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You X, Zhang Z, Xu Y, Yang B, Huang S, Zou Y, Zhao F, Feng C, Lao H, Yuan H, Liu Y, Wu M. Exploring the correlation between homocysteine, red blood cell folate and MTHFRC677T genotypes with female infertility. Biomark Med 2024:1-10. [PMID: 39254332 DOI: 10.1080/17520363.2024.2394386] [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: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To investigate the association between serum homocysteine (HCY) levels, red blood cell folate (RCF) levels, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphism and infertility.Materials & methods: Serum HCY and RCF levels and C677T polymorphism of MTHFR gene were analyzed in 149 infertile patients and 223 women of normal reproductive age with healthy childbirth history.Results: The HCY level of MTHFR C677T TT genotype infertility patients was higher than that of women of normal reproductive age, while the RCF level was not significantly different between the two groups.Conclusion: Serum HCY levels increased in infertility patients, and the MTHFR C677T TT genotype in childbearing-aged women are associated with a higher risk of infertility. The results showed that HCY level and MTHFR C677T genotype were closely related to infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyun You
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhaozhen Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yonghua Xu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bicheng Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shuhui Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yongyi Zou
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Feng Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chuanxin Feng
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Haorui Lao
- Jiujiang University, Jiujiang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huizhen Yuan
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yanqiu Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Birth Defect Prevention & Control, Jiangxi Maternal & Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Min Wu
- Fuzhou Linchuan District First People's Hospital clinical laboratory, Fuzhou, Jiangxi,China
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Sudhakaran G, Kesavan D, Kandaswamy K, Guru A, Arockiaraj J. Unravelling the epigenetic impact: Oxidative stress and its role in male infertility-associated sperm dysfunction. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108531. [PMID: 38176575 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial condition influenced by epigenetic regulation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Oxidative stress-induced damage leads to epigenetic modifications, disrupting gene expression crucial for spermatogenesis and fertilization. Paternal exposure to oxidative stress induces transgenerational epigenetic alterations, potentially impacting male fertility in offspring. Mitochondrial dysfunction impairs sperm function, while leukocytospermia exacerbates oxidative stress-related sperm dysfunction. Therefore, this review focuses on understanding these mechanisms as vital for developing preventive strategies, including targeting oxidative stress-induced epigenetic changes and implementing lifestyle modifications to prevent male infertility. This study investigates how oxidative stress affects the epigenome and sperm production, function, and fertilization. Unravelling the molecular pathways provides valuable insights that can advance our scientific understanding. Additionally, these findings have clinical implications and can help to address the significant global health issue of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gokul Sudhakaran
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D Kesavan
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karthikeyan Kandaswamy
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ajay Guru
- Department of Cariology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Chennai 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Toxicology and Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu District, Kattankulathur 603203, Tamil Nadu, India.
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3
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Clément A, Clément P, Viot G, Menezo YJR. The importance of preconception Hcy testing: identification of a folate trap syndrome in a woman attending an assisted reproduction program. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2879-2883. [PMID: 37819550 PMCID: PMC10656398 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02964-z] [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] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation is a ubiquitous and permanent key biochemical process playing a major role in gametogenesis and embryogenesis in relation to epigenetics and imprinting. Methylation relies on a unique cofactor S-Adenosyl Methionine: SAM. Release of the methyl group onto target molecules is followed by liberation of S-Adenosyl Homocysteine (SAH), and then homocysteine (Hcy), both potent inhibitors of the methylation process. Defective recycling of homocysteine, leading to Hyperhomocysteinemia, is mainly due to reduced activity of MTHFR (Methylene TetraHydroFolate Reductase). However, we described here, in a woman attending an ART program, a rather rare syndrome: The Folate trap syndrome. Due to vitamin B12 deficiency (malabsorption), Hcy cannot be recycled to methionine by the methionine synthase. Transmethylation activity is weak and leads to Hhcy (Hyperhomocysteinhemia). Her Hhcy, over 16µM, was resistant to 5MTHF (5 Methyltetrahydrofolate) associated with a support of the one carbon cycle, a classical efficient treatment for elevated homocysteine. Treatment with Methylcobalamine (associated with adenosyl Cobalamine) allowed a Hcy drop down to 10 µM. Knowing the pleiotropic negative impact of Hcy on gametes, embryos and pregnancy in general, we strongly recommend a Hcy dosage in both members of couples seeking treatment for pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Clément
- Laboratoire Clement, Genetics and IVF, 17 Avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris, France
| | - Patrice Clément
- Laboratoire Clement, Genetics and IVF, 17 Avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris, France
| | - Géraldine Viot
- Cabinet Médical de génétique Clinique, 74 Avenue Paul Doumer, 75116, Paris, France
| | - Yves J R Menezo
- Laboratoire Clement, Genetics and IVF, 17 Avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris, France.
