1
|
Han ZP, Yang RZ, Zhou W, Zhang LL, Wang JR, Liu CJ, Liu SD. Population structure and selection signal analysis of indigenous sheep from the southern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:681. [PMID: 38982349 PMCID: PMC11232224 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10581-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Analyzing the genetic diversity and selection characteristics of sheep (Ovis aries) holds significant value in understanding their environmental adaptability, enhancing breeding efficiency, and achieving effective conservation and rational utilization of genetic resources. In this study, we utilized Illumina Ovine SNP 50 K BeadChip data from four indigenous sheep breeds from the southern margin of the Taklamakan Desert (Duolang sheep: n = 36, Hetian sheep: n = 74, Kunlun sheep: n = 27, Qira black sheep: n = 178) and three foreign meat sheep breeds (Poll Dorset sheep: n = 105, Suffolk sheep: n = 153, Texel sheep: n = 150) to investigate the population structure, genetic diversity, and genomic signals of positive selection within the indigenous sheep. According to the Principal component analysis (PCA), the Neighbor-Joining tree (NJ tree), and Admixture, we revealed distinct clustering patterns of these seven sheep breeds based on their geographical distribution. Then used Cross Population Extended Haplotype Homozygosity (XP-EHH), Fixation Index (FST), and Integrated Haplotype Score (iHS), we identified a collective set of 32 overlapping genes under positive selection across four indigenous sheep breeds. These genes are associated with wool follicle development and wool traits, desert environmental adaptability, disease resistance, reproduction, and high-altitude adaptability. This study reveals the population structure and genomic selection characteristics in the extreme desert environments of native sheep breeds from the southern edge of the Taklimakan Desert, providing new insights into the conservation and sustainable use of indigenous sheep genetic resources in extreme environments. Additionally, these findings offer valuable genetic resources for sheep and other mammals to adapt to global climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Peng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Rui-Zhi Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Lu-Lu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Jie-Ru Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Chun-Jie Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China
| | - Shu-Dong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tarim Animal Husbandry Science and Technology, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, 843300, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lu H, Zhao L, Wang A, Ruan H, Chen X, Li Y, Hu J, Lu W, Xiao M. Identification of potential biomarkers and pathways for asthenozoospermia by bioinformatics analysis and experiments. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1373774. [PMID: 38863929 PMCID: PMC11165088 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1373774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Asthenozoospermia, a type of male infertility, is primarily caused by dysfunctional sperm mitochondria. Despite previous bioinformatics analysis identifying potential key lncRNAs, miRNAs, hub genes, and pathways associated with asthenospermia, there is still a need to explore additional molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers for this condition. Methods We integrated data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) (GSE22331, GSE34514, and GSE160749) and performed bioinformatics analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted to gain insights into biological processes and signaling pathways. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) identified gene modules associated with asthenozoospermia. Expression levels of key genes were assessed using datasets and experimental data. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and correlation analysis identified pathways associated with the hub gene and explore the relationship between the ZNF764 and COQ9 and mitochondrial autophagy-related genes. Competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were constructed, and in vitro experiments using exosome samples were conducted to validate this finding. Results COQ9 was identified as a marker gene in asthenozoospermia, involved in autophagy, ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling, endocytosis, and cell cycle, etc. The ceRNA regulatory network (LINC00893/miR-125a-5p/COQ9) was constructed, and PCR demonstrated that LINC00893 and COQ9 were downregulated in asthenozoospermia, while miR-125a-5p and m6A methylation level of LINC00893 were upregulated in asthenozoospermia compared to normozoospermic individuals. Conclusion The ceRNA regulatory network (LINC00893/miR-125a-5p/COQ9) likely plays a crucial role in the mechanism of asthenozoospermia. However, further functional experiments are needed to fully understand its significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Liqiang Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Anguo Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Hailing Ruan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Yejuan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Jiajia Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Weiying Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Meifang Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Center for Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center, Haikou, Hainan, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kaltsas A, Zikopoulos A, Vrachnis D, Skentou C, Symeonidis EN, Dimitriadis F, Stavros S, Chrisofos M, Sofikitis N, Vrachnis N, Zachariou A. Advanced Paternal Age in Focus: Unraveling Its Influence on Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2731. [PMID: 38792276 PMCID: PMC11122544 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102731] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
