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Firouzabadi AM, Rezvani ME, Zare F, Azizian H, Fesahat F. Possible Impact of Human β-defensin 1 on sperm motility in infertile men with abnormal sperm parameters. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100887. [PMID: 38688100 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100887] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Human β-defensins and interleukins may be auxiliary in sperm maturation. This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the expression of Human β-defensins 1 and 2, interleukins (ILs)- 10 and -18 genes in sperm, as well as seminal plasma levels of these two cytokines in subfertile men with different types of sperm abnormalities compared to those with normozoospermic men. Participants were separated into two experimental groups: the control group (n = 25) and the group with sperm abnormalities (SA) (n = 45). SA participants were further subdivided into the following groups with n = 15 individuals each: Teratozoospermia (T), Asthenoteratozoospermia (AT), and Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) groups. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to quantify the mRNA levels of hBDs 1 and 2, IL-10, and IL-18 in sperm. The seminal plasma concentrations of IL-10 and IL-18 were measured by using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. The mRNA expression of hBD-1 and IL-10 showed a significant decrease in the OAT compared to the controls (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.02, respectively). The lowest seminal plasma concentration of IL-10 belonged to the OAT (P = 0.04). ROC curve analysis showed a sensitivity, specificity, and cutoff value of 82.35%, 86.67%, and 0.63 for hBD-1 levels, respectively. A positive and significant correlation was found between hBD-1 expression and sperm motility and IL-10 expression rate and normal sperm morphology.Therefore, hBD-1 could be considered as the alternative biomaterial to pre-treatments of infertile men with abnormal sperm parameters, specifically OAT men, which led to improving the assisted reproduction success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Masoud Firouzabadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran; Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Ebrahim Rezvani
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran; Yazd Neuroendocrine Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Fateme Zare
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran; Yazd Neuroendocrine Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
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2
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Zhang G, Sun Y, Guan M, Liu M, Sun S. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomic investigation reveals the spatiotemporal specificity of the beta-defensin gene family during mouse sperm maturation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:267. [PMID: 38745232 PMCID: PMC11092205 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01637-3] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Low sperm motility is a significant contributor to male infertility. beta-defensins have been implicated in host defence and the acquisition of sperm motility; however, the regulatory mechanisms governing their gene expression patterns and functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA and spatial transcriptome sequencing to investigate the cellular composition of testicular and epididymal tissues and examined their gene expression characteristics. In the epididymis, we found that epididymal epithelial cells display a region specificity of gene expression in different epididymal segments, including the beta-defensin family genes. In particular, Defb15, Defb18, Defb20, Defb25 and Defb48 are specific to the caput; Defb22, Defb23 and Defb26 to the corpus; Defb2 and Defb9 to the cauda of the epididymis. To confirm this, we performed mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) targeting certain exon region of beta-defensin genes, and found some of their expression matched the sequencing results and displayed a close connection with epididimosome marker gene Cd63. In addition, we paid attention to the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells in the testis, along with fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in the epididymis, by demonstrating their gene expression profile and spatial information. Our study provides a single-cell and spatial landscape for analysing the gene expression characteristics of testicular and epididymal environments and has important implications for the study of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuanchao Sun
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Minkai Guan
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Shiduo Sun
- Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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3
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Wattananit P, Yingchutrakul Y, Kornkaewrat K, Mahasawangkul S, Roytrakul S, Pinyopummin A. Non-targeted proteomic analysis of Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus) seminal plasma using an in-solution digestion technique and liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1174078. [PMID: 37799407 PMCID: PMC10548676 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1174078] [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: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma proteins have recently been reported to play a significant role as valuable materials for understanding male reproductive biology, identifying causes of fertility problems, and developing reproductive biomarkers. Proteomic analysis of seminal plasma holds promise in advancing the understanding of male Asian elephant reproductive biology. This study aims to explore seminal plasma proteins of Asian elephants and their probable functions to provide fundamental information about male reproduction in this species. The protein solution from pooled seminal plasma from 10 bulls (a total of 33 ejaculates) was digested into peptides and identified using LC-MS/MS. Out of 986 proteins, 597 were mapped and matched with 58 species in UniProt databases, including Elephas maximus. These mapped proteins were mostly involved in binding function, catalytic activity, cellular process, and metabolic process. Only 29 mapped proteins were recognized to be related in reproductive process, mainly associated in spermatogenesis and sperm capacitation. Additionally, several seminal plasma proteins related to fertility or semen quality in other mammals were also found in Asian elephant semen, such as keratin type I, aldose reductase, thrombospondon-1, fibronectin 1, platelet-activating factor acetyl hydrolase, mannosidase, and semenogelin-2. This discovery clearly reveals the beneficial protein profile in seminal plasma of the Asian elephant and serves as a crucial step in investigating infertility and poor semen quality in this valuable species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Podjana Wattananit
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Yodying Yingchutrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | | | | | - Sittiruk Roytrakul
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, Thailand
| | - Anuchai Pinyopummin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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4
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Li T, Shao W, Wang Y, Zhou R, Yun Z, He Y, Wu Y. A two-sample mendelian randomization analysis investigates associations between gut microbiota and infertility. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11426. [PMID: 37454180 PMCID: PMC10349861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Observational studies have provided evidence of a correlation between alterations in gut microbiota composition and infertility. However, concrete proof supporting the causal relationship is still lacking. We performed a Mendelian randomization study to assess whether genetically gut microbiota composition influences the risk of infertility. The genetic data pertaining to gut microbiota were obtained from a genome-wide association study meta-analysis, which was conducted among 24 cohorts (18,340 participants) from the international MiBioGen consortium. By the primary method of assessing causality, we have identified 2 family taxa, 2 genus taxa, and 1 order taxa that were linked to a low risk of male infertility, while 1 genus taxa were associated with a high risk of male infertility. Furthermore, we have discovered 6 genus taxa, 1 phylum taxa, 1 class taxa, 1 order taxa, and 1 family taxa that were associated with a low risk of female infertility, while 1 genus taxa were linked to a high risk of female infertility. This study successfully confirmed that there was a causal link between gut microbiota and infertility. The identification of these specific strains through genetic prediction offers a valuable insight for early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taozhi Li
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbo Shao
- Department of Cardiology, Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yukun Wang
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhangjun Yun
- Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yalin He
- Chongqing Jiangjin District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Wu
- Department of Oncology, Xiyuan Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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5
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Degueldre F, Aron S. Long-term sperm storage in eusocial Hymenoptera. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:567-583. [PMID: 36397639 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12919] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In internally fertilizing species, sperm transfer is not always immediately followed by egg fertilization, and female sperm storage (FSS) may occur. FSS is a phenomenon in which females store sperm in a specialized organ for periods lasting from a few hours to several years, depending on the species. Eusocial hymenopterans (ants, social bees, and social wasps) hold the record for FSS duration. In these species, mating takes place during a single nuptial flight that occurs early in adult life for both sexes; they never mate again. Males die quickly after copulation but survive posthumously as sperm stored in their mates' spermathecae. Reproductive females, also known as queens, have a much longer life expectancy, up to 20 years in some species. Here, we review what is currently known about the molecular adaptations underlying the remarkable FSS capacities in eusocial hymenopterans. Because sperm quality is crucial to the reproductive success of both sexes, we also discuss the mechanisms involved in sperm storage and preservation in the male seminal vesicles prior to ejaculation. Finally, we propose future research directions that should broaden our understanding of this unique biological phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félicien Degueldre
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, CP 160/12, Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Aron
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, CP 160/12, Université Libre de Bruxelles, B-1050, Brussels, Belgium
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Wang P, Zhang X, Huo H, Li W, Liu Z, Wang L, Li L, Sun YH, Huo J. Transcriptomic analysis of testis and epididymis tissues from Banna mini-pig inbred line boars with single-molecule long-read sequencing†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:465-478. [PMID: 36477198 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac216] [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: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, testis and epididymis are critical components of the male reproductive system for androgen production, spermatogenesis, sperm transportation, as well as sperm maturation. Here, we report single-molecule real-time sequencing data from the testis and epididymis of the Banna mini-pig inbred line (BMI), a promising laboratory animal for medical research. We obtained high-quality full-length transcriptomes and identified 9879 isoforms and 8761 isoforms in the BMI testis and epididymis, respectively. Most of the isoforms we identified have novel exon structures that will greatly improve the annotation of testis- and epididymis-expressed genes in pigs. We also found that 3055 genes (over 50%) were shared between BMI testis and epididymis, indicating widespread expression profiles of genes related to reproduction. We characterized extensive alternative splicing events in BMI testis and epididymis and showed that 96 testis-expressed genes and 79 epididymis-expressed genes have more than six isoforms, revealing the complexity of alternative splicing. We accurately defined the transcribed isoforms in BMI testis and epididymis by combining Pacific Biotechnology Isoform-sequencing (PacBio Iso-Seq) and Illumina RNA Sequencing (RNA-seq) techniques. The refined annotation of some key genes governing male reproduction will facilitate further understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying BMI male sterility. In addition, the high-confident identification of 548 and 669 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in these two tissues has established a candidate gene set for future functional investigations. Overall, our study provides new insights into the role of the testis and epididymis during BMI reproduction, paving the path for further studies on BMI male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- College of Life Science, Lyuliang University, Lvliang, China
| | - Hailong Huo
- Yunnan Vocational and Technical college of Agriculture, Kunming, China
