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Zhang X, Tu H, Zhou X, Wang B, Guo Y, Situ C, Qi Y, Li Y, Guo X. Quantitative phosphoproteomic profiling of mouse sperm maturation in epididymis revealed kinases important for sperm motility. Mol Cell Proteomics 2024:100810. [PMID: 38977202 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2024.100810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcriptionally and translationally silent sperm undergo functional maturation during epididymis traverse, which provides sperm ability to move and is crucial for successful fertilization. However, the molecular mechanisms governing sperm maturation remain poorly understood, especially at protein post-translational modification level. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis of mouse epididymal sperm from different regions (caput, corpus, and cauda) to unveil the dynamics of protein phosphorylation during sperm maturation. We identified 6,447 phosphorylation sites in 1,407 phosphoproteins, and 345 phosphoproteins were differentially phosphorylated between caput and cauda sperm. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses showed enrichment of differentially phosphorylated proteins in energy metabolism, sperm motility and fertilization. Kinase substrate network analysis followed by inhibition assay and quantitative phosphoproteomics analysis showed that TSSK2 kinase is important for sperm motility and progressive motility. This study systemically characterized the intricate phosphorylation regulation during sperm maturation in the mouse epididymis, which can be a basis to elucidate sperm motility acquisition, and to offer potential targets for male contraception and the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Haixia Tu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100 China
| | - Xin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Bing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China; School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009 China
| | - Yueshuai Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Chenghao Situ
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Yaling Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100 China.
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166 China.
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2
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Zhang Y, Peng Y, Wang Y, Xu J, Yan H. Novel underlying genetic markers for asthenozoospermia due to abnormal spermatogenesis and reproductive organ inflammation. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:146. [PMID: 38476923 PMCID: PMC10928817 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia, a male fertility disorder, has a complex and multifactorial etiology. Moreover, the effectiveness of different treatments for asthenozoospermia remains uncertain. Hence, by using bioinformatics techniques, the present study aimed to determine the underlying genetic markers and pathogenetic mechanisms associated with asthenozoospermia due to abnormal spermatogenesis and inflammation of the reproductive tract. GSE160749 dataset was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the data were filtered to obtain 1336 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with asthenozoospermia. These DEGs were intersected with the epithelial mesenchymal transition datasets to yield 61 candidate DEGs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed, and the results revealed that these candidate DEGs were significantly enriched in the enzyme-linked receptor pathway and the thyroid hormone pathway. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed to identify the key genes of asthenozoospermia. A total of five key genes were identified, among which SOX9 was significantly upregulated, while HSPA4, SMAD2, HIF1A and GSK3B were significantly downregulated. These findings were validated by conducting reverse transcription-quantitative PCR for clinical semen samples. To determine the underlying molecular mechanisms, a regulatory network of transcription factors and miRNA-mRNA interactions was predicted. The expression levels of HSPA4, SMAD2 and GSK3B were positively associated with several related etiological genes of asthenozoospermia. In total, five key genes were closely associated with the level and type of immune cells; higher levels of activated B cells and CD8 T cells were observed in asthenozoospermia. Thus, the findings of the present study may provide clues to determine the underlying novel diagnostic genetic markers and treatment strategies for asthenozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaodong Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The 971st Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Qindao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Yun Peng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Yao Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Jian Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Hongli Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
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3
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Wu Q, Zhou Z, Yan Z, Connel M, Garzo G, Yeo A, Zhang W, Su HI, Zhong S. A temporal extracellular transcriptome atlas of human pre-implantation development. CELL GENOMICS 2024; 4:100464. [PMID: 38216281 PMCID: PMC10794780 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2023.100464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Non-invasively evaluating gene expression products in human pre-implantation embryos remains a significant challenge. Here, we develop a non-invasive method for comprehensive characterization of the extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) in a single droplet of spent media that was used to culture human in vitro fertilization embryos. We generate the temporal extracellular transcriptome atlas (TETA) of human pre-implantation development. TETA consists of 245 exRNA sequencing datasets for five developmental stages. These data reveal approximately 4,000 exRNAs at each stage. The exRNAs of the developmentally arrested embryos are enriched with the genes involved in negative regulation of the cell cycle, revealing an exRNA signature of developmental arrest. Furthermore, a machine-learning model can approximate the morphology-based rating of embryo quality based on the exRNA levels. These data reveal the widespread presence of coding gene-derived exRNAs at every stage of human pre-implantation development, and these exRNAs provide rich information on the physiology of the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyang Wu
- Shu Chien-Gene Ley Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Zixu Zhou
- Genemo, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA
| | - Zhangming Yan
- Shu Chien-Gene Ley Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Megan Connel
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Gabriel Garzo
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Analisa Yeo
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - H Irene Su
- Reproductive Partners San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Sheng Zhong
- Shu Chien-Gene Ley Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Genemo, Inc., San Diego, CA 92130, USA.