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4
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Su Z, Liu Z, Lei W, Xia K, Xiao A, Hu Z, Zhou M, Zhu F, Tian J, Yang M, Wang D, Xiang AP, Nie J. Hyperhomocysteinemia lowers serum testosterone concentration via impairing testosterone production in Leydig cells. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:3077-3100. [PMID: 37495868 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-023-09819-4] [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: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) plays a salient role in male infertility. However, whether HHcy interferes with testosterone production remains inconclusive. Here, we reported a lower serum testosterone level in HHcy mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that genes related to testosterone biosynthesis, together with nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 1 (Nr5a1), a key transcription factor for steroidogenic genes, were downregulated in the Leydig cells (LCs) of HHcy mice. Mechanistically, Hcy lowered trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine 4 (H3K4me3), which was bound on the promoter region of Nr5a1, resulting in downregulation of Nr5a1. Intriguingly, we identified an unknown cell cluster annotated as Macrophage-like Leydig cells (McLCs), expressing both LCs and macrophages markers. In HHcy mice, McLCs were shifted toward pro-inflammatory phenotype and thus promoted inflammatory response in LC. Betaine supplementation rescued the downregulation of NR5A1 and restored the serum testosterone level in HHcy mice. Overall, our study highlights an etiological role of HHcy in LCs dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Su
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhuoliang Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenjing Lei
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Kai Xia
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - An Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Zheng Hu
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Miaomiao Zhou
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Fengxin Zhu
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianwei Tian
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Manqiu Yang
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
| | - Andy Peng Xiang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
- National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Nie
- The State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, National Clinical Research Center of Kidney Disease, Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Nephrology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China.
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Ménézo Y, Elder K, Clement A, Patrizio P, Brack M, Clement P. Homocysteine testing is a significant predictor of health for couples trying to conceive and their future children. Epigenomics 2023; 15:1095-1099. [PMID: 37955254 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yves Ménézo
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Genetics and Assisted reproduction, 17 avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris France
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, High St, Bourn, Cambridge, CB23 2TN, UK
| | - Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Genetics and Assisted reproduction, 17 avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris France
| | - Pasquale Patrizio
- Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, 1400 Northwest, 12th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Michel Brack
- The oxidative stress College, 92250 La garenne Colombes, France
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Genetics and Assisted reproduction, 17 avenue d'Eylau, 75016, Paris France
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Clement A, Amar E, Clement P, Sedbon É, Brami C, Alvarez S, Menezo Y. Hyperhomocysteinemia in hypofertile male patients can be alleviated by supplementation with 5MTHF associated with one carbon cycle support. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1229997. [PMID: 37705678 PMCID: PMC10495983 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1229997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Homocysteine (Hcy) is a cellular poison, side product of the hydrolysis of S-Adenosyl Homocysteine, produced after the universal methylation effector S -Adenosylmethionine liberates a methyl group to recipient targets. It inhibits the methylation processes and its rising is associated with multiple disease states and ultimately is both a cause and a consequence of oxidative stress, affecting male gametogenesis. We have determined hyper homocysteinhemia (HHcy) levels can be reliably reduced in hypofertile patients in order to decrease/avoid associated epigenetic problems and protect the health of future children, in consideration of the fact that treatment with high doses of folic acid is inappropriate. Methods Homocysteine levels were screened in male patients consulting for long-standing infertility associated with at least three failed Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attempts and/or repeat miscarriages. Seventy-seven patients with Hcy levels > 15 µM were treated for three months with a combination of micronutrients including 5- MethylTetraHydroFolate (5-MTHF), the compound downstream to the MTHFR enzyme, to support the one carbon cycle; re-testing was performed at the end of a 3 months treatment period. Genetic status for Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) 677CT (c.6777C > T) and 1298AC (c.1298A > C) was determined. Results Micronutrients/5-MTHF were highly efficient in decreasing circulating Hcy, from averages 27.4 to 10.7 µM, with a mean observed decrease of 16.7 µM. The MTHFR SNP 677TT (homozygous form) and combined heterozygous 677CT/1298AC status represent 77.9% of the patients with elevated Hcy. Discussion Estimation HHcy should not be overlooked in men suffering infertility of long duration. MTHFR SNPs, especially 677TT, are a major cause of high homocysteinhemia (HHcy). In these hypofertile patients, treatment with micronutrients including 5-MTHF reduces Hcy and even allows spontaneous pregnancies post treatment. This type of therapy should be considered in order to ensure these patients' quality of life and avoid future epigenetic problems in their descendants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