As global demographics shift toward increasing paternal age, the realm of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), faces new challenges and opportunities. This study provides a comprehensive exploration of the implications of advanced paternal age on ART outcomes. Background research highlights the social, cultural, and economic factors driving men toward later fatherhood, with a focus on the impact of delayed paternity on reproductive outcomes. Methods involve a thorough review of existing literature, centering on changes in testicular function, semen quality, and genetic and epigenetic shifts associated with advancing age. Study results point to intricate associations between the father's age and ART outcomes, with older age being linked to diminished semen quality, potential genetic risks, and varied impacts on embryo quality, implantation rates, and birth outcomes. The conclusions drawn from the current study suggest that while advanced paternal age presents certain risks and challenges, understanding and mitigating these through strategies such as sperm cryopreservation, lifestyle modifications, and preimplantation genetic testing can optimize ART outcomes. Future research directions are identified to further comprehend the epigenetic mechanisms and long-term effects of the older father on offspring health. This study underscores the need for a comprehensive approach in navigating the intricacies of delayed fatherhood within the context of ART, aiming for the best possible outcomes for couples and their children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK;
| | - Dionysios Vrachnis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Chara Skentou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Sofoklis Stavros
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
| | - Michael Chrisofos
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Vrachnis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
- Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ahmed Z, Liu W, Yu J, Dong H, Naseer Z, Ahmad I, Ahmed I, Wang X. Exploring testicular miRNA profiles during developmental stages in Dezhou donkeys: A preliminary insight. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14502. [PMID: 38059393 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular development and spermatogenesis are complex phenomena controlled by various genetic factors, including miRNA-based post-transcriptional gene expression regulation. Exploring the miRNA expression patterns during testicular development in Dezhou donkeys would enhance our understanding of equine fertility and spermatogenesis. In this investigation, we examined the testicular miRNA profiles at various stages of development. The experimental animals were divided into three groups based on their developmental stages: 2 months old (juvenile: n = 3), 12 months old (adolescent; n = 3) and 24 months old (adult; n = 3) donkeys. Total RNA was extracted from dissected testicles for miRNA sequencing and analysis. In total, 586 miRNAs, including 451 known miRNAs and 135 novel miRNAs, were identified. Among identified miRNAs, 315 displayed age-dependent expression differences. The levels of miRNA expression in the juvenile group were significantly higher than in the adolescent or adult groups. The MiR-483 exhibited the maximum fold change between juvenile and adolescent groups. Several screened genes, including SLC45A4 and TFCP2L1, have been linked to male reproductive pathways in donkeys. In addition, miR-744 was predicted to regulate SPIN2B, a gene implicated in spermatocyte cell cycle progression and genomic integrity of spermatozoa. These results contribute to our comprehension of microRNA regulation during testicular development and spermatogenesis in Dezhou donkeys. The identified microRNAs and their target genes have the potential to serve as biomarkers for evaluating the reproductive capacity of stud donkeys.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zulfiqar Ahmed
- Network and Information Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Pakistan
| | - Wei Liu
- Network and Information Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Jie Yu
- National Engineering Research Center for Gelatin-based Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong-E-E-Jiao Co. Ltd., Dong-E, Shandong, China
| | - Hong Dong
- Institute of Animal Science, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Sciences, Urumqi, China
| | - Zahid Naseer
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Imtiaz Ahmad
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Pakistan
| | - Imran Ahmed
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Pakistan
| | - Xijun Wang
- Network and Information Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Aitken RJ. Male reproductive ageing: a radical road to ruin. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1861-1871. [PMID: 37568254 PMCID: PMC10546083 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern post-transition societies, we are reproducing later and living longer. While the impact of age on female reproductive function has been well studied, much less is known about the intersection of age and male reproduction. Our current understanding is that advancing age brings forth a progressive decline in male fertility accompanied by a reduction in circulating testosterone levels and the appearance of age-dependent reproductive pathologies including benign prostatic hypertrophy and erectile dysfunction. Paternal ageing is also associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage, the appearance of multiple epigenetic changes in the germ line and an elevated mutational load in the offspring. The net result of such changes is an increase in the disease burden carried by the progeny of ageing males, including dominant genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome and achondroplasia, as well as neuropsychiatric conditions including autism and spontaneous schizophrenia. The genetic basis of these age-related effects appears to involve two fundamental mechanisms. The first is a positive selection mechanism whereby stem cells containing mutations in a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway gain a selective advantage over their non-mutant counterparts and exhibit significant clonal expansion with the passage of time. The second is dependent on an age-dependent increase in oxidative stress which impairs the steroidogenic capacity of the Leydig cells, disrupts the ability of Sertoli cells to support the normal differentiation of germ cells, and disrupts the functional and genetic integrity of spermatozoa. Given the central importance of oxidative stress in defining the impact of chronological age on male reproduction, there may be a role for antioxidants in the clinical management of this process. While animal studies are supportive of this strategy, carefully designed clinical trials are now needed if we are to realize the therapeutic potential of this approach in a clinical context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tao H, Dong L, Shan X, Li L, Chen H. MicroRNA-32-3p facilitates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury through inhibiting Cab39/AMPK. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110504. [PMID: 37379707 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a key pathogenic factor of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. MicroRNA-32-3p (miR-32-3p) plays critical roles in regulating ischemic diseases; however, its role in oxidative stress and cerebral I/R injury remains elusive. Primary cortical neurons and rats were treated with the agomir, antagomir and matched controls of miR-32-3p, and then received oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) or I/R stimulation. To investigate the involvement of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and calcium-binding protein 39 (Cab39), a pharmacological inhibitor and small interfering RNA were used in vivo and in vitro. Herein, we found that miR-32-3p was upregulated in OGD/R-treated neurons and I/R-injured brains, and that inhibiting miR-32-3p by the miR-32-3p antagomir dramatically alleviated oxidative stress and neural death in OGD/R-stimulated primary cortical neurons. Conversely, overexpressing miR-32-3p by the miR-32-3p agomir further aggravated OGD/R-induced neural death and oxidative damage in primary cortical neurons. Meanwhile, we observed that the miR-32-3p antagomir prevented, while the miR-32-3p agomir facilitated neural death, oxidative damage and cerebral I/R injury in vivo. Mechanistically, miR-32-3p bound to the 3'-untranslated regions of Cab39, inhibited its protein level and subsequently inactivated AMPK. Conversely, treatment with the miR-32-3p antagomir upregulated Cab39 and activated AMPK, thereby attenuating oxidative damage and cerebral I/R injury. Moreover, inhibiting AMPK or Cab39 dramatically blocked the miR-32-3p antagomir-mediated beneficial effects against cerebral I/R injury in vivo and in vitro. miR-32-3p plays critical roles in neural death and oxidative damage upon I/R stimulation, and it is a novel target to treat cerebral I/R injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongmiao Tao
- Medical College, Jinhua Polytechnic, Jinhua 321017, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Lihua Dong
- Medical College, Jinhua Polytechnic, Jinhua 321017, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyun Shan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital, Jinhua 321000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lin Li
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haohao Chen
- Medical College, Jinhua Polytechnic, Jinhua 321017, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhao M, Zhou G, Wang J, Zhang Y, Xue J, Liu J, Xie J, Ren L, Zhou X. MiR-5622-3p inhibits ZCWPW1 to induce apoptosis in silica-exposed mice and spermatocyte cells. Nanotoxicology 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37315217 DOI: 10.1080/17435390.2023.2223632] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) could cause damage to spermatogenesis, and microRNAs were reported to be associated with male reproduction. This research was designed to explore the toxic impacts of SiNPs induced in male reproduction through miR-5622-3p. In vivo, 60 mice were randomized into the control group and SiNPs group, in which they were exposed to SiNPs for 35 days and then recovered for 15 days. In vitro, 4 groups were set: control group, SiNPs group, SiNPs + miR-5622-3p inhibitor group, and SiNPs + miR-5622-3p inhibitor negative control (NC) group. Our research indicated SiNPs caused the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, increased level of γ-H2AX, raised the expressions of RAD51, DMC1, 53BP1, and LC8 which were DNA damage repair relative factors, and upregulated Cleaved-Caspase-9 and Cleaved-Caspase-3 levels. Furthermore, SiNPs also elevated the expression of miR-5622-3p but downregulated the level of ZCWPW1. However, miR-5622-3p inhibitor reduced the level of miR-5622-3p, increased the level of ZCWPW1, relieved DNA damage, and depressed the activation of apoptosis pathway, thus, alleviating spermatogenic cells apoptosis caused by SiNPs. The above-mentioned results indicated that SiNPs induced DNA damage resulting in activating of DNA damage response. Meanwhile, SiNPs raised the level of miR-5622-3p targeting inhibited expression of ZCWPW1 to suppress the repair process, possibly making DNA damage so severe that leading to the failure of DNA damage repair, finally inducing the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moxuan Zhao
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Guiqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animal, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinglong Xue
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianhui Liu
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing, China
| | - Junhong Xie
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Ren
- School of Nursing, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dong S, Chen C, Zhang J, Gao Y, Zeng X, Zhang X. Testicular aging, male fertility and beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1012119. [PMID: 36313743 PMCID: PMC9606211 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1012119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal spermatogenesis and sperm function are crucial for male fertility. The effects of healthy testicular aging and testicular premature aging on spermatogenesis, sperm function, and the spermatogenesis microenvironment cannot be ignored. Compared with younger men, the testis of older men tends to have disturbed spermatogenic processes, sperm abnormalities, sperm dysfunction, and impaired Sertoli and Leydig cells, which ultimately results in male infertility. Various exogenous and endogenous factors also contribute to pathological testicular premature aging, such as adverse environmental stressors and gene mutations. Mechanistically, Y-chromosomal microdeletions, increase in telomere length and oxidative stress, accumulation of DNA damage with decreased repair ability, alterations in epigenetic modifications, miRNA and lncRNA expression abnormalities, have been associated with impaired male fertility due to aging. In recent years, the key molecules and signaling pathways that regulate testicular aging and premature aging have been identified, thereby providing new strategies for diagnosis and treatment. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the underlying mechanisms of aging on spermatogenesis. Furthermore, potential rescue measures for reproductive aging have been discussed. Finally, the inadequacy of testicular aging research and future directions for research have been envisaged to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of testicular aging and premature aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijue Dong
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jiali Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zheng L, Ma J, Yao B. MicroRNAs in aging male reproduction. Aging (Albany NY) 2022; 14:2928-2929. [PMID: 35384867 PMCID: PMC9037258 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zheng
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinzhao Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bing Yao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|