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4
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Chen Y, Xu D, Ma Y, Chen P, Hu J, Chen D, Yu W, Han X. Sertoli cell-derived extracellular vesicles traverse the blood-testis barrier and deliver miR-24-3p inhibitor into germ cells improving sperm mobility. J Control Release 2023; 362:58-69. [PMID: 37595666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia, characterized by poor sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility. Improving energy metabolism and alleviating oxidative stress through drug regimens are potential therapeutic strategies. In this study, we observed upregulated miR-24-3p levels in asthenozoospermia spermatozoa, contributing to energy metabolism disorder and oxidative stress by reducing GSK3β expression. Thus, reducing miR-24-3p levels using drugs is expected to improve sperm motility. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) protects the testis from xenobiotics and drugs. In this study, we found that Sertoli cell-derived small extracellular vesicles (SC-sEV) can traverse the BTB and enter germ cells. We successfully loaded miR-24-3p inhibitor into SC-sEV, creating the nano-drug SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor, which effectively delivers miR-24-3p inhibitor into germ cells. In a gossypol-induced mouse asthenozoospermia model, administration of SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor significantly improved sperm motility, in vitro fertilization success, and blastocyst formation rates. As anticipated, it also improved the litter size of asthenozoospermia mice. These results suggest that SC-sEV@miR-24-3p inhibitor holds promise as a potential clinical treatment for asthenospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dihui Xu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuhan Ma
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peilin Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianhang Hu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Deyan Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Andrology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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5
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Becker LS, Al Smadi MA, Koch H, Abdul-Khaliq H, Meese E, Abu-Halima M. Towards a More Comprehensive Picture of the MicroRNA-23a/b-3p Impact on Impaired Male Fertility. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:800. [PMID: 37372085 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The expression levels of various genes involved in human spermatogenesis are influenced by microRNAs (miRNAs), specifically microRNA-23a/b-3p. While certain genes are essential for spermatogenesis and male germ cell function, the regulation of their expression remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether microRNA-23a/b-3p targets genes involved in spermatogenesis and the impact of this targeting on the expression levels of these genes in males with impaired fertility. In-silico prediction and dual-luciferase assays were used to determine the potential connections between microRNA-23a/b-3p overexpression and reduced expression levels of 16 target genes. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was conducted on 41 oligoasthenozoospermic men receiving infertility treatment and 41 age-matched normozoospermic individuals to verify the lower expression level of target genes. By employing dual-luciferase assays, microRNA-23a-3p was found to directly target eight genes, namely NOL4, SOX6, GOLGA6C, PCDHA9, G2E3, ZNF695, CEP41, and RGPD1, while microRNA-23b-3p directly targeted three genes, namely SOX6, GOLGA6C, and ZNF695. The intentional alteration of the microRNA-23a/b binding site within the 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) of the eight genes resulted in the loss of responsiveness to microRNA-23a/b-3p. This confirmed that NOL4, SOX6, GOLGA6C, PCDHA9, and CEP41 are direct targets for microRNA-23a-3p, while NOL4, SOX6, and PCDHA9 are direct targets for microRNA-23b-3p. The sperm samples of oligoasthenozoospermic men had lower expression levels of target genes than age-matched normozoospermic men. Correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between basic semen parameters and lower expression levels of target genes. The study suggests that microRNA-23a/b-3p plays a significant role in spermatogenesis by controlling the expression of target genes linked to males with impaired fertility and has an impact on basic semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Mohammad A Al Smadi
- Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF Unit, King Hussein Medical Centre, Amman 11855, Jordan
| | - Hanna Koch
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Hashim Abdul-Khaliq
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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6
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Wang W, Guo L, Jiang B, Yan B, Li Y, Ye X, Yang Y, Liu S, Shao Z, Diao H. Role of the Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3-Cyclic AMP/Protein Kinase A in the Immobilization of Human Sperm by Tideglusib. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1281-1290. [PMID: 36207578 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01086-8] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2022]
Abstract