| | - Weizhen Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Lina Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Luogang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Yu H Sun
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jinlong Huo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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7
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Solanki S, Kumar V, Kashyap P, Kumar R, De S, Datta TK. Beta-defensins as marker for male fertility: a comprehensive review†. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:52-71. [PMID: 36322147 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac197] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine male fertility in animals has a direct impact on the productivity of dairy herds. The epididymal sperm maturations involve extensive sperm surface modifications to gain the fertilizing ability, especially by absorptions of the plethora of biomolecules, including glycoprotein beta-defensins (BDs), enzymes, organic ions, protein, and phospholipids. Defensins are broad-range nonspecific antimicrobial peptides that exhibit strong relations with innate and adaptive immunity, but their roles in male fertility are relatively recently identified. In the course of evolution, BD genes give rise to different clusters with specific functions, especially reproductive functions, by undergoing duplications and nonsynonymous mutations. BD polymorphisms have been reported with milk compositions, disease resistance, and antimicrobial activities. However, in recent decades, the link of BD polymorphisms with fertility has emerged as an appealing improvement of reproductive performance such as sperm motility, membrane integrity, cervical mucus penetration, evading of uterus immunosurveillance, oviduct cell attachment, and egg recognition. The reproductive-specific glycosylated BD class-A BDs (CA-BDs) have shown age- and sex-specific expressions in male reproductive organs, signifying their physiological pleiotropism, especially in the sperm maturation and sperm transport in the female reproductive tract. By considering adult male reproductive organ-specific BD expressions, importance in sperm functionalities, and bioinformatic analysis, we have selected two bovine BBD126 and BBD129 genes as novel potential biomarkers of bovine male fertility. Despite the importance of BDs, however, genomic characterization of most BD genes across most livestock and nonmodel organisms remains predictive/incomplete. The current review discusses our understanding of BD pleiotropic functions, polymorphism, and genomic structural attributes concerning the fertilizability of the male gamete in dairy animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhash Solanki
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vijay Kumar
- NMR lab-II, National Institute of immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Poonam Kashyap
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Sachinandan De
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India.,ICAR- Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
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8
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Yunaini L, Erlina L, Fadilah F, Pujianto DA. In silico docking analysis of beta-defensin 20 against cation channel sperm-associated protein 1-4 to predict its role in the sperm maturation. Asian J Androl 2023; 25:528-532. [PMID: 36571327 PMCID: PMC10411257 DOI: 10.4103/aja2022103] [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: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta-defensin 20 (DEFB20) is widely expressed in the epididymis with gene features involved in epididymal sperm maturation. However, the action mechanism and function of DEFB20 in sperm maturation are still unclear. One of the important roles of beta-defensin is the ion channel activity. The cation channel sperm-associated protein (CatSper) alpha is an ion channel protein found on the sperm surface. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between DEFB20 and CatSper1-4 protein in relation to the sperm maturation process. Protein sequences were obtained from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Protein modeling and validation were carried out by using the Robetta modeling server and the Ramachandran plot method. Rosetta web server was used for the docking analysis. The results revealed a natural interaction between DEFB20 and CatSper1-4. The interaction occurred at the cation channel (close to the casein kinase II), ion transport protein, and kinase c phosphorylation of the CatSper1-4 active site. The DEFB20 region interacting with CatSper2-4 was the beta-defensin domain, while with CatSper1 was the non-beta-defensin domain. Based on the analysis, DEFB20 may interact with CatSper α subunits, particularly CatsSper1, to affect ion channel activity during sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luluk Yunaini
- Doctoral Program for Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
| | - Linda Erlina
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
- Bioinformatics Core Facilities, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
| | - Fadilah Fadilah
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
- Bioinformatics Core Facilities, Indonesia Medical Education and Research Institute (IMERI), Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
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Shi L, Zhang Y, Huang X, Shi M, Sun D, Zhang Y, Li W, Jin T, Feng J, Xing J, Li B, Cao G. Effects of mitoquinone (MitoQ) supplementation during boar semen cryopreservation on sperm quality, antioxidant status and mitochondrial proteomics. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 247:107099. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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10
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Belleannée C, Viana AGDA, Lavoie-Ouellet C. Intra and intercellular signals governing sperm maturation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 35:27-38. [PMID: 36592975 DOI: 10.1071/rd22226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
After their production in the testis, spermatozoa do not have the capacity to move progressively and are unable to fertilise an oocyte. They sequentially acquire these abilities following their maturation in the epididymis and their capacitation/hyperactivation in the female reproductive system. As gene transcription is silenced in spermatozoa, extracellular factors released from the epididymal epithelium and from secretory glands allow spermatozoa to acquire bioactive molecules and to undergo intrinsic modifications. These modifications include epigenetic changes and post-translational modifications of endogenous proteins, which are important processes in sperm maturation. This article emphasises the roles played by extracellular factors secreted by the epididymis and accessory glands in the control of sperm intercellular signallings and fertilising abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clémence Belleannée
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Center for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health (CRDSI), CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | | | - Camille Lavoie-Ouellet
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Center for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health (CRDSI), CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Quebec City, QC, Canada
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11
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Adjei M, Yan Y, Li C, Pan C, Pan M, Wang P, Li K, Shahzad K, Chen X, Zhao W. Comparative transcriptome analysis in the caput segment of yak and cattleyak epididymis. Theriogenology 2022; 195:217-228. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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12
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Zhai YJ, Feng Y, Ma X, Ma F. Defensins: defenders of human reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 29:126-154. [PMID: 36130055 PMCID: PMC9825273 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reproductive tract infection is an important factor leading to male and female infertility. Among female infertility factors, microbial and viral infections are the main factors affecting female reproductive health and causing tubal infertility, ectopic tubal pregnancy and premature delivery. Among male infertility factors, 13-15% of male infertility is related to infection. Defensins are cationic antibacterial and antiviral peptides, classified into α-defensins, β-defensins and θ-defensins. Humans only have α-defensins and β-defensins. Apart from their direct antimicrobial functions, defensins have an immunomodulatory function and are involved in many physiological processes. Studies have shown that defensins are widely distributed in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and male reproductive tract (MRT), playing a dual role of host defence and fertility protection. However, to our knowledge, the distribution, regulation and function of defensins in the reproductive tract and their relation to reproduction have not been reviewed. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review summarizes the expression, distribution and regulation of defensins in the reproductive tracts to reveal the updated research on the dual role of defensins in host defence and the protection of fertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed using the related keywords through April 2022. Related data from original researches and reviews were integrated to comprehensively review the current findings and understanding of defensins in the human reproductive system. Meanwhile, female and male transcriptome data in the GEO database were screened to analyze defensins in the human reproductive tracts. OUTCOMES Two transcriptome databases from the GEO database (GSE7307 and GSE150852) combined with existing researches reveal the expression levels and role of the defensins in the reproductive tracts. In the FRT, a high expression level of α-defensin is found, and the expression levels of defensins in the vulva and vagina are higher than those in other organs. The expression of defensins in the endometrium varies with menstrual cycle stages and with microbial invasion. Defensins also participate in the local immune response to regulate the risk of spontaneous preterm birth. In the MRT, a high expression level of β-defensins is also found. It is mainly highly expressed in the epididymal caput and corpus, indicating that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation. The expression of defensins in the MRT varies with androgen levels, age and the status of microbial invasion. They protect the male reproductive system from bacterial infections by neutralizing lipopolysaccharide and downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, animal and clinical studies have shown that defensins play an important role in sperm maturation, motility and fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS As a broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptide without drug resistance, defensin has great potential for developing new natural antimicrobial treatments for reproductive tract infections. However, increasing evidence has shown that defensins can not only inhibit microbial invasion but can also promote the invasion and adhesion of some microorganisms in certain biological environments, such as human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, the safety of defensins as reproductive tract anti-infective drugs needs more in-depth research. In addition, the modulatory role of defensins in fertility requires more in-depth research since the current conclusions are based on small-size samples. At present, scientists have made many attempts at the clinical transformation of defensins. However, defensins have problems such as poor stability, low bioavailability and difficulties in their synthesis. Therefore, the production of safe, effective and low-cost drugs remains a challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Xue Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
| | - Fang Ma
- Correspondence address. Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7781-821X (F.M.); Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7650-6214 (X.M.)
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13
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Zeng F, Wang M, Li J, Li C, Pan X, Meng L, Li L, Wei H, Zhang S. Involvement of Porcine β-Defensin 129 in Sperm Capacitation and Rescue of Poor Sperm in Genital Tract Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169441. [PMID: 36012708 PMCID: PMC9409293 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, β-defensins have been reported to play pivotal roles in sperm protection and fertilization. However, the function and mechanism of porcine β-defensin 129 (pBD129) in the sperm remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that pBD129 is a glycosylated protein and broadly exists in accessory sex glands and coats the sperm surface. We inhibited the pBD129 protein on the sperm surface with an anti-pBD129 antibody and found that sperm motility was not significantly affected; however, sperm acrosome integrity and tyrosine phosphorylation levels increased significantly with time (p < 0.05) during capacitation. These changes were accompanied by an increase in sperm Ca2+ influx, resulting in a significantly reduced in vitro fertilization cleavage rate (p < 0.05). Further investigation revealed that treatment with recombinant pBD129 markedly restored the sperm motility in semen contaminated with Escherichia coli. The results suggest that pBD129 is not only associated with poor sperm motility after genital tract infection but can also protect the spermatozoa from premature capacitation, which may be beneficial for semen preservation.
