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Omirinde JO, Olukole SG, Oke BO. Nerve and Glial Cell Expressions in the Testes and Epididymides of Different Age Groups of Cane Rat ( Thryonomys swinderianus). J Microsc Ultrastruct 2021; 9:67-75. [PMID: 34350102 PMCID: PMC8291097 DOI: 10.4103/jmau.jmau_6_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study was conducted to examine the variations in the expressions of neuronal and glial cell markers in the testes and epididymides of different age groups of cane rat using histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques. Method: Thirty (32) healthy domesticated male cane rats were used for this investigation. The rats were divided into four groups (prepubertal [≤4 months], pubertal (>4 ≤12 months), adult (>12 ≤30 months), and aged (>30 months)] of 8 animals each. Subsequent to anesthesia and intracardiac perfusion of the rats with 10% buffered formalin, testes were harvested and preliminary assessment of nervous and glial structures was determined using the Golgi technique. Specific immunolocalization was done using the anti-neurofilament (NF-20) and anti-glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) for the expressions of neuronal and astrocyte-like cells, respectively. Result: Neuronal and astrocyte-like structures as revealed by the Golgi procedure were demonstrated in the tunica albuginea and interstitium of the testes as well as in the periductal muscle coat and epididymal interstitium of the caput down to the caudal segments. Golgi signal intensities of the expressions in both testes and epididymides increased with age advancement. Immunolocalization of the nerve structures and glial cells tallied with the Golgi results. However, NF signal intensity was significantly higher in the adult relative to others. Similarly, GFAP signal intensity increased with age increment. Conclusion: This study has shown that the variation in the expression of neuronal and glial cells in the testis and epididymis of the cane rat could be associated with increased reproductive reproductive activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamiu Oyewole Omirinde
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Jos, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Samuel Gbadebo Olukole
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Bankole Olusiji Oke
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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In Vitro Contraction of Isolated Cauda Epididymal Duct Smooth Muscle as a Complimentary Approach to Physiological, Pathological, Toxicological, and Pharmacological Studies on Epididymal Function. Methods Mol Biol 2021. [PMID: 33423227 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1091-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Contraction of cauda epididymal duct (CE) smooth muscle is one of the very first events of the seminal emission phase of ejaculation. The contraction of CE smooth muscle is governed by a complex interaction of hormones, autacoids, and by the neurotransmitters released from the epididymal intramural nerve endings, and any impairment in the CE smooth muscle contraction has the potential to impair male fertility. Apart the obvious pathophysiological and toxicological importance of CE smooth muscle contraction, modulation of CE contraction has pharmaceutical interest offering a druggable target to development of drugs to improve/impair male fertility. The in vitro contraction experiments constitute a valuable approach to an in-depth evaluation of functional and molecular changes resulting from pathologies or drug exposure. Therefore, this chapter consists in a description of in vitro pharmacological reactivity contractility of the epididymal duct in a controlled medium, maintained at 30 °C of temperature and continuously bubbled with 95% O2 and 5% CO2 to obtain cumulative concentration-response curves that has been fundamental to some of our investigations on epididymal physiology, toxicology, and pharmacology.
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Mueller A, Kiguti LRA, Silva EJR, Pupo AS. Contractile Effects of Serotonin (5-HT) in the Rat Cauda Epididymis: Expression and Functional Characterization of 5-HT Receptors. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 369:98-106. [PMID: 30728250 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.254110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] exerts multiple central and peripheral functions. High concentrations of 5-HT have been found in the epididymis, a ductal organ that plays pivotal roles in sperm transport and maturation. The contraction of the epididymal smooth muscle is essential for sperm transport and emission during ejaculation. The contributions of the epididymal 5-HT system to these events are poorly understood. Here, we assessed the contractile function of 5-HT in the rat cauda epididymis (CE), pharmacologically targeting the receptor(s) and the reuptake mechanism involved in this system. Segments of CE duct from adult Wistar rats were set up in an organ bath system for isometric tension recordings, and concentration-response curves to 5-HT and norepinephrine were obtained. 5-HT elicited concentration-dependent contractions of the CE duct (pEC50 = 6.5 ± 0.1) that were potentiated with high potency by the norepinephrine transporter (NET) inhibitor desipramine and with low potency by the highly selective serotonin transporter inhibitor paroxetine, indicating that the NET is the major mediator of 5-HT reuptake in vitro. CE contractions to 5-HT were antagonized by the α 1-adrenoceptor (α 1-AR) antagonist prazosin (pA 2 ≅ 8.9), 5-HT2A/2C antagonists ketanserin (pA 2 ≅ 9.4) and fluoxetine (pA 2 ≅ 7.4), and 5-HT1A ligands WAY 100635 (pA 2 ≅ 8.9) and buspirone (pA 2 ≅ 7.3). Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A transcripts are highly abundant in the cauda epididymis, whereas 5-HT2C transcript was not found. Altogether, our results reveal that contractions of the CE duct to 5-HT encompasses at least activation of α 1-ARs and 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors, providing new insights into the roles of 5-HT on the epididymal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Mueller
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz R A Kiguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André S Pupo
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University, Botucatu-São Paulo, Brazil
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Pacini ESA, Castilho ACS, Hebeler-Barbosa F, Pupo AS, Kiguti LRA. Contraction of Rat Cauda Epididymis Smooth Muscle to α1-Adrenoceptor Activation Is Mediated by α1A-Adrenoceptors. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 366:21-28. [PMID: 29685886 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.246710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cauda epididymis (CE), the site of sperm storage until the ejaculation, is densely innervated by the sympathetic nervous system. Contraction of CE smooth muscle via α1-adrenoceptors (α1-ARs) plays a key role during the seminal emission phase of ejaculation and α1-AR antagonism has been suggested as a nonhormonal and reversible male contraceptive target. Since the α1-AR subtype mediating contraction of rat CE is not known, this study investigates the expression and role of α1-AR subtypes on the proximal and distal rat CE duct contraction to norepinephrine in vitro. Alpha1a, α1b, and α1d transcripts were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in proximal and distal CE segments and α1a and α1d were shown to predominate over α1b The inhibition of [3H]prazosin specific binding to intact CE segments from proximal and distal CE by RS 100329 and 5-methylurapidil (α1A-selective) and BMY 7378 (α1D-selective) showed that α1A- and α1D-ARs are expressed at similar densities. Norepinephrine-induced contractions of CE were competitively antagonized with high affinity by RS 100329 (pKB ≈ 9.50) and 5-methylurapidil (pKB ≈ 9.0) and with low affinity by BMY 7378 (pKB ≈ 7.0) and the α1B-selective L-765,314 (pA2 < 7.0), suggesting contractions are mediated by α1A-ARs. The clinically used α1A/D-ARs antagonist tamsulosin potently (pA2 ≈ 10.0) inhibited the norepinephrine-induced CE contractions. Altogether, our results show that α1A- and α1D-ARs are expressed in the CE duct and α1A-AR is the main subtype mediating contraction to norepinephrine. Our results highlight the importance of α1A-AR in the peripheral control of ejaculation and strengthen the α1A-AR as a target for a nonhormonal approach to male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enio S A Pacini
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anthony C S Castilho
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flavia Hebeler-Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André S Pupo