Tideglusib is considered to be a promising alternative to nonyl alcohol-9 contraceptives. Previous studies have demonstrated that the rapid spermicidal effect of tideglusib at a high concentration (≥ 10 μM) may occur through detergent-like activity; however, the effect of low concentrations of tideglusib (< 5 μM) on sperm is unknown. We explored the intracellular mechanism of tideglusib (< 5 μM) on the immobilization of human sperm by exploring related signaling pathways in human sperm. After treatment with tideglusib (1.25 μM) for 2 h, sperm motility rate decreased to 0, while sperm membrane integrity rate was 70%. Protein tyrosine phosphorylation level and intracellular cyclic adenosine 3,5-monophosphate (cAMP) concentration decreased significantly compared to those in the control group. Isobutylmethylxanthine and 8-Bromo-cAMP relieved the inhibition of spermatozoa tyrosine phosphorylation, while tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm protein in the H89 and CALP1 treatment groups was significantly inhibited, and there was no difference in the tideglusib treatment group. H-89 and CALP1 reduced the level of serine phosphorylation of GSK-3α/β (Ser21/9), while its level was enhanced by IBMX and 8-Bromo-cAMP. Our results show the existence of the GSK3-cAMP/PKA regulatory loop in human sperm, which may mediate the immobilization effect of tideglusib at low of concentrations (e.g., 1.25 μM) on sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lina Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bingbing Jiang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Bin Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xin Ye
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China
| | - Yiting Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhiyu Shao
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Hua Diao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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7
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Cormier KW, Larsen B, Gingras AC, Woodgett JR. Interactomes of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 Isoforms. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:977-989. [PMID: 36779422 PMCID: PMC9990120 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
Functional differentiation of the two isoforms of the protein-serine/threonine kinase, glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3), is an unsettled area of research. The isoforms are highly similar in structure and are largely redundant, though there is also evidence for specific roles. Identification of isoform-specific protein interactors may elucidate the differences in function and provide insight into isoform-selective regulation. We therefore sought to identify novel GSK-3 interaction partners and to examine differences in the interactomes of the two isoforms using both affinity purification and proximity-dependent biotinylation (BioID) mass spectrometry methods. While the interactomes of the two isomers are highly similar in HEK293 cells, BioID in HeLa cells yielded a variety of preys that are preferentially associated with one of the two isoforms. DCP1B, which favored GSK-3α, and MISP, which favored GSK-3β, were evaluated for reciprocal interactions. The differences in interactions between isoforms may help in understanding the distinct functions and regulation of the two isoforms as well as offer avenues for the development of isoform-specific strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin W Cormier
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Brett Larsen
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada
| | - Anne-Claude Gingras
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - James R Woodgett
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1L7, Canada
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8
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Ferreira AF, Santiago J, Silva JV, Oliveira PF, Fardilha M. PP1, PP2A and PP2B Interplay in the Regulation of Sperm Motility: Lessons from Protein Phosphatase Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315235. [PMID: 36499559 PMCID: PMC9737803 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility relies on the ability of spermatozoa to fertilize the egg in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Spermatozoa acquire activated motility during epididymal maturation; however, to be capable of fertilization, they must achieve hyperactivated motility in the FRT. Extensive research found that three protein phosphatases (PPs) are crucial to sperm motility regulation, the sperm-specific protein phosphatase type 1 (PP1) isoform gamma 2 (PP1γ2), protein phosphatase type 2A (PP2A) and protein phosphatase type 2B (PP2B). Studies have reported that PP activity decreases during epididymal maturation, whereas protein kinase activity increases, which appears to be a requirement for motility acquisition. An interplay between these PPs has been extensively investigated; however, many specific interactions and some inconsistencies remain to be elucidated. The study of PPs significantly advanced following the identification of naturally occurring toxins, including calyculin A, okadaic acid, cyclosporin, endothall and deltamethrin, which are powerful and specific PP inhibitors. This review aims to overview the protein phosphorylation-dependent biochemical pathways underlying sperm motility acquisition and hyperactivation, followed by a discussion of the PP inhibitors that allowed advances in the current knowledge of these pathways. Since male infertility cases still attain alarming numbers, additional research on the topic is required, particularly using other PP inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana F. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute for Biomedicine-iBiMED, Medical Sciences Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Santiago
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute for Biomedicine-iBiMED, Medical Sciences Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana V. Silva
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute for Biomedicine-iBiMED, Medical Sciences Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Institute for Biomedicine-iBiMED, Medical Sciences Department, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-918-143-947
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9
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Qu X, Han Y, Chen X, Lv Y, Zhang Y, Cao L, Zhang J, Jin Y. Inhibition of 26 S Proteasome Enhances AKAP3-mediated cAMP-PKA Signaling During Boar Sperm Capacitation. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 247:107079. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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10