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Lang X, Adjei M, Wang C, Chen X, Li C, Wang P, Pan M, Li K, Shahzad K, Zhao W. RNA-Seq reveals the functional specificity of epididymal caput, corpus, and cauda genes of cattleyak. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13732. [PMID: 35543176 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The first filial generation of the cattleyaks demonstrates hybrid vigor; however, the male cattleyaks are infertile and restrict productivity and breeding. The discovery of genes in a segment-specific approach offers valuable information and understanding concerning fertility status, yet the biology of cattleyak epididymis is still progressing. Comparative transcriptome analysis was performed on segment pairs of cattleyak epididymis. The caput versus corpus epididymis provided the highest (57.8%) differentially expressed genes (DEGs), corpus versus cauda (25.1%) followed, whereas caput versus cauda pair (17.1%) had the least DEGs. The expression levels of genes coding EPHB6, TLR1, MUC20, MT3, INHBB, TRPV5, EI24, PAOX, KIF12, DEPDC5, and KRT25, which might have the potentials to regulate the homeostasis, innate immunity, differentiation, motility, transport, and sperm maturation-related function in epididymal cells, were downregulated in the distal segment of epididymis. Top enriched KEGG pathways included mTOR, axon guidance, and taste transduction signaling pathways. EIF4B, EPHB6, and TAS2R42 were enriched in the pathways, respectively. Identifying key, new, and unexplored DEGs among the epididymal segments and further analyzing them could boost cattleyak fertility by maximizing sperm quality from genetically better sires and also facilitate better understanding of the epididymal biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Lang
- Institute of Animal & Pasture Science and Green Agricultural, Key laboratory for sheep, goat and cattle germplasm and straw feed in Gansu Province, Gansu Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Michael Adjei
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Cailian Wang
- Institute of Animal & Pasture Science and Green Agricultural, Key laboratory for sheep, goat and cattle germplasm and straw feed in Gansu Province, Gansu Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Chen
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, China
| | - Chunhai Li
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Peng Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Meilan Pan
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Kerui Li
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
| | - Khuram Shahzad
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, China
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15
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Barrachina F, Battistone MA, Castillo J, Mallofré C, Jodar M, Breton S, Oliva R. Sperm acquire epididymis-derived proteins through epididymosomes. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:651-668. [PMID: 35137089 PMCID: PMC8971652 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are epididymosomes implicated in protein transfer from the epididymis to spermatozoa? SUMMARY ANSWER We characterized the contribution of epididymal secretions to the sperm proteome and demonstrated that sperm acquire epididymal proteins through epididymosomes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Testicular sperm are immature cells unable to fertilize an oocyte. After leaving the testis, sperm transit along the epididymis to acquire motility and fertilizing abilities. It is well known that marked changes in the sperm proteome profile occur during epididymal maturation. Since the sperm is a transcriptional and translational inert cell, previous studies have shown that sperm incorporate proteins, RNA and lipids from extracellular vesicles (EVs), released by epithelial cells lining the male reproductive tract. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We examined the contribution of the epididymis to the post-testicular maturation of spermatozoa, via the production of EVs named epididymosomes, released by epididymal epithelial cells. An integrative analysis using both human and mouse data was performed to identify sperm proteins with a potential epididymis-derived origin. Testes and epididymides from adult humans (n = 9) and adult mice (n = 3) were used to experimentally validate the tissue localization of four selected proteins using high-resolution confocal microscopy. Mouse epididymal sperm were co-incubated with carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-labeled epididymosomes (n = 4 mice), and visualized using high-resolution confocal microscopy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Adult (12-week-old) C57BL/CBAF1 wild-type male mice and adult humans were used for validation purposes. Testes and epididymides from both mice and humans were obtained and processed for immunofluorescence. Mouse epididymal sperm and mouse epididymosomes were obtained from the epididymal cauda segment. Fluorescent epididymosomes were obtained after labeling the epididymal vesicles with CFSE dye followed by epididymosome isolation using a density cushion. Immunofluorescence was performed following co-incubation of sperm with epididymosomes in vitro. High-resolution confocal microscopy and 3D image reconstruction were used to visualize protein localization and sperm-epididymosomes interactions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Through in silico analysis, we first identified 25 sperm proteins with a putative epididymal origin that were conserved in both human and mouse spermatozoa. From those, the epididymal origin of four sperm proteins (SLC27A2, EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8) was validated by high-resolution confocal microscopy. SLC27A2, EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8 were all detected in epithelial cells lining the human and mouse epididymis, and absent from human and mouse seminiferous tubules. We found region-specific expression patterns of these proteins throughout the mouse epididymides. In addition, while EDDM3B, KRT19 and WFDC8 were detected in both epididymal principal and clear cells (CCs), SLC27A2 was exclusively expressed in CCs. Finally, we showed that CFSE-fluorescently labeled epididymosomes interact with sperm in vitro and about 12-36% of the epididymosomes contain the targeted sperm proteins with an epididymal origin. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The human and mouse sample size was limited and our results were descriptive. The analyses of epididymal sperm and epididymosomes were solely performed in the mouse model due to the difficulties in obtaining epididymal luminal fluid human samples. Alternatively, human ejaculated sperm and seminal EVs could not be used because ejaculated sperm have already contacted with the fluids secreted by the male accessory sex glands, and seminal EVs contain other EVs in addition to epididymosomes, such as the abundant prostate-derived EVs. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings indicate that epididymosomes are capable of providing spermatozoa with a new set of epididymis-derived proteins that could modulate the sperm proteome and, subsequently, participate in the post-testicular maturation of sperm cells. Additionally, our data provide further evidence of the novel role of epididymal CCs in epididymosome production. Identifying mechanisms by which sperm mature to acquire their fertilization potential would, ultimately, lead to a better understanding of male reproductive health and may help to identify potential therapeutic strategies to improve male infertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (Ministerio de Economía y Competividad; fondos FEDER 'una manera de hacer Europa' PI13/00699 and PI16/00346 to R.O.; and Sara Borrell Postdoctoral Fellowship, Acción Estratégica en Salud, CD17/00109 to J.C.), by National Institutes of Health (grants HD040793 and HD069623 to S.B., grant HD104672-01 to M.A.B.), by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports (Ministerio de Educación, Cultura y Deporte para la Formación de Profesorado Universitario, FPU15/02306 to F.B.), by a Lalor Foundation Fellowship (to F.B. and M.A.B.), by the Government of Catalonia (Generalitat de Catalunya, pla estratègic de recerca i innovació en salut, PERIS 2016-2020, SLT002/16/00337 to M.J.), by Fundació Universitària Agustí Pedro i Pons (to F.B.), and by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (PROLAB Award from ASBMB/IUBMB/PABMB to F.B.). Confocal microscopy and transmission electron microscopy was performed in the Microscopy Core facility of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Center for Systems Biology/Program in Membrane Biology which receives support from Boston Area Diabetes and Endocrinology Research Center (BADERC) award DK57521 and Center for the Study of Inflammatory Bowel Disease grant DK43351. The Zeiss LSM800 microscope was acquired using an NIH Shared Instrumentation Grant S10-OD-021577-01. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Barrachina
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M A Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Mallofré
- Department of Pathology, Universitat de Barcelona, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Yang Y, Chen F, Qiao K, Zhang H, Chen HY, Wang KJ. Two Male-Specific Antimicrobial Peptides SCY2 and Scyreprocin as Crucial Molecules Participated in the Sperm Acrosome Reaction of Mud Crab Scylla paramamosain. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3373. [PMID: 35328805 PMCID: PMC8952799 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) identified in the reproductive system of animals have been widely studied for their antimicrobial activity, but only a few studies have focused on their physiological roles. Our previous studies have revealed the in vitro antimicrobial activity of two male gonadal AMPs, SCY2 and scyreprocin, from mud crab Scylla paramamosain. Their physiological functions, however, remain a mystery. In this study, the two AMPs were found co-localized on the sperm apical cap. Meanwhile, progesterone was confirmed to induce acrosome reaction (AR) of mud crab sperm in vitro, which intrigued us to explore the roles of the AMPs and progesterone in AR. Results showed that the specific antibody blockade of scyreprocin inhibited the progesterone-induced AR without affecting intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, while the blockade of SCY2 hindered the influx of Ca2+. We further showed that SCY2 could directly bind to Ca2+. Moreover, progesterone failed to induce AR when either scyreprocin or SCY2 function was deprived. Taken together, scyreprocin and SCY2 played a dual role in reproductive immunity and sperm AR. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the direct involvement of AMPs in sperm AR, which would expand the current understanding of the roles of AMPs in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
| | - Fangyi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Kun Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
| | - Hui-Yun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ke-Jian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (Y.Y.); (F.C.); (K.Q.); (H.Z.); (H.-Y.C.)
- State-Province Joint Engineering Laboratory of Marine Bioproducts and Technology, College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
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17
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Antimicrobial Activity of Snake β-Defensins and Derived Peptides. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 14:toxins14010001. [PMID: 35050978 PMCID: PMC8777785 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
β-defensins are antimicrobial peptides presenting in vertebrate animals. They participate in innate immunity, but little is known about them in reptiles, including snakes. Although several β-defensin genes were described in Brazilian snakes, their function is still unknown. The peptide sequence from these genes was deduced, and synthetic peptides (with approximately 40 amino acids and derived peptides) were tested against pathogenic bacteria and fungi using microbroth dilution assays. The linear peptides, derived from β-defensins, were designed applying the bioisosterism strategy. The linear β-defensins were more active against Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus, Citrobacter freundii, and Staphylococcus aureus. The derived peptides (7–14 mer) showed antibacterial activity against those bacteria and on Klebsiella pneumoniae. Nonetheless, they did not present activity against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Trychophyton rubrum, and Aspergillus fumigatus showing that the cysteine substitution to serine is deleterious to antifungal properties. Tryptophan residue showed to be necessary to improve antibacterial activity. Even though the studied snake β-defensins do not have high antimicrobial activity, they proved to be attractive as template molecules for the development of antibiotics.
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18
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Chen H, Alves MBR, Belleannée C. Contribution of epididymal epithelial cell functions to sperm epigenetic changes and the health of progeny. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:51-66. [PMID: 34618012 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa acquire their motility and fertilizing abilities during their maturation through the epididymis. This process is controlled by epididymal epithelial cells that possess features adapted to sense and respond to their surrounding environment and to communicate with spermatozoa. During the past decade, new intercellular communication processes have been discovered, including the secretion and transport of molecules from the epithelium to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles (EVs), as well as sensing of the intraluminal milieu by cellular extensions. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review addresses recent findings regarding epididymal epithelial cell features and interactions between spermatozoa and the epididymal epithelium as well as epigenetic modifications undergone by spermatozoa during transit through the epididymal microenvironment. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed with the keyword 'epididymis'. Results were filtered on original research articles published from 2009 to 2021 and written in the English language. One hundred fifteen original articles presenting recent advancements on the epididymis contribution to sperm maturation were selected. Some additional papers cited in the primary reference were also included. A special focus was given to higher mammalian species, particularly rodents, bovines and humans, that are the most studied in this field. OUTCOMES This review provides novel insights into the contribution of epididymal epithelium and EVs to post-testicular sperm maturation. First, new immune cell populations have been described in the epididymis, where they are proposed to play a role in protecting the environment surrounding sperm against infections or autoimmune responses. Second, novel epididymal cell extensions, including dendrites, axopodia and primary cilia, have been identified as sensors of the environment surrounding sperm. Third, new functions have been outlined for epididymal EVs, which modify the sperm epigenetic profile and participate in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal traits. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although the majority of these findings result from studies in rodents, this fundamental research will ultimately improve our knowledge of human reproductive physiopathologies. Recent discoveries linking sperm epigenetic modifications with paternal environmental exposure and progeny outcome further stress the importance of advancing fundamental research on the epididymis. From this, new therapeutic options for infertile couples and better counseling strategies may arise to increase positive health outcomes in children conceived either naturally or with ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
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19
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Valdez-Miramontes CE, De Haro-Acosta J, Aréchiga-Flores CF, Verdiguel-Fernández L, Rivas-Santiago B. Antimicrobial peptides in domestic animals and their applications in veterinary medicine. Peptides 2021; 142:170576. [PMID: 34033877 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are molecules with a broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses. These peptides are widely distributed in insects, amphibians and mammals. Indeed, they are key molecules of the innate immune system with remarkable antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activity. Besides, these peptides have also shown regulatory activity for gut microbiota and have been considered inductors of growth performance. The current review describes the updated findings of antimicrobial peptides in domestic animals, such as bovines, goats, sheep, pigs, horses, canines and felines, analyzing the most relevant aspects of their use as potential therapeutics and their applications in Veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Valdez-Miramontes
- Academic Unit of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico.