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz R A Kiguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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Guerra MT, Sanabria M, Leite GAA, Borges CS, Cucielo MS, Anselmo-Franci JA, Foster WG, Kempinas WG. Maternal exposure to butyl paraben impairs testicular structure and sperm quality on male rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2017; 32:1273-1289. [PMID: 27444704 DOI: 10.1002/tox.22323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Parabens are hormonally active chemicals widely used as preservatives in foods and are frequently detected in human fluids and tissues. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of maternal butyl paraben (BP) exposure on male sexual development. Pregnant Wistar rats received corn oil (control group), or BP at doses of 10, 100, or 200 mg/kg, subcutaneously, from gestational day 12 until postnatal day 21. Our results demonstrated that developmental BP exposure significantly increased the number of adult Leydig cells and the circulating concentrations of testosterone and attenuated FSH and LH concentrations at 200 mg/kg. BP exposure adversely affected spermatogenesis kinetics at doses of 10 and 200 mg/kg and provoked a decrease in the immunostaining of EsR1 and AR at 200 mg/kg. The sperm motility was impaired at the 10 mg/kg dose, and sperm head abnormalities were increased in all BP dose groups. We suggest that BP impairs testicular structure and function in the rat, affecting sperm quality. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1273-1289, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina T Guerra
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Marciana Sanabria
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Gabriel A A Leite
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Cibele S Borges
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Maira S Cucielo
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Janete A Anselmo-Franci
- Laboratory of Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Department of Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, USP, Avenida Do Café S/N, Ribeirão Preto, Sao Paulo, 14040904, Brazil
| | - W G Foster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Biology, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - W G Kempinas
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Univ Estadual Paulista-UNESP, Distrito De Rubião Jr S/N, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-970, Brazil
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Borges CDS, Dias AFM, Silva PV, Rosa JL, Guerra MT, Silva RF, Kiguti LRA, Pupo AS, Kempinas WDG. Long-term adverse effects on reproductive function in male rats exposed prenatally to the glucocorticoid betamethasone. Toxicology 2017; 376:15-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Drobnis EZ, Nangia AK. Cardiovascular/Pulmonary Medications and Male Reproduction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1034:103-130. [PMID: 29256129 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-69535-8_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular and respiratory medications are used by men of reproductive age although use of the former is most prevalent in advanced age. Many of these drugs have been associated with sexual dysfunction, including erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction, but for most there is insufficient evidence to link their use with testicular dysfunction, reduced semen quality or infertility. Some exceptions are the irreversible α1-adrenergic antagonist phenoxybenzamine, which carries a high risk of retrograde ejaculation; the specific α1A-adrenergic antagonists silodosin and tamsulosin, used primarily to treat BPH/lower urinary tract symptoms, which can cause retrograde ejaculation; and the peripheral β1-adrenergic antagonist atenolol, used to treat hypertension, which may decrease testosterone/free-testosterone levels. In this chapter, we review the evidence available regarding adverse reactions on male reproduction of adrenergic receptor agonists/antagonists, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, diuretics, digoxin, and hydralazine. For some of these medications, there is some evidence for male reproductive effects, along with some solid work in experimental and companion animal species suggesting negative effects. In contrast, and of special note, are calcium channel blockers, which have long been included on lists of medications with the potential to cause male infertility. This turns out to be a good example of a substance with profound effects on sperm function in vitro, but with limited evidence for in vivo effects on semen quality or fertility, even in experimental species. We hope that the evidence provided in this chapter will stimulate additional studies for these important classes of medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erma Z Drobnis
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Ajay K Nangia
- Department of Urology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Fernandez CDB, Fernandes GSA, Favareto APA, Perobelli JE, Sanabria M, Kempinas WDG. Decreased Implantation Number After In Utero Artificial Insemination Can Reflect an Impairment of Fertility in Adult Male Rats After Exogenous Leptin Exposure. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:234-241. [PMID: 27324433 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116653678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Leptin is a protein secreted by the adipocytes, which serves as a link between fat and brain. Its main action is to decrease appetite and increase energy expenditure, but it is also involved in the control of different neuroendocrine systems, including gonadal axis. Although the effects of leptin deficiency on reproduction are well recognized, the effect of excess leptin on male reproductive function is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate fertility and sperm parameters of male rats exposed to exogenous leptin. A group of adult male rats received exogenous leptin intraperitoneally (30 μg/kg/day) for 42 days, and a control group received only the vehicle during the same period. After the treatment, animals were evaluated for sperm count, sperm motility, and fertility after intrauterine artificial insemination. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups related to sperm production, sperm concentration, and sperm motility. However, fertility evaluation after artificial insemination showed a quantitative decrease in the uterus plus fetuses weight, number of implantation sites, and number of live fetuses. The fertility potential showed a reduction of about 40%, whereas the preimplantation loss rate increased more than 2-fold in leptin-treated animals. In conclusion, leptin administration to nonobese male rats impairs ability of treated animals to generate offspring, since the occurrence of implantation was diminished. So leptin can impair sperm quality, affecting the reproductive capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla D B Fernandez
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil.,2 Pró-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação, Central de Laboratórios de Ciências e Tecnologia Ambiental-Laboratório de Toxicologia Experimental, Universidade Sagrado Coração, SP, Brazil
| | - Glaura S A Fernandes
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula A Favareto
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Juliana E Perobelli
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Marciana Sanabria
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Wilma D G Kempinas
- 1 Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, Brazil
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Sanabria M, Cucielo MS, Guerra MT, Dos Santos Borges C, Banzato TP, Perobelli JE, Leite GAA, Anselmo-Franci JA, De Grava Kempinas W. Sperm quality and fertility in rats after prenatal exposure to low doses of TCDD: A three-generation study. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 65:29-38. [PMID: 27352640 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in male rats promotes, decreased sperm concentration, alterations in motility and in sperm transit time. We evaluated the effect transgenerational of in utero exposure to low doses TCDD in the sperm quality. Pregnant rats (F0) were exposed to 0.1; 0.5 and 1.0μg of TCDD, on gestational day 15, coincides with the end of most organogenesis in the fetus. Adult male offspring (F1, F2 and F3 generation) were investigated for fertility after artificial insemination in utero. After collection of the uterus and ovaries, the numbers of corpora lutea and implants were determined. TCDD provoked alterations in sperm morphology and diminution in serum testosterone levels and sperm transit time in the cauda epididymis. The fertility significantly decreased in all the generations, at least at one dose. In conclusion, TCDD exposure decreases rat sperm quality and fertility in adult male offspring and this effects persist into the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marciana Sanabria
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maira Smaniotto Cucielo
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Trevizan Guerra
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Cibele Dos Santos Borges
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Thais Petrochelli Banzato
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Elaine Perobelli
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Adan Araújo Leite
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Janete Aparecida Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology, School of Dentistry, USP-University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wilma De Grava Kempinas