| | - Edouard Amar
- Cabinet Médical Urology, Andrology, Avenue Victor Hugo, Paris, France
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
| | - Éric Sedbon
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 17 rue Pétrarque, Paris, France
| | - Charles Brami
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 16 Avenue Paul Doumer, Paris, France
| | - Silvia Alvarez
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 15 Avenue Pointcarré, Paris, France
| | - Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
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Rossokha Z, Fishchuk L, Vorobei L, Medvedieva N, Popova O, Vershyhora V, Sheyko L, Brisevac L, Stroy D, Gorovenko N. Hyperhomocysteinemia in men and women of married couples with reproductive disorders. What is the difference? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:75-85. [PMID: 36308028 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2124896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is an autosomal recessive inherited metabolic disease caused by variations in folate metabolism genes, characterized by impaired methionine metabolism and accumulation of homocysteine (Hcy) in the blood serum. It was shown that men usually have higher plasma Hcy levels than women, but have not yet assessed the leading factors of these differences, which is important for the development of personalized protocols for the prevention of folate metabolism disorders in couples with reproductive disorders. This study aimed to analyze the effect of intergenic and gene-factor interactions on the risk of developing HHcy in men and women of married couples with reproductive disorders. In our study were involved 206 married Caucasian couples (206 males and 206 females) from central regions of Ukraine with early pregnancy losses in the anamnesis. We found that the incidence of HHcy in men was significantly higher than in women. Gender differences in folic acid and vitamin B12 levels were identified. The best predictors of HHcy in men (MTRR (A66G), MTHFR (C677T), MTR (A2756G), vitamin B12 level) and in women (MTHFR (C677T), MTR (A2756G), vitamin B12 level) were selected by binary logistic regression. There was no significant difference in the distribution of genotypes by the studied gene variants when comparing men and women with HHcy. Our findings demonstrate that there is a gender difference in the development of HHcy. This difference is caused by intergenic interaction and by environmental factors, in particular, nutrition and vitamins consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoia Rossokha
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,State Institution "Reference-Centre for Molecular Diagnostic of Public Health Ministry of Ukraine", Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Liliya Fishchuk
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,State Institution "Reference-Centre for Molecular Diagnostic of Public Health Ministry of Ukraine", Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Nataliia Medvedieva
- State Institution "Reference-Centre for Molecular Diagnostic of Public Health Ministry of Ukraine", Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Olena Popova
- State Institution "Reference-Centre for Molecular Diagnostic of Public Health Ministry of Ukraine", Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Viktoriia Vershyhora
- State Institution "Reference-Centre for Molecular Diagnostic of Public Health Ministry of Ukraine", Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Larysa Sheyko
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Ljudmila Brisevac
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Dmytro Stroy
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Nataliia Gorovenko
- Department of genetic diagnostics, State Institute of Genetic and Regenerative Medicine National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.,Shupyk National Healthcare University of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
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MTHFR SNPs (Methyl Tetrahydrofolate Reductase, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) C677T and A1298C Prevalence and Serum Homocysteine Levels in >2100 Hypofertile Caucasian Male Patients. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081086. [PMID: 36008980 PMCID: PMC9405832 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylation is a crucially important ubiquitous biochemical process, which covalently adds methyl groups to a variety of molecular targets. It is the key regulatory process that determines the acquisition of imprinting and epigenetic marks during gametogenesis. Methylation processes are dependent upon two metabolic cycles, the folates and the one-carbon cycles. The activity of these two cycles is compromised by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene encoding the Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme. These SNPs affect spermatogenesis and oocyte maturation, creating cytologic/chromosomal anomalies. The two main MTHFR SNP variants C677T (c.6777C>T) and A1298C (c.1298A>C) together with serum homocysteine levels were tested in men with >3 years’ duration of infertility who had failed several ART attempts with the same partner. These patients are often classified as having “idiopathic infertility”. We observed that the genetic status with highest prevalence in this group is the heterozygous C677T, followed by the combined heterozygous C677T/A1298C, and then A1298C; these three variants represent 65% of our population. Only 13.1% of the patients tested are wild type (WT), C677C/A1298A). The homozygous 677TT and the combined heterozygote 677CT/1298AC groups have the highest percentage of patients with an elevated circulating homocysteine level of >15 µMolar (57.8% and 18.8%, respectively, which is highly significant for both). Elevated homocysteine is known to be detrimental to spermatogenesis, and the population with this parameter is not marginal. In conclusion, determination of these two SNPs and serum homocysteine should not be overlooked for patients with severe infertility of long duration, including those with repeated miscarriages. Patients must also be informed about pleiotropic medical implications relevant to their own health, as well as to the health of future children.