| | - Jeny De Haro-Acosta
- Medical Research Unit-Zacatecas, Mexican Institute for Social Security- IMSS, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - C F Aréchiga-Flores
- Academic Unit of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - L Verdiguel-Fernández
- Molecular Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine Veterinary, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico
| | - B Rivas-Santiago
- Medical Research Unit-Zacatecas, Mexican Institute for Social Security- IMSS, Zacatecas, Mexico
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20
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Batra V, Bhushan V, Ali SA, Sarwalia P, Pal A, Karanwal S, Solanki S, Kumaresan A, Kumar R, Datta TK. Buffalo sperm surface proteome profiling reveals an intricate relationship between innate immunity and reproduction. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:480. [PMID: 34174811 PMCID: PMC8235841 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07640-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low conception rate (CR) despite insemination with morphologically normal spermatozoa is a common reproductive restraint that limits buffalo productivity. This accounts for a significant loss to the farmers and the dairy industry, especially in agriculture-based economies. The immune-related proteins on the sperm surface are known to regulate fertility by assisting the spermatozoa in their survival and performance in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Regardless of their importance, very few studies have specifically catalogued the buffalo sperm surface proteome. The study was designed to determine the identity of sperm surface proteins and to ascertain if the epididymal expressed beta-defensins (BDs), implicated in male fertility, are translated and applied onto buffalo sperm surface along with other immune-related proteins. Results The raw mass spectra data searched against an in-house generated proteome database from UniProt using Comet search engine identified more than 300 proteins on the ejaculated buffalo sperm surface which were bound either by non-covalent (ionic) interactions or by a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor. The singular enrichment analysis (SEA) revealed that most of these proteins were extracellular with varied binding activities and were involved in either immune or reproductive processes. Flow cytometry using six FITC-labelled lectins confirmed the prediction of glycosylation of these proteins. Several beta-defensins (BDs), the anti-microbial peptides including the BuBD-129 and 126 were also identified amongst other buffalo sperm surface proteins. The presence of these proteins was subsequently confirmed by RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence and in vitro fertilization (IVF) experiments. Conclusions The surface of the buffalo spermatozoa is heavily glycosylated because of the epididymal secreted (glyco) proteins like BDs and the GPI-anchored proteins (GPI-APs). The glycosylation pattern of buffalo sperm-surface, however, could be perturbed in the presence of elevated salt concentration or incubation with PI-PLC. The identification of numerous BDs on the sperm surface strengthens our hypothesis that the buffalo BDs (BuBDs) assist the spermatozoa either in their survival or in performance in the FRT. Our results suggest that BuBD-129 is a sperm-surface BD that could have a role in buffalo sperm function. Further studies elucidating its exact physiological function are required to better understand its role in the regulation of male fertility. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07640-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vanya Bhushan
- Proteomics and Molecular Biology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Syed Azmal Ali
- Proteomics and Molecular Biology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Parul Sarwalia
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Ankit Pal
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Seema Karanwal
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Subhash Solanki
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Lab, SRS of National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab., Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India.
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21
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Aram R, Chan PTK, Cyr DG. Beta-defensin126 is correlated with sperm motility in fertile and infertile men†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:92-101. [PMID: 31504198 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A crucial function of the epididymis is providing a surface glycocalyx that is important for sperm maturation and capacitation. Defensins are antimicrobial peptides expressed in the epididymis. In the macaque epididymis, defensin beta 126 (DEFB126) is important for sperm motility, however, it is not known whether this is the case in humans. The objectives were to determine: (1) if DEFB126 on human ejaculated sperm was correlated with sperm motility in fertile and infertile men, (2) that recombinant DEFB126 could induce immature sperm motility in vitro. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that the proportion of DEFB126-positive sperm was significantly higher in motile sperm. Furthermore, the proportion of DEFB126-labeled sperm was positively correlated with sperm motility and normal morphology. Additional studies indicated that the proportion of DEFB126-positive spermatozoa in fertile volunteers was significantly higher than in volunteers with varicocele, and in infertile volunteers with semen deficiencies. To determine the role of DEFB126 on sperm motility, the DEFB126 gene was cloned and used to generate recombinant DEFB126 in H9C2 cells (rat embryonic heart myoblast cells). Deletion mutations were created into two regions of the protein, which have been linked to male infertility. Immotile testicular spermatozoa were incubated with cells expressing the different forms of DEFB126. Full-length DEFB126 significantly increased motility of co-cultured spermatozoa. However, no increase in sperm motility was observed with the mutated forms of DEFB126. In conclusion, these results support the notion that DEFB126 is important in human sperm maturation and the potential use of DEFB126 for in vitro sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Aram
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Peter T K Chan
- Department of Urology, Royal Victoria Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel G Cyr
- Laboratory for Reproductive Toxicology, INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, Laval, Quebec, Canada
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22
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Wu P, Liu TL, Li LL, Liu ZP, Tian LH, Hou ZJ. Declined expressing mRNA of beta-defensin 108 from epididymis is associated with decreased sperm motility in blue fox (Vulpes lagopus). BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:12. [PMID: 33413374 PMCID: PMC7789387 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02697-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fecundity is important for farm blue fox (Vulpes lagopus), who with asthenospermia have be a problem in some of farms in China. A key symptom of asthenospermia is decreased sperm motility. The decreased secreting beta-defensin108 (vBD108) of blue fox is speculated be related to asthenospermia. To clarify this idea, the mRNA expression of vBD108 in testis and epididymis of blue foxes with asthenospermia were detected and compared to the healthy one. The antibody was prepared and analyzed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The vBD108 in testis and epididymis was found both in blue fox with asthenospermia and healthy group by the method of immunohistochemistry. The expression of vBD108 mRNA in testes (P < 0.05) and epididymal corpus (P < 0.0001) in asthenospermia group was lower than that in healthy group. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that vBD108 deficiency may related to blue fox asthenospermia. Meanwhile, the study on the blue fox vBD108 provides a hopeful direction to explore the pathogenesis of blue fox asthenospermia in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wu
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Tao-lin Liu
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Ling-ling Li
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-ping Liu
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Li-hong Tian
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-jun Hou
- College of Wildlife and Protected Area, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
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23
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Zhao W, Ahmed S, Ahmed S, Yangliu Y, Wang H, Cai X. Analysis of long non-coding RNAs in epididymis of cattleyak associated with male infertility. Theriogenology 2020; 160:61-71. [PMID: 33181482 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cattleyak (CY), is a cross breed between cattle and yak (YK), which display equal adaptability to the harsh environment as YK and much higher performances than YK. However, the CY is female fertile and male sterile. Previous studies were conducted on testes tissues to investigate the mechanism of male infertility in CY. There is no systematic research on genes, especially lncRNAs between CY and YK epididymis. In this study, Illumina Hiseq was performed to profile the epididymis transcriptome (lncRNA and mRNA) of CY and YK. In total 18859 lncRNAs were identified, from which lincRNAs 12458, antisense lncRNAs 2345, intronic lncRNAs 3101, and sense lncRNAs 955 respectively. We have identified 345 DE lncRNAs and 3008 DE mRNAs between YK and CY epididymis. Thirteen DEGs were validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Combing with DEG, 14 couples of lncRNAs and their target genes were both DE, and 6 of them including CCDC39, KCNJ16, NECTIN2, MRPL20, PSMC4, and DEFB112 show their potential infertility-related terms such as cellular motility, sperm maturation, sperm storage, cellular junction, folate metabolism, and capacitation. On the other hand, several down-regulated genes such as DEFB124, DEFB126, DEFB125, DEFB127, DEFB129, CES5A, TKDP1, CST3, RNASE9 and CD52 in CY compared to YK were involved in the immune response and sperm maturation. Therefore, comprehensive analysis for lncRNAs and their target genes may enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of sperm maturation in CY and may provide important resources for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangsheng Zhao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Saeed Ahmed
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Siraj Ahmed
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Yueling Yangliu
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Hongmei Wang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, 621010, Sichuan, China
| | - Xin Cai
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization (Southwest Minzu University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
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24
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Rinaldi VD, Donnard E, Gellatly K, Rasmussen M, Kucukural A, Yukselen O, Garber M, Sharma U, Rando OJ. An atlas of cell types in the mouse epididymis and vas deferens. eLife 2020; 9:e55474. [PMID: 32729827 PMCID: PMC7426093 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Following testicular spermatogenesis, mammalian sperm continue to mature in a long epithelial tube known as the epididymis, which plays key roles in remodeling sperm protein, lipid, and RNA composition. To understand the roles for the epididymis in reproductive biology, we generated a single-cell atlas of the murine epididymis and vas deferens. We recovered key epithelial cell types including principal cells, clear cells, and basal cells, along with associated support cells that include fibroblasts, smooth muscle, macrophages and other immune cells. Moreover, our data illuminate extensive regional specialization of principal cell populations across the length of the epididymis. In addition to region-specific specialization of principal cells, we find evidence for functionally specialized subpopulations of stromal cells, and, most notably, two distinct populations of clear cells. Our dataset extends on existing knowledge of epididymal biology, and provides a wealth of information on potential regulatory and signaling factors that bear future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera D Rinaldi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Elisa Donnard
- Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Kyle Gellatly
- Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Morten Rasmussen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Alper Kucukural
- Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Onur Yukselen
- Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Manuel Garber
- Department of Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
| | - Upasna Sharma
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa CruzSanta CruzUnited States
| | - Oliver J Rando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterUnited States
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25
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Yu W, Zhang Z, Liu P, Yang X, Zhang H, Yuan Z, Han Y, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of SPAG11A and androgen receptor in the epididymis of the wild ground squirrels (<em>Citellus dauricus</em> Brandt). Eur J Histochem 2020; 64. [PMID: 32363846 PMCID: PMC7186593 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2020.3111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm-associated antigen 11A (SPAG11A), a protein expressed exclusively in the epididymis, plays a vital and special role in regulating mammalian sperm maturation. The aim of this study was to investigate the seasonal expressions of SPAG11A and androgen receptor (AR) in the epididymis of the wild ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus Brandt). Morphologically, the results showed that epididymis length and weight in the breeding season were significantly higher than those of the non-breeding season. Histologically, the results revealed that enlarged lumen diameters, thickened epithelium and abundant sperm in the breeding season while reduced lumen diameters and epithelium with no sperm in the non-breeding season. SPAG11A was intensely expressed in cytoplasm and nucleus of epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells in the breeding season, and weaker staining in the non-breeding season. In the lumen of epididymis, SPAG11A immunostaining in the sperm of the epididymal corpus and cauda was higher than those in the caput during the breeding season. The immunostaining of AR was only presented in nucleus of smooth muscle cells and epithelial cells in the epididymis from the breeding season rather than the non-breeding season. The results of real-time quantitative PCR also showed that the mRNA levels of SPAG11A and AR in the epididymis during the breeding season were significantly higher than those of the non-breeding season. In addition, the circulating testosterone, follicle- stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels in the squirrels were higher in the breeding season compared with those in the non-breeding season. Taken together, these results implied that SPAG11A might be involved in regulating seasonal changes in epididymal functions of the wild ground squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyang Yu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Ziwen Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Pei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Haolin Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Zhengrong Yuan
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Yingying Han
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
| | - Qiang Weng
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, College of Biological Sciences and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing.