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Liguori G, Paino S, Squillacioti C, Luca AD, Alì S, Langella E, Mirabella N. Innervation and Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Epididymis in Alpaca Camelid (Vicugna Pacos). ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2013.e15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Di Mauro M, Lo Presti D, Mongioì LM, Russo G, Calogero AE. Reproductive function in male patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Andrology 2015; 3:1082-7. [PMID: 26446574 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was undertaken to evaluate conventional and some of the main bio-functional spermatozoa parameters, serum gonadal hormones and didymo-epididymal ultrasound features in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1). DM1 affects an increasing number of men of reproductive age. Diabetes may affect male reproduction by acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, causing sexual dysfunction or disrupting male accessory gland function. However, data on spermatozoa parameters and other aspects of the reproductive function in these patients are scanty. Thirty-two patients with DM1 [27.0 (25.0-30.0 years)] and 20 age-matched fertile healthy men [28.0 (27.25-30.75 years)] were enrolled. Patients with diabetic neuropathy, other endocrine disorders or conditions known to alter spermatozoa parameters were excluded. Each subject underwent semen analysis, blood withdrawal for fasting and post-prandial glycaemia, hormonal analysis and didymo-epididymal ultrasound evaluation before and after ejaculation. Patients with DM1 had a lower percentage of spermatozoa with progressive motility [10.0 (7.0-12.75) vs. 45.0 (42.0-47.75) %; p < 0.01] and a higher percentage of spermatozoa with abnormal mitochondrial function than controls [47.0 (43.0-55.0) vs. 2.0 (1.0-5.0) %; p < 0.01]. Patients also had greater post-ejaculatory diameters of cephalic [11.5 (10.2-13.6) vs. 6.0 (4.0-7.0) mm; p < 0.01] and caudal epididymis [5.5 (4.00-7.55) vs. 3.0 (2.0-4.0) mm; p < 0.01] compared to controls, suggesting a lack of the physiological post-ejaculation epididymal shrinkage. Correlation analysis suggested that progressive motility was associated with fasting glucose (r = -0.68; p < 0.01). The other parameters did not show any significant difference. Patients with DM1 had a lower percentage of spermatozoa with progressive motility, impaired mitochondrial function and epididymal post-ejaculatory dysfunction. These findings may explain why patients with DM1 experience fertility disturbance. Larger multi-centric studies are necessary to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- S La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - R A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Di Mauro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - D Lo Presti
- Unit of Pediatrics, Teaching Hospital "Policlinico - Vittorio Emanuele", University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - L M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - G Russo
- Department of Urology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - A E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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Sanabria M, Pessin A, Zanutto MR, Perobelli JE, Guerra MT, Banzato TP, Borges CDS, Kempinas WDG. Absence of effects on the rat sperm quality after subacute exposure to low doses of fungicide prochloraz. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2015; 78:481-491. [PMID: 25849765 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2015.1010463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Prochloraz (PCZ) is a fungicide and androgen-receptor antagonist used worldwide in horticulture and agriculture. Pre- and perinatal exposure to this pesticide during sexual differentiation is deleterious for male offspring. Since data on the effects of PCZ on epididymal functions are scarce, and because sperm maturation occurs in this organ, the present investigation aimed to determine whether low PCZ doses administered to rats during the phase of sperm transit through the epididymis might affect the morphophysiology of this organ and sperm quality. Adult male Wistar rats were assigned to 4 different groups: 0 (control, vehicle) or 10, 15, or 30 mg/kg bw/d PCZ diluted in corn oil administered orally for 4 consecutive days. Morphofunctional parameters of the male reproductive tract, hormone concentrations, sperm evaluations, and fertility and histopathologic analysis of testis and epididymis were assessed. There were no statistically significant differences between treated and control groups in relation to all evaluated parameters. Data demonstrated show that PCZ exposure for a brief 4-d exposure and low doses did not produce reproductive toxicity or compromise sperm quality in adult rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marciana Sanabria
- a Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology and Toxicology, Department of Morphology , Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista , Botucatu , São Paulo , Brazil
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da Silva ED, de Souza BP, Vilela VV, Rodrigues JQD, Nichi M, de Agostini Losano JD, Dalmazzo A, Barnabe VH, Jurkiewicz A, Jurkiewicz NH. Epididymal contraction and sperm parameters are affected by clonidine. Andrology 2014; 2:955-66. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. D. da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology; Mechanism of Drug Action Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - B. P. de Souza
- Department of Pharmacology; Mechanism of Drug Action Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - V. V. Vilela
- Department of Morphology and Genetics; Developmental Biology Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - J. Q. D. Rodrigues
- Department of Pharmacology; Mechanism of Drug Action Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - M. Nichi
- Department of Animal Reproduction; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ); University of São Paulo (USP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - J. D. de Agostini Losano
- Department of Animal Reproduction; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ); University of São Paulo (USP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - A. Dalmazzo
- Department of Animal Reproduction; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ); University of São Paulo (USP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - V. H. Barnabe
- Department of Animal Reproduction; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ); University of São Paulo (USP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - A. Jurkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology; Mechanism of Drug Action Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
| | - N. H. Jurkiewicz
- Department of Pharmacology; Mechanism of Drug Action Laboratory; Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP); São Paulo Brazil
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Cabral REL, Okada FK, Stumpp T, Vendramini V, Miraglia SM. Carnitine partially protects the rat testis against the late damage produced by doxorubicin administered during pre-puberty. Andrology 2014; 2:931-42. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2013] [Revised: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. E. L. Cabral
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - F. K. Okada
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - T. Stumpp
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - V. Vendramini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
| | - S. M. Miraglia
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology; Department of Morphology and Genetics; Federal University of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP); Sao Paulo Brazil
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Borges CS, Missassi G, Pacini ESA, Kiguti LRA, Sanabria M, Silva RF, Banzato TP, Perobelli JE, Pupo AS, Kempinas WG. Slimmer or fertile? Pharmacological mechanisms involved in reduced sperm quality and fertility in rats exposed to the anorexigen sibutramine. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66091. [PMID: 23776614 PMCID: PMC3680400 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm acquire motility and fertility capacity during epididymal transit, under the control of androgens and sympathetic innervations. It is already known that the acceleration of epididymal sperm transit time can lead to lower sperm quality. In a previous work we showed that rats exposed to the anorexigen sibutramine, a non-selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, presented faster sperm transit time, lower epididymal sperm reserves and potentiation of the tension of epididymal duct to norepinephrine exposed acutely in vitro to sibutramine. In the present work we aimed to further investigate pharmacological mechanisms involved in these alterations and the impact on rat sperm quality. For this, adult male Wistar rats were treated with sibutramine (10 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 30 days. Sibutramine decreased final body, seminal vesicle, ventral prostate and epididymal weights, as well as sperm transit time in the epididymal cauda. On the contrary of the in vitro pharmacological assays, in which sibutramine was added directly to the bath containing strips of distal epididymal cauda, the ductal tension was not altered after in vivo sub-chronic exposure to sibutramine. However, there is pharmacological evidence that the endogenous epididymal norepinephrine reserves were reduced in these animals. It was also shown that the decrease in prostate weight can be related to increased tension developed of the gland, due to sibutramine sympathomimetic effects. In addition, our results showed reduced sperm quality after in utero artificial insemination, a more sensitive procedure to assess fertility in rodents. The epididymal norepinephrine depletion exerted by sibutramine, associated with decreases in sperm transit time, quantity and quality, leading to reduced fertility in this experimental model, reinforces the concerns about the possible impact on fertility of man taking sibutramine as well as other non-selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, especially considering the lower reproductive efficiency of humans compared to males of other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cibele S. Borges
