1
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Delgado-Bermúdez A, Yeste M, Bonet S, Pinart E. Physiological role of potassium channels in mammalian germ cell differentiation, maturation, and capacitation. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38436215 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ion channels are essential for differentiation and maturation of germ cells, and even for fertilization in mammals. Different types of potassium channels have been identified, which are grouped into voltage-gated channels (Kv), ligand-gated channels (Kligand ), inwardly rectifying channels (Kir ), and tandem pore domain channels (K2P ). MATERIAL-METHODS The present review includes recent findings on the role of potassium channels in sperm physiology of mammals. RESULTS-DISCUSSION While most studies conducted thus far have been focused on the physiological role of voltage- (Kv1, Kv3, and Kv7) and calcium-gated channels (SLO1 and SLO3) during sperm capacitation, especially in humans and rodents, little data about the types of potassium channels present in the plasma membrane of differentiating germ cells exist. In spite of this, recent evidence suggests that the content and regulation mechanisms of these channels vary throughout spermatogenesis. Potassium channels are also essential for the regulation of sperm cell volume during epididymal maturation and for preventing premature membrane hyperpolarization. It is important to highlight that the nature, biochemical properties, localization, and regulation mechanisms of potassium channels are species-specific. In effect, while SLO3 is the main potassium channel involved in the K+ current during sperm capacitation in rodents, different potassium channels are implicated in the K+ outflow and, thus, plasma membrane hyperpolarization during sperm capacitation in other mammalian species, such as humans and pigs. CONCLUSIONS Potassium conductance is essential for male fertility, not only during sperm capacitation but throughout the spermiogenesis and epididymal maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Delgado-Bermúdez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Unit of Cell Biology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Unit of Cell Biology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Unit of Cell Biology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Pinart
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Unit of Cell Biology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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2
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Güngör İH, Türk G, Dayan Cinkara S, Acisu TC, Tektemur A, Yeni D, Avdatek F, Arkali G, Koca RH, Özer Kaya Ş, Sagiroglu M, Etem Önalan E, Sönmez M, Gür S, Yüce A. Reduction of cryopreservation-induced structural, functional and molecular damages in ram sperm by hydrated C 60 fullerene. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14513. [PMID: 38038214 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14513] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the morphological, functional and molecular changes in frozen-thawed ram sperm using an extender containing different concentrations of hydrated carbon 60 fullerene (C60 HyFn), a nanotechnological product. Semen taken from each of the seven Akkaraman rams were pooled. Semen collection was done twice a week and it continued for 3 weeks. Each pooled semen sample was divided into six equal groups and diluted with tris + egg yolk extender including 0 (control), 200, 400, 800 nM, 1 and 5 μM concentrations of C60 HyFn at 37°C. They were then frozen in liquid nitrogen vapour at -140°C, stored in liquid nitrogen container (-196°C) and thawed at 37°C for 25 s before analysis. In comparison with control, C60 HyFn addition prior to freezing procedure provided significant increases in total and progressive motility rates, glutathione peroxidase, catalase activities and percentage of highly active mitochondria, and significant decreases in dead and abnormal sperm rates, lipid peroxidation, caspase-3 and DNA fragmentation levels in frozen-thawed ram semen. When compared to control, C60 HyFn supplementation significantly down-regulated the expression levels of miR-200a and KCNJ11, and significantly up-regulated the expression levels of miR-3958-3p (at the concentrations of 200, 400, 800 nM and 1 μM), CatSper1 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 nM and 5 μM), CatSper2 (at the concentrations of 1 and 5 μM), CatSper3 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 nM, 1 and 5 μM), CatSper4 (at all concentrations), ANO1 (at the concentrations of 800 nM, 1 and 5 μM) and TRPV5 (at the concentrations of 200, 400 and 800 nM). The addition of C60 HyFn had no effect on global DNA methylation rates. As a result, C60 HyFn supplementation to ram semen extenders may be beneficial in reducing some of the functional, structural and molecular damages in sperm induced by the freeze-thawing procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- İbrahim Halil Güngör
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Gaffari Türk
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Serap Dayan Cinkara
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Tutku Can Acisu
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Ahmet Tektemur
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Deniz Yeni
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye
| | - Fatih Avdatek
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye
| | - Gözde Arkali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Recep Hakkı Koca
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bingöl University, Bingöl, Türkiye
| | - Şeyma Özer Kaya
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Meltem Sagiroglu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Ebru Etem Önalan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Mustafa Sönmez
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Seyfettin Gür
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
| | - Abdurrauf Yüce
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fırat University, Elazığ, Türkiye
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3
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Benko F, Urminská D, Ďuračka M, Tvrdá E. Signaling Roleplay between Ion Channels during Mammalian Sperm Capacitation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2519. [PMID: 37760960 PMCID: PMC10525812 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to accomplish their primary goal, mammalian spermatozoa must undergo a series of physiological, biochemical, and functional changes crucial for the acquisition of fertilization ability. Spermatozoa are highly polarized cells, which must swiftly respond to ionic changes on their passage through the female reproductive tract, and which are necessary for male gametes to acquire their functional competence. This review summarizes the current knowledge about specific ion channels and transporters located in the mammalian sperm plasma membrane, which are intricately involved in the initiation of changes within the ionic milieu of the sperm cell, leading to variations in the sperm membrane potential, membrane depolarization and hyperpolarization, changes in sperm motility and capacitation to further lead to the acrosome reaction and sperm-egg fusion. We also discuss the functionality of selected ion channels in male reproductive health and/or disease since these may become promising targets for clinical management of infertility in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Benko
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (D.U.); (E.T.)