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26
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Zhu W, Cheng X, Ren C, Chen J, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Jia X, Wang S, Sun Z, Zhang R, Zhang Z. Proteomic characterization and comparison of ram (Ovis aries) and buck (Capra hircus) spermatozoa proteome using a data independent acquisition mass spectometry (DIA-MS) approach. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228656. [PMID: 32053710 PMCID: PMC7018057 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fresh semen is most commonly used in an artificial insemination of small ruminants, because of low fertility rates of frozen sperm. Generally, when developing and applying assisted reproductive technologies, sheep and goats are classified as one species. In order to optimize sperm cryopreservation protocols in sheep and goat, differences in sperm proteomes between ram and buck are necessary to investigate, which may contribute to differences in function and fertility of spermatozoa. In the current work, a data-independent acquisition-mass spectrometry proteomic approach was used to characterize and make a comparison of ram (Ovis aries) and buck (Capra hircus) sperm proteomes. A total of 2,109 proteins were identified in ram and buck spermatozoa, with 238 differentially abundant proteins. Proteins identified in ram and buck spermatozoa are mainly involved in metabolic pathways for generation of energy and diminishing oxidative stress. Specifically, there are greater abundance of spermatozoa proteins related to the immune protective and capacity activities in ram, while protein that inhibit sperm capacitation shows greater abundance in buck. Our results not only provide novel insights into the characteristics and potential activities of spermatozoa proteins, but also expand the potential direction for sperm cryopreservation in ram and buck.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Chunhuan Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Jiahong Chen
- New Rural Develop Research Institute, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Yale Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojiao Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Shijia Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Zhipeng Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Renzheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
| | - Zijun Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, P. R. China
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27
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Batra V, Maheshwarappa A, Dagar K, Kumar S, Soni A, Kumaresan A, Kumar R, Datta TK. Unusual interplay of contrasting selective pressures on β-defensin genes implicated in male fertility of the Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). BMC Evol Biol 2019; 19:214. [PMID: 31771505 PMCID: PMC6878701 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-019-1535-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The buffalo, despite its superior milk-producing ability, suffers from reproductive limitations that constrain its lifetime productivity. Male sub-fertility, manifested as low conception rates (CRs), is a major concern in buffaloes. The epididymal sperm surface-binding proteins which participate in the sperm surface remodelling (SSR) events affect the survival and performance of the spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract (FRT). A mutation in an epididymal secreted protein, beta-defensin 126 (DEFB-126/BD-126), a class-A beta-defensin (CA-BD), resulted in decreased CRs in human cohorts across the globe. To better understand the role of CA-BDs in buffalo reproduction, this study aimed to identify the BD genes for characterization of the selection pressure(s) acting on them, and to identify the most abundant CA-BD transcript in the buffalo male reproductive tract (MRT) for predicting its reproductive functional significance. RESULTS Despite the low protein sequence homology with their orthologs, the CA-BDs have maintained the molecular framework and the structural core vital to their biological functions. Their coding-sequences in ruminants revealed evidence of pervasive purifying and episodic diversifying selection pressures. The buffalo CA-BD genes were expressed in the major reproductive and non-reproductive tissues exhibiting spatial variations. The Buffalo BD-129 (BuBD-129) was the most abundant and the longest CA-BD in the distal-MRT segments and was predicted to be heavily O-glycosylated. CONCLUSIONS The maintenance of the structural core, despite the sequence divergence, indicated the conservation of the molecular functions of the CA-BDs. The expression of the buffalo CA-BDs in both the distal-MRT segments and non-reproductive tissues indicate the retention the primordial microbicidal activity, which was also predicted by in silico sequence analyses. However, the observed spatial variations in their expression across the MRT hint at their region-specific roles. Their comparison across mammalian species revealed a pattern in which the various CA-BDs appeared to follow dissimilar evolutionary paths. This pattern appears to maintain only the highly efficacious CA-BD alleles and diversify their functional repertoire in the ruminants. Our preliminary results and analyses indicated that BuBD-129 could be the functional ortholog of the primate DEFB-126. Further studies are warranted to assess its molecular functions to elucidate its role in immunity, reproduction and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
| | | | - Komal Dagar
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
| | - Apoorva Soni
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
| | - A Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Lab, SRS of NDRI, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India
| | - T K Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, 132001, India.
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28
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Khayamabed R, Tavalaee M, Taherian SS, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Effect of recombinant β-defensin 1 protein on human sperm motility and viability. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13455. [PMID: 31656060 DOI: 10.1111/and.13455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The reduction of sperm motility and subsequently reduced ability to undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction are considered as common causes of male infertility. The β-defensin family is a group of well-known secretory proteins with antimicrobial activity that contribute to the process of "sperm maturation" during the passage of spermatozoa in the epididymis when spermatozoa attain its motility. One member of this family is "β-defensin 1" which is present in seminal plasma and spermatozoa. The aim of this study was the incubation of human processed spermatozoa with recombinant β-defensin 1 (500 ng/ml) for 1, 2 and 3 hr at 37°C under 5% CO2 atmosphere and assessment of sperm viability and motility in 59 semen samples. The analysis of semen samples such as sperm concentration, motility, viability, morphology and semen volume was performed according to the World Health Organization (2010; World health organization laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (p. 287). Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization) criteria. The result of the current study shows that the incubation of spermatozoa with recombinant β-defensin significantly maintained percentage of sperm viability and motility compared to processed spermatozoa incubate in the absence of β-defensin in the studied time intervals (p < .05). Therefore, we concluded that recombinant β-defensin 1 protein as an agent with antimicrobial activity can maintain sperm viability and motility in in vitro condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Khayamabed
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Samira-Sadat Taherian
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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29
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Archana SS, Selvaraju S, Binsila BK, Arangasamy A, Krawetz SA. Immune regulatory molecules as modifiers of semen and fertility: A review. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1485-1504. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Siddalingappa Archana
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology DivisionICAR‐National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology Bengaluru India
- Department of BiochemistryJain University Bengaluru India
| | - Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology DivisionICAR‐National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology Bengaluru India
| | - B. Krishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology DivisionICAR‐National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology Bengaluru India
| | - Arunachalam Arangasamy
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology DivisionICAR‐National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology Bengaluru India
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyWayne State University School of Medicine Detroit Michigan
- Center for Molecular Medicine and GeneticsC.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine Detroit Michigan
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30
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Browne JA, Leir SH, Yin S, Harris A. Transcriptional networks in the human epididymis. Andrology 2019; 7:741-747. [PMID: 31050198 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial lining of the human epididymis is critical for sperm maturation. This process requires distinct specialized functions in the head, body, and tail of the duct. These region-specific properties are maintained by distinct gene expression profiles which are governed by transcription factor networks, non-coding RNAs, and other factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used genome-wide protocols including DNase-seq, RNA-seq and ChIP-seq to characterize open (active) chromatin, the transcriptome and occupancy of specific transcription factors (TFs) respectively, in caput, corpus, and cauda segments of adult human epididymis tissue and primary human epididymis epithelial (HEE) cell cultures derived from them. RNA-seq following TF depletion or activation, combined with gene ontology analysis also determined TF targets. RESULTS Among regional differentially expressed transcripts were epithelial-selective transcription factors (TFs), microRNAs, and antiviral response genes. Caput-enriched TFs included hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 (HNF1) and the androgen receptor (AR), both of which were also predicted to occupy cis-regulatory elements identified as open chromatin in HEE cells. HNF1 targets were identified genome-wide using ChIP-seq, in HEE cells. Next, siRNA-mediated depletion of HNF1 revealed a pivotal role for this TF in coordinating epithelial water and solute transport in caput epithelium. The importance of AR in HEE cells was shown by AR ChIP-seq, and by RNA-seq after synthetic androgen (R1881) treatment. AR has a distinct transcriptional program in the HEE cells and likely recruits different co-factors (RUNX1 and CEBPβ) in comparison to those used in prostate epithelium. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our data identify many transcription factors that regulate the development and differentiation of HEE cells. Moreover, a comparison between immature and adult HEE cells showed key TFs in the transition to fully differentiated function of this epithelium. These data may help identify new targets to treat male infertility and have the potential to open new avenues for male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Browne
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - S-H Leir
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - S Yin
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - A Harris
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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31
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Tang C, Ni M, Xie S, Zhang Y, Zhang C, Ni Z, Chu C, Wu L, Zhou Y, Zhang Y. DICER1 regulates antibacterial function of epididymis by modulating transcription of β-defensins. J Mol Cell Biol 2019; 11:408-420. [PMID: 30215742 PMCID: PMC7727269 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjy048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DICER1 is a key enzyme responsible for the maturation of microRNAs. Recent evidences suggested that DICER1 and microRNAs expressed in epididymis were involved in the control of male fertility. However, the exact mechanism remains to be elucidated. Here, we created a mouse line by targeted disruption of Dicer1 gene in the principal cells of distal caput epididymis. Our data indicated that a set of β-defensin genes were downregulated by DICER1 rather than by microRNAs. Moreover, DICER1 was significantly enriched in the promoter of β-defensin gene and controlled transcription. Besides, the antibacterial ability of the adult epididymis significantly declined upon Dicer1 deletion both in vitro and in vivo. And a higher incidence of reproductive defect was observed in middle-aged Dicer1-/- males. These results suggest that DICER1 plays an important role in transcription of β-defensin genes, which are associated with the natural antibacterial properties in a microRNA-independent manner, and further impacts the male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunhua Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Minjie Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shengsong Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaobao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zimei Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuchuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yonglian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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32
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Human β-defensin 1 in follicular fluid and semen: impact on fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:787-797. [PMID: 30712073 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01409-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE β-defensins are antimicrobial peptides expressed at mucosal level of male and female genito-urinary tract, where they exert protective functions against infections, possibly preserving human health and fertility. In our study, we investigated the possible involvement of β-defensins in female and male infertility in Italian infertile couples (i) evaluating the presence of human β-defensin 1 (hBD-1) in follicular fluid (FF) and its correlation with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes; (ii) investigating the relationship between hBD-1 levels in semen and IVF outcomes (comprising correlation with sperm parameters); and (iii) exploring the effect of hBD-1 peptide on spermatozoa motility in vitro. METHODS A perspective observational analytic pilot study was conducted. hBD-1 concentration was measured with ELISA assay in FF and semen from 50 couples that underwent assisted procreation technique procedures due to infertility status. Moreover, hBD-1 exogenous peptide was administered to 29 normozoospermic semen and their motility was recorded. RESULTS hBD-1 was detected in FF and its levels were significantly higher in women with good fertilization rate (≥ 75%), respect to those with a poor fertilization rate (< 75%). The hBD-1 semen concentrations in oligo-asthenozoospermic subjects were significantly lower than that in normozoospermic men. Instead, hBD-1 level in sperm and FF not correlated with pregnancy rate. Finally, incubation of sperm with exogenous hBD-1 significantly increased progressive motility after 1 h and 24 h. CONCLUSIONS Being aware of the relatively small sample size and medium power, our results possibly suggest that hBD-1 could influence oocyte and sperm quality, and could improve, when exogenously added, sperm motility.
