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Balder P, Jones C, Coward K, Yeste M. Sperm chromatin: Evaluation, epigenetic signatures and relevance for embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151429. [PMID: 38905808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151429] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin is distinct from somatic cell chromatin, as a result of extensive remodeling during the final stages of spermatogenesis. In this process, the majority of histones is replaced with protamines. The chromatin is consequently highly condensed and inert, which facilitates protection of the DNA. The sperm epigenomic landscape is shaped by histone retention, histone and protamine modification, DNA methylation, and RNAs. In recent years, sperm chromatin integrity and its epigenetic marks have been increasingly studied, and the constitution of sperm chromatin is steadily being uncovered. This growing body of research prompts assessment of the frequently overlooked involvement of sperm in fertility and embryonic development. Moreover, numerous endogenous and exogenous factors are known to affect sperm chromatin, which may in turn impact the reproductive success. Concerns have been raised about the effects of assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the sperm epigenome, embryonic development and offspring health. This review examines the structure and epigenetic signatures of sperm chromatin in the context of fertility and early embryonic development. Additionally, sperm chromatin evaluation and causes of aberrant integrity are outlined. Building on the knowledge discussed in the current review, future research should aim to elucidate the intricate relationship between all aspects of sperm chromatin and embryo development. This could lead to the uncovering of new targets for treating infertility, as well as the acquisition of much needed insights into the possible reciprocal association between ART and sperm chromatin integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Balder
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona ES-08010, Spain.
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Dyrkheeva NS, Zakharenko AL, Malakhova AA, Okorokova LS, Shtokalo DN, Medvedev SP, Tupikin AA, Kabilov MR, Lavrik OI. Transcriptomic analysis of HEK293A cells with a CRISPR/Cas9-mediated TDP1 knockout. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130616. [PMID: 38621596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130616] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1) is a human DNA repair protein. It is a member of the phospholipase D family based on structural similarity. TDP1 is a key enzyme of the repair of stalled topoisomerase 1 (TOP1)-DNA complexes. Previously, with the CRISPR/Cas9 method, we obtained HEK293A cells with a homozygous knockout of the TDP1 gene and used the TDP1 knockout cells as a cellular model for studying mechanisms of action of an anticancer therapy. In the present work, we hypothesized that the TDP1 knockout would alter the expression of DNA repair-related genes. By transcriptomic analysis, we investigated for the first time the effect of the TDP1 gene knockout on genes' expression changes in the human HEK293A cell line. We obtained original data implying a role of TDP1 in other processes besides the repair of the DNA-TOP1 complex. Differentially expressed gene analysis revealed that TDP1 may participate in cell adhesion and communication, spermatogenesis, mitochondrial function, neurodegeneration, a cytokine response, and the MAPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda S Dyrkheeva
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Alexandra L Zakharenko
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Anastasia A Malakhova
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Federal research center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS, 10 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | | | - Dmitry N Shtokalo
- AcademGene LLC, 6 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; A.P. Ershov Institute of Informatics Systems, SB RAS, 6 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Sergey P Medvedev
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; Federal research center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS, 10 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Alexey A Tupikin
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Marsel R Kabilov
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
| | - Olga I Lavrik
- Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine (ICBFM), Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), 8 Akad. Lavrentyeva Ave., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia.
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Aitken RJ, Lewis SEM. DNA damage in testicular germ cells and spermatozoa. When and how is it induced? How should we measure it? What does it mean? Andrology 2023; 11:1545-1557. [PMID: 36604857 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This review surveys the causes and consequences of DNA damage in the male germ line from spermatogonial stem cells to fully differentiated spermatozoa. Within the stem cell population, DNA integrity is well maintained as a result of excellent DNA surveillance and repair; however, a progressive increase in background mutation rates does occur with paternal age possibly as a result of aberrant DNA repair as well as replication error. Once a germ cell has committed to spermatogenesis, it responds to genetic damage via a range of DNA repair pathways or, if this process fails, by the induction of apoptosis. When fully-differentiated spermatozoa are stressed, they also activate a truncated intrinsic apoptotic pathway which results in the activation of nucleases in the mitochondria and cytoplasm; however, the physical architecture of these cells prevents these enzymes from translocating to the nucleus to induce DNA fragmentation. Conversely, hydrogen peroxide released from the sperm midpiece during apoptosis is able to penetrate the nucleus and induce DNA damage. The base excision repair pathway responds to such damage by cleaving oxidized bases from the DNA, leaving abasic sites that are alkali-labile and readily detected with the comet assay. As levels of oxidative stress increase and these cells enter the perimortem, topoisomerase integrated into the sperm chromatin becomes activated by SUMOylation. Such activation may initially facilitate DNA repair by reannealing double strand breaks but ultimately prepares the DNA for destruction by nucleases released from the male reproductive tract. The abasic sites and oxidized base lesions found in live spermatozoa are mutagenic and may increase the mutational load carried by the offspring, particularly in the context of assisted conception. A variety of strategies are described for managing patients expressing high levels of DNA damage in their spermatozoa, to reduce the risks such lesions might pose to offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive, Science, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), New Lambton, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sheena E M Lewis
- Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Examen Ltd., Weavers Court, Belfast, UK
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Viñolas-Vergés E, Yeste M, Garriga F, Bonet S, Mateo-Otero Y, Ribas-Maynou J. An intracellular, non-oxidative factor activates in vitro chromatin fragmentation in pig sperm. Biol Res 2023; 56:53. [PMID: 37876007 PMCID: PMC10594720 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-023-00467-w] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vitro incubation of epididymal and vas deferens sperm with Mn2+ induces Sperm Chromatin Fragmentation (SCF), a mechanism that causes double-stranded breaks in toroid-linker regions (TLRs). Whether this mechanism, thought to require the participation of topoisomerases and/or DNAses and thus far only described in epididymal mouse sperm, can be triggered in ejaculated sperm is yet to be elucidated. The current study aimed to determine if exposure of pig ejaculated sperm to divalent ions (Mn2+ and Mg2+) activates SCF, and whether this has any impact on sperm function and survival. For this purpose, sperm DNA integrity was evaluated through the Comet assay and Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE); sperm motility and agglutination were assessed with computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA); and sperm viability and levels of total reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxides were determined through flow cytometry. RESULTS Incubation with Mn2+/Ca2+ activated SCF in a dose-dependent (P < 0.05) albeit not time-dependent manner (P > 0.05); in contrast, Mg2+/Ca2+ only triggered SCF at high concentrations (50 mM). The PFGE revealed that, when activated by Mn2+/Ca2+ or Mg2+/Ca2+, SCF generated DNA fragments of 33-194 Kb, compatible with the size of one or multiple toroids. Besides, Mn2+/Ca2+ affected sperm motility in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05), whereas Mg2+/Ca2+ only impaired this variable at high concentrations (P < 0.05). While this effect on motility was concomitant with an increase of agglutination, neither viability nor ROS levels were affected by Mn2+/Ca2+ or Mg2+/Ca2+ treatments. CONCLUSION Mn2+/Ca2+ and Mn2+/Ca2+ were observed to induce SCF in ejaculated sperm, resulting in DNA cleavage at TLRs. The activation of this mechanism by an intracellular, non-oxidative factor sheds light on the events taking place during sperm cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estel Viñolas-Vergés
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain.