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Missassi
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Enio S. A. Pacini
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Ricardo A. Kiguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marciana Sanabria
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel F. Silva
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais P. Banzato
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana E. Perobelli
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André S. Pupo
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wilma G. Kempinas
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Azmy AM, Abd Allah MA, Mohamed DA. Effect of unilateral obstruction of vas deferens on ipsilateral epididymis of adult albino rats. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF HISTOLOGY 2012; 35:840-852. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ehx.0000421521.12984.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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17
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Corona G, Jannini EA, Vignozzi L, Rastrelli G, Maggi M. The hormonal control of ejaculation. Nat Rev Urol 2012; 9:508-19. [PMID: 22869001 DOI: 10.1038/nrurol.2012.147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hormones regulate all aspects of male reproduction, from sperm production to sexual drive. Although emerging evidence from animal models and small clinical studies in humans clearly point to a role for several hormones in controlling the ejaculatory process, the exact endocrine mechanisms are unclear. Evidence shows that oxytocin is actively involved in regulating orgasm and ejaculation via peripheral, central and spinal mechanisms. Associations between delayed and premature ejaculation with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, respectively, have also been extensively documented. Some models suggest that glucocorticoids are involved in the regulation of the ejaculatory reflex, but corresponding data from human studies are scant. Oestrogens regulate epididymal motility, whereas testosterone can affect the central and peripheral aspects of the ejaculatory process. Overall, the data of the endocrine system in regulating the ejaculatory reflex suggest that widely available endocrine therapies might be effective in treating sexual disorders in these men. Indeed, substantial evidence has documented that treatments of thyroid diseases are able to improve some ejaculatory difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl Bologna Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Largo Nigrisoli 2, 40133 Bologna, Italy
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18
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Impairment on sperm quality and fertility of adult rats after antiandrogen exposure during prepuberty. Reprod Toxicol 2012; 33:308-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2011] [Revised: 12/12/2011] [Accepted: 12/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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19
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Favareto APA, de Toledo FC, Kempinas WDG. Paternal treatment with cisplatin impairs reproduction of adult male offspring in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2011; 32:425-33. [PMID: 22019602 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Revised: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the acute and persistent effects of paternal cisplatin-treatment on progeny. Wistar male rats (45 days old) were assigned into 2 groups. Control and cisplatin (CP: 1mg/kg-d, 5 days/week, for 3 weeks, ip.). Male rats at 66 (end of treatment, acute effects evaluation) and 140 days old (after recovery period, persistent effects evaluation) were mated with females. Fetal and post-natal developments of the offspring sired by treated-male mated in both ages were evaluated, including fertility of adult male offspring. No adverse effects in fetal development or puberty onset were seen in CP offspring. However, testicular descent was delayed and postnatal growth was impaired in these animals (acute effect). Moreover, seminal vesicle weight and epididymal sperm count from adult progeny were affected (acute effects) by paternal CP-exposure. The only persistent effect found was alterations in the spermatogenesis. We conclude that paternal CP-administration during peri-puberty affects reproductive endpoints of the progeny.
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Pontes DA, Fernandes GSA, Piffer RC, Gerardin DCC, Pereira OCM, Kempinas WG. Ejaculatory dysfunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: the role of testosterone. Pharmacol Rep 2011; 63:130-8. [PMID: 21441620 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(11)70407-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2010] [Revised: 05/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Hyperglycemic and hypoinsulinemic states caused by diabetes mellitus are usually related to some type of sexual dysfunction, resulting in infertility in humans and experimental models, mostly due to their effects on ejaculatory function. This study aimed to evaluate the possible role of testosterone in the restoration of normal ejaculatory function in diabetic rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly allocated into 3 experimental groups: control, diabetic (streptozotocin), and diabetic with testosterone supplementation (streptozotocin plus testosterone). The following parameters were assessed at the end of the experiment: body weight, circulating testosterone levels, number of spermatozoa ejaculated in the uterus through natural mating, and weight and in vitro isometric contractions of the vas deferens. Diabetic rats showed reduced plasma testosterone levels and ejaculatory dysfunction as observed by a lack in the spermatozoa ejaculated into the uterus of receptive females. In these diabetic rats, no difference was observed in the sensitivity of the vas deferens to norepinephrine, with or without the presence of the cocktail (cocaine plus propranolol). In spite of this, an increased sensitivity to methoxamine through the α1-adrenoceptor was observed. Testosterone supplementation did not restore these parameters to control values.We conclude that, in this experimental model, the lack of testosterone was not directly related to the diabetes-induced ejaculatory dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davi A Pontes
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas-UNICAMP, Brazil
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21
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Leiva-Revilla J, Cárdenas-Valencia I, Rubio J, Guerra-Castañón F, Olcese-Mori P, Gasco M, Gonzales GF. Evaluation of different doses of mashua (Tropaeolum tuberosum) on the reduction of sperm production, motility and morphology in adult male rats. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:205-12. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01165.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Talebi AR, Sarcheshmeh AA, Khalili MA, Tabibnejad N. Effects of ethanol consumption on chromatin condensation and DNA integrity of epididymal spermatozoa in rat. Alcohol 2011; 45:403-9. [PMID: 21145692 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2010.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2009] [Revised: 09/30/2010] [Accepted: 10/12/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol abuse is considered as one of the problems associated with poor semen production and sperm quality. Both acute and chronic alcohol consumption may affect spermatozoal chromatin disorders through apoptosis. Therefore, for the first time, this experimental study was performed to evaluate the effect of ethanol consumption on sperm parameters and chromatin integrity of spermatozoa aspirated from cauda epididymis of rats. Twenty adult Wistar rats were divided into ethanol consumption and control groups. Access to ethanol and water was provided ad libitum for experimental and control animals, respectively. The cauda epididymal spermatozoa were aspirated for analysis of sperm parameters and sperm chromatin integrity with aniline blue (AB), chromomycin A3 (CMA3), toluidine blue (TB), and acridine orange (AO) assays. Sperm progressive and nonprogressive motility of ethanol-consuming rats were significantly decreased compared with control animals (P < .05). In addition, the rates of AB-reacted spermatozoa were similar in both groups (P > .05). However, with regard to CMA3, AO, and TB stainings, there was a significant increase in ethanol group when compared with the controls (P < .05). The majority of TB+ and AO+ spermatozoa were higher than "cut-off" value in ethanol group, whereas the mean rates of CMA3+ spermatozoa was below the "cut-off" value in both groups. The results showed that ethanol consumption disturbs sperm motility, nuclear maturity and DNA integrity of spermatozoa in rat. Therefore, ethanol abuse results in the production of spermatozoa with less condensed chromatin, and this may be one possible cause of infertility following ethanol consumption.