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Chen T, Wang Y, Tian L, Guo X, Xia J, Wang Z, Song N. Aberrant Gene Expression Profiling in Men With Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:821010. [PMID: 35833143 PMCID: PMC9273009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.821010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe and common pathological type of non-obstructive azoospermia. The etiology of SCOS remains largely unknown to date despite a handful of studies reported in this area. According to the gene expression of testicular tissue samples in six datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus, we detected 1441 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between SCOS and obstructive azoospermia (OA) testicular tissue samples. Enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways for the downregulated genes included various terms and pathways related to cell cycle and reproduction, while the enrichment for the upregulated genes yielded many inflammation-related terms and pathways. In accordance with the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, all genes in the most critical module belonged to the downregulated DEGs, and we obtained nine hub genes, including CCNB1, AURKA, CCNA2, BIRC5, TYMS, UBE2C, CDC20, TOP2A, and OIP5. Among these hub genes, six were also found in the most significant SCOS-specific module obtained from consensus module analysis. In addition, most of SCOS-specific modules did not have a consensus counterpart. Based on the downregulated genes, transcription factors (TFs) and kinases within the upstream regulatory network were predicted. Then, we compared the difference in infiltrating levels of immune cells between OA and SCOS samples and found a significantly higher degree of infiltration for most immune cells in SCOS than OA samples. Moreover, CD56bright natural killer cell was significantly associated with six hub genes. Enriched hallmark pathways in SCOS had remarkably more upregulated pathways than the downregulated ones. Collectively, we detected DEGs, significant modules, hub genes, upstream TFs and kinases, enriched downstream pathways, and infiltrated immune cells that might be specifically implicated in the pathogenesis of SCOS. These findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of SCOS and fuel future advances in its theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Linlin Tian
- Department of Microbiology Laboratory, Nanjing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiadong Xia
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Affiliated Kezhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Kezhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
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11
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Sperm Phosphoproteome: Unraveling Male Infertility. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050659. [PMID: 35625387 PMCID: PMC9137924 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples worldwide of childbearing age, and in many cases the etiology of male infertility is unknown. The current standard evaluation of semen is insufficient to establish an accurate diagnosis. Proteomics techniques, such as phosphoproteomics, applied in this field are a powerful tool to understand the mechanisms that regulate sperm functions such as motility, which is essential for successful fertilization. Among the post-translational modifications of sperm proteins, this review summarizes, from a proteomic perspective, the updated knowledge of protein phosphorylation, in human spermatozoa, as a relevant molecular mechanism involved in the regulation of sperm physiology. Specifically, the role of sperm protein phosphorylation in motility and, consequently, in sperm quality is highlighted. Additionally, through the analysis of published comparative phosphoproteomic studies, some candidate human sperm phosphoproteins associated with low sperm motility are proposed. Despite the remarkable advances in phosphoproteomics technologies, the relatively low number of studies performed in human spermatozoa suggests that phosphoproteomics has not been applied to its full potential in studying male infertility yet. Therefore, further studies will improve the application of this procedure and overcome the limitations, increasing the understanding of regulatory mechanisms underlying protein phosphorylation in sperm motility and, consequently, in male fertility.
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Quantitative phosphoproteomics reveals GSK3A substrate network is involved in the cryodamage of sperm motility. Biosci Rep 2021; 41:229867. [PMID: 34596222 PMCID: PMC8521533 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20211326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
During sperm cryopreservation, the most significant phenotype of cryodamage is the decrease in sperm motility. Several proteomics studies have already been performed to search for key regulators at the protein level. However, sperm functions are known to be highly regulated by phosphorylation signaling. Here, we constructed a quantitative phosphoproteome to investigate the expression change of phosphorylated sites during sperm cryopreservation. A total of 3107 phosphorylated sites are identified and 848 of them are found to be significantly differentially expressed (DE). Bioinformatics analysis showed that the corresponding genes of these regulated sites are highly associated with sperm motility, providing a connection between the molecular basis and the phenotype of cryodamage. We then performed kinase enrichment analysis and successfully identified glycogen synthase kinase-3α (GSK3A) as the key kinase that may play an important role in the regulation of sperm motility. We further constructed a GSK3A centric network that could help us better understand the molecular mechanism of cryodamage in sperm motility. Finally, we also verified that GSK3A was abnormally activated during this process. The presented phosphoproteome and functional associations provide abundant research resources for us to learn the regulation of sperm functions, as well as to optimize the cryoprotectant for sperm cryopreservation.