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), S08010, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ferran Garriga
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, S17003, Girona, Spain
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Contreras MJ, Arias ME, Fuentes F, Muñoz E, Bernecic N, Fair S, Felmer R. Cellular and Molecular Consequences of Stallion Sperm Cryopreservation: Recent Approaches to Improve Sperm Survival. J Equine Vet Sci 2023; 126:104499. [PMID: 37105416 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of stallion semen does not achieve the post-thaw quality or fertility results observed in other species like cattle. There are many reasons for this, but the membrane composition and intracellular changes in stallion sperm predispose them to low resistance to the cooling, freezing, and subsequent thawing process. Damage to the sperm results from different processes activated during cryopreservation, including oxidative stress, apoptosis, and structural modifications in the sperm membrane that increase the deleterious effect on sperm. In addition, significant individual variability is observed among stallions in the ability of sperm to survive the freeze-thaw process. Recent advances in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and epigenetics are making it possible to advance our understanding of the cellular and molecular processes involved in the cryopreservation process, opening new possibilities for improvement. This review addresses the ongoing research on stallion semen cryopreservation, focusing on the cellular and molecular consequences of this procedure in stallions and discusses the new tools currently available to increase the tolerance of equine spermatozoa to freeze-thaw.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Contreras
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - María Elena Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Department of Agricultural Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Fernanda Fuentes
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Doctoral Program in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Erwin Muñoz
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Doctoral Program in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Naomi Bernecic
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Ricardo Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de la Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
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Sadeghi N, Boissonneault G, Tavalaee M, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Oxidative versus reductive stress: a delicate balance for sperm integrity. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:20-31. [PMID: 36215401 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2119181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Despite the long-standing notion of "oxidative stress," as the main mediator of many diseases including male infertility induced by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), recent evidence suggests that ROS levels are also increased by "reductive stress," due to over-accumulation of reductants. Damaging mechanisms, like guanidine oxidation followed by DNA fragmentation, could be observed following reductive stress. Excessive accumulation of the reductants may arise from excess dietary supplementation over driving the one-carbon cycle and transsulfuration pathway, overproduction of NADPH through the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), elevated levels of GSH leading to impaired mitochondrial oxidation, or as a result NADH accumulation. In addition, lower availability of oxidized reductants like NAD+, oxidized glutathione (GSSG), and oxidized thioredoxins (Trx-S2) induce electron leakage leading to the formation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In addition, a lower level of NAD+ impairs poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-regulated DNA repair essential for proper chromatin integrity of sperm. Because of the limited studies regarding the possible involvement of reductive stress, antioxidant therapy remains a central approach in the treatment of male infertility. This review put forward the concept of reductive stress and highlights the potential role played by reductive vs oxidative stress at pre-and post-testicular levels and considering dietary supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niloofar Sadeghi
- Department of Biochemistry and Functional Genomics, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Guylain Boissonneault
- Department of Biochemistry and Functional Genomics, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
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Liu M, Liu P, Chang Y, Xu B, Wang N, Qin L, Zheng J, Liu Y, Wu L, Yan H. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and small noncoding RNA signatures in sperm with a high DNA fragmentation index. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2255-2274. [PMID: 36190595 PMCID: PMC9596664 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02618-6] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of studies have reported that sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is associated with male infertility. However, no studies have compared genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and sncRNA signatures between sperm with high and low sperm DNA fragmentation indices (DFIs). METHODS Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was performed on sperm samples from a weak group (DFI ≥ 30%, n = 6) and normal group (DFI ≤ 15%, n = 7). Small noncoding RNA (sncRNA) deep sequencing was conducted for sperm samples from the weak (DFI ≥ 30%, n = 13) and normal (DFI ≤ 15%, n = 17) groups. RESULTS A total of 4939 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified in the weak group sperm samples relative to normal group sperm samples, with 2072 (41.95%) of them located in promoter regions. The percentages of hypermethylated DMRs were higher than those of hypomethylated DMRs in all seven examined gene annotation groups. Hypermethylated DMRs were significantly enriched in terms associated with neurons and microtubules. Compared with the normal group, the global DNA methylation level of the weak group sperm showed a downward trend, with lower correlation for methylation in the weak group sperm; therefore, the chromosomes of high-DFI sperm may be loose. On average, 40.5% of sncRNAs were annotated as rsRNAs, 19.3% as tsRNAs, 10.4% as yRNAs, and 7.1% as miRNAs. A total of 27 miRNAs, 151 tsRNAs, and 70 rsRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups of sperm samples. Finally, 7 sncRNAs were identified as candidate sperm quality biomarkers, and the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs are involved in nervous system development. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and sncRNA signatures are significantly altered in high-DFI sperm. Our study provides potential biomarkers for sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghua Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiru Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunjian Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Nengzhuang Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lina Qin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jufen Zheng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongli Yan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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Cheuquemán C, Maldonado R. Non-coding RNAs and chromatin: key epigenetic factors from spermatogenesis to transgenerational inheritance. Biol Res 2021; 54:41. [PMID: 34930477 PMCID: PMC8686607 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-021-00364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular fate and gene expression patterns are modulated by different epigenetic factors including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and chromatin organization. Both factors are dynamic throughout male germ cell differentiation on the seminiferous tubule, despite the transcriptional inactivation in the last stages of spermatogenesis. Sperm maturation during the caput-to-cauda transit on the epididymis involves changes in chromatin organization and the soma-to-germ line transference of ncRNAs that are essential to obtain a functional sperm for fertilization and embryo development. Here, the male environment (diseases, drugs, mental stress) is crucial to modulate these epigenetic factors throughout sperm maturation, affecting the corresponding offspring. Paternal transgenerational inheritance has been directly related to sperm epigenetic changes, most of them associated with variations in the ncRNA content and chromatin marks. Our aim is to give an overview about how epigenetics, focused on ncRNAs and chromatin, is pivotal to understand spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, and how the male environment impacts the sperm epigenome modulating the offspring gene expression pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Cheuquemán
- Núcleo de Ciencias Biológicas, Dirección de Núcleos Transversales, Facultad de estudios Interdisciplinarios, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
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DNase activity in human seminal plasma and follicular fluid and its inhibition by follicular fluid chelating agents. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:1079-1086. [PMID: 34753679 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.09.015] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the mechanism by which human follicular fluid inhibits seminal plasma DNase activity? DESIGN Human genomic DNA was incubated with human follicular fluid and seminal plasma (reaction mixture) under different experimental conditions; increasing volumes of human follicular fluid; proteinase K digested or heat inactivated human follicular fluid; and the addition of Ca2+ or Mg2+ to the reaction mixture. RESULTS Increasing volume of human follicular fluid resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of seminal plasma DNase activity. Inhibition was not caused by proteins in the human follicular fluid as digestion with proteinase K or heat inactivation of human follicular fluid failed to abolish its inhibitory effect. Addition of divalent cations resulted in a reversion of the inhibitory effect, providing evidence that human follicular fluid inhibition of seminal plasma DNase activity seems to be mediated by a compound with chelating activity. Furthermore, incubation of genomic DNA with human follicular fluid in the presence of divalent cations served to elicit the existence of DNase activity. CONCLUSIONS Human follicular fluid seems to contain a molecule or molecules with chelating capacity that inhibits DNase activity of both follicular fluid and seminal plasma. Our findings provide new insight to understanding sperm preservation and the physiology of fertilization biology.