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Fernandez CDB, Bellentani FF, Fernandes GSA, Perobelli JE, Favareto APA, Nascimento AF, Cicogna AC, Kempinas WDG. Diet-induced obesity in rats leads to a decrease in sperm motility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:32. [PMID: 21396114 PMCID: PMC3068085 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2010] [Accepted: 03/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is rapidly becoming a worldwide epidemic that affects children and adults. Some studies have shown a relationship between obesity and infertility, but until now it remains controversial. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of high-fat diet-induced obesity on male reproductive parameters. METHODS In a first experiment, male Wistar rats were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) or standard chow (SD) for 15, 30 or 45 weeks, after which they were evaluated by adiposity index, serum leptin levels, reproductive organ weights and sperm counts. In a second experiment, rats received HFD or SD only for 15 weeks, long enough to cause obesity. Sexual hormones and sexual behavior were evaluated in these animals, as well as fertility after natural mating. Another group of rats was submitted to motility analysis and fertility evaluation after in utero insemination. RESULTS After 15, 30 or 45 weeks, HFD-fed animals presented significant increases in obesity index and serum leptin levels. Reproductive organ weights and sperm counts in the testis and epididymis were similar between the two groups at all timepoints studied. Sexual behavior was not altered by the diet regimen, and HFD fertility after natural mating was also similar to SD-fed animals. Intergroup testosterone levels were also comparable, but estradiol levels were increased in HFD rats. Furthermore, sperm quality was reduced in HFD animals as evidenced by their decreased percentage of sperm with progressive movement. This altered motility parameter was followed by a trend toward reduction in fertility potential after artificial in utero insemination. CONCLUSIONS The results reported herein showed that obesity can affect sperm quality, by reducing sperm motility, without affecting other sperm parameters. The low sperm quality caused a slight reduction in fertility potential, showing that obesity may lead to impairment in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla DB Fernandez
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda F Bellentani
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Glaura SA Fernandes
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana E Perobelli
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula A Favareto
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - André F Nascimento
- Medical Clinic Department, Botucatu Medical School, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Cicogna
- Medical Clinic Department, Botucatu Medical School, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilma DG Kempinas
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Diaz R, Garcia LI, Locia J, Silva M, Rodriguez S, Perez CA, Aranda-Abreu GE, Manzo J, Toledo R, Hernandez ME. Histological modifications of the rat prostate following transection of somatic and autonomic nerves. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2010; 82:397-404. [PMID: 20563420 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652010000200015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2009] [Accepted: 01/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is known that hormones influence significantly the prostate tissue. However, we reported that mating induces an increase in androgen receptors, revealing a neural influence on the gland. These data suggested that somatic afferents (scrotal and genitofemoral nerves) and autonomic efferents (pelvic and hypogastric nerves) could regulate the structure of the prostate. Here we assessed the role of these nerves in maintaining the histology of the gland. Hence, afferent or efferent nerves of male rats were transected. Then, the ventral and dorsolateral regions of the prostate were processed for histology. Results showed that afferent transection affects prostate histology. The alveoli area decreased and increased in the ventral and dorsolateral prostate, respectively. The epithelial cell height increased in both regions. Efferent denervation produced dramatic changes in the prostate gland. The tissue lost its configuration, and the epithelium became scattered and almost vanished. Thus, afferent nerves are responsible for spinal processes pertaining to the trophic control of the prostate, activating its autonomic innervation. Hence, our data imply that innervation seems to be synergic with hormones for the healthy maintenance of the prostate. Thus, it is suggested that some prostate pathologies could be due to the failure of the autonomic neural pathways regulating the gland.
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25
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Kermani-Alghoraishi M, Anvari M, Talebi AR, Amini-Rad O, Ghahramani R, Miresmaili SM. The effects of acrylamide on sperm parameters and membrane integrity of epididymal spermatozoa in mice. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2010; 153:52-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 05/19/2010] [Accepted: 07/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Vignozzi L, Filippi S, Morelli A, Luconi M, Jannini E, Forti G, Maggi M. Regulation of epididymal contractility during semen emission, the first part of the ejaculatory process: a role for estrogen. J Sex Med 2009; 5:2010-6; quiz 2017. [PMID: 18783525 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00914.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ejaculation is an important step of the male sexual response, and consists of three separate phases: emission, ejection, and orgasm. In contrast to the erectile process, whose neurological and vascular mechanisms have been well elucidated, the pathophysiology of the ejaculatory process remains yet to be completely investigated. In humans, the emission and the ejection phases are regulated by an integrated and time-coordinated activity of the parasympathetic and sympathetic systems, which finally leads to sperm propulsion from the urethra. The first step in the ejaculatory process involves the epididymis, where a series of contractile waves begins, allowing sperm progression throughout the duct and toward the vas deferens. Interestingly, along with the complex neurological pathways, some non-neuronal factors (oxytocin [OT] and endothelin-1 [ET-1]) and sex hormones (estrogen) have been demonstrated to take part in the peripheral regulation of epididymal contractility. AIM This article reviews some of the physiological non-neuronal mechanisms underlying the epididymal contractility, and reports evidences of an estrogenic regulation. METHODS We reviewed here our and other groups' publications on the role of ET-1/OT and estrogens in modulating the epididymal contractility. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Data were obtained by an extensive examination of the published peer-reviewed literature on this topic. RESULTS Evidences support that, although the epididymis has a rich innervation, other local, non-neuronal factors participate in the nerve-independent epididymal contractility. ET-1 and OT, along with their cognate receptors, have been demonstrated to act, in an estrogen-dependent autocrine and paracrine loop, to regulate epididymal contractile activity in rabbit, and at least partially, in humans. CONCLUSION Ejaculation is the result of the complex, and today still not fully elucidated, interplay between neuronal and non-neuronal, sex-steroid-dependent factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Vignozzi
- University of Florence-Clinical Physiopathology, Andrology Unit, Florence, Italy
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Cárdenas-Valencia I, Nieto J, Gasco M, Gonzales C, Rubio J, Portella J, Gonzales GF. Tropaeolum tuberosum (Mashua) reduces testicular function: effect of different treatment times. Andrologia 2009; 40:352-7. [PMID: 19032684 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2008.00868.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Tropaeolum tuberosum Ruiz & Pavon, along with other several species, is an edible-tuber crop that grows in the Andean region. Folk medicine describes the use of mashua to reduce reproductive function in men. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of mashua (1 g kg(-1)) on sperm production in rats during 7, 12, 21 and 42 days of treatment. The following parameters were assessed: reproductive organ weights, spermatid count and daily sperm production (DSP), sperm count in epididymis and sperm transit and serum testosterone levels. Freeze-dried extract of mashua had 3.7 g 100 g(-1) of benzyl glucosinolate. Mashua-treated rats showed a reduction in testicular spermatid number and DSP from day 12 to day 42; meanwhile, the effect of mashua was noted in epididymal sperm count after 12 and 42 days of treatment. In addition, epididymal sperm transit time was delayed at day 7 and it was accelerated on days 12 and 21 of treatment. No differences in serum testosterone levels were found between rats treated with vehicle and mashua after 42 days of treatment. Finally, mashua reduces testicular function after one spermatogenic cycle by reducing spermatid and sperm number, DSP and epididymal sperm transit time.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Cárdenas-Valencia
- Department of Biological and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Philosophy and Instituto de Investigaciones de la Altura, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
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Queiróz DBC, Porto CS, Grossman G, Petrusz P, Avellar MCW. Immunolocalization of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors in rat and human epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2008; 332:509-22. [PMID: 18351393 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-008-0576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2007] [Accepted: 01/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Immunohistochemistry was conducted to analyze the cellular localization of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors along rat and human epididymis. ADR-A, a polyclonal antibody that recognizes the specific C-terminal region of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors, immunostained this adrenoceptor subtype in smooth muscle cells surrounding the epididymal tubules and interstitial blood vessels and in subpopulations of epithelial cells from adult rat and human caput and cauda epididymidis. The same cell types from rat epididymidis were immunostained by ADR-1, a polyclonal antibody that recognizes a common region of the three alpha(1)-adrenoceptor subtypes, alpha(1A), alpha(1B), and alpha(1D). Immunostaining with both antibodies was also conducted in adult rat and human vas deferens and seminal vesicle used as positive controls because of the abundance of alpha(1A)-adrenoceptors in these tissues. ADR-A- and ADR-1-positive immunostaining was differentially distributed depending on the antibody, method of tissue fixation (Bouin-fixed and fresh frozen tissues), species (rat and human), tissue (caput and cauda epididymidis), and age (immature and adult rats) analyzed. This is the first report immunolocalizing alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor along rat and human epididymis. The presence of this adrenoceptor subtype in epididymal smooth muscle and epithelial cells indicates their contribution to smooth muscle contractile responses and a possible role in the absorptive and/or secretory activities of the epithelium lining the epididymal duct. Taken together, our results should contribute to a better understanding of the physiological role of alpha(1)-adrenoceptors in the epididymidis and the importance of the sympathetic nervous system for male (in)fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Barboza Cava Queiróz
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo Escola Paulista de Medicina, INFAR, Vila Clementino, São Paulo, Brazil
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Neurogenic reproductive dysfunction in men with spinal cord injury (SCI) is common and the result of a combination of impotence, ejaculatory failure, and abnormal semen characteristics. It is well established that the semen quality of men with SCI is poor and that changes are seen as early as 2 weeks after injury. The distinguishing characters of poor quality are abnormal sperm motility and viability. In the majority of the men with SCI, the sperm count is not abnormal. We elaborate on the effects of the SCI on semen parameters that may contribute to poor motility and poor viability. METHODS Review. DESIGN PubMed and MEDLINE databases were searched using the following key words: spinal cord injuries, fertility, sexual dysfunction, and spermatogenesis. All literature was reviewed by the team of authors according to the various stages of sperm development and transport in the male reproductive cycle. FINDINGS The cause of asthenozoospermia appears to be multifactorial. CONCLUSION Current literature does not support the preeminence of a single factor relating to neurogenic reproductive dysfunction in men with SCI. After SCI, there is ample evidence of disturbance of sperm production, maturation and storage, and transport due to an abnormal neuroendocrine milieu. Semen quality seems to be primarily affected by changes to the seminal plasma constituents, type of bladder management, and the neurogenic impairment to the ejaculatory function. Further focused and structured studies are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad Patki
- Neurourology Department, London Spinal Cord Injury Centre, Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Middlesex, UK.
