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Dimitriadis F, Kaltsas A, Zachariou A, Mamoulakis C, Tsiampali C, Giannakis I, Paschopoulos M, Papatsoris A, Loutradis D, Tsounapi P, Takenaka A, Sofikitis N. PDE5 inhibitors and male reproduction: Is there a place for PDE5 inhibitors in infertility clinics or andrology laboratories? Int J Urol 2022; 29:1405-1418. [PMID: 36194789 DOI: 10.1111/iju.15046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this review study is to evaluate the therapeutic role of PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5is) in the amelioration of oligoasthenospermia in infertile males. PDE5is have a beneficial influence on the secretory function of the Leydig and Sertoli cells, the biochemical environment within the seminiferous tubule, the contractility of the testicular tunica albuginea, and the prostatic secretory function. In several studies, the overall effect of sildenafil and vardenafil increased quantitative and qualitative sperm motility. Furthermore, some studies indicate that PDE5is influence positively the sperm capacity to undergo capacitation under biochemical conditions that are known to induce the sperm capacitation process. Additional research efforts are necessary in order to recommend unequivocally the usage of sildenafil, vardenafil, or avanafil for the alleviation of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University School of Medicine, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aris Kaltsas
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Chara Tsiampali
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Giannakis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Minas Paschopoulos
- Department of Ob/Gyn, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athanasios Papatsoris
- 2nd Department of Urology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Loutradis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiota Tsounapi
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takenaka
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Japan
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece.,Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tottori University Faculty of Medicine, Yonago, Japan
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Moustafa A. Changes in nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide and male reproductive hormones in response to chronic restraint stress in rats. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 162:353-366. [PMID: 33130068 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.10.315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Gasotrasmitters are endogenously synthesized gaseous molecules that are engaged in cellular physiological and pathological processes. Stress influences various physiological aspects of an organism and amends a normal system's functions, including those of the reproductive system. This study aims to investigate the effect of long-term exposure to restraint stress on the male reproductive system as well as the possible impact of stress on the levels of nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and the expression of their producing-enzymes. In this study, rats were subjected to the restraint condition for 2 h per day and 7 days per week for 8 consecutive weeks. The results revealed decreases in the serum levels of kisspeptin-1(Kiss-1), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-s); however, corticosterone, gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH), estradiol (E2) and prolactin levels increased following restraint stress. The mRNA expression levels of NO synthases (NOSs); neuronal NOS (nNOS), inducible NOS (iNOS) and H2S synthases; cystathionine-γ-lyase- (CSE), 3-mercaptopyruvate-sulfurtransferase- (3MST) and CO-producing enzyme; heme oxygenase-2 (HO-2) were upregulated in the hypothalamus of restraint rats. Testicular mRNA expression levels of endothelial NOS (eNOS), nNOS, HO-1 and HO-2 were upregulated whereas cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), CSE and 3MST expression levels were downregulated following restraint stress. Concentrations of NO increased in the testes but decreased in the semen of restraint rats. On the contrary, CO levels were reduced in the testes while they were elevated in the semen, whereas H2S concentrations decreased in both testes and semen of restraint rats. Concentrations of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) rose in the testes, while they declined in the semen of the restraint group. Restraint stress decreases the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the testes while increasing them in the semen. Collectively, restraint stress negatively impacts male reproductive functions and modulates gasotransmitters producing-enzymes expression in the hypothalamus and testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amira Moustafa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, 44519, Zagazig, Egypt.