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Amjad S, Mushtaq S, Rehman R, Zahid N, Munir A, Siddiqui PQR. Spermatozoa retrieval in azoospermia and expression profile of JMJD1A, TNP2, and PRM2 in a subset of the Karachi population. Andrology 2021; 9:1934-1942. [PMID: 34235877 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The difficulties encountered in surgical spermatozoa retrieval for intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure in azoospermic men have stressed the dire need for a robust biomarker for the prediction of spermatozoa retrieval. Data have highlighted the role of JMJD1A (Jumonji domain-containing 1A), a histone H3K9 demethylase, and other nuclear proteins, protamines (PRM) and transition nuclear proteins (TNP), as biomarkers in male infertility. OBJECTIVE To access successful spermatozoa retrieval at the time of intracytoplasmic sperm injection by evaluating the mRNA expression profile of JMJD1A, TNP, and PRM in testicular tissue. MATERIALS/METHODS About 100 azoospermic patients, who visited the Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center, Karachi for spermatozoa retrieval by testicular sperm extraction or microsurgical testicular sperm extraction participated in the study. mRNA expression of the JMJD1A, TNP1, TNP2, PRM1, and PRM2 genes was determined. Patients were categorized into successful spermatozoa retrieval (n = 42) group and unsuccessful spermatozoa retrieval (n = 58) group. RESULTS Azoospermic men in successful spermatozoa retrieval had significantly increased expression of JMJD1A, TNP2, and PRM2. The hormonal parameters - follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone were significantly higher in unsuccessful spermatozoa retrieval. Multivariate analysis showed a significant association between JMJD1A, TNP2, PRM2, and successful spermatozoa retrieval. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve showed a significant discriminatory ability to predict the spermatozoa retrieval outcome in azoospermic patients for mRNA expression of JMJD1A, TNP2, and PRM2 was 71, 72, and 73%, respectively. The area under the curve for follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid-stimulating hormone was 0.67, 0.81, and 0.65, respectively. DISCUSSION Our study demonstrates that the mRNA expression profile of JMJD1A, TNP2, and PRM2 along with hormonal parameters, is a useful marker to assess the probability of spermatozoa retrieval before intracytoplasmic sperm injection intervention. CONCLUSION The probability of spermatozoa retrieval in azoospermic patients is increased when the mRNA expression profile of JMJD1A, TNP2, and PRM2 in testicular tissue is increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Amjad
- Department of Physiology, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shamim Mushtaq
- Department of Biochemistry, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehman
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Nida Zahid
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Munir
- Department of Andrology, Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center, Karachi, Pakistan
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Upadhyay VR, Ramesh V, Dewry RK, Kumar G, Raval K, Patoliya P. Implications of cryopreservation on structural and functional attributes of bovine spermatozoa: An overview. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14154. [PMID: 34143907 DOI: 10.1111/and.14154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation is an important adjunct to assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for improving the reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle and buffaloes. Improved understanding of mechanisms and challenges of bovine semen cryopreservation is vital for artificial insemination on a commercial basis. Although cryopreservation of bovine spermatozoa is widely practiced and advanced beyond that of other species, there are still major gaps in the knowledge and technology. Upon cryopreservation, disruption of spermatozoal plasma membrane configuration due to alterations in metabolic pathways, enzymes and antioxidants activity add to lower efficiency with loss of sperm longevity and fertilising ability. Therefore, the effective amalgamation of cryo-variables like ambient temperature, cooling and thawing rates, nucleation temperature, type and concentration of the cryoprotectant, seminal plasma composition, free radicals and antioxidant status are required to optimise cryopreservation. Novel strategies like supplementation of cholesterol-loaded cyclodextrins (CLC), nanovesicles, osteopontin, antioxidants, etc., in an extender and recent techniques like nano-purification and modified packaging have to be optimised to ameliorate the cryodamage. This article is intended to describe the basic facts about the sperm cryopreservation process in bovine and the associated biochemical, biophysical, ultra-structural, molecular and functional alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vikram Ramesh
- Animal Reproduction and Gynecology, ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, India
| | - Raju Kumar Dewry
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Gaurav Kumar
- Division of Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Kathan Raval
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Priyanka Patoliya
- Division of Livestock Production Management, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
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12
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Amjad S, Mushtaq S, Rehman R, Munir A, Zahid N, Siddique PQR. Protamine 1/Protamine 2 mRNA ratio in nonobstructive azoospermic patients. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13936. [PMID: 33427330 DOI: 10.1111/and.13936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered protamine 1 (PRM1)/ protamine 2 (PRM2) mRNA ratio in testicular biopsy samples correlates with sperm quality and its fertilising ability. This study is planned to assess PRM1/ PRM2 mRNA ratio in subgroups of azoospermia to suggest a more reliable and accurate marker for assessing sperm quality in nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). A cross-sectional study was done on testicular biopsy samples, taken from 106 azoospermic patients. Samples were histologically classified into subgroups: 36 obstructive azoospermia (OA), and two groups of NOA: 41 round spermatid maturation arrest (SMA) and 29 Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS). OA samples showed histologically normal spermatogenesis and serve as a positive control. mRNA expression of jumonji domain-containing 1A (JMJD1A), PRM1, PRM2 and transition nuclear proteins (TNP1, TNP2) genes was determined, by RT-qPCR. Significantly lower expression of JMJD1A (p < .001), PRM1 (p = .0265) and PRM2 (p = .0032) has been seen in the SCOS group of NOA. We found significant (p < .001) increase in PRM1/PRM2 mRNA ratio in testicular biopsy samples of SCOS group of NOA patients and significant negative correlation of PRM1/PRM2 mRNA ratio with JMJD1A. Hence, PRM1/PRM2 mRNA ratio may represent a more reliable and accurate marker to assess sperm quality in NOA in addition to standard semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Amjad
- Department of Physiology, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shamim Mushtaq
- Department of Biochemistry, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehman
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Munir
- Department of Andrology, Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Nida Zahid
- Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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13
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Agarwal A, Majzoub A, Baskaran S, Panner Selvam MK, Cho CL, Henkel R, Finelli R, Leisegang K, Sengupta P, Barbarosie C, Parekh N, Alves MG, Ko E, Arafa M, Tadros N, Ramasamy R, Kavoussi P, Ambar R, Kuchakulla M, Robert KA, Iovine C, Durairajanayagam D, Jindal S, Shah R. Sperm DNA Fragmentation: A New Guideline for Clinicians. World J Mens Health 2020; 38:412-471. [PMID: 32777871 PMCID: PMC7502318 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.200128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm DNA integrity is crucial for fertilization and development of healthy offspring. The spermatozoon undergoes extensive molecular remodeling of its nucleus during later phases of spermatogenesis, which imparts compaction and protects the genetic content. Testicular (defective maturation and abortive apoptosis) and post-testicular (oxidative stress) mechanisms are implicated in the etiology of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), which affects both natural and assisted reproduction. Several clinical and environmental factors are known to negatively impact sperm DNA integrity. An increasing number of reports emphasizes the direct relationship between sperm DNA damage and male infertility. Currently, several assays are available to assess sperm DNA damage, however, routine assessment of SDF in clinical practice is not recommended by professional organizations. This article provides an overview of SDF types, origin and comparative analysis of various SDF assays while primarily focusing on the clinical indications of SDF testing. Importantly, we report four clinical cases where SDF testing had played a significant role in improving fertility outcome. In light of these clinical case reports and recent scientific evidence, this review provides expert recommendations on SDF testing and examines the advantages and drawbacks of the clinical utility of SDF testing using Strength-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats (SWOT) analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Chak Lam Cho
- Department of Surgery, Union Hospital, Hong Kong
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kristian Leisegang
- School of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Catalina Barbarosie
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology & Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Andrology Department, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nicholas Tadros
- Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | | | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Rafael Ambar
- Urology Department of Centro Universitario em Saude do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | | | - Kathy Amy Robert
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Concetta Iovine
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | | | - Sunil Jindal
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Jindal Hospital, Meerut, India
| | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
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14
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Bartolomé-Nebreda J, Vargas-Baquero E, López-Fernández C, Fernández JL, Johnston S, Gosálvez J. Free circulating DNA and DNase activity in the ejaculates of men with spinal cord injury. Spinal Cord 2020; 59:167-174. [PMID: 32651457 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0518-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Retrospective descriptive study. OBJECTIVES To study the presence of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and DNase activity in males with spinal cord injury (SCI) with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation. SETTING Hospital in Toledo, Spain; University-based Genetics laboratory in Madrid, Spain. METHODS Semen was collected from 15 males with spinal cord injury and elevated sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). The presence and concentration of cfDNA was assessed using standard gel electrophoresis and microfluidic electrophoresis. DNase activity was evaluated in seminal plasma and under the presence of EDTA and EGTA to control the response of enzyme activity. cfDNA fragments were mapped on the sperm genome using FISH. All results were compared to 15 normozoospermic fertile donors. RESULTS Standard gel electrophoresis revealed a cfDNA band of ~150 bp in all samples from males with SCI; this band was ocasionally accompanied by another band of ~90 bp. These bands were not observed in normozoospermic donors. Microfluidid electrophoresis only identified the equivalent band of 150 bp. No correlation was observed between the intensity of the two bands and the level of SDF in males with SCI. Although DNase activity was present in the seminal plasma of both normozoospermic donors and men with SCI it did not digest cfDNA. cfDNA fragments were found to be hybridized all over the sperm genome. CONCLUSIONS SCI patients with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation showed a 150 bp DNA band of cfDNA in the seminal plasma, which appeared resistant to DNase activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bartolomé-Nebreda
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Carmen López-Fernández
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luís Fernández
- INIBIC-Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña (CHUAC), Genetics Unit, As Xubias, 84, 15006-A, Coruña, Spain
| | - Stephen Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia.