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33
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Peripolli E, Metzger J, de Lemos MVA, Stafuzza NB, Kluska S, Olivieri BF, Feitosa FLB, Berton MP, Lopes FB, Munari DP, Lôbo RB, Magnabosco CDU, Di Croce F, Osterstock J, Denise S, Pereira ASC, Baldi F. Autozygosity islands and ROH patterns in Nellore lineages: evidence of selection for functionally important traits. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:680. [PMID: 30223795 PMCID: PMC6142381 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-5060-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The aim of this study was to assess genome-wide autozygosity in a Nellore cattle population and to characterize ROH patterns and autozygosity islands that may have occurred due to selection within its lineages. It attempts also to compare estimates of inbreeding calculated from ROH (FROH), genomic relationship matrix (FGRM), and pedigree-based coefficient (FPED). Results The average number of ROH per animal was 55.15 ± 13.01 with an average size of 3.24 Mb. The Nellore genome is composed mostly by a high number of shorter segments accounting for 78% of all ROH, although the proportion of the genome covered by them was relatively small. The genome autozygosity proportion indicates moderate to high inbreeding levels for classical standards, with an average value of 7.15% (178.70 Mb). The average of FPED and FROH, and their correlations (− 0.05 to 0.26) were low. Estimates of correlation between FGRM-FPED was zero, while the correlation (− 0.01 to − 0.07) between FGRM-FROH decreased as a function of ROH length, except for FROH > 8Mb (− 0.03). Overall, inbreeding coefficients were not high for the genotyped animals. Autozygosity islands were evident across the genome (n = 62) and their genomic location did not largely differ within lineages. Enriched terms (p < 0.01) associated with defense response to bacteria (GO:0042742), immune complex reaction (GO:0045647), pregnancy-associated glycoproteins genes (GO:0030163), and organism growth (GO:0040014) were described within the autozygotic islands. Conclusions Low FPED-FROH correlation estimates indicate that FPED is not the most suitable method for capturing ancient inbreeding when the pedigree does not extend back many generations and FROH should be used instead. Enriched terms (p < 0.01) suggest a strong selection for immune response. Non-overlapping islands within the lineages greatly explain the mechanism underlying selection for functionally important traits in Nellore cattle. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5060-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Peripolli
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil.
| | - Julia Metzger
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marcos Vinícius Antunes de Lemos
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Nedenia Bonvino Stafuzza
- Departamento de Ciências Exatas, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Sabrina Kluska
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Bianca Ferreira Olivieri
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Fabieli Louise Braga Feitosa
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Mariana Piatto Berton
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Fernando Brito Lopes
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Danísio Prado Munari
- Departamento de Ciências Exatas, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Raysildo Barbosa Lôbo
- Associação Nacional de Criadores e Pesquisadores (ANCP), Ribeirão Preto, 14020-230, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fernando Baldi
- Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, UNESP Univ Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Jaboticabal, 14884-900, Brazil
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Mowbray CA, Niranji SS, Cadwell K, Bailey R, Watson KA, Hall J. Gene expression of AvBD6-10 in broiler chickens is independent of AvBD6, 9, and 10 peptide potency. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2018; 202:31-40. [PMID: 30078596 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2018.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The Avian β-defensin (AvBD) gene cluster contains fourteen genes; within this, two groups (AvBD6/7 and AvBD8 -10) encode charged peptides of >+5 (AvBD6/7), indicative of potent microbial killing activities, and ≤+4 (AvBD8-10), suggestive of reduced antimicrobial activities. Chicken broiler gut tissues are constantly exposed to microbes in the form of commensal bacteria. This study examined whether tissue expression patterns of AvBD6-10 reflected microbial exposure and the encoded peptides a functional antimicrobial hierarchy. Gut AvBD6-10 gene expression was observed in hatch to day 21 birds, although the AvBD8-10 profiles were eclipsed by those detected in the liver and kidney tissues. In vitro challenges of chicken CHCC-OU2 cells using the gut commensal Lactobacillus johnsonii (104 CFU) did not significantly affect AvBD8-10 gene expression patterns, although upregulation (P < 0.05) of IL-Iβ gene expression was observed. Similarly, in response to Bacteriodes doreii, IL-Iβ and IL-6 gene upregulation were detected (P < 0.05), but AvBD10 gene expression remained unaffected. These data suggested that AvBD8-10 gene expression was not induced by commensal gut bacteria. Bacterial time-kill assays employing recombinant (r)AvBD6, 9 and 10 peptides (0.5μM - 12μM), indicated an antimicrobial hierarchy, linked to charge, of AvBD6 > AvBD9 > AvBD10 against Escherichia coli, but AvBD10 > AvBD9 > AvBD6 using Enterococcus faecalis. rAvBD10, selected due to its reduced cationic charge was, using CHCC-OU2 cells, investigated for cell proliferation and wound healing properties, but none were observed. These data suggest that in healthy broiler chicken tissues AvBD6/7 and AvBD8-10 gene expression profiles are independent of the in vitro antimicrobial hierarchies of the encoded AvBD6, 9 and 10 peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Mowbray
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Sherko S Niranji
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Kevin Cadwell
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | | | | | - Judith Hall
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK.
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Selvaraju S, Parthipan S, Somashekar L, Binsila BK, Kolte AP, Arangasamy A, Ravindra JP, Krawetz SA. Current status of sperm functional genomics and its diagnostic potential of fertility in bovine (Bos taurus). Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1444816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Sivashanmugam Parthipan
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Lakshminarayana Somashekar
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - B. Krishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Atul P. Kolte
- Omics Laboratory, Animal Nutrition Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arunachalam Arangasamy
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Janivara Parameshwaraiah Ravindra
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Légaré C, Akintayo A, Blondin P, Calvo E, Sullivan R. Impact of male fertility status on the transcriptome of the bovine epididymis. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:355-369. [PMID: 28379507 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can region-specific transcriptional profiling of the epididymis from fertile and sub-fertile bulls predict the etiology of fertility/sub-fertility in males? SUMMARY ANSWER The highly regulated gene expression along the bovine epididymis is affected by the fertility status of bulls used for artificial insemination. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In mammals, sperm maturation and storage occur in the epididymis. Each epididymal segment has his own transcriptomic signature that modulates the intraluminal composition and consequently governs sequential modifications of the maturing male gamete. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Epididymides from six Holstein bulls with documented fertility were used. These bulls were divided into two groups: high fertility (n = 3), and medium-low fertility (n = 3) and their epididymal transcriptomic profiles were analyzed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Bovine cDNA microarray probing and bioinformatic tools were used to identify genes that are differentially expressed in caput, corpus and cauda epididymidal tissues of bulls with the documented fertility index. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis revealed a clear separation between caput, corpus and cauda epididymides. Some transcripts characterize a particular anatomical segment, whereas others are expressed in two out of three epididymal segments. Gene ontology analysis allowed deduction of specific functions played by each epididymal segment. The transcriptional profiles between fertile versus sub-fertile conditions clustered most closely in the corpus and cauda segments, whereas the profiles in the caput segment were distinct between fertile and sub-fertile bulls. Of the differently expressed genes, 10 (AKAP4, SMCP, SPATA3, TCP11, ODF1, CTCFL, SPATA18, ADAM28, SORD and FAM161A) were found to exert functions related to reproductive systems and 5 genes (DEAD, CYST11, DEFB119, DEFB124 and MX1) were found to be associated with the defense response. LARGE SCALE DATA The GEO number for public access of bovine epididymis microarray data is GSE96602. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Further work is required to link these modulations of epididymal functions with sperm fertilizing ability in order to understand the etiology of certain cases of idiopathic infertility in livestock and men. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS As fertility can be quantified in bulls used for artificial insemination, this species is a unique model to aid in the understanding of male fertility/sub-fertility in man. Our data provide a molecular characterization that will facilitate advances in understanding the involvement of epididymal physiology in sub/infertility etiology. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by a grant to R.S. from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada. C.L., A.A., E.C. and R.S. have no conflict of interest to declare. P.B. is R&D director at Alliance Boviteq Inc., a bovine artificial insemination company.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Légaré
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, (T3-67) Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Ayodélé Akintayo
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, (T3-67) Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Patrick Blondin
- L'Alliance Boviteq, Inc., 19320 Rang Grand Saint François Ouest, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2T 5H1, Canada
| | - Ezequiel Calvo
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, (T3-67) Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Quebec, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, 2705 boulevard Laurier, (T3-67) Québec G1V 4G2, Canada
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Lyons A, Narciandi F, Donnellan E, Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Farrelly CO, Lonergan P, Meade KG, Fair S. Recombinant β-defensin 126 promotes bull sperm binding to bovine oviductal epithelia. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1472-1481. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Primate β-defensin 126 regulates the ability of spermatozoa to bind to oviductal epithelial cells in vitro. Bovine β-defensin 126 (BBD126) exhibits preferential expression in the cauda epididymis of the bull, but there have been few studies on its functional role in cattle. The aim of the present study was to examine the role of BBD126 in bull sperm binding to bovine oviductal epithelial cell (BOEC) explants. BBD126 has been shown to be highly resistant to the standard methods of dissociation used in other species and, as a result, corpus epididymal spermatozoa, which have not been exposed to the protein, were used to study the functional role of BBD126. Corpus epididymal spermatozoa were incubated with recombinant (r) BBD126 in the absence or presence of anti-BBD126 antibody. Addition of rBBD126 significantly enhanced the ability of epididymal spermatozoa to bind to BOEC explants (P < 0.05). Anti-BBD126 antibody blocked the BBD126-mediated increase in sperm binding capacity. Ejaculated spermatozoa, which are coated with native BBD126 protein but also a large number of seminal plasma proteins in vivo, were incubated with rBBD126 in the absence or presence of the anti-BBD126 antibody. Addition of rBBD126 significantly enhanced the ability of ejaculated spermatozoa to bind to BOEC explants (P < 0.05), whereas rBBD126 also reduced corpus sperm agglutination (P < 0.05). These results suggest that, similar to the role of its analogue in the macaque, spermatozoa with more BBD126 in their acrosome may represent spermatozoa with more oviduct binding capacity.