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Arato I, Grande G, Barrachina F, Bellucci C, Lilli C, Jodar M, Aglietti MC, Mancini F, Vincenzoni F, Pontecorvi A, Calafiore R, Oliva R, Luca G, Mancuso F, Milardi D. " In vitro" Effect of Different Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Preparations on Sertoli Cells: Toward a Personalized Treatment for Male Infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:401. [PMID: 32625170 PMCID: PMC7314925 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a major regulator of spermatogenesis, has a crucial function in the development and function of the testis and it is extensively given as a fertility treatment to stimulate spermatogenesis. We analyzed the effects of different FSH preparations (α-follitropin, β-follitropin, and urofollitropin) in combination with testosterone on porcine pre-pubertal Sertoli cells. To study the effect of the different FSH treatments in the Sertoli cell function we performed Real Time PCR analysis of AMH, inhibin B, and FSH-r, an ELISA assay for AMH and inhibin B, and a high-throughput comparative proteomic analysis. We verified that all three preparations induced a reduction of AMH in terms of mRNA and secreted proteins, and an increase of inhibin B in terms of mRNA in all the FSH formulations, while solely α-follitropin produced an increase of secreted inhibin B in the culture medium. Comparative proteomic analysis of the three FSH preparations identified 46 proteins, 11 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated. Surprisingly, the combination of testosterone with β-follitropin specifically induced an up-regulation of eight specific secreted proteins. Our study, showing that the three different FSH preparations induce different effects, could offer the opportunity to shed light inside new applications to a personalized reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iva Arato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grande
- Research Unit on Human Reproduction, International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli”, Rome, Italy
| | - Ferran Barrachina
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Catia Bellucci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Lilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Francesca Mancini
- Research Unit on Human Reproduction, International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Vincenzoni
- Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry Institute, School of Medicine, Catholic University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostic and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Research Unit on Human Reproduction, International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli”, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Calafiore
- Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Division of Medical Andrology and Endocrinology of Reproduction, University of Perugia and Saint Mary Hospital, Terni, Italy
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Division of Medical Andrology and Endocrinology of Reproduction, University of Perugia and Saint Mary Hospital, Terni, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Luca
| | - Francesca Mancuso
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Domenico Milardi
- Research Unit on Human Reproduction, International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli”, Rome, Italy
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Wang YR, Chen KL, Li CM, Li L, Wang GL. Heme oxygenase 1 regulates apoptosis induced by heat stress in bovine ovarian granulosa cells via the ERK1/2 pathway. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:3961-3972. [PMID: 30191981 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Heat stress can inhibit follicular development in dairy cows, and thus can affect their reproductive performance. Follicular granulosa cells can synthesize estrogen, that affects the development and differentiation of follicles by apoptosis. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1/heat shock protein 32) plays an antiapoptotic and cytoprotective role in various cells during stress-induced apoptosis, but little is known about its definitive function in bovine (ovarian) granulosa cells (bGCs). In our study, the roles and mechanism of HO-1 on the heat stress-induced apoptosis of bGCs were studied. Our results show that the expression of HO-1 was significantly increased under heat stress. Moreover, HO-1 silencing increased apoptosis, whereas its overexpression dampened apoptosis by regulating the expression of Bax/Bcl-2 and the levels of cleaved caspase-3. In addition, HO-1 can also play a cytoprotective role by affecting estrogen levels and decomposing heme to produce biologically active metabolite carbon monoxide (CO). Meanwhile, CO significantly increased the level of HO-1, decreased Bax/Bcl-2 levels, and inhibited the activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathway. The apoptosis of ovarian GCs can affect the secretion of estrogen and lead to disorder of the ovarian microenvironment, thus affecting the normal function of the ovary. Our results indicate that HO-1 acts as a cytoprotective enzyme and plays a protective role in heat-induced apoptosis of bGCs. In conclusion, HO-1 and its metabolite CO inhibit the apoptosis of bGCs induced by heat stress through the ERK1/2 pathway. The results of this study provide a valuable clue for improving the fertility of heat stressed cows in summer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ru Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Kun-Lin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng-Min Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Gen-Lin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Gomes M, Freitas MJ, Fardilha M. Physical Activity, Exercise, and Mammalian Testis Function: Emerging Preclinical Protein Biomarker and Integrative Biology Insights. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2015; 19:499-511. [DOI: 10.1089/omi.2015.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Gomes
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Institute for Research in Biomedicine—iBiMED, Health Sciences Program, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Maria João Freitas
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Institute for Research in Biomedicine—iBiMED, Health Sciences Program, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Institute for Research in Biomedicine—iBiMED, Health Sciences Program, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Li L, Li CM, Wu J, Huang S, Wang GL. Heat shock protein 32/heme oxygenase-1 protects mouse Sertoli cells from hyperthermia-induced apoptosis by CO activation of sGC signalling pathways. Cell Biol Int 2013; 38:64-71. [PMID: 24038883 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 32 (Hsp32)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) may be a key enzyme for the protection of cells against stress. Its anti-apoptotic effect has been attributed to its product, carbon monoxide (CO), in many types of cells. However, whether its anti-apoptotic mechanism plays a role in Sertoli cells (SCs) is not yet clear. We hypothesise that Hsp32/HO-1 and CO generated from it provide survival advantages in SCs by preventing apoptosis under heat exposure. After treatment of cultured SCs with hyperthermia and/or Hsp32/HO-1 activater hemin, apoptosis was measured valuated by annexin V-FITC and caspase-3 activation. We have also analysed the Hsp32/HO-1-derived CO content of cultured media and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hyperthermia induced SCs apoptosis, while preincubation with hemin suppressed SC hyperthermia-induced apoptosis. Hyperthermia and/or hemin increase Hsp32/HO-1 gene expression and the production of CO, which, in turn, stimulates the generation of cGMP. The results suggest that Hsp32/HO-1 is a protective factor in heat-stressed SCs, and that CO generated from Hsp32/HO-1 is involved in the anti-apoptotic pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, P.R. China
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7
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Li L, Han ZY, Li CM, Jiang XQ, Wang GL. Upregulation of heat shock protein 32 in Sertoli cells alleviates the impairments caused by heat shock-induced apoptosis in mouse testis. Cell Stress Chaperones 2013; 18:333-51. [PMID: 23188493 PMCID: PMC3631093 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-012-0385-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Revised: 11/05/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat stress results in apoptosis in testicular germ cells. A small heat shock protein (hsp), hsp32, is induced by heat stress in the testis, but little is known about its definitive function in physiological processes. To clarify the underlying role of hsp32, hsp32 expression and related signals in the heat shock pathway were analysed in mouse testes and Sertoli cells after heat stress in vivo and in vitro; meanwhile, expression of hsp32 was silenced only in the Sertoli cells using three different small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to further verify the functional role of hsp32 in Sertoli cells, and hsp32-derived carbon monoxide (CO) contents in cultured media were analysed to clarify whether hsp32-derived CO involve in the apoptosis regulation mechanisms. The results from the in vivo experiment showed that the high expression levels of hsp32 (P < 0.05) were observed whether chronic, moderate or acute, transient heat exposure. The in vitro experiment showed that acute, transient heat exposure resulted in increases in Sertoli cells apoptosis (P < 0.01), the expression of hsp32 and caspase-3 activity; hsp32-siRNA knockdown of hsp32 expression resulted in upregulated apoptosis (P < 0.01) and caspase-3 activity (P < 0.01) in the Sertoli cells and hyperthermia increases CO (P < 0.01) release by Sertoli cells. The results suggested that upregulating hsp32 in Sertoli cells inhibits caspase-3 activity and alleviates heat-induced impairments in mouse testis; hsp32-derived CO may involve in the regulation mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lian Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - Zhao-Yu Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - Cheng-Min Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