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Arena AC, Fernandez CDB, Porto EM, Bissacot DZ, Pereira OCM, Kempinas WG. Fenvalerate, a pyrethroid insecticide, adversely affects sperm production and storage in male rats. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2008; 71:1550-1558. [PMID: 18923997 DOI: 10.1080/15287390802392024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the potential estrogenic activity of fenvalerate by examining reproductive and fertility capabilities in Wistar rats. Adult male animals were treated for 30 d with 20 or 40 mg/kg/d fenvalerate or corn oil (vehicle) by oral gavage. Further, a possible estrogenic activity of fenvalerate (0.4, 1, 4, 8, or 40 mg/kg) was tested after a 3-d treatment of immature female rats using the uterotrophic assay. Exposure to the higher dose of fenvalerate was toxic to testis and epididymis as shown by a decrease in the absolute weights and sperm counts in both organs. Although the sperm counts were reduced, the fertility and sexual behavior were similar in control rats and rats treated with 40 mg/kg pesticide. Fenvalerate did not exert estrogenic activity in vivo at the tested doses. Data suggest that fenvalerate treatment in this study failed to compromise fertility, possibly due to enhanced reproductive capacity in rodents compared to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle C Arena
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
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32
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Fernandez CDB, Porto EM, Arena AC, Kempinas WDG. Effects of altered epididymal sperm transit time on sperm quality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 31:427-37. [PMID: 17822422 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2007.00788.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The epididymal sperm transit time seems to have an important role in the process of sperm maturation, and it seems that alterations to the transit can harm the process. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the influence of altered sperm transit time through the epididymis on sperm parameters and fertility of rats, as well as the role of testosterone in the alterations. Sprague-Dawley adult male rats were randomly assigned to four different groups and were treated for 12 days: (i) 10 microg/rat/day DES, to accelerate the transit; (ii) 6.25 mg/kg/day guanethidine sulphate, to delay the transit; (iii) same treatment as group 1, plus androgen supplementation; (iv) control animals received the vehicles. Guanethidine treatment delayed the sperm transit time through the epididymal cauda, provoking increased sperm reserves in this region. Animals exposed to DES showed an acceleration of sperm transit time in the epididymis, and consequently decreased sperm density in both epididymal regions, the caput-corpus and cauda, and diminished sperm motility. In both cases sperm production was not altered. Testosterone supplementation was able to restore the transit time to values close to normality, as they were higher than in the control rats. The same occurred in relation to sperm motility. Rats exposed to DES presented lower fertility after in utero artificial insemination using sperm collected from the proximal cauda epididymis. Therefore, it was concluded that the acceleration of rat sperm transit time appeared to harm normal sperm maturation, thus decreasing sperm quality and fertility capacity, in an androgen-dependent way.
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Talebi AR, Khalili MA, Hossaini A. Assessment of nuclear DNA integrity of epididymal spermatozoa following experimental chronic spinal cord injury in the rat. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 30:163-9. [PMID: 17298547 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2006.00736.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is considered as one of the major problems associated with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the exact underlying mechanism is still unknown. Therefore, the main objective of this experimental study was to evaluate the effect of chronic SCI on sperm parameters as well as chromatin integrity and DNA of spermatozoa aspirated from cauda epididymis of rats. Forty-five adult Wistar rats were divided into three groups - SCI, sham, and control. Following laminectomy, SCI was induced onto exposed dura matter (T10). The sham group underwent laminectomy of T10 only, while the control rats were not exposed to any type of injury or medication. The cauda epididymal sperms were aspirated after 8 weeks for analysis of sperm parameters and sperm chromatin integrity with aniline blue (AB), chromomycin A3 (CMA3), sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), and acridine orange (AO) tests. The sperm progressive motility and normal morphology of SCI rats were significantly changed when compared with other groups (p < 0.05). In addition, AB as well as CMA3 tests were insignificantly increased in the SCI group when compared with the sham and control groups. However, SDS and AO tests were significantly changed in SCI samples when compared with the sham and control groups (p < 0.001). The results showed that chronic SCI in rat disturbs sperm parameters as well as nuclear maturity and DNA integrity of sperms. Therefore, sperm chromatin structure is compromised in SCI animals as revealed by chromatin structural probes. These alterations may reduce the fertility potential of the male gamete following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Reza Talebi
- Research & Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Oliva SU, Messias AG, Silva DAF, Pereira OCM, Gerardin DCC, Kempinas WG. Impairment of adult male reproductive function in rats exposed to ethanol since puberty. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 22:599-605. [PMID: 16777377 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2006.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2005] [Revised: 03/16/2006] [Accepted: 04/19/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this work was to evaluate reproductive function in adult male rats exposed to ethanol since puberty. Male Wistar rats, 50 days old, received a liquid diet with 36% of the daily calories derived from ethanol or an isocaloric control diet for 55 days. The ethanol treatment impaired sexual behavior and only 22% of these rats reached ejaculation. The fertility of ethanol-treated animals was significantly reduced, mainly after natural mating. Serum testosterone levels, daily sperm production and sperm count in the epididymis were also significantly diminished after ethanol treatment, associated with an acceleration of the sperm transit time in the cauda epididymidis, decrease in sperm motility and increased percentage of abnormal shaped sperm cells. The results showed that chronic consumption of ethanol beginning at puberty impairs the reproductive function of adult male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samara U Oliva
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP, Botucatu 18618-000, SP, Brazil
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35
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Scarano WR, Messias AG, Oliva SU, Klinefelter GR, Kempinas WG. Sexual behaviour, sperm quantity and quality after short-term streptozotocin-induced hyperglycaemia in rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 29:482-8. [PMID: 16524366 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2006.00682.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Studies of diabetes mellitus in the streptozotocin rat model suggest that sexual dysfunctions may result from diabetes-induced alterations of the neuroendocrine-reproductive tract axis. Our investigation was performed to better define the effects of short-term hyperglycaemia on rat epididymal sperm quantity, quality and transit time, using both natural mating and artificial in utero insemination protocols. Male rats were made diabetic with streptozotocin (sc, 40 mg/kg), whereas controls received vehicle. Sexual behaviour was tested after 15 days and sperm fertilizing ability was checked 22 days after the injection through natural mating and artificial in utero insemination. Other parameters such as daily sperm production, testosterone levels, as well as sperm morphology and motility were also investigated. Fifty per cent of the diabetic animals showed no copulatory behaviour during tests and the number of animals reaching ejaculation was smaller in the diabetic group when compared with the control group (33% vs. 83%). Diabetes resulted in decreased body and reproductive organ weights, as well as diminished sperm counts in the testis and epididymis, that were associated with diminution of plasmatic testosterone levels. After natural mating, there was a decrease in the fertility in the diabetic adult male rats (25.5%) compared with control animals (81.5%). However, distal cauda epididymal sperm from diabetic rats displayed normal fertilization ability (91.5%) using in utero insemination. There were no effects of hyperglycaemia on sperm transit time in the epididymis and on spermatogenesis. Our results indicate that diabetes mellitus produces reproductive dysfunction, but does not compromise sperm fertilizing ability in the cauda epididymis in this experimental model.