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Abujaber R, Shea PR, McLaren PJ, Lakhi S, Gilmour J, Allen S, Fellay J, Hollox EJ. No Evidence for Association of β-Defensin Genomic Copy Number with HIV Susceptibility, HIV Load during Clinical Latency, or Progression to AIDS. Ann Hum Genet 2017; 81:27-34. [PMID: 28084001 DOI: 10.1111/ahg.12182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Common single-nucleotide variation in the host accounts for 25% of the variability in the plasma levels of HIV during the clinical latency stage (viral load set point). However, the role of rare variants and copy number variants remains relatively unexplored. Previous work has suggested copy number variation of a cluster of β-defensin genes affects HIV load in treatment-naïve sub-Saharan Africans and rate of response to antiretroviral treatment. Here we analyse a total of 1827 individuals from two cohorts of HIV-infected individuals from Europe and sub-Saharan Africa to investigate the role of β-defensin copy number variation on HIV load at set point. We find no evidence for association of copy number with viral load. We also compare distribution of β-defensin copy number between European cases and controls and find no differences, arguing against a role of β-defensin copy number in HIV acquisition. Taken together, our data argue against an effect of copy number variation of the β-defensin region in the spontaneous control of HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razan Abujaber
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Patrick R Shea
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Paul J McLaren
- National HIV and Retrovirology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada.,Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Shabir Lakhi
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), New York, New York, USA.,Zambia-Emory HIV Research Project, Lusaka and Copperbelt, Zambia
| | - Jill Gilmour
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), New York, New York, USA.,IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Allen
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI), New York, New York, USA.,School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Edward J Hollox
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | -
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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Hall TJ, McQuillan C, Finlay EK, O'Farrelly C, Fair S, Meade KG. Comparative genomic identification and validation of β-defensin genes in the Ovis aries genome. BMC Genomics 2017; 18:278. [PMID: 28376793 PMCID: PMC5379710 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-017-3666-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background β-defensins are small, cationic, antimicrobial peptides found in species across the plant and animal kingdoms. In addition to microbiocidal activity, roles in immunity as well as reproduction have more recently been documented. β-defensin genes in Ovis aries (domestic sheep) have been poorly annotated, having been identified only by automatic gene prediction algorithms. The objective of this study was to use a comparative genomics approach to identify and characterise the β-defensin gene repertoire in sheep using the bovine genome as the primary reference. Results All 57 currently predicted bovine β-defensin genes were used to find orthologous sequences in the most recent version of the sheep genome (OAR v4.0). Forty three genes were found to have close genomic matches (>70% similarity) between sheep and cattle. The orthologous genes were located in four clusters across the genome, with 4 genes on chromosome 2, 19 genes on chromosome 13, 5 genes on chromosome 20 and 15 genes on chromosome 26. Conserved gene order for the β-defensin genes was apparent in the two smaller clusters, although gene order was reversed on chromosome 2, suggesting an inversion between sheep and cattle. Complete conservation of gene order was also observed for chromosome 13 β-defensin orthologs. More structural differences were apparent between chromosome 26 genes and the orthologous region in the bovine reference genome, which is known to be copy-number variable. In this cluster, the Defensin-beta 1 (DEFB1) gene matched to eleven Bovine Neutrophil beta-Defensin (BNBD) genes on chromosome 27 with almost uniform similarity, as well as to tracheal, enteric and lingual anti-microbial peptides (TAP, EAP and LAP), suggesting that annotation of the bovine reference sequence is still incomplete. qPCR was used to profile the expression of 34 β-defensin genes, representing each of the four clusters, in the ram reproductive tract. Distinct site-specific and differential expression profiles were detected across the reproductive tract of mature rams with preferential β-defensin gene expression in the epididymis, recapitulating observations for orthologous genes in other species. Conclusions This is the first comprehensive analysis of β-defensin genes encoded by the ovine reference sequence, and the first report of an expanded repertoire of β-defensin genes in this species. The preferential expression of these genes in the epididymis suggests a role in fertility, possibly providing immunoprotection for sperm within the female reproductive tract. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-017-3666-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Hall
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co Meath, Ireland
| | - C McQuillan
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co Meath, Ireland
| | - E K Finlay
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co Meath, Ireland
| | - C O'Farrelly
- Comparative Immunology Group, School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - S Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - K G Meade
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Dunsany, Co Meath, Ireland.
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Cui Z, Sharma R, Agarwal A. Proteomic analysis of mature and immature ejaculated spermatozoa from fertile men. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:735-46. [PMID: 26510506 PMCID: PMC5000797 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.164924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctional spermatozoa maturation is the main reason for the decrease in sperm motility and morphology in infertile men. Ejaculated spermatozoa from healthy fertile men were separated into four fractions using three-layer density gradient. Proteins were extracted and bands were digested on a LTQ-Orbitrap Elite hybrid mass spectrometer system. Functional annotations of proteins were obtained using bioinformatics tools and pathway databases. Western blotting was performed to verify the expression levels of the proteins of interest. 1469 proteins were identified in four fractions of spermatozoa. The number of detected proteins decreased according to the maturation level of spermatozoa. During spermatozoa maturation, proteins involved in gamete generation, cell motility, energy metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation processes showed increasing expression levels and those involved in protein biosynthesis, protein transport, protein ubiquitination, and response to oxidative stress processes showed decreasing expression levels. We validated four proteins (HSP 70 1A, clusterin, tektin 2 and tektin 3) by Western blotting. The study shows protein markers that may provide insight into the ejaculated spermatozoa proteins in different stages of sperm maturation that may be altered or modified in infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Cui
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; Institute of Toxicology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, PR China,
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Ribeiro CM, Ferreira LGA, Thimoteo DS, Smith LB, Hinton BT, Avellar MCW. Novel androgen-induced activity of an antimicrobial β-defensin: Regulation of Wolffian duct morphogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 442:142-152. [PMID: 27989506 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The Wolffian duct (WD) undergoes morphological changes induced by androgens to form the epididymis, which is an organ essential for sperm maturation. Androgen action in WD epithelium involves paracrine factors of mesenchymal origin that function by still poorly understood mechanisms. Here we studied the antimicrobial β-defensin SPAG11C as a new player in duct morphogenesis, localized prenatally in the WD mesenchyme. Organotypic culture of rat WDs and tissues from Androgen Receptor (AR) knockout mice (ARKO) were used. Our results show that androgen/AR signaling differentially regulated SPAG11C expression at mRNA and protein levels in the developing WD. WDs incubated with recombinant human SPAG11C were shorter and less coiled as a result of reduced epithelial cell proliferation, but not increased apoptosis. Our results suggested β-defensin SPAG11C as an androgen-target required for WD morphogenesis. This highlights the multifunctional repertoire of the β-defensin protein family and their potential contribution to the in utero environment that determines male reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla M Ribeiro
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas G A Ferreira
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel S Thimoteo
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lee B Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Barry T Hinton
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia, School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Ribeiro CM, Silva EJR, Hinton BT, Avellar MCW. β-defensins and the epididymis: contrasting influences of prenatal, postnatal, and adult scenarios. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:323-8. [PMID: 26763543 PMCID: PMC4770510 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.168791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
β-defensins are components of host defense, with antimicrobial and pleiotropic immuno-modulatory properties. Research over the last 15 years has demonstrated abundant expression of a variety of β-defensins in the postnatal epididymis of different species. A gradient of region- and cell-specific expression of these proteins is observed in the epithelium of the postnatal epididymis. Their secretion into the luminal fluid and binding to spermatozoa as they travel along the epididymis has suggested their involvement in reproduction-specific tasks. Therefore, continuous attention has been given to various β-defensins for their role in sperm function and fertility. Although β-defensins are largely dependent on androgens, the underlying mechanisms regulating their expression and function in the epididymis are not well understood. Recent investigation has pointed out to a new and interesting scenario where β-defensins emerge with a different expression pattern in the Wolffian duct, the embryonic precursor of the epididymis, as opposed to the adult epididymis, thereby redefining the concept concerning the multifunctional roles of β-defensins in the developing epididymis. In this review, we summarize some current views of β-defensins in the epididymis highlighting our most recent data and speculations on their role in the developing epididymis during the prenatal-to-postnatal transition, bringing attention to the many unanswered questions in this research area that may contribute to a better understanding of epididymal biology and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, Brazil
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Narciandi F, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Khairulzaman I, Jahns H, King D, Finlay EK, Mok KH, Fair S, Lonergan P, Farrelly CO, Meade KG. Sperm-Coating Beta-Defensin 126 Is a Dissociation-Resistant Dimer Produced by Epididymal Epithelium in the Bovine Reproductive Tract. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:121. [PMID: 27707712 PMCID: PMC5333941 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.138719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta-defensins are innate immune molecules, often described as antimicrobial peptides because of their bactericidal activity and are now known to have diverse additional functions, including cell signaling, chemoattraction, immunoregulation, and reproduction. In humans and primates, beta-defensin 126 has been shown to regulate the ability of sperm to swim through cervical mucus and to protect sperm from attack by the female immune system during transit toward the oviduct. Bovine beta-defensin 126 (BBD126) is the ortholog of human defensin 126, and computational analysis here revealed significant conservation between BBD126 and other mammalian orthologs at the N-terminus, although extensive sequence differences were detected at the C-terminus, implying possible species-specific roles for this beta-defensin in reproduction. We had previously demonstrated preferential expression of this and related beta-defensin genes in the bovine male reproductive tract, but no studies of bovine beta-defensin proteins have been performed to date. Here, we analyzed BBD126 protein using a monoclonal antibody (a-BBD126) generated against a 14 amino acid peptide sequence from the secreted fragment of BBD126. The specificity of a-BBD126 was validated by testing against the native form of the peptide recovered from bovine caudal epididymal fluid and recombinant BBD126 generated using a prokaryotic expression system. Western blot analysis of the native and recombinant forms showed that BBD126 exists as a dimer that was highly resistant to standard methods of dissociation. Immunohistochemical staining using a-BBD126 demonstrated BBD126 protein expression by epithelial cells of the caudal epididymis and vas deferens from both mature and immature bulls. BBD126 could also be seen (by confocal microscopy) to coat caudal sperm, with staining concentrated on the tail of the sperm cells. This study is the first to demonstrate beta-defensin 126 protein expression in the bovine reproductive tract and on bull sperm. Its dissociation-resistant dimeric structure is likely to have important functional implications for the role of BBD126 in bovine reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hanne Jahns