| | - Gen-Lin Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095 China
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Abdel Aziz MT, Mostafa T, Atta H, Kamal O, Kamel M, Hosni H, Rashed L, Sabry D, Waheed F. Heme oxygenase enzyme activity in seminal plasma of oligoasthenoteratozoospermic males with varicocele. Andrologia 2010; 42:236-41. [PMID: 20629646 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2009.00983.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to assess seminal plasma heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme activity in oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) males with varicocele. Ninety-three men were divided according to their sperm count and clinical examination into: healthy fertile controls (n = 34), OAT without varicocele (n = 37) and OAT associated with varicocele (n = 22). They were subjected to semen analysis and estimation of seminal plasma HO enzyme activity in the form of bilirubin concentration. Seminal plasma HO enzyme activity decreased significantly in OAT cases compared with controls. Seminal plasma HO in OAT cases associated with varicocele decreased significantly compared with OAT cases without varicocele and healthy controls (mean +/- SD; 109.2 +/- 29.5, 283.6 +/- 88.4, 669.5 +/- 236.1 nMol bilirubin/mg ptn/min, P < 0.001). There was positive correlation between seminal plasma HO enzyme activity and sperm concentration, per cent of motile spermatozoa, number of motile spermatozoas ml(-1) and significant negative correlation with sperm abnormal forms per cent. It is concluded that varicocele has a negative impact on seminal HO enzyme activity. Therefore, improved seminal picture after correcting varicocele repair might be related, in part, to improved HO action(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Abdel Aziz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Abdel Aziz MT, Mostafa T, Roshdy N, Hosni H, Rashed L, Sabry D, Abdel Nasser T, Abdel Azim O, Abdel Gawad O. Heme oxygenase enzyme activity in human seminal plasma of fertile and infertile males. Andrologia 2008; 40:292-7. [PMID: 18811919 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2008.00856.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: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to assess heme oxygenase (HO) enzyme activity relationship with different human semen parameters. One hundred and twenty men were divided according to their sperm count and clinical examination into: obstructive azoospermia (n = 20), nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) (n = 25), oligozoospermia (n = 35) and normozoospermia (n = 40). Semen analysis, western blot for HO-1 and HO-2, and estimation of seminal plasma HO enzyme activity chemically in the form of bilirubin concentration were carried out. Seminal plasma HO enzyme activity was very low in OA specimens, low in NOA, moderate in oligozoospermia while higher in normozoospermia (mean +/- SD; 6.26 +/- 2.2, 81.4 +/- 35.5, 283.8 +/- 90.1, 657.4 +/- 227.6 pmol ml(-1) min(-1)) with significant differences. Western blot analysis demonstrated HO-2 expression in all studied groups whereas HO-1 was highly expressed in fertile normozoospermic group compared with other groups. There was positive correlation between seminal plasma HO enzyme activity and sperm concentration, sperm motility percentage, motile spermatozoa ml(-1) and sperm normal morphology per cent. It is concluded that HO enzyme activity in the human seminal plasma is related to spermatogenesis and sperm-motility processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M T Abdel Aziz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology Unit, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Wu L, Wang R. Carbon Monoxide: Endogenous Production, Physiological Functions, and Pharmacological Applications. Pharmacol Rev 2005; 57:585-630. [PMID: 16382109 DOI: 10.1124/pr.57.4.