| | - Dana Urminská
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (D.U.); (E.T.)
| | - Michal Ďuračka
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Eva Tvrdá
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (D.U.); (E.T.)
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4
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Sahoo B, Mishra B, Bhaskar R, Vikas YNV, Umesh A, Guttula PK, Gupta MK. Analyzing the effect of heparin on in vitro capacitation and spermatozoal RNA population in goats. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 241:124502. [PMID: 37080410 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124502] [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: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Heparin is a glycosaminoglycan polymer that is commonly used as an anticoagulant. Heparin also induces in vitro capacitation in spermatozoa, although its molecular mechanism is elusive. This study investigated the effect of heparin on in vitro capacitation and spermatozoal RNA (spRNA) population in goats. Goat spermatozoa were treated with 20 μM heparin for 0-6 h and evaluated for motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, and spRNA population by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). It was observed that heparin enhanced sperm motility up to 6 h of incubation (p < 0.05). Heparin also induced capacitation and acrosome reaction within 4 h. RNA-seq identified 1254 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between heparin-treated and control spermatozoa. Most DEGs (1251 nos.) were upregulated and included 1090 protein-coding genes. A few genes (PRND, ITPR1, LLCFC1, and CHRM2) showed >5-fold increased expression in heparin-treated spermatozoa compared to the control. The upregulated genes were found to be involved in cAMP-PKA, PI3-Akt, calcium, MAPK signaling, and oxidative stress pathways. DCFDA staining confirmed the increased oxidative stress in heparin-treated spermatozoa compared to the control (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that heparin enhances sperm motility and induces capacitation by upregulation of the spRNA population and oxidative stress pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijayalaxmi Sahoo
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Balaram Mishra
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Rakesh Bhaskar
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Y N V Vikas
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Anushri Umesh
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Guttula
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India.
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5
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Pinto FM, Odriozola A, Candenas L, Subirán N. The Role of Sperm Membrane Potential and Ion Channels in Regulating Sperm Function. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:6995. [PMID: 37108159 PMCID: PMC10138380 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086995] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last seventy years, studies on mammalian sperm cells have demonstrated the essential role of capacitation, hyperactivation and the acrosome reaction in the acquisition of fertilization ability. These studies revealed the important biochemical and physiological changes that sperm undergo in their travel throughout the female genital tract, including changes in membrane fluidity, the activation of soluble adenylate cyclase, increases in intracellular pH and Ca2+ and the development of motility. Sperm are highly polarized cells, with a resting membrane potential of about -40 mV, which must rapidly adapt to the ionic changes occurring through the sperm membrane. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the relationship between variations in the sperm potential membrane, including depolarization and hyperpolarization, and their correlation with changes in sperm motility and capacitation to further lead to the acrosome reaction, a calcium-dependent exocytosis process. We also review the functionality of different ion channels that are present in spermatozoa in order to understand their association with human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M. Pinto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC-University of Sevilla, Avenida Américo Vespucio 49, 41092 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Ainize Odriozola
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bizkaia, Spain; (A.O.); (N.S.)
- Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
- MEPRO Medical Reproductive Solutions, 20009 San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Luz Candenas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC-University of Sevilla, Avenida Américo Vespucio 49, 41092 Sevilla, Spain;
| | - Nerea Subirán
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Bizkaia, Spain; (A.O.); (N.S.)
- Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
- MEPRO Medical Reproductive Solutions, 20009 San Sebastian, Spain
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6
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Akyuz E, Koklu B, Uner A, Angelopoulou E, Paudel YN. Envisioning the role of inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channel in epilepsy. J Neurosci Res 2021; 100:413-443. [PMID: 34713909 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a devastating neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures attributed to the disruption of the dynamic excitatory and inhibitory balance in the brain. Epilepsy has emerged as a global health concern affecting about 70 million people worldwide. Despite recent advances in pre-clinical and clinical research, its etiopathogenesis remains obscure, and there are still no treatment strategies modifying disease progression. Although the precise molecular mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis have not been clarified yet, the role of ion channels as regulators of cellular excitability has increasingly gained attention. In this regard, emerging evidence highlights the potential implication of inwardly rectifying potassium (Kir) channels in epileptogenesis. Kir channels consist of seven different subfamilies (Kir1-Kir7), and they are highly expressed in both neuronal and glial cells in the central nervous system. These channels control the cell volume and excitability. In this review, we discuss preclinical and clinical evidence on the role of the several subfamilies of Kir channels in epileptogenesis, aiming to shed more light on the pathogenesis of this disorder and pave the way for future novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enes Akyuz
- Faculty of International Medicine, Department of Biophysics, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Betul Koklu
- Faculty of Medicine, Namık Kemal University, Tekirdağ, Turkey
| | - Arda Uner
- Faculty of Medicine, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat, Turkey
| | - Efthalia Angelopoulou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Yam Nath Paudel
- Neuropharmacology Research Strength, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
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7
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Sousa MI, Silva A, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Can Antidiabetic Drugs Improve Male Reproductive (Dys)Function Associated with Diabetes? Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4191-4222. [PMID: 30381064 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666181101111404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The alarming increase in the number of diabetic patients worldwide raises concerns regarding the impact of the disease on global health, not to mention on social and economic aspects. Furthermore, the association of this complex metabolic disorder with male reproductive impairment is worrying, mainly due to the increasing chances that young individuals, at the apex of their reproductive window, could be affected by the disease, further contributing to the disturbing decline in male fertility worldwide. The cornerstone of diabetes management is glycemic control, proven to be effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of disease-related complications. Nonetheless, the possible impact of these therapeutic interventions on male reproductive function is essentially unexplored. To address this issue, we have made a critical assessment of the literature on the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. While the crucial role of insulin is clear, as shown by the recovery of reproductive impairments in insulin-deficient individuals after treatment, the same clearly does not apply to other antidiabetic strategies. In fact, there is an abundance of controversial reports, possibly related to the various study designs, experimental models and compounds used, which include biguanides, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones/glitazones, bile acid sequestrants, amylin mimetics, as well as sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), α-glucosidase inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors. These aspects constitute the focus of the current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Escada-Rebelo
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M I Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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8
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Gao DD, Xu JW, Qin WB, Peng L, Qiu ZE, Wang LL, Lan CF, Cao XN, Xu JB, Zhu YX, Tang YG, Zhang YL, Zhou WL. Cellular Mechanism Underlying Hydrogen Sulfide Mediated Epithelial K + Secretion in Rat Epididymis. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1886. [PMID: 30666217 PMCID: PMC6330343 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
As a novel gasotransmitter, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) elicits various physiological actions including smooth muscle relaxation and promotion of transepithelial ion transport. However, the pro-secretory function of H2S in the male reproductive system remains largely unclear. The aim of this study is to elucidate the possible roles of H2S in modulating rat epididymal intraluminal ionic microenvironment essential for sperm storage. The results revealed that endogenous H2S-generating enzymes cystathionine β-synthetase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) were both expressed in rat epididymis. CBS located predominantly in epithelial cells whilst CSE expressed primarily in smooth muscle cells. The relative expression level of CBS and CSE escalated from caput to cauda regions of epididymis, which was paralleled to the progressively increasing production of endogenous H2S. The effect of H2S on epididymal epithelial ion transportation was investigated using short-circuit current (ISC), measurement of intracellular ion concentration and in vivo rat epididymal microperfusion. Our data showed that H2S induced transepithelial K+ secretion via adenosine triphosphate-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel and large conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BKCa) channel. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channel-mediated Ca2+ influx was implicated in the activation of BKCa channel. In vivo studies further demonstrated that H2S promoted K+ secretion in rat epididymal epithelium. Inhibition of endogenous H2S synthesis caused a significant decrease in K+ concentration of cauda epididymal intraluminal fluid. Moreover, our data demonstrated that high extracellular K+ concentration actively depressed the motility of cauda epididymal sperm in a pH-independent manner. Collectively, the present study demonstrated that H2S was vital to the formation of high K+ concentration in epididymal intraluminal fluid by promoting the transepithelial K+ secretion, which might contribute to the maintenance of the cauda epididymal sperm in quiescent dormant state before ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Dong Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Wen Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Bing Qin