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre King
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - Emma K Finlay
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - Ken H Mok
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.,Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Cliona O' Farrelly
- School of Biochemistry and Immunology, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland .,Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Kieran G Meade
- Animal & Bioscience Research Department, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Co. Meath, Ireland
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Fernandez-Fuertes B, Narciandi F, O'Farrelly C, Kelly AK, Fair S, Meade KG, Lonergan P. Cauda Epididymis-Specific Beta-Defensin 126 Promotes Sperm Motility but Not Fertilizing Ability in Cattle. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:122. [PMID: 27707713 PMCID: PMC5333942 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.138792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine beta-defensin 126 (BBD126) exhibits preferential expression for the cauda epididymis of males, where it is absorbed onto the tail and postacrosomal region of the sperm. The aim of this study was to examine the role of BBD126 in bull sperm function. Fresh and frozen-thawed semen were incubated in the presence of different capacitating agents as well as with phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C. These treatments, which have been successful in releasing beta-defensin 126 from macaque sperm, proved to be ineffective in bull sperm. This finding suggests that the protein behaves in a different manner in the bovine. The lack of success in removing BBD126 led us to use corpus epididymis sperm, a model in which the protein is not present, to study its functional role. Corpus sperm were incubated with cauda epididymal fluid (CEF) in the absence or presence of BBD126 antibody or with recombinant BBD126 (rBBD126). Confocal microscopy revealed that rBBD126 binds to corpus sperm with the same pattern observed for BBD126 in cauda sperm, whereas an aberrant binding pattern is observed when sperm are subject to CEF incubation. Addition of CEF increased motility as well as the number of corpus sperm migrating through cervical mucus from estrus cows. However, it decreased the ability of sperm to fertilize in vitro matured oocytes. The presence of the antibody failed to abrogate these effects. Furthermore, when rBBD126 was added in the absence of other factors and proteins from the CEF, an increase in motility was also observed and no negative effects in fertility were seen. These results suggest that BBD126 plays a key role in the acquisition of sperm motility in the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cliona O'Farrelly
- Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alan K Kelly
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Kieran G Meade
- Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Grange, Co. Meath, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
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Butler VL, Mowbray CA, Cadwell K, Niranji SS, Bailey R, Watson KA, Ralph J, Hall J. Effects of rearing environment on the gut antimicrobial responses of two broiler chicken lines. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2016; 178:29-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2016.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Bernabò N, Agostino RD, Ordinelli A, Mattioli M, Barboni B. The maturation of murine spermatozoa membranes within the epididymis, a computational biology perspective. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2016; 62:299-308. [PMID: 27586844 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2016.1205679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
To become fertile, mammalian spermatozoa require completing a complex biochemical maturation that begins in the testis and ends within the female oviduct. Here, we paid attention to the events occurring at the membrane level during the epididymal transit. Indeed, in the epididymis, the molecular composition and the physical-chemical proprieties of sperm membranes markedly change, with functional cross talking among the spermatozoa, the epithelium, and the luminal content (particularly the epididymosomes). To study this process, we undertook a biological networks study, representing the involved molecules as nodes and their interactions as links. The analysis of network topology revealed that it has a scale free and small world architecture and it is robust against random failure. That assures a fast and efficient transmission of information and it leads to identifying the molecules exerting a higher level of control on the system, among which cholesterol plays a pivotal role. The reactome enrichment analysis allowed the reconstruction of the biochemical pathways involved in sperm epididymal maturation and STRING analysis permitted the identification of molecular events possibly involved in that process. In conclusion, this approach allows inferring interesting information, thus contributing to the knowledge on this process and suggesting staring points for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bernabò
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
| | | | | | - Mauro Mattioli
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
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Identification of New Epididymal Luminal Fluid Proteins Involved in Sperm Maturation in Infertile Rats Treated by Dutasteride Using iTRAQ. Molecules 2016; 21:molecules21050602. [PMID: 27187330 PMCID: PMC6273551 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21050602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Spermatozoa become mature and acquire fertilizing capacity during their passage through the epididymal lumen. In this study, we identified new epididymal luminal fluid proteins involved in sperm maturation in infertile rats by dutasteride, a dual 5α-reductase inhibitor, in order to provide potential epididymal targets for new contraceptives and infertility treatment. Methods: Male rats were treated with dutasteride for 28 consecutive days. We observed the protein expression profiles in the epididymal luminal fluids in infertile and normal rats using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) technique. The confidence of proteome data was validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results: 1045 proteins were tested, and 23 of them presented different expression profiling in the infertile and normal rats. The seven proteins were down-regulated, and 16 proteins were up-regulated. Among the seven proteins which were significantly down-regulated by dutasteride in the epididymal luminal fluids, there were three β-defensins (Defb2, Defb18 and Defb39), which maybe the key proteins involved in epididymal sperm maturation and male fertility. Conclusions: We report for the first time that dutasteride influences the protein expression profiling in the epididymal luminal fluids of rats, and this result provides some new epididymal targets for male contraception and infertility therapy.
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Da Silva N, Barton CR. Macrophages and dendritic cells in the post-testicular environment. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 363:97-104. [PMID: 26337514 PMCID: PMC4703462 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2270-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages (MΦ) and dendritic cells (DCs) are heterogeneous families of functionally and developmentally related immune cells that play crucial roles in tissue homeostasis and the regulation of immune responses. During the past 5 years, immunologists have generated a considerable amount of data that challenge dogmas about the ontogeny and functions of these highly versatile cells. The male excurrent duct system plays a critical role in the establishment of fertility by allowing sperm maturation, transport and storage. In addition, it is challenged by pathogens and must establish a protective and tolerogenic environment for a continuous flow of autoantigenic spermatozoa. The post-testicular environment and, in particular, the epididymis contain an intricate network of DCs and MΦ; however, the immunophysiology of this intriguing and highly specialized mucosal system is poorly understood. This review summarizes the current trends in mouse MΦ and DC biology and speculates about their roles in the steady-state epididymis. Unraveling immune cell functions in the male reproductive tract is an essential prerequisite for the design of innovative strategies aimed at controlling male fertility and treating infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Da Silva
- Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology and Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 8.218, Boston, MA 02114-2790, USA.
| | - Claire R Barton
- Division of Nephrology, Center for Systems Biology and Program in Membrane Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute and Harvard Medical School, 185 Cambridge Street, CPZN 8.218, Boston, MA 02114-2790, USA
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Abstract
The capacity for sperm storage within the female reproductive tract occurs widely across all groups of vertebrate species and is exceptionally well developed in some reptiles (maximum duration seven years) and fishes (maximum duration >1 year). Although there are many reports on both the occurrence of female sperm storage in diverse species and its adaptive benefits, few studies have been directed toward explaining the mechanisms involved. In this article we review recent findings in birds and mammals in an effort to develop hypotheses that could be translated into research applications in animal breeding technologies. There are pockets of evidence to suggest that the local epithelial cells, sometimes arranged as sperm storage tubules, can respond to spermatozoa by producing heat shock proteins as well as providing an environment rich in antioxidants. Moreover, the local immune system seems to tolerate the arrival of spermatozoa, while retaining the ability to combat the arrival of infectious microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom; ;
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom; ;
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Mathew B, Nagaraj R. Antimicrobial activity of human α-defensin 5 and its linear analogs: N-terminal fatty acylation results in enhanced antimicrobial activity of the linear analogs. Peptides 2015. [PMID: 26206286 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2015.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Human α-defensin 5 (HD5) exhibits broad spectrum antimicrobial activity and plays an important role in mucosal immunity of the small intestine. Although there have been several studies, the structural requirements for activity and mechanism of bacterial killing is yet to be established unequivocally. In this study, we have investigated the antimicrobial activity of HD5 and linear analogs. Cysteine deletions attenuated the antibacterial activity considerably. Candidacidal activity was affected to a lesser extent. Fatty acid conjugated linear analogs showed antimicrobial activity comparable activity to HD5. Effective surface charge neutralization of bacteria was observed for HD5 as compared to the non-fatty acylated linear analogs. Our results show that HD5 and non-fatty acylated linear analogs enter the bacterial cytoplasm without causing damage to the bacterial inner membrane. Although fatty acylated peptides exhibited antimicrobial activity comparable to HD5, their mechanism of action involved permeabilization of the Escherichia coli inner membrane. HD5 and analogs had the ability to bind plasmid DNA. HD5 had greater binding affinity to plasmid DNA as compared to the analogs. The three dimensional structure of HD5 favors greater interaction with the bacterial cell surface and also with DNA. Antibacterial activity of HD5 involves entry into bacterial cytoplasm and binding to DNA which would result in shut down of the bacterial metabolism leading to cell death. We show how a moderately active linear peptide derived from the α-defensin HD5 can be engineered to enhance antimicrobial activity almost comparable to the native peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basil Mathew
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - Ramakrishnan Nagaraj
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India.
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