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 648] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, studies have unraveled many aspects of endogenous production and physiological functions of carbon monoxide (CO). The majority of endogenous CO is produced in a reaction catalyzed by the enzyme heme oxygenase (HO). Inducible HO (HO-1) and constitutive HO (HO-2) are mostly recognized for their roles in the oxidation of heme and production of CO and biliverdin, whereas the biological function of the third HO isoform, HO-3, is still unclear. The tissue type-specific distribution of these HO isoforms is largely linked to the specific biological actions of CO on different systems. CO functions as a signaling molecule in the neuronal system, involving the regulation of neurotransmitters and neuropeptide release, learning and memory, and odor response adaptation and many other neuronal activities. The vasorelaxant property and cardiac protection effect of CO have been documented. A plethora of studies have also shown the importance of the roles of CO in the immune, respiratory, reproductive, gastrointestinal, kidney, and liver systems. Our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the production and mediate the physiological actions of CO has greatly advanced. Many diseases, including neurodegenerations, hypertension, heart failure, and inflammation, have been linked to the abnormality in CO metabolism and function. Enhancement of endogenous CO production and direct delivery of exogenous CO have found their applications in many health research fields and clinical settings. Future studies will further clarify the gasotransmitter role of CO, provide insight into the pathogenic mechanisms of many CO abnormality-related diseases, and pave the way for innovative preventive and therapeutic strategies based on the physiologic effects of CO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Wu
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Rd., Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada P7B 5E1
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Shiraishi K, Naito K. Increased expression of Leydig cell haem oxygenase-1 preserves spermatogenesis in varicocele. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:2608-13. [PMID: 15878918 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of testicular disorders. Haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays an important cytoprotective role against oxidative stress. We investigated the presence of oxidative stress, represented by generation of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE)-modified proteins, and expression of HO-1 in varicocele testes of human. METHODS Thirty testicular biopsies from patients with left varicocele and 10 from patients with normal spermatogenesis were included. Generation of 4-HNE-modified proteins was examined as a marker of oxidative stress. Expression of HO-1 was assessed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The expression was compared with clinico-pathological parameters. RESULTS Increased generation of 4-HNE-modified proteins was observed in varicocele testes. HO-1 expression was significantly correlated with varicocele grade (P < 0.01 in grade 2 and 3 compared to control) and expression of 4-HNE-modified proteins (r = 0.508, P < 0.01). The immunoreactivity was increased in Leydig cells in varicocele testes. There were significant correlations between age, total motile sperm count, Johnsen's mean score and HO-1:4-HNE-modified protein ratio (r = 0.206, 0.405 and 0.408, P = 0.027, 0.027 and 0.025 respectively). CONCLUSIONS In testes with varicocele, there are increases in 4-HNE-modified proteins, suggesting that oxidative stress is present. Increased HO-1 expression, mainly in Leydig cells, is considered to protect the cells against oxidative stresses in varicocele testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Shiraishi
- Department of Urology, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine, Japan.
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Chen LW, Hwang YC, Chen CJ, Wang JS, Chen JS, Hsu CM. Burn-induced lung damage in rat is mediated by a nitric oxide/cGMP system. Shock 2004; 20:369-74. [PMID: 14501952 DOI: 10.1097/01.shk.0000086520.18735.df] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to demonstrate the burn-induced lung neutrophil deposition and damage in rats is affected by the nitric oxide (NO)-dependent downstream cGMP signaling. In experiment 1, 1H-[1,2,4] oxadiazolo [4,3-alpha] quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ) was given (20 mg/kg i.p.) to specific pathogen-free Sprague-Dawley rats immediately postburn to suppress the guanylate cyclase (GC) activity. At 8 h after burn, blood was assayed for the peroxynitrite-mediated dihydrorhodamine 123 (DHR 123) oxidation and lung tissues were harvested for myeloperoxidase (MPO) determination and histological studies. Pulmonary microvascular dysfunction was quantified by measuring the extravasations of Evans blue dye. In experiment 2, Sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was given (2 mM, i.p.) to elevate cGMP levels and ODQ (20 mg/kg, i.p.) or methylene blue (100 microM, i.p.) or saline was given. The animals were sacrificed 4 h after injection and lung tissues were harvested for iNOS mRNA study. The MPO activity in lung, blood DHR 123 oxidation level, and lung permeability increased up to 2-fold, 4-fold, and 