Walczak-Jedrzejowska R, Oszukowska E, Sobkiewicz S, Wojt M, Chmiel J, Kula K, Slowikowska-Hilczer J. Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index and Hyaluronan Binding Ability in Men from Infertile Couples and Men with Testicular Germ Cell Tumor. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:7893961. [PMID: 27999814 PMCID: PMC5143696 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7893961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective. To investigate sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm functional maturity in men from infertile couples (IC) and men with testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT). Materials and Methods. Semen samples were collected from 312 IC men and 23 men with TGCT before unilateral orchiectomy and oncological treatment. The sperm chromatin dispersion test was performed to determine DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and the ability of sperm to bind with hyaluronan (HA) was assessed. Results. In comparison with the IC men, the men with TGCT had a higher percentage of sperm with fragmented DNA (median 28% versus 21%; p < 0.01) and a lower percentage of HA-bound sperm (24% versus 66%; p < 0.001). Normal results of both analyses were observed in 24% of IC men and 4% of men with TGCT. Negative Spearman's correlations were found between DFI and the percentage of HA-bound sperm in the whole group and in IC subjects and those with TGCT analyzed separately. Conclusions. Approximately 76% of IC men and 96% with TGCT awaiting orchiectomy demonstrated DNA fragmentation and/or sperm immaturity. We therefore recommend sperm banking after unilateral orchiectomy, but before irradiation and chemotherapy; the use of such a deposit appears to be a better strategy to obtain functionally efficient sperms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Marchlewska
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Eliza Filipiak
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Krzysztof Kula
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Endocrinology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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45
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Redgrove KA, Bernstein IR, Pye VJ, Mihalas BP, Sutherland JM, Nixon B, McCluskey A, Robinson PJ, Holt JE, McLaughlin EA. Dynamin 2 is essential for mammalian spermatogenesis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35084. [PMID: 27725702 PMCID: PMC5057128 DOI: 10.1038/srep35084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The dynamin family of proteins play important regulatory roles in membrane remodelling and endocytosis, especially within brain and neuronal tissues. In the context of reproduction, dynamin 1 (DNM1) and dynamin 2 (DNM2) have recently been shown to act as key mediators of sperm acrosome formation and function. However, little is known about the roles that these proteins play in the developing testicular germ cells. In this study, we employed a DNM2 germ cell-specific knockout model to investigate the role of DNM2 in spermatogenesis. We demonstrate that ablation of DNM2 in early spermatogenesis results in germ cell arrest during prophase I of meiosis, subsequent loss of all post-meiotic germ cells and concomitant sterility. These effects become exacerbated with age, and ultimately result in the demise of the spermatogonial stem cells and a Sertoli cell only phenotype. We also demonstrate that DNM2 activity may be temporally regulated by phosphorylation of DNM2 via the kinase CDK1 in spermatogonia, and dephosphorylation by phosphatase PPP3CA during meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Redgrove
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Ilana R Bernstein
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Victoria J Pye
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Bettina P Mihalas
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- School of Biomedical Sciences &Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Adam McCluskey
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Phillip J Robinson
- Cell Signalling Unit, Children's Medical Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Janet E Holt
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,PRC in Chemical Biology, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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46
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Samanta L, Swain N, Ayaz A, Venugopal V, Agarwal A. Post-Translational Modifications in sperm Proteome: The Chemistry of Proteome diversifications in the Pathophysiology of male factor infertility. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2016; 1860:1450-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Revised: 03/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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47
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Stanger SJ, Law EA, Jamsai D, O'Bryan MK, Nixon B, McLaughlin EA, Aitken RJ, Roman SD. A novel germ cell protein, SPIF (sperm PKA interacting factor), is essential for the formation of a PKA/TCP11 complex that undergoes conformational and phosphorylation changes upon capacitation. FASEB J 2016; 30:2777-91. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201500136r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Simone J. Stanger
- Centre for Chemical Biology, University of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive ScienceUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Estelle A. Law
- School of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Duangporn Jamsai
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Moira K. O'Bryan
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental BiologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Centre for Chemical Biology, University of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive ScienceUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Eileen A. McLaughlin
- Centre for Chemical Biology, University of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive ScienceUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - R. John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive ScienceUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Shaun D. Roman
- Centre for Chemical Biology, University of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive ScienceUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- School of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and DevelopmentUniversity of NewcastleCallaghanNew South WalesAustralia
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48
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Nixon B, Bromfield EG, Dun MD, Redgrove KA, McLaughlin EA, Aitken RJ. The role of the molecular chaperone heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2) in regulating human sperm-egg recognition. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:568-73. [PMID: 25865850 PMCID: PMC4492046 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.151395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common lesions present in the spermatozoa of human infertility patients is an idiopathic failure of sperm-egg recognition. Although this unique cellular interaction can now be readily by-passed by assisted reproductive strategies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), recent large-scale epidemiological studies have encouraged the cautious use of this technology and highlighted the need for further research into the mechanisms responsible for defective sperm-egg recognition. Previous work in this field has established that the sperm domains responsible for oocyte interaction are formed during spermatogenesis prior to being dynamically modified during epididymal maturation and capacitation in female reproductive tract. While the factors responsible for the regulation of these sequential maturational events are undoubtedly complex, emerging research has identified the molecular chaperone, heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2), as a key regulator of these events in human spermatozoa. HSPA2 is a testis-enriched member of the 70 kDa heat shock protein family that promotes the folding, transport, and assembly of protein complexes and has been positively correlated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) success. Furthermore, reduced expression of HSPA2 from the human sperm proteome leads to an impaired capacity for cumulus matrix dispersal, sperm-egg recognition and fertilization following both IVF and ICSI. In this review, we consider the evidence supporting the role of HSPA2 in sperm function and explore the potential mechanisms by which it is depleted in the spermatozoa of infertile patients. Such information offers novel insights into the molecular mechanisms governing sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science; Priority Research Centre in Chemical Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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49
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Testis-enriched heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2): Adaptive advantages of the birds with internal testes over the mammals with testicular descent. Sci Rep 2016; 6:18770. [PMID: 26733092 PMCID: PMC4702119 DOI: 10.1038/srep18770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular chaperone heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2), a member of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) family, plays an important role in spermatogenesis and male fertility. Although HSPA2 is evolutionarily highly conserved across the metazoan lineages, the observation of striking differences in temperature-sensitive expressions, testicular physiology, spermatogenesis, as well as its role in male fertility indicates that avian and mammalian HSPA2 may exhibit distinct evolutionary trajectory. The present study reports that while mammalian HSPA2 is constrained by intense purifying selection, avian HSPA2 has been subjected to positive selection. The majority of the positively selected amino acid residues fall on the α-helix and β-sheets of the peptide-binding domain located at the carboxyl-terminal region of the avian HSPA2. The detection of positively selected sites at the helix and β-sheets, which are less tolerant to molecular adaptation, indicates an important functional consequence and contribution to the structural and functional diversification of the avian HSPA2. Collectively, avian HSPA2 may have an adaptive advantage over the mammals in response to heat stress, and therefore, mammals with testicular descent may be at a greater risk in the event of scrotal temperature rise.
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50
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Bromfield EG, McLaughlin EA, Aitken RJ, Nixon B. Heat Shock Protein member A2 forms a stable complex with angiotensin converting enzyme and protein disulfide isomerase A6 in human spermatozoa. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 22:93-109. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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