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.,Halotech DNA, Cantoblanco, 28049, Madrid, Spain
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15
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Li J, Yang S, Zuo C, Dai L, Guo Y, Xie G. Applying CRISPR-Cas12a as a Signal Amplifier to Construct Biosensors for Non-DNA Targets in Ultralow Concentrations. ACS Sens 2020; 5:970-977. [PMID: 32157873 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.9b02305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Efficient signal amplification is essential to construct ultrasensitive biosensors for biologically relevant species with abundant concomitant interferences. Here, we apply LbaCas12a as a signal amplifier to develop a versatile CRISPR-Cas12a platform to detect a wide range of analytes in ultralow concentrations. The platform relies on the indiscriminate single-stranded DNase activity of LbaCas12a, which recognizes single-stranded DNA intermediates generated by non-DNA targets down to femtomolar concentrations and subsequently enhances the fluorescence signal output. With the help of functional nucleotides (DNAzyme and aptamer), ultrasensitive bioassays for Pb2+ and Acinetobacter baumannii have been designed with a limit of detection down to ∼0.053 nM and ∼3 CFU/mL, respectively. It also allows simultaneous detection of four microRNAs (miRNAs) at a picomolar concentration without significant interferences by other counterparts, suggesting the potential of multiplexed miRNA expression profiles analysis in high throughput. Given the versatility and generality of the CRISPR-Cas12a platform, we expect the current work to advance the application of CRISPR-Cas-based platforms in bioanalysis and provide new insights into ultrasensitive biosensor design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Li
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shuangshuang Yang
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chen Zuo
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Ling Dai
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yongcan Guo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Guoming Xie
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics, Ministry of Education, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yi Xue Yuan Road, Chongqing 400016, China
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16
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Cortés-Gutiérrez EI, De La Vega CG, Bartolomé-Nebreda J, Gosálvez J. Characterization of DNA cleavage produced by seminal plasma using leukocytes as a cell target. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2019; 65:420-429. [PMID: 31539284 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2019.1645236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown the presence of DNA lesions in human spermatozoa affecting sperm quality. However, the nature of this anomaly and its relationship with patient etiology are poorly understood since different mechanisms can be involved in the formation of these novel DNA configurations including the action of a seminal plasma nuclease activity. The objective of this study was to assess the capacity of seminal plasma for producing endogenous DNA cleavage using nuclei of peripheral blood leukocytes as external targets. For this purpose, we used seminal plasma from fertile males with normal semen parameters to produce DNA cleavage in a sample of leukocytes. Three different tests were performed to visualize DNA cleavage: (a) DNase activity detection, (b) DNA Breakage Detection-Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (DBD-FISH), and (c) Two-dimensional comet assay (Two-tail comet assay). Our results demonstrate that: (i) the seminal plasma is able to cleave DNA compacted with histones in the leukocytes; (ii) this DNA cleavage can be associated with DNase activity and (iii) DNA damage mainly corresponds to single-strand DNA breaks. In conclusion, capacity of seminal plasma for producing DNA cleavage represents a solid contribution to expand the analysis of the standard seminal profile and could constitute a putative diagnostic tool for evaluating male infertility.Abbreviations: ALS: alkali labile sites; ART: Assisted Reproduction Technologies; DBD-FISH: DNA Breakage Detection-Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization; DNA: deoxyribonucleic acid; DSBs-DNA: double-strand DNA; FITC: Fluorescein IsoThioCyanate; GEDA: Gravity Enforced Diffusion Assays; PBS: phosphate-buffered saline; ROS: Reactive Oxigen Species; SSBs-DNA: single-strand DNA; SSC: saline-sodium citrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elva I Cortés-Gutiérrez
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, México
| | | | | | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
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17
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The dynamics and regulation of chromatin remodeling during spermiogenesis. Gene 2019; 706:201-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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18
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Genetic Instability and Chromatin Remodeling in Spermatids. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10010040. [PMID: 30646585 PMCID: PMC6356297 DOI: 10.3390/genes10010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2018] [Revised: 01/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The near complete replacement of somatic chromatin in spermatids is, perhaps, the most striking nuclear event known to the eukaryotic domain. The process is far from being fully understood, but research has nevertheless unraveled its complexity as an expression of histone variants and post-translational modifications that must be finely orchestrated to promote the DNA topological change and compaction provided by the deposition of protamines. That this major transition may not be genetically inert came from early observations that transient DNA strand breaks were detected in situ at chromatin remodeling steps. The potential for genetic instability was later emphasized by our demonstration that a significant number of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are formed and then repaired in the haploid context of spermatids. The detection of DNA breaks by 3'OH end labeling in the whole population of spermatids suggests that a reversible enzymatic process is involved, which differs from canonical apoptosis. We have set the stage for a better characterization of the genetic impact of this transition by showing that post-meiotic DNA fragmentation is conserved from human to yeast, and by providing tools for the initial mapping of the genome-wide DSB distribution in the mouse model. Hence, the molecular mechanism of post-meiotic DSB formation and repair in spermatids may prove to be a significant component of the well-known male mutation bias. Based on our recent observations and a survey of the literature, we propose that the chromatin remodeling in spermatids offers a proper context for the induction of de novo polymorphism and structural variations that can be transmitted to the next generation.
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19
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Grégoire MC, Leduc F, Morin MH, Cavé T, Arguin M, Richter M, Jacques PÉ, Boissonneault G. The DNA double-strand "breakome" of mouse spermatids. Cell Mol Life Sci 2018; 75:2859-2872. [PMID: 29417179 PMCID: PMC11105171 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2769-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
De novo germline mutations arise preferentially in male owing to fundamental differences between spermatogenesis and oogenesis. Post-meiotic chromatin remodeling in spermatids results in the elimination of most of the nucleosomal supercoiling and is characterized by transient DNA fragmentation. Using three alternative methods, DNA from sorted populations of mouse spermatids was used to confirm that double-strand breaks (DSB) are created in elongating spermatids and repaired at later steps. Specific capture of DSB was used for whole-genome mapping of DSB hotspots (breakome) for each population of differentiating spermatids. Hotspots are observed preferentially within introns and repeated sequences hence are more prevalent in the Y chromosome. When hotspots arise within genes, those involved in neurodevelopmental pathways become preferentially targeted reaching a high level of significance. Given the non-templated DNA repair in haploid spermatids, transient DSBs formation may, therefore, represent an important component of the male mutation bias and the etiology of neurological disorders, adding to the genetic variation provided by meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Chantal Grégoire
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Frédéric Leduc
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Martin H Morin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Tiphanie Cavé
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mélina Arguin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Martin Richter
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre-Étienne Jacques
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Guylain Boissonneault
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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20
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Tvrdá E, Arroyo F, Gosálvez J. Dynamic assessment of human sperm DNA damage I: the effect of seminal plasma-sperm co-incubation after ejaculation. Int Urol Nephrol 2018; 50:1381-1388. [PMID: 29926367 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-018-1915-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of seminal plasma in human ejaculates on the sperm DNA quality and DNA longevity. METHODS Semen samples for this study were obtained from 20 donors with a normal spermiogram. Following centrifugation, the sperm pellet was resuspended either in the seminal plasma proceeding from its respective donor, or in an equal amount of PBS, adjusting the concentration to 50 × 106/ml. Each set of samples was incubated at 37 °C for 24 h and the sperm DNA damage was assessed using the chromatin-dispersion test following 0, 2, 6, and 24 h of incubation. RESULTS Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) did not differ between the two experimental conditions at T0; however, Kaplan-Meier estimates to test for survival showed an statistical significant increase of SDF in the seminal plasma group when compared to the PBS group following all timeframes (p 0.000). With respect to sperm DNA longevity, the most dramatic loss of sperm DNA quality occurred during the first 2 h of incubation, with the rate of SDF (rSDF) in the seminal plasma being 2.1 more intense than in PBS. Interestingly, the rSDF was found to vary significantly between individuals, which was confirmed with significant correlations in all rSDF timeframes (rSDF T0-2, p 0.049; rSDF T2-6, p 0.000; rSDF T6-24: p 0.000). CONCLUSIONS Co-incubation of semen samples in seminal plasma after ejaculation increases iatrogenic sperm damage. This effect is statistically significant after 2 h of co-incubation. Subsequently, for ART purposes seminal plasma must be quickly removed after ejaculation-liquefaction, to avoid a higher susceptibility of sperm DNA towards fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Tvrdá
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, Nitra, 94976, Slovakia.
| | - Francisca Arroyo
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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21
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Effect of Heat Stress on Sperm DNA: Protamine Assessment in Ram Spermatozoa and Testicle. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:5413056. [PMID: 29765499 PMCID: PMC5889875 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5413056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Sperm DNA fragmentation is considered one of the main causes of male infertility. The most accepted causes of sperm DNA damage are deleterious actions of reactive oxygen species (ROS), defects in protamination, and apoptosis. Ram sperm are highly prone to those damages due to the high susceptibility to ROS and to oxidative stress caused by heat stress. We aimed to evaluate the effects of heat stress on the chromatin of ejaculated and epididymal sperm and the activation of apoptotic pathways in different cell types in ram testis. We observed higher percentages of ejaculated sperm with increased chromatin fragmentation in the heat stress group; a fact that was unexpectedly not observed in epididymal sperm. Heat stress group presented a higher percentage of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation and increased number of mRNA copies of transitional protein 1. Epididymal sperm presented greater gene expression of protamine 1 on the 30th day of the spermatic cycle; however, no differences in protamine protein levels were observed in ejaculated sperm and testis. Localization of proapoptotic protein BAX or BCL2 in testis was not different. In conclusion, testicular heat stress increases ram sperm DNA fragmentation without changes in protamination and apoptotic patterns.
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22
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Paoli D, Pallotti F, Lenzi A, Lombardo F. Fatherhood and Sperm DNA Damage in Testicular Cancer Patients. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:506. [PMID: 30271379 PMCID: PMC6146098 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer (TC) is one of the most treatable of all malignancies and the management of the quality of life of these patients is increasingly important, especially with regard to their sexuality and fertility. Survivors must overcome anxiety and fears about reduced fertility and possible pregnancy-related risks as well as health effects in offspring. There is thus a growing awareness of the need for reproductive counseling of cancer survivors. Studies found a high level of sperm DNA damage in TC patients in comparison with healthy, fertile controls, but no significant difference between these patients and infertile patients. Sperm DNA alterations due to cancer treatment persist from 2 to 5 years after the end of the treatment and may be influenced by both the type of therapy and the stage of the disease. Population studies reported a slightly reduced overall fertility of TC survivors and a more frequent use of ART than the general population, with a success rate of around 50%. Paternity after a diagnosis of cancer is an important issue and reproductive potential is becoming a major quality of life factor. Sperm chromatin instability associated with genome instability is the most important reproductive side effect related to the malignancy or its treatment. Studies investigating the magnitude of this damage could have a considerable translational importance in the management of cancer patients, as they could identify the time needed for the germ cell line to repair nuclear damage and thus produce gametes with a reduced risk for the offspring.