2.5-fold after burn. Inhibition of GC by ODQ administration significantly decreased MPO activity, blood DHR 123 oxidation, and lung permeability by 55%, 66%, and 53%, respectively, and markedly decreased the thermal injury-induced perivascular and interstitial inflammatory cell infiltration and septum edema. The protective effects of ODQ were comparable to the use of selective iNOS inhibitor as demonstrated previously. Furthermore, ODQ decreased the burn or SNP-induced iNOS mRNA levels at 4 h after burn. These findings suggest that burn-induced lung dysfunction is mediated by the NO/cGMP system because it is abolished by application of either iNOS inhibitor or GC inhibitor. Also, the beneficial effect of ODQ is partly due to the attenuation of burn-induced iNOS expression by GC inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Wei Chen
- Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, National Yang-Ming Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Shi F, Stewart RL, Perez E, Chen JYH, LaPolt PS. Cell-specific expression and regulation of soluble guanylyl cyclase alpha 1 and beta 1 subunits in the rat ovary. Biol Reprod 2004; 70:1552-61. [PMID: 14749300 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.025510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) is activated by nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide, resulting in cGMP production. Recent studies indicate that NO and cGMP influence ovarian functions. However, little information is available regarding the ovarian expression of sGC. The present study examined sGC alpha(1) and beta(1) subunit protein levels in the ovary during postnatal development, gonadotropin-induced follicle growth, ovulation, and luteinization as well as in cultured rat granulosa cells. In postnatal rats, sGC alpha(1) subunit immunoreactivity was high in granulosa cells of primordial and primary follicles on Day 5 but low in granulosa cells of larger follicles on Days 10 and 19. Theca cells of developing follicles, but not stromal cells, also demonstrated moderate sGC alpha(1) immunoreactivity. In gonadotropin- treated immature rats, intense sGC alpha(1) subunit staining was similarly observed in granulosa cells of primordial and primary follicles, but such staining was low in granulosa cells of small antral follicles and undetectable in granulosa cells of large antral and preovulatory follicles. Following ovulation, corpora lutea expressed moderate sGC alpha(1) immunoreactivity. Similar ovarian localization and expression patterns were seen for sGC beta(1), indicating regulated coexpression of sGC subunits. Immunoblot analysis revealed no change in total ovarian sGC alpha(1) and beta(1) subunit protein levels during gonadotropin treatment. Similarly, no effect of FSH on sGC subunit protein levels was apparent in cultured granulosa cells. These findings indicate regulated, cell- specific patterns of sGC expression in the ovary and are consistent with roles for cGMP in modulating ovarian functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangxiong Shi
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State University-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90032, USA
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Lee NPY, Cheng CY. Regulation of Sertoli cell tight junction dynamics in the rat testis via the nitric oxide synthase/soluble guanylate cyclase/3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate/protein kinase G signaling pathway: an in vitro study. Endocrinology 2003; 144:3114-29. [PMID: 12810568 DOI: 10.1210/en.2002-0167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) catalyzes the oxidation of L-arginine to NO. NO plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions, possibly including junction dynamics via its effects on cAMP and cGMP, which are known modulators of tight junction (TJ) dynamics. Although inducible NOS (iNOS) and endothelial NOS (eNOS) are found in the testis and have been implicated in the regulation of spermatogenesis, their role(s) in TJ dynamics, if any, is not known. When Sertoli cells were cultured at 0.5-1.2 x 10(6) cells/cm(2) on Matrigel-coated dishes or bicameral units, functional TJ barrier was formed when the barrier function was assessed by quantifying transepithelial electrical resistance across the cell epithelium. The assembly of the TJ barrier was shown to associate with a significant plummeting in the levels of iNOS and eNOS, seemingly suggesting that their presence by producing NO might perturb TJ assembly. To further confirm the role of NOS on the TJ barrier function in vitro, zinc (II) protoporphyrin-IX (ZnPP), an NOS inhibitor and a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor, was added to the Sertoli cell cultures during TJ assembly. Indeed, ZnPP was found to facilitate the assembly and maintenance of the Sertoli cell TJ barrier, possibly by inducing the production of TJ-associated proteins, such as