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive and Genetics, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuo-Er Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Long-Long Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chong-Feng Lan
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Nian Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Bang Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Ge Tang
- Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive and Genetics, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Liang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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9
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Silva AF, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Antidiabetic therapies and male reproductive function: where do we stand? Reproduction 2018; 155:R13-R37. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus has been increasing at alarming rates in recent years, thus jeopardizing human health worldwide. Several antidiabetic drugs have been introduced in the market to manage glycemic levels, and proven effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of diabetes mellitus-related complications. However, and despite the established association between such pathology and male reproductive dysfunction, the influence of these therapeutic interventions on such topics have been scarcely explored. Importantly, this pathology may contribute toward the global decline in male fertility, giving the increasing preponderance of diabetes mellitus in young men at their reproductive age. Therefore, it is mandatory that the reproductive health of diabetic individuals is maintained during the antidiabetic treatment. With this in mind, we have gathered the available information and made a critical analysis regarding the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. Unlike insulin, which has a clear and fundamental role on male reproductive function, the other antidiabetic therapies' effects at this level seem incoherent. In fact, studies are highly controversial possibly due to the different experimental study approaches, which, in our opinion, suggests caution when it comes to prescribing such drugs to young diabetic patients. Overall, much is still to be determined and further studies are needed to clarify the safety of these antidiabetic strategies on male reproductive system. Aspects such as the effects of insulin levels variations, consequent of insulin therapy, as well as what will be the impact of the side effect hypoglycemia, common to several therapeutic strategies discussed, on the male reproductive system are still to be addressed.
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10
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Zhang BL, Gao DY, Zhang XX, Shi S, Shum W. Whole-cell Patch-clamp Recordings of Isolated Primary Epithelial Cells from the Epididymis. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28809845 DOI: 10.3791/55700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an essential organ for sperm maturation and reproductive health. The epididymal epithelium consists of intricately connected cell types that are distinct not only in molecular and morphological features but also in physiological properties. These differences reflect their diverse functions, which together establish the necessary microenvironment for the post-testicular sperm development in the epididymal lumen. The understanding of the biophysical properties of the epididymal epithelial cells is critical for revealing their functions in sperm and reproductive health, under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. While their functional properties have yet to be fully elucidated, the epididymal epithelial cells can be studied using the patch-clamp technique, a tool for measuring the cellular events and the membrane properties of single cells. Here, we describe the methods of cell isolation and whole-cell patch-clamp recording to measure the electrical properties of primary dissociated epithelial cells from the rat cauda epididymides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University; Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Da Yuan Gao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University; Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Xiao Xu Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences
| | - Shuo Shi
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University
| | - Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University;
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Yang JJ, Cheng RC, Cheng PC, Wang YC, Huang RC. K ATP Channels Mediate Differential Metabolic Responses to Glucose Shortage of the Dorsomedial and Ventrolateral Oscillators in the Central Clock. Sci Rep 2017; 7:640. [PMID: 28377630 PMCID: PMC5428822 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00699-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) central clock comprises two coupled oscillators, with light entraining the retinorecipient vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-positive ventrolateral oscillator, which then entrains the arginine vasopressin (AVP)-positive dorsomedial oscillator. While glucose availability is known to alter photic entrainment, it is unclear how the SCN neurones respond to metabolic regulation and whether the two oscillators respond differently. Here we show that the ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel mediates differential responses to glucose shortage of the two oscillators. RT-PCR and electrophysiological results suggested the presence of Kir6.2/SUR1 KATP channels in the SCN neurones. Immunostaining revealed preferential distribution of Kir6.2 in the dorsomedial subregion and selective colocalization with AVP. Whole cell recordings with ATP-free pipette solution indicated larger tolbutamide-induced depolarisation and tolbutamide-sensitive conductance in dorsal SCN (dSCN) than ventral SCN (vSCN) neurones. Tolbutamide-sensitive conductance was low under perforated patch conditions but markedly enhanced by cyanide inhibition of mitochondrial respiration. Glucoprivation produced a larger steady-state inhibition in dSCN than vSCN neurones, and importantly hypoglycemia via opening KATP channels selectively inhibited the KATP-expressing neurones. Our results suggest that the AVP-SCN oscillator may act as a glucose sensor to respond to glucose shortage while sparing the VIP-SCN oscillator to remain in synch with external light-dark cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyh-Jeen Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan
| | - Ruo-Ciao Cheng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan
| | - Pi-Cheng Cheng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chi Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan
| | - Rong-Chi Huang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan. .,Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan. .,Neuroscience Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Tao-Yuan, 33305, Taiwan.