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23
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Marchiani S, Tamburrino L, Benini F, Fanfani L, Dolce R, Rastrelli G, Maggi M, Pellegrini S, Baldi E. Chromatin Protamination and Catsper Expression in Spermatozoa Predict Clinical Outcomes after Assisted Reproduction Programs. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15122. [PMID: 29123209 PMCID: PMC5680250 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15351-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of parameters predicting assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) success is a major goal of research in reproduction. Quality of gametes is essential to achieve good quality embryos and increase the success of ARTs. We evaluated two sperm parameters, chromatin maturity and expression of the sperm specific calcium channel CATSPER, in relation to ART outcomes in 206 couples undergoing ARTs. Chromatin maturity was evaluated by Chromomycin A3 (CMA3) for protamination and Aniline Blue (AB) for histone persistence and CATSPER expression by a flow cytometric method. CMA3 positivity and CATSPER expression significantly predicted the attainment of good quality embryos with an OR of 6.6 and 14.3 respectively, whereas AB staining was correlated with fertilization rate. In the subgroup of couples with women ≤35 years, CATSPER also predicted achievement of clinical pregnancy (OR = 4.4). Including CMA3, CATSPER and other parameters affecting ART outcomes (female age, female factor and number of MII oocytes), a model that resulted able to predict good embryo quality with high accuracy was developed. CMA3 staining and CATSPER expression may be considered two applicable tools to predict ART success and useful for couple counseling. This is the first study demonstrating a role of CATSPER expression in embryo development after ARTs programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marchiani
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
| | - L Tamburrino
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - F Benini
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - L Fanfani
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - R Dolce
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Rastrelli
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - S Pellegrini
- Centro Procreazione Assistita "Demetra", Florence, Italy
| | - E Baldi
- Dept. of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Meyer RG, Ketchum CC, Meyer-Ficca ML. Heritable sperm chromatin epigenetics: a break to remember†. Biol Reprod 2017; 97:784-797. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Ni K, Spiess AN, Schuppe HC, Steger K. The impact of sperm protamine deficiency and sperm DNA damage on human male fertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrology 2016; 4:789-99. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Ni
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
| | - A.-N. Spiess
- Department of Andrology; University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Germany
| | - H.-C. Schuppe
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
| | - K. Steger
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
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Sivagnanam U, Narayana Murthy S, Gummadi SN. Identification and characterization of the novel nuclease activity of human phospholipid scramblase 1. BMC BIOCHEMISTRY 2016; 17:10. [PMID: 27206388 PMCID: PMC4875679 DOI: 10.1186/s12858-016-0067-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Human phospholipid scramblase 1 (hPLSCR1) was initially identified as a Ca2+ dependent phospholipid translocator involved in disrupting membrane asymmetry. Recent reports revealed that hPLSCR1 acts as a multifunctional signaling molecule rather than functioning as scramblase. hPLSCR1 is overexpressed in a variety of tumor cells and is known to interact with a number of protein molecules implying diverse functions. Results In this study, the nuclease activity of recombinant hPLSCR1 and its biochemical properties have been determined. Point mutations were generated to identify the critical region responsible for the nuclease activity. Recombinant hPLSCR1 exhibits Mg2+ dependent nuclease activity with an optimum pH and temperature of 8.5 and 37 °C respectively. Experiments with amino acid modifying reagents revealed that histidine, cysteine and arginine residues were crucial for its function. hPLSCR1 has five histidine residues and point mutations of histidine residues to alanine in hPLSCR1 resulted in 60 % loss in nuclease activity. Thus histidine residues could play a critical role in the nuclease activity of hPLSCR1. Conclusions This is the first report on the novel nuclease activity of the multi-functional hPLSCR1. hPLSCR1 shows a metal dependent nuclease activity which could play a role in key cellular processes that needs to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulaganathan Sivagnanam
- From the Applied and Industrial Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, 600 036, India
| | - Shweta Narayana Murthy
- From the Applied and Industrial Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, 600 036, India
| | - Sathyanarayana N Gummadi
- From the Applied and Industrial Microbiology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Bhupat and Jyoti Mehta School of Biosciences, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, 600 036, India.
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Gawecka JE, Boaz S, Kasperson K, Nguyen H, Evenson DP, Ward WS. Luminal fluid of epididymis and vas deferens contributes to sperm chromatin fragmentation. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2725-36. [PMID: 26466911 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do the luminal fluids of the epididymis and the vas deferens contribute to sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) in mice? SUMMARY ANSWER The luminal fluids of both organs are required for activating SCF in mice, but the vas deferens luminal fluid does this more efficiently than that of the epididymis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Mice sperm have the ability to degrade their DNA in an apoptotic-like fashion when treated with divalent cations in a process termed SCF. SCF has two steps: the induction of reversible double-strand DNA breaks at the nuclear matrix attachment sites, followed by the irreversible degradation of DNA by nuclease. Single stranded DNA breaks accompany SCF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Luminal fluids from two reproductive organs of the mouse (B6D2F1 strain), the epididymis and vas deferens, were extracted and tested for SCF activation with divalent cations using four different combinations of the sperm and the surrounding luminal fluids: (i) in situ--sperm were kept in their luminal fluid and activated directly; (ii) reconstituted--sperm were centrifuged and resuspended in their luminal fluid before SCF activation; (iii) mixed--sperm were centrifuged and resuspended in the luminal fluid of the other organ; (iv) no luminal fluid--sperm were centrifuged and reconstituted in buffer. All four experiments were performed without (controls) and with divalent cations (resulting in SCF). For each experimental condition, two different mice were used and the analyses averaged. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS DNA damage by SCF was analyzed by three different methods, the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) analysis and field inversion gel electrophoresis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In all three assays that we used, the vas deferens luminal fluid was much more efficient in stimulating SCF in the sperm from either source than that of the epididymis (P < 0.0001). Vas deferens sperm were capable of initiating lower levels of SCF in the absence of luminal fluid (P < 0.0001). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Analyses were performed in only one species, the mouse, but we used three separate assays in our analysis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The data suggest that the luminal fluid of the male reproductive tract interacts with sperm during their transit providing a mechanism to degrade the DNA. We hypothesize that this is part of an apoptotic-like mechanism that allows the reproductive tract to eliminate defective sperm. The SCF model also allowed us to identify differences in the types of DNA lesions that the three tests can identify, providing important background information for the use of these tests clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Segal Boaz
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry & Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | | | - Hieu Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry & Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Donald P Evenson
- SCSA Diagnostics, Brookings, SD, USA Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sanford Medical School, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - W Steven Ward
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry & Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Institute for Biogenesis Research, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Fernandez-Encinas A, García-Peiró A, Ribas-Maynou J, Abad C, Amengual MJ, Navarro J, Benet J. Characterization of Nuclease Activity in Human Seminal Plasma and its Relationship to Semen Parameters, Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Male Infertility. J Urol 2015; 195:213-9. [PMID: 26231555 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2015.07.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Some studies have shown that complementary biomarkers are needed in semen analysis to provide a more accurate diagnosis for couples with infertility problems. To our knowledge no study has been done to determine the relationships among nuclease activity in seminal plasma, semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation and male infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 94 semen samples were collected according to WHO 2010 semen analysis parameters. Samples were analyzed using the single radial enzyme diffusion method for nuclease activity in seminal plasma, and alkaline and neutral Comet assay for sperm DNA fragmentation. Samples were obtained from 11 fertile donors with proven fertility, 17 patients with normozoospermia in an infertile couple, and 16 patients with asthenozoospermia, 19 with teratozoospermia, 21 with asthenoteratozoospermia and 10 with azoospermia. RESULTS Nuclease activity analyzed in seminal plasma was higher in patients than in controls. It correlated with sperm motility and morphology, and sperm DNA fragmentation measured by the alkaline Comet assay. No correlation with sperm DNA fragmentation was measured by the neutral Comet assay. ROC curves to determine male infertility revealed 0.658 sensitivity, 0.727 specificity and 0.705 cm(2) AUC for the single radial enzyme diffusion method, 0.918, 1 and 0.994 cm(2) for the alkaline Comet assay, and 0.917, 0.250 and 0.373 cm(2), respectively, for the neutral Comet assay. CONCLUSIONS Nuclease activity in seminal plasma corrected by sperm count is a good variable to predict male infertility. Results indicate that it could be a useful complementary parameter for male infertility diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Fernandez-Encinas
- Departament de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Agustí García-Peiró
- Centro de Infertilidad Masculina y Análisis de Barcelona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Departament de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Carlos Abad
- Servei d'Urologia, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Institut Universitari Parc Taulí-Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Spain
| | - María José Amengual
- UDIAT, Centre Diagnòstic, Corporació Sanitària Parc Taulí, Sabadell, Institut Universitari Parc Taulí-Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Joaquima Navarro
- Departament de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Jordi Benet
- Departament de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain.