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Affiliation(s)
- W R Scarano
- Morphology Department, Bioscience Institute, Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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36
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Siu ER, Yasuhara F, Maróstica E, Avellar MCW, Porto CS. Expression and localization of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes in rat efferent ductules and epididymis. Cell Tissue Res 2005; 323:157-66. [PMID: 16160857 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-005-0054-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2005] [Accepted: 07/18/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The expression of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) subtypes (M(1)-M(5)) was studied in the rat efferent ductules and epididymis at the mRNA and protein levels. The relative abundance of each mAChR transcript subtype differed depending on the tissue and the epididymal region analyzed. The M(1) mAChR mRNA level was more abundant in the efferent ductules than in the caput and cauda of the epididymis. The M(2) mAChR mRNA level was similar between the efferent ductules and caput of the epididymis and higher in the cauda region. The M(3) mAChR mRNA level was low in the efferent ductules and caput of the epididymis, but high levels were detected in the cauda region. mRNAs for M(4) and M(5) mAChRs were not detected in these tissues. Our studies indicated a variable degree of immunostaining for each mAChR subtype in a cell-type and tissue-specific pattern. M(1) mAChR was detected over the efferent ductule epithelium. M(2) and M(3) mAChRs were observed in the apical region of the ciliated cells. Apical and narrow cells of the initial segment showed distinct staining by M(1) antibody, whereas a supranuclear reaction was noted in the principal cells of the caput of the epididymis. In addition, staining for M(1) and M(2) mAChRs was visible in the apical membrane of some epithelial cells of the cauda region. M(3) mAChR was detected in the peritubular smooth muscle of the efferent ductules and epididymis. Functional studies suggested the involvement of this subtype in epididymal tubule contraction. Thus, the cell-specific expression of the various mAChR subtypes in the efferent ductules and epididymis suggests that these receptors play a role in the modulation of luminal fluid composition and smooth muscle contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica R Siu
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, Rua Três de maio 100, INFAR, Vila Clementino, 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil
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37
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Maróstica E, Avellar MCW, Porto CS. Effects of testosterone on muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the rat epididymis. Life Sci 2005; 77:656-69. [PMID: 15921997 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2004.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2004] [Accepted: 12/07/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The effect of testosterone on the expression of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) subtypes was studied in the rat epididymis, at mRNA and protein level. The rat androgen status was monitored by measuring plasma testosterone level and caput and cauda epididymis wet weight. Ribonuclease protection assay (RPA) and [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]QNB) binding assay were performed in the caput and cauda epididymis from control (50-day old), castrated, castrated and treated with testosterone and sexually immature (30-day old) rats. The expression of each mAChR transcript subtype differed depending on the epididymal region analyzed and rat testosterone and/or testicular factors status. In control rats, RPA showed the presence of mRNA for M1, M2 and M3 mAChR in the caput and cauda epididymis. The abundance of m2 and m3 transcripts in the cauda was higher than that in the caput epididymis. Low amount of m1 transcript was observed in both regions. Orchidectomy increased m1 mRNA amount in the caput and cauda epididymis when compared to control rats, an effect slightly modified by testosterone replacement. Although orchidectomy down-regulated the level of m2 transcript in both epididymal regions, castration significantly increased m3 mRNA amount in the caput region. These effects on m2 and m3 transcripts were prevented by testosterone replacement to castrated rats. Similar abundance of m3 transcript, however, was detected in the cauda epididymis of all experimental group tested. [3H]QNB binding studies revealed that orchidectomy down-regulated the number of mAChR detected in both epididymal regions, an effect also prevented by testosterone replacement. Thus, testosterone and/or testicular factors may play a role in the regulation of mAChR expression in the rat epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Maróstica
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, Rua Três de maio 100, INFAR, Vila Clementino, 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil
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França LR, Avelar GF, Almeida FFL. Spermatogenesis and sperm transit through the epididymis in mammals with emphasis on pigs. Theriogenology 2005; 63:300-18. [PMID: 15626401 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2004.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Starting from the period of testis differentiation, the Sertoli cell plays a pivotal role in the development of a functional testis. FSH is the major mitotic factor for Sertoli cells. Because the supporting capacity of Sertoli cells is relatively fixed for each species, their total number per testis, established just before puberty (approximately 4 months in pigs), dictates the potential for sperm production. In contrast to Sertoli cells that are still undifferentiated, mature Leydig cells are already present at birth in pigs. Spermatogenesis lasts from 30 to 75 days in mammals, and this time period is under the control of the germ cell genotype. In boars, each spermatogenic cycle and the entire spermatogenic process lasts 8.6-9.0 and approximately 40 days, respectively. The sperm transit through the epididymis takes approximately 10 days in pigs and this is within the range cited for most mammals. Germ cell loss occurs normally during spermatogenesis, mainly during the spermatogonial and meiotic phases. In pigs, significant germ cell loss also takes place during spermiogenesis. In mammals in general, including pigs, only 2-3 out of a possible 10 spermatozoa are produced from each differentiated type A1 spermatogonium. The high supporting capacity of Sertoli cells and the short duration of the spermatogenic cycle are the main factors responsible for the comparatively high spermatogenic efficiency of pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz R França
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
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39
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Saleh AMM, Alameldin MA, Abdelmoniem ME, Hassouna EM, Wrobel KH. On the intrinsic innervation of the epididymis of the camel (Camelus dromedarius). Ann Anat 2002; 184:305-15. [PMID: 12201039 DOI: 10.1016/s0940-9602(02)80043-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The innervation of the camel epididymis was studied in 26 apparently healthy, sexually mature animals aged between 4 and 12 years. The material was collected during the different seasons of the year. Generally, five samples were taken from each epididymis. To demonstrate the general innervation pattern, immunohistochemical reactions to protein gene product-9.5, neurofilaments and neuron-specific enolase were used, in addition to acetylcholinesterase histochemistry. The nerve supply of the epididymis comes from two sources: (1) The majority of fibers come from the N. spermaticus inferior and accompany the deferent duct. (2) Another contribution stems from the N. spermaticus superior and enters the head region of the epididymis. From the exterior, the nerves penetrate the capsule of the organ to reach the interductular connective tissue. The terminal ramifications are observed directly within the wall of the duct and the wall of the epididymal arteries. The veins of the camel epididymis are not innervated. In the wall of the ductus epididymidis, the nerve fibers form plexuses at the subepithelial level and in the muscular coat. The amount of nerve fibers increases from the head to the tail, paralleling an increase in the intrinsic musculature. The intramural and interductular innervation of epididymal body and tail shows clear seasonal variations: More fibers and stronger reactions are observed during the winter season; the lowest density and the weakest reactions occur during the summer season. All epididymal nerves of the camel are unmyelinated. The majority of the intramural fibers and all in the arterial wall represent postjunctional sympathetic axons, but in the intramural plexuses of the duct a considerable number of cholinergic fibers are also present. Neuropeptide Y is the most frequent peptidergic transmitter and generally co-localized with dopamine-beta-hydroxylase in the sympathetic axons. Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide has a distribution similar to that of the cholinergic fibers. Calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive axons occur in moderate numbers, but never in the arterial innervation. Together with the relatively rare substance P-containing fibers, the calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive axons seem to represent the only sensory nerves in the camel epididymis.