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Abstract
To succeed in fertilization, spermatozoa must decode environmental cues which require a set of ion channels. Recent findings have revealed that K(+) and Cl(-) channels participate in some of the main sperm functions. This work reviews the evidence indicating the involvement of K(+) and Cl(-) channels in motility, maturation, and the acrosome reaction, and the advancement in identifying their molecular identity and modes of regulation. Improving our insight on how these channels operate will strengthen our ability to surmount some infertility problems, improve animal breeding, preserve biodiversity, and develop selective and secure male contraceptives.
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Zoga V, Kawano T, Liang MY, Bienengraeber M, Weihrauch D, McCallum B, Gemes G, Hogan Q, Sarantopoulos C. KATP channel subunits in rat dorsal root ganglia: alterations by painful axotomy. Mol Pain 2010; 6:6. [PMID: 20102598 PMCID: PMC2825500 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-6-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2009] [Accepted: 01/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels in neurons mediate neuroprotection, they regulate membrane excitability, and they control neurotransmitter release. Because loss of DRG neuronal KATP currents is involved in the pathophysiology of pain after peripheral nerve injury, we characterized the distribution of the KATP channel subunits in rat DRG, and determined their alterations by painful axotomy using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Results PCR demonstrated Kir6.1, Kir6.2, SUR1 and SUR2 transcripts in control DRG neurons. Protein expression for all but Kir6.1 was confirmed by Western blots and immunohistochemistry. Immunostaining of these subunits was identified by fluorescent and confocal microscopy in plasmalemmal and nuclear membranes, in the cytosol, along the peripheral fibers, and in satellite glial cells. Kir6.2 co-localized with SUR1 subunits. Kir6.2, SUR1, and SUR2 subunits were identified in neuronal subpopulations, categorized by positive or negative NF200 or CGRP staining. KATP current recorded in excised patches was blocked by glybenclamide, but preincubation with antibody against SUR1 abolished this blocking effect of glybenclamide, confirming that the antibody targets the SUR1 protein in the neuronal plasmalemmal membrane. In the myelinated nerve fibers we observed anti-SUR1 immunostaining in regularly spaced funneled-shaped structures. These structures were identified by electron microscopy as Schmidt-Lanterman incisures (SLI) formed by the Schwann cells. Immunostaining against SUR1 and Kir6.2 colocalized with anti-Caspr at paranodal sites. DRG excised from rats made hyperalgesic by spinal nerve ligation exhibited similar staining against Kir6.2, SUR1 or SUR2 as DRG from controls, but showed decreased prevalence of SUR1 immunofluorescent NF200 positive neurons. In DRG and dorsal roots proximal to axotomy SLI were smaller and showed decreased SUR1 immunofluorescence. Conclusions We identified Kir6.2/SUR1 and Kir6.2/SUR2 KATP channels in rat DRG neuronal somata, peripheral nerve fibers, and glial satellite and Schwann cells, in both normal state and after painful nerve injury. This is the first report of KATP channels in paranodal sites adjacent to nodes of Ranvier and in the SLI of the Schwann cells. After painful axotomy KATP channels are downregulated in large, myelinated somata and also in SLI, which are also of smaller size compared to controls. Because KATP channels may have diverse functional roles in neurons and glia, further studies are needed to explore the potential of KATP channels as targets of therapies against neuropathic pain and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Zoga
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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