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Agnieszka W. Etoposide interferes with the process of chromatin condensation during alga Chara vulgaris spermiogenesis. Micron 2014; 65:45-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2014.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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30
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Marchiani S, Tamburrino L, Ricci B, Nosi D, Cambi M, Piomboni P, Belmonte G, Forti G, Muratori M, Baldi E. SUMO1 in human sperm: new targets, role in motility and morphology and relationship with DNA damage. Reproduction 2014; 148:453-67. [PMID: 25118297 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In studies carried out previously, we demonstrated that small ubiquitin-like modifier 1 (SUMO1) is associated with poor sperm motility when evaluated with a protocol that reveals mostly SUMO1-ylated live sperm. Recently, with another protocol, it has been demonstrated that SUMO is expressed in most sperm and is related to poor morphology and motility, suggesting that sumoylation may have multiple roles depending on its localisation and targets. We show herein, by confocal microscopy and co-immunoprecipitation, that dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), Ran GTPase-activating protein 1 (RanGAP1) and Topoisomerase IIα, SUMO1 targets in somatic and/or germ cells, are SUMO1-ylated in mature human spermatozoa. DRP1 co-localises with SUMO1 in the mid-piece, whereas RanGAP1 and Topoisomerase IIα in the post-acrosomal region of the head. Both SUMO1 expression and co-localisation with the three proteins were significantly higher in morphologically abnormal sperm, suggesting that sumoylation represents a marker of defective sperm. DRP1 sumoylation at the mid-piece level was higher in the sperm of asthenospermic men. As in somatic cells, DRP1 sumoylation is associated with mitochondrial alterations, this protein may represent the link between SUMO and poor motility. As SUMO pathways are involved in responses to DNA damage, another aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between sumoylation and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). By flow cytometry, we demonstrated that SUMO1-ylation and SDF are correlated (r=0.4, P<0.02, n=37) and most sumoylated sperm shows DNA damage in co-localisation analysis. When SDF was induced by stressful conditions (freezing and thawing and oxidative stress), SUMO1-ylation increased. Following freezing and thawing, SUMO1-Topoisomerase IIα co-localisation and co-immunoprecipitation increased, suggesting an involvement in the formation/repair of DNA breakage.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Marchiani
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - L Tamburrino
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - B Ricci
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - D Nosi
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - M Cambi
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - P Piomboni
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - G Belmonte
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - G Forti
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - M Muratori
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - E Baldi
- Department of BiomedicalExperimental and Clinical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNotheDepartment of Experimental and Clinical MedicineUniversity of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, I-50139 Florence, ItalyDepartments of Molecular and Developmental MedicineMedicalSurgical and Neurological Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Francis S, Yelumalai S, Jones C, Coward K. Aberrant protamine content in sperm and consequential implications for infertility treatment. HUM FERTIL 2014; 17:80-9. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2014.915347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ribas-Maynou J, Gawecka JE, Benet J, Ward WS. Double-stranded DNA breaks hidden in the neutral Comet assay suggest a role of the sperm nuclear matrix in DNA integrity maintenance. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 20:330-40. [PMID: 24282283 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We used a mouse model in which sperm DNA damage was induced to understand the relationship of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) breaks to sperm chromatin structure and to the Comet assay. Sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF) produces dsDNA breaks located on the matrix attachment regions, between protamine toroids. In this model, epididymal sperm induced to undergo SCF can religate dsDNA breaks while vas deferens sperm cannot. Here, we demonstrated that the conventional neutral Comet assay underestimates the epididymal SCF breaks because the broken DNA ends remain attached to the nuclear matrix, causing the DNA to remain associated with the dispersion halo, and the Comet tails to be weak. Therefore, we term these hidden dsDNA breaks. When the Comet assay was modified to include an additional incubation with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and dithiothreitol (DTT) after the conventional lysis, thereby solubilizing the nuclear matrix, the broken DNA was released from the matrix, which resulted in a reduction of the sperm head halo and an increase in the Comet tail length, exposing the hidden dsDNA breaks. Conversely, SCF-induced vas deferens sperm had small halos and long tails with the conventional neutral Comet assay, suggesting that the broken DNA ends were not tethered to the nuclear matrix. These results suggest that the attachment to the nuclear matrix is crucial for the religation of SCF-induced DNA breaks in sperm. Our data suggest that the neutral Comet assay identifies only dsDNA breaks that are released from the nuclear matrix and that the addition of an SDS treatment can reveal these hidden dsDNA breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ribas-Maynou
- Unitat de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Departament de Biologia Cel·lular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Facultat de Medicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
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Kichine E, Di Falco M, Hales BF, Robaire B, Chan P. Analysis of the sperm head protein profiles in fertile men: consistency across time in the levels of expression of heat shock proteins and peroxiredoxins. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77471. [PMID: 24204839 PMCID: PMC3813703 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the identity and quantitative variations of proteins extracted from human sperm heads using a label-free Gel-MS approach. Sperm samples were obtained from three men with high sperm counts at three different time points. This design allowed us to analyse intra-individual and inter-individual variations of the human sperm head proteome. Each time point was analyzed in triplicate to minimize any background artifactual effects of the methodology on the variation analyses. Intra-individual analysis using the spectral counting method revealed that the expression levels of 90% of the common proteins identified in three samples collected at various time-points, separated by several months, had a coefficient of variation of less than 0.5 for each man. Across individuals, the expression level of more than 80% of the proteins had a CV under 0.7. Interestingly, 83 common proteins were found within the core proteome as defined by the intra- and inter-variation analyses set criteria (CV<0.7). Some of these uniformly expressed proteins were chaperones, peroxiredoxins, isomerases, and cytoskeletal proteins. Although there is a significant level of inter-individual variation in the protein profiles of human sperm heads even in a well-defined group of men with high sperm counts, the consistent expression levels of a wide range of proteins points to their essential role during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Kichine
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marcos Di Falco
- Structural and Functional Genomics Centre, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Barbara F. Hales
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Peter Chan
- Department of Urology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Gawecka JE, Marh J, Ortega M, Yamauchi Y, Ward MA, Ward WS. Mouse zygotes respond to severe sperm DNA damage by delaying paternal DNA replication and embryonic development. PLoS One 2013; 8:e56385. [PMID: 23431372 PMCID: PMC3576397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2012] [Accepted: 01/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse zygotes do not activate apoptosis in response to DNA damage. We previously reported a unique form of inducible sperm DNA damage termed sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF). SCF mirrors some aspects of somatic cell apoptosis in that the DNA degradation is mediated by reversible double strand breaks caused by topoisomerase 2B (TOP2B) followed by irreversible DNA degradation by a nuclease(s). Here, we created zygotes using spermatozoa induced to undergo SCF (SCF zygotes) and tested how they responded to moderate and severe paternal DNA damage during the first cell cycle. We found that the TUNEL assay was not sensitive enough to identify the breaks caused by SCF in zygotes in either case. However, paternal pronuclei in both groups stained positively for γH2AX, a marker for DNA damage, at 5 hrs after fertilization, just before DNA synthesis, while the maternal pronuclei were negative. We also found that both pronuclei in SCF zygotes with moderate DNA damage replicated normally, but paternal pronuclei in the SCF zygotes with severe DNA damage delayed the initiation of DNA replication by up to 12 hrs even though the maternal pronuclei had no discernable delay. Chromosomal analysis of both groups confirmed that the paternal DNA was degraded after S-phase while the maternal pronuclei formed normal chromosomes. The DNA replication delay caused a marked retardation in progression to the 2-cell stage, and a large portion of the embryos arrested at the G2/M border, suggesting that this is an important checkpoint in zygotic development. Those embryos that progressed through the G2/M border died at later stages and none developed to the blastocyst stage. Our data demonstrate that the zygote responds to sperm DNA damage through a non-apoptotic mechanism that acts by slowing paternal DNA replication and ultimately leads to arrest in embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna E. Gawecka
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Joel Marh
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Michael Ortega
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Monika A. Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - W. Steven Ward
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii at Manoa, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Amaral A, Ramalho-Santos J. The male gamete is not a somatic cell--the possible meaning of varying sperm RNA levels. Antioxid Redox Signal 2013; 18:179-80. [PMID: 22703389 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Clinic Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Guo K, Liu S, Takano T, Zhang X. Molecular cloning, expression, and characterization of a Ca2+-dependent nuclease of Arabidopsis thaliana. Protein Expr Purif 2012; 83:70-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2012] [Revised: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 03/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Peña FJ, García BM, Samper JC, Aparicio IM, Tapia JA, Ferrusola CO. Dissecting the molecular damage to stallion spermatozoa: the way to improve current cryopreservation protocols? Theriogenology 2011; 76:1177-86. [PMID: 21835453 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Revised: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We review recent developments in the technology of freezing stallion sperm, paying special attention to the molecular lesions that spermatozoa suffer during freezing and thawing, such as osmotic stress, oxidative damage, and apoptotic changes. We also discuss the applicability of colloidal centrifugation in stallion sperm cryobiology. Increased knowledge about the molecular injuries that occur during cryopreservation may lead to improved protective techniques and thus to further improvements in fertility in the current decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- F J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura Cáceres, Spain.