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A multiplier peroxiporin signal transduction pathway powers piscine spermatozoa. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2019346118. [PMID: 33674382 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2019346118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary task of a spermatozoon is to deliver its nuclear payload to the egg to form the next-generation zygote. With polyandry repeatedly evolving in the animal kingdom, however, sperm competition has become widespread, with the highest known intensities occurring in fish. Yet, the molecular controls regulating spermatozoon swimming performance in these organisms are largely unknown. Here, we show that the kinematic properties of postactivated piscine spermatozoa are regulated through a conserved trafficking mechanism whereby a peroxiporin ortholog of mammalian aquaporin-8 (Aqp8bb) is inserted into the inner mitochondrial membrane to facilitate H2O2 efflux in order to maintain ATP production. In teleosts from more ancestral lineages, such as the zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), in which spermatozoa are activated in freshwater, an intracellular Ca2+-signaling directly regulates this mechanism through monophosphorylation of the Aqp8bb N terminus. In contrast, in more recently evolved marine teleosts, such the gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), in which spermatozoa activation occurs in seawater, a cross-talk between Ca2+- and oxidative stress-activated pathways generate a multiplier regulation of channel trafficking via dual N-terminal phosphorylation. These findings reveal that teleost spermatozoa evolved increasingly sophisticated detoxification pathways to maintain swimming performance under a high osmotic stress, and provide insight into molecular traits that are advantageous for postcopulatory sexual selection.
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Martin-Hidalgo D, Serrano R, Zaragoza C, Garcia-Marin LJ, Bragado MJ. Human sperm phosphoproteome reveals differential phosphoprotein signatures that regulate human sperm motility. J Proteomics 2020; 215:103654. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Dey S, Brothag C, Vijayaraghavan S. Signaling Enzymes Required for Sperm Maturation and Fertilization in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:341. [PMID: 31921853 PMCID: PMC6930163 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, motility and fertilizing ability of spermatozoa develop during their passage through the epididymis. After ejaculation, sperm undergo capacitation and hyperactivation in the female reproductive tract - a motility transition that is required for sperm penetration of the egg. Both epididymal initiation of sperm motility and hyperactivation are essential for male fertility. Motility initiation in the epididymis and sperm hyperactivation involve changes in metabolism, cAMP (cyclic adenosine mono-phosphate), calcium and pH acting through protein kinases and phosphatases. Despite this knowledge, we still do not understand, in biochemical terms, how sperm acquire motility in the epididymis and how motility is altered in the female reproductive tract. Recent data show that the sperm specific protein phosphatase PP1γ2, glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), and the calcium regulated phosphatase calcineurin (PP2B), are involved in epididymal sperm maturation. The protein phosphatase PP1γ2 is present only in testis and sperm in mammals. PP1γ2 has a isoform-specific requirement for normal function of mammalian sperm. Sperm PP1γ2 is regulated by three proteins - inhibitor 2, inhibitor 3 and SDS22. Changes in phosphorylation of these three inhibitors and their binding to PP1γ2 are involved in initiation and activation of sperm motility. The inhibitors are phosphorylated by protein kinases, one of which is GSK3. The isoform GSK3α is essential for epididymal sperm maturation and fertility. Calcium levels dramatically decrease during sperm maturation and initiation of motility suggesting that the calcium activated sperm phosphatase (PP2B) activity also decreases. Loss of PP2B results in male infertility due to impaired sperm maturation in the epididymis. Thus the three signaling enzymes PP1γ2, GSK3, and PP2B along with the documented PKA (protein kinase A) have key roles in sperm maturation and hyperactivation. Significantly, all these four signaling enzymes are present as specific isoforms only in placental mammals, a testimony to their essential roles in the unique aspects of sperm function in mammals. These findings should lead to a better biochemical understanding of the basis of male infertility and should lead to novel approaches to a male contraception and managed reproduction.
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Bendels S, Bissantz C, Fasching B, Gerebtzoff G, Guba W, Kansy M, Migeon J, Mohr S, Peters JU, Tillier F, Wyler R, Lerner C, Kramer C, Richter H, Roberts S. Safety screening in early drug discovery: An optimized assay panel. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2019; 99:106609. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2019.106609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 06/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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