occludin. Subsequent studies by immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting have shown that iNOS and eNOS are structurally linked to TJ-integral membrane proteins, such as occludin, and cytoskeletal proteins, such as actin, vimentin, and alpha-tubulin. When the cAMP and cGMP levels in these ZnPP-treated samples were quantified, a ZnPP-induced reduction of intracellular cGMP, but not cAMP, was indeed detected. Furthermore, 8-bromo-cGMP, a cell membrane-permeable analog of cGMP, could also perturb the TJ barrier dose dependently similar to the effects of 8-bromo-cAMP. KT-5823, a specific inhibitor of protein kinase G, was shown to facilitate the Sertoli cell TJ barrier assembly. Cytokines, such as TGF-beta and TNF-alpha, known to perturb the Sertoli cell TJ barrier, were also shown to stimulate Sertoli cell iNOS and eNOS expression dose dependently in vitro. Collectively, these results illustrate NOS is an important physiological regulator of TJ dynamics in the testis, exerting its effects via the NO/soluble guanylate cyclase/cGMP/protein kinase G signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikki P Y Lee
- Population Council, Center for Biomedical Research, 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY 10021, USA
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Abstract
Carbon monoxide is produced endogenously in humans through the breakdown of hemoglobin by heme oxygenase. Although originally thought to be a superfluous by-product of heme catabolism, carbon monoxide is now known to play a central role in many aspects of human health and disease. The functions of carbon monoxide that have been described to date are myriad, including blood pressure regulation, maintenance of organ-specific vascular tone, neurotransmission, stress response, platelet activation, and smooth muscle relaxation. This review outlines what is known to date about carbon monoxide as it relates to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Morse
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, MUH 628NW, 3459 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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Ndisang JF, Wang R, Vannacci A, Marzocca C, Fantappiè O, Mazzanti R, Mannaioni PF, Masini E. Haeme oxygenase-1 and cardiac anaphylaxis. Br J Pharmacol 2001; 134:1689-96. [PMID: 11739245 PMCID: PMC1572906 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0704427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
1. Haeme oxygenase (HO) is an enzyme mainly localized in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum and involved in haeme degradation and in the generation of carbon monoxide (CO). Here we investigate (1) whether the inducible isoform of HO (HO-1) is expressed in the isolated heart of the guinea-pig and (2) the functional significance of HO-1 on the response to antigen in isolated hearts taken from actively sensitized guinea-pigs. 2. Both the HO-1 expression and activity are consistently increased in hearts from guinea-pigs pretreated with hemin, an HO-1 inducer (4 mg kg(-1) i.p., 18 h before antigen challenge). The administration of the HO-1 inhibitor zinc-protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP-IX, 50 micromol kg(-1), i.p., 6 h before hemin) abolished the increase of both the HO-1 expression and activity. 3. In vitro challenge with the specific antigen of hearts from actively sensitized animals evokes a positive inotropic and chronotropic effect, a coronary constriction followed by dilation and an increase in the amount of histamine in the perfusates. In hearts from hemin-pretreated animals, antigen challenge did not modify the heart rate and the force of contraction; the coronary outflow was significantly increased and a diminution of the release of histamine was observed. The patterns of cardiac anaphylaxis were fully restored in hearts from animals treated with ZnPP-IX 6 h before hemin. 4. In isolated hearts perfused with a Tyrode solution gassed with 100% CO for 5 min and successively reoxygenated, the response to antigen was similar to that observed in hearts from hemin-pretreated animals. 5. Pretreatment with hemin or the exposure to exogenous CO were linked to an increase in cardiac cyclic GMP levels and to a decrease of tissue Ca(2+) levels. 6. The study demonstrates that overexpression of HO-1 inhibits cardiac anaphylaxis through the generation of CO which, in turn, decreases the release of histamine through a cyclic GMP- and Ca(2+)-dependent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Physiology, University of Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Alfredo Vannacci
- Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Cosimo Marzocca
- Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Emanuela Masini
- Department of Preclinical and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Florence, Italy
- Author for correspondence:
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