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Paczkowski M, Yuan Y, Fleming-Waddell J, Bidwell CA, Spurlock D, Krisher RL. Alterations in the transcriptome of porcine oocytes derived from prepubertal and cyclic females is associated with developmental potential. J Anim Sci 2011; 89:3561-71. [PMID: 21680790 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2011-4193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The developmental competence of oocytes is progressively attained as females approach puberty. The poor quality of prepubertally derived oocytes suggests that essential processes during cytoplasmic maturation have not been completed. The objective of this experiment was to identify genes in oocytes that are associated with good (cyclic females) and poor (prepubertal females) developmental competence. Development to the blastocyst stage in vitro was significantly decreased in oocytes derived from prepubertal females compared with cyclic females (5.26 and 12.86%, respectively). Approximately 10% of the oocyte transcriptome was differentially expressed between in vitro-matured oocytes derived from cyclic and prepubertal females (P < 0.05); 58% of differentially expressed genes had increased transcript abundance in oocytes derived from cyclic females. Genes involved in the metabolism and regulation of biological processes had increased transcript abundance in oocytes derived from cyclic females, whereas genes involved in translation were increased in prepubertally derived oocytes. Quantitative PCR confirmed differential expression (P < 0.05) for 6 out of 11 selected genes [DPYD (dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase), RDH11 (retinol dehydrogenase 11), SFRS4 (serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 4), SFRS7 (serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 7), TL4 (transcribed loci 4), and TOP2B (topoisomerase II β)] that were differentially expressed with greater than a 2-fold change by microarray, although 3 of these genes, DPYD, TL4, and TOP2B, were in opposing directions by the 2 methods. In conclusion, expression of multiple genes involved in metabolism and translation was significantly altered in oocytes from prepubertal females compared with cyclic females, which was associated with reduced in vitro development to the blastocyst stage. These genes may represent important cellular mechanisms that regulate oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paczkowski
- National Foundation for Fertility Research, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
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Sibirtsev JT, Shastina VV, Menzorova NI, Makarieva TN, Rasskazov VA. Ca2+, Mg2+-dependent DNase involvement in apoptotic effects in spermatozoa of sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius induced by two-headed sphingolipid rhizochalin. MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2011; 13:536-543. [PMID: 20938797 DOI: 10.1007/s10126-010-9324-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2010] [Accepted: 09/24/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we have purified three distinct DNases from spermatozoa of sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius and we suppose the role of Ca(2+), Mg(2+)-dependent DNase (Ca, Mg-DNase) in apoptosis of spermatozoa. Two-headed sphingolipid rhizochalin (Rhz) induced characteristic apoptotic nuclear chromatin changes, internucleosomal DNA cleavage, and activation of caspase-9, caspase-8, and caspase-3 in spermatozoa as was shown by fluorescence Hoechst 33342/PI/FDA analysis, DNA fragmentation assay, and fluorescence caspase inhibitors FAM-LEHD-fmk, FAM-IETD-fmk, and FAM-DEVD-fmk, respectively. Inhibitor of caspase-3 z-DEVD-fmk subdued Rhz-induced internucleosomal ladder formation, which confirmed the major role of caspase-3 in apoptotic DNA cleavage probably through Ca, Mg-DNase activation. Participation of sea urchin Ca, Mg-DNase in apoptosis of spermatozoa was demonstrated by ions Zn(2+) blocking of Rhz-induced DNA fragmentation due to direct inhibition of the Ca, Mg-DNase and internucleosomal cleavage of HeLa S and Vero E6 cell nuclei chromatin by highly purified Ca, Mg-DNase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juriy T Sibirtsev
- Laboratory of Marine Biochemistry, Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far East Division of Russian Academy of Sciences, 690022, pr. 100 let Vladivostoku, 159, Vladivostok, Russian Federation
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Affiliation(s)
- W Steven Ward
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry & Physiology, Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.
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Meyer-Ficca ML, Lonchar JD, Ihara M, Meistrich ML, Austin CA, Meyer RG. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases PARP1 and PARP2 modulate topoisomerase II beta (TOP2B) function during chromatin condensation in mouse spermiogenesis. Biol Reprod 2011; 84:900-9. [PMID: 21228215 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.090035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To achieve the specialized nuclear structure in sperm necessary for fertilization, dramatic chromatin reorganization steps in developing spermatids are required where histones are largely replaced first by transition proteins and then by protamines. This entails the transient formation of DNA strand breaks to allow for, first, DNA relaxation and then chromatin compaction. However, the nature and origin of these breaks are not well understood. We previously reported that these DNA strand breaks trigger the activation of poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymerases PARP1 and PARP2 and that interference with PARP activation causes poor chromatin integrity with abnormal retention of histones in mature sperm and impaired embryonic survival. Here we show that the activity of topoisomerase II beta (TOP2B), an enzyme involved in DNA strand break formation in elongating spermatids, is strongly inhibited by the activity of PARP1 and PARP2 in vitro, and this is in turn counteracted by the PAR-degrading activity of PAR glycohydrolase. Moreover, genetic and pharmacological PARP inhibition both lead to increased TOP2B activity in murine spermatids in vivo as measured by covalent binding of TOP2B to the DNA. In summary, the available data suggest a functional relationship between the DNA strand break-generating activity of TOP2B and the DNA strand break-dependent activation of PARP enzymes that in turn inhibit TOP2B. Because PARP activity also facilitates histone H1 linker removal and local chromatin decondensation, cycles of PAR formation and degradation may be necessary to coordinate TOP2B-dependent DNA relaxation with histone-to-protamine exchange necessary for spermatid chromatin remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella L Meyer-Ficca
- Department of Animal Biology and Mari Lowe Center for Comparative Oncology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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42
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Ortega MA, Sil P, Ward WS. Mammalian sperm chromatin as a model for chromatin function in DNA degradation and DNA replication. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2011; 57:43-9. [PMID: 21204750 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2010.505679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive biology is considered a specialty field, however, an argument can be made that it is instead generally applicable to many fields of biology. The one-cell embryo is presented here as a model system for the study of eukaryotic DNA replication, apoptotic DNA degradation, and signaling mechanisms between the cytoplasm and nucleus. Two unique aspects of this system combine to make it particularly useful for the study of chromatin function. First, the evolutionary pressure that lead to the extreme condensation of mammalian sperm DNA resulted in a cell with virtually inert chromatin, no DNA replication or transcription ongoing in the sperm cell, and all of the cells in a G(0) state. This chromatin is suddenly transformed into actively transcribing and replicating DNA upon fertilization. Therefore, the sperm chromatin is poised to become active but does not yet possess sufficient components present in somatic chromatin structure for all these processes. The second unique aspect of this system is that the one cell embryo houses two distinct nuclei, termed pronuclei, through the first round of DNA synthesis. This means the sperm cell can be experimentally manipulated to test the affects of the various treatments on the biological functions of interest. Experimental manipulations of the system have already revealed a certain level of plasticity in the coordination of both the timing of DNA synthesis in the two pronuclei and in the response to cellular signals by each pronucleus involved with the progression through the G1/S checkpoint, including the degradation of DNA in the paternal pronucleus. The fact that two nuclei in the same cytoplasm can undergo different responses infers a level of autonomy in the nuclear control of the cell cycle. Thus, the features of mammalian fertilization can provide unique insights for the normal biology of the cell cycle in somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Ortega
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, HI 96822, USA
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Yamauchi Y, Shaman JA, Ward WS. Non-genetic contributions of the sperm nucleus to embryonic development. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:31-5. [PMID: 20953203 PMCID: PMC3015006 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2010] [Revised: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 08/05/2010] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent data from several laboratories have provided evidence that the newly fertilized oocyte inherits epigenetic signals from the sperm chromatin that are required for proper embryonic development. For the purposes of this review, the term epigenetic is used to describe all types of molecular information that are transmitted from the sperm cell to the embryo. There are at least six different forms of epigenetic information that have already been established as being required for proper embryogenesis in mammals or for which there is evidence that it may do so. These are (i) DNA methylation; (ii) sperm-specific histones, (iii) other chromatin-associated proteins; (iv) the perinuclear theca proteins; (v) sperm-born RNAs and, the focus of this review; and (vi) the DNA loop domain organization by the sperm nuclear matrix. These epigenetic signals should be considered when designing protocols for the manipulation and cryopreservation of spermatozoa for assisted reproductive technology as necessary components for effective fertilization and subsequent embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Department Anatomy and Reproductive Biology, Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Johnson GD, Lalancette C, Linnemann AK, Leduc F, Boissonneault G, Krawetz SA. The sperm nucleus: chromatin, RNA, and the nuclear matrix. Reproduction 2011; 141:21-36. [PMID: 20876223 PMCID: PMC5358669 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within the sperm nucleus, the paternal genome remains functionally inert and protected following protamination. This is marked by a structural morphogenesis that is heralded by a striking reduction in nuclear volume. Despite these changes, both human and mouse spermatozoa maintain low levels of nucleosomes that appear non-randomly distributed throughout the genome. These regions may be necessary for organizing higher order genomic structure through interactions with the nuclear matrix. The promoters of this transcriptionally quiescent genome are differentially marked by modified histones that may poise downstream epigenetic effects. This notion is supported by increasing evidence that the embryo inherits these differing levels of chromatin organization. In concert with the suite of RNAs retained in the mature sperm, they may synergistically interact to direct early embryonic gene expression. Irrespective, these features reflect the transcriptional history of spermatogenic differentiation. As such, they may soon be utilized as clinical markers of male fertility. In this review, we explore and discuss how this may be orchestrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham D. Johnson