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Queiróz DBC, Mendes FR, Porto CS, Avellar MCW. Alpha1-adrenoceptor subtypes in rat epididymis and the effects of sexual maturation. Biol Reprod 2002; 66:508-15. [PMID: 11804969 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod66.2.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
We have characterized the expression of alpha1-adrenoceptor in epididymis from rats in different stages of sexual maturation: 40 (immature), 60 (young adult), and 120 (adult) days of age. Plasma testosterone levels were low in the immature animals but increased significantly in the 60- and 120-day-old animals. These changes were followed by a progressive increase in rat body weight and in caput and cauda epididymis relative weight. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay indicated that alpha1a-, alpha1b-, and alpha1d-adrenoceptor transcripts were present in both caput and cauda epididymis from adult rats. Ribonuclease protection assays further indicated that the expression of these alpha1-adrenoceptor transcripts differed with age and epididymal region analyzed. Prazosin (nonselective alpha1 antagonist), 5-methyl urapidil (alpha1A-selective), and BMY 7378 (alpha1D-selective) displaced [3H]prazosin binding curves in caput and cauda epididymis from 40- and 120-day-old rats. The potency order for these antagonists, as calculated from the negative logarithm of the inhibition constant (pK(i)) values for the high-affinity sites, indicated a predominant population of alpha1A-adrenoceptor subtype in caput and cauda epididymis from adult animals. Differences in pK(i) values in caput and cauda epididymis from immature and adult animals also suggested that the relative amount of alpha1-adrenoceptors, at the protein level, is modulated by sexual maturation. Taken together, the changes in alpha1-adrenoceptor expression during sexual maturation may suggest specific roles for these receptors in epididymal function.
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MESH Headings
- Adrenergic alpha-Antagonists/metabolism
- Animals
- Binding, Competitive
- Epididymis/drug effects
- Epididymis/metabolism
- In Situ Hybridization
- Male
- Membranes/drug effects
- Membranes/metabolism
- Nuclease Protection Assays
- Organ Size/drug effects
- Organ Size/physiology
- Prazosin/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis
- RNA, Messenger/isolation & purification
- Radioligand Assay
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/drug effects
- Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha-1/metabolism
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Sexual Maturation/physiology
- Testosterone/blood
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B C Queiróz
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, 04044-020 São Paulo, Brazil
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Maróstica E, Guaze EF, Avellar MC, Porto CS. Characterization of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the rat epididymis. Biol Reprod 2001; 65:1120-6. [PMID: 11566733 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod65.4.1120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to characterize the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes present in the caput and cauda of rat epididymis. The specific binding of [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate ([3H]QNB) to epididymal membranes was time dependent, temperature dependent, and saturable. The cauda epididymis showed higher affinity to [3H]QNB and higher muscarinic receptor density when compared to the caput region. The [3H]QNB binding was tested in competition studies with different muscarinic receptor antagonists. Each antagonist tested displaced [3H]QNB bound to caput and cauda epididymal membrane with similar affinity. Correlation among the negative logarithm of inhibition constant values (pK(i)) for these antagonists obtained in the epididymis with their correspondent published pK(i) values obtained in tissues that expressed each receptor subtype (M1, M2, M3, and M4) indicated that the muscarinic receptors present in caput and cauda epididymis belong to the muscarinic M2 receptor subtype. When reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to identify muscarinic receptor mRNA subtypes in the epididymis, only m2 transcripts were detected in the caput region, while both m2 and m3 mRNA subtypes were observed in the cauda region. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that muscarinic receptors are present in the rat epididymis, with expression levels dependent on the region of the epididymis analyzed. Thus, the cholinergic neurotransmitter in the epididymis may be a factor controlling contractility and/or the luminal fluid microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Maróstica
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP 04044-020, Brazil
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Kempinas WD, Suarez JD, Roberts NL, Strader L, Ferrell J, Goldman JM, Klinefelter GR. Rat epididymal sperm quantity, quality, and transit time after guanethidine-induced sympathectomy. Biol Reprod 1998; 59:890-6. [PMID: 9746740 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod59.4.890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Guanethidine, a chemical that selectively abolishes peripheral noradrenergic nerves, was used to investigate the role of sympathetic innervation in the maintenance of epididymal sperm quantity and quality. Four groups of 10 adult male rats each were treated daily for 21 days, by i.p. injections, with either 0 (saline vehicle), 6.25, 12.5, or 25 mg/kg guanethidine. Norepinephrine content was reduced to undetectable levels in the cauda epididymidis in all guanethidine groups after 3 wk of treatment and was reduced to 7.4% of the control values after 1 wk of 6.25 mg/kg treatment. While body weight gain was significantly decreased at 12.5 and 25 mg/kg compared to that in controls, there was a significant increase in the weights of the seminal vesicles/coagulating glands in all treated groups. The number of homogenization-resistant spermatids per testis and the daily sperm production per testis remained unchanged. The weight of the epididymis was significantly increased at 6.25 and 12.5 mg/kg. Moreover, the number of cauda epididymal sperm and the transit time were increased significantly at 6.25 mg/kg (10.2 days) compared to values in the control cauda (6.3 days). Neither serum testosterone levels nor LH was affected in a dosage-related manner. There were no effects of guanethidine treatment on cauda epididymal sperm motility or morphology. A quantitative analysis of detergent-extracted cauda epididymal sperm proteins by SDS-PAGE revealed no differences, but there were diminutions in seven proteins in homogenates of caput/corpus tissue. Histologic analysis of testis and epididymis sections revealed no differences between control and denervated animals. In a subsequent experiment the lowest effective dosage (6.25 mg/kg) was given to rats for 1 wk, and an increased number of cauda epididymal sperm and a delay in sperm transit were observed. Our results indicate that low-dosage guanethidine exposure denervates the epididymis within 1 wk, thereby delaying epididymal transit; however, neither 1- nor 3-wk exposure produces qualitative changes in the sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- W D Kempinas
- Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Biociências - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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