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Amelia K. Linnemann
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Frédéric Leduc
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Guylain Boissonneault
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Institute for Scientific Computing, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
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Huang TY, Tsai TH, Hsu CW, Hsu YC. Curcuminoids suppress the growth and induce apoptosis through caspase-3-dependent pathways in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) 8401 cells. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2010; 58:10639-10645. [PMID: 20822178 DOI: 10.1021/jf1016303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Curcuminoids, natural plant components, have been recently shown to display antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. They also produce potent chemo-preventive action against several types of cancer. In the present study, the anti-proliferative and induced apoptosis effects of curcuminoids have been investigated in human brain glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) 8401 cells. Results indicated that curcuminoids have produced an inhibition of cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner as dosage increased from 12.5 to 100 μM (n = 6) via the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay as well as activation of apoptosis in GBM 8401 cells. Both effects were observed to increase in proportion with the dose of curcuminoids. We have studied the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), DNA fragmentation, caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 activation, and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) transcriptional factor activity to analyze apoptosis in GBM 8401 cells. From these approaches, apoptosis was induced by curcuminoids in human brain GBM 8401 cells via mitochondria and a caspase-dependent pathway. The results observed with proliferation inhibition (y = 94.694e(-0.025x), R(2) = 0.9901, and n = 6) and apoptosis (y = 0.9789e(-0.0102x), R(2) = 0.99854, and n = 3) depend upon the amount of curcuminoid treatment in the cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzuu-Yuan Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tainan Sin-Lau Hospital, Tainan 71101, Taiwan
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46
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Abstract
Most nucleases require a divalent cation as a cofactor, usually Mg(2+) or Ca(2+), and are inhibited by the chelators EDTA and EGTA. We report the existence of a novel nuclease activity, initially identified in the luminal fluids of the mouse male reproductive tract but subsequently found in other tissues,that requires EGTA chelated to calcium to digest DNA. We refer to this unique enzyme as CEAN (Chelated EGTA Activated Nuclease). Using a fraction of vas deferens luminal fluid, plasmid DNA was degraded in the presence of excess Ca(2+) (Ca(2+) :EGTA = 16) or excess EGTA (Ca(2+) :EGTA = 0.25), but required the presence of both. Higher levels of EGTA (Ca(2+) :EGTA = 0.10) prevented activity, suggesting that unchelated EGTA may be a competitive inhibitor. The EGTA-Ca(2+) activation of CEAN is reversible as removing EGTA-Ca(2+) stops ongoing DNA degradation, but adding EGTA-Ca(2+) again reactivates the enzyme. This suggests the possibility that CEAN binds directly to EGTA-Ca(2+). CEAN has a greater specificity for the chelator than for the divalent cation. Two other chelators, BAPTA and sodium citrate, do not activate CEAN in the presence of cation, but chelated EDTA does. EGTA chelated to other divalent cations such as Mn(2+), Zn(2+) , and Cu(2+) activate CEAN, but not Mg(2+) . The activity is lost upon boiling suggesting that it is a protein. These data suggest that EGTA and EDTA may not always protect DNA from nuclease damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Dominguez
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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Hourcade JD, Pérez-Crespo M, Fernández-González R, Pintado B, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Selection against spermatozoa with fragmented DNA after postovulatory mating depends on the type of damage. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:9. [PMID: 20113521 PMCID: PMC2825232 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Accepted: 01/31/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Before ovulation, sperm-oviduct interaction mechanisms may act as checkpoint for the selection of fertilizing spermatozoa in mammals. Postovulatory mating does not allow the sperm to attach to the oviduct, and spermatozoa may only undergo some selection processes during the transport through the female reproductive tract and/or during the zona pellucida (ZP) binding/penetration. METHODS We have induced DNA damage in spermatozoa by two treatments, (a) a scrotal heat treatment (42 degrees C, 30 min) and (b) irradiation with 137Cs gamma-rays (4 Gy, 1.25 Gy/min). The effects of the treatments were analyzed 21-25 days post heat stress or gamma-radiation. Postovulatory females mated either with treated or control males were sacrificed at Day 14 of pregnancy, and numbers of fetuses and resorptions were recorded. RESULTS Both treatments decreased significantly implantation rates however, the proportion of fetuses/resorptions was only reduced in those females mated to males exposed to radiation, indicating a selection favoring fertilization of sperm with unfragmented DNA on the heat treatment group. To determine if DNA integrity is one of the keys of spermatozoa selection after postovulatory mating, we analyzed sperm DNA fragmentation by COMET assay in: a) sperm recovered from mouse epididymides; b) sperm recovered from three different regions of female uterine horns after mating; and c) sperm attached to the ZP after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Similar results were found for control and both treatments, COMET values decreased significantly during the transit from the uterine section close to the uterotubal junction to the oviduct, and in the spermatozoa attached to ZP. However, fertilization by IVF and intracytoplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI) showed that during sperm ZP-penetration, a stringent selection against fragmented-DNA sperm is carried out when the damage was induced by heat stress, but not when DNA fragmentation was induced by radiation. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that in postovulatory mating there is a preliminary general selection mechanism against spermatozoa with low motility and fragmented-DNA during the transport through the female reproductive tract and in the ZP binding, but the ability of the ZP to prevent fertilization by fragmented-DNA spermatozoa is achieved during sperm-ZP penetration, and depends on the source of damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan D Hourcade
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Miriam Pérez-Crespo
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Raúl Fernández-González
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Belén Pintado
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC. C/Darwin 3 Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
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de Boer P, Ramos L, de Vries M, Gochhait S. Memoirs of an insult: sperm as a possible source of transgenerational epimutations and genetic instability. Mol Hum Reprod 2009; 16:48-56. [PMID: 19897543 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gap098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Male transgenerational epigenetic effects have been discovered in the discipline of mouse radiation genetics, using genetic and non-genetic readouts. The mechanism to explain the origin of the transmission of epigenetic and genetic instability is still unknown. In a search for a hypothesis that could satisfy the data, we propose that regulation of chromosome structure in the germline, by the occupancy of matrix/scaffold associated regions, contains molecular memory function. The male germline is strikingly dynamic as to chromatin organization. This could explain why experience of irradiation stress leaves a persistent mark in the male germline only. To be installed, such memory requires both S-phase and chromatin reorganization during spermatogenesis and in the zygote, that likely also involves reorganization of loop domains. By this reorganization, another layer of information is added, needed to accommodate early embryonic development. Observations point at the involvement of DNA repair as inducer of transgenerational epigenetic modulation. Nuclear structure, chromatin composition and loop domain organization are aspects of human sperm variability that in many cases of assisted reproduction is increased due to inclusion of more incompletely differentiated/maturated sperm nuclei. Adjustment of loop domains in early embryo development can be anticipated and zygotic and cleavage stage S-phase repair activity will have to deal with potential paternal DNA lesions. Therefore, by changing male nucleus structure due to reproduction from impaired spermatogenesis, the transgenerational information content could be changed as well. We discuss aspects of male reproductive performance in the context of this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P de Boer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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49
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Abstract
The profound architectural changes that transform spermatids into spermatozoa result in a high degree of DNA packaging within the sperm head. However, the mature sperm chromatin that harbors imprinted genes exhibits a dual nucleoprotamine/nucleohistone structure with DNase-sensitive regions, which could be implicated in the establishment of efficient epigenetic information in the developing embryo. Despite its apparent transcriptionally inert state, the sperm nucleus contains diverse RNA populations, mRNAs, antisense and miRNAs, that have been transcribed throughout spermatogenesis. There is also an endogenous reverse transcriptase that may be activated under certain circumstances. It is now commonly accepted that sperm can deliver some RNAs to the ovocyte at fertilization. This review presents potential links between male-specific genomic imprinting, chromatin organization, and the presence of diverse RNA populations within the sperm nucleus and discusses the functional significance of these RNAs in the spermatozoon itself and in the early embryo following fertilization. Some recent data are provided, supporting the view that analyzing the profile of spermatozoal RNAs could be useful for assessment of male fertility.
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50
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Kantidze OL, Razin SV. Chromatin loops, illegitimate recombination, and genome evolution. Bioessays 2009; 31:278-86. [PMID: 19260023 DOI: 10.1002/bies.200800165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chromosomal rearrangements frequently occur at specific places ("hot spots") in the genome. These recombination hot spots are usually separated by 50-100 kb regions of DNA that are rarely involved in rearrangements. It is quite likely that there is a correlation between the above-mentioned distances and the average size of DNA loops fixed at the nuclear matrix. Recent studies have demonstrated that DNA loop anchorage regions can be fairly long and can harbor DNA recombination hot spots. We previously proposed that chromosomal DNA loops may constitute the basic units of genome organization in higher eukaryotes. In this review, we consider recombination between DNA loop anchorage regions as a possible source of genome evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar L Kantidze
- Laboratory of Structural and Functional Organization of Chromosomes, Institute of Gene Biology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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