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Seminal Plasma Antioxidants Are Related to Sperm Cryotolerance in the Horse. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11071279. [PMID: 35883774 PMCID: PMC9311553 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11071279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the relationship of enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, SOD; glutathione peroxidase, GPX; catalase, CAT; and paraoxonase type 1, PON1) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (measured in terms of: Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, TEAC; cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity, CUPRAC; and ferric-reducing ability of plasma, FRAP), as well as the oxidative stress index (OSI) in seminal plasma (SP) with the resilience of horse sperm to freeze-thawing. Twenty-one ejaculates (one per individual) were collected and split into two aliquots: the first was used to harvest the SP and assess the activity levels of antioxidants and the OSI, and the second one was cryopreserved. The following post-thaw sperm quality parameters were evaluated: sperm motility, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and plasma membrane lipid disorder. Based on post-thaw total motility (TM) and plasma membrane integrity (SYBR14+/PI−), ejaculates were hierarchically (p < 0.001) clustered into two groups of good (GFE) and poor (PFE) freezability. The SP activity levels of PON1, SOD, and TEAC were higher (p < 0.05) in GFE than in PFE, showing a positive relationship (p < 0.05) with some sperm motility parameters and with plasma membrane (PON1 and TEAC) and acrosome (SOD and TEAC) integrity. In contrast, OSI was higher (p < 0.05) in the SP of PFE than in that of GFE, and was negatively correlated (p < 0.05) to some sperm motility parameters and to plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, and positively (p < 0.05) to the percentage of viable sperm with high plasma membrane lipid disorder. In conclusion, enzymatic (PON1 and SOD) and non-enzymatic (TEAC) antioxidants of SP are related to horse sperm cryotolerance. In addition, our results suggest that PON1 could be one of the main antioxidant enzymes involved in the control of ROS in this species. Further investigation is needed to confirm the potential use of these SP-antioxidants and OSI to predict sperm cryotolerance in horses.
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Zvyagina VI, Belskikh ES. Comparative Assessment of the Functional Activity of Rat Epididymal Mitochondria in Oxidative Stress Induced by Hyperhomocysteinemia and L-NAME Administration. J EVOL BIOCHEM PHYS+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0022093022020065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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11
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Tsiasioti A, Zacharis CK, Tzanavaras PD. Single-Step Hydrolysis and Derivatization of Homocysteine Thiolactone Using Zone Fluidics: Simultaneous Analysis of Mixtures with Homocysteine Following Separation by Fluorosurfactant-Modified Gold Nanoparticles. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27072040. [PMID: 35408439 PMCID: PMC9000217 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, we report a new automated flow method based on zone fluidics for the simultaneous determination of homocysteine and homocysteine thiolactone using fluorimetric detection (λext = 370 nm/λem = 480 nm). Homocysteine thiolactone is hydrolyzed on-line in alkaline medium (1 mol L−1 NaOH) to yield homocysteine, followed by reaction with o-phthalaldehyde in a single step. Derivatization is rapid without the need of elevated temperatures and stopped-flow steps, while specificity is achieved through a unique reaction mechanism in the absence of nucleophilic compounds. Mixtures of the analytes can be analyzed quantitatively after specific separation with fluorosurfactant-capped gold nanoparticles that are selectively aggregated by homocysteine, leaving the thiolactone analogue in solution. As low as 100 nmol L−1 of the analyte(s) can be quantified in aqueous solutions, while concentrations > 2 μmol L−1 can be analyzed in artificial and real urine matrix following 20-fold dilution. The percent recoveries ranged between 87 and 119%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolia Tsiasioti
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Constantinos K. Zacharis
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Analysis, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Paraskevas D. Tzanavaras
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-23-1099-7721
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Al-janabi AM, Al-Khafaji SM, Faris SA. Association of methyltetrahydrofolate reductase gene mutation, homocysteine level with semen quality of Iraqi infertile males. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL HUMAN GENETICS 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43042-022-00278-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Infertility is very common condition and almost 50% of cases are due to male factors. Several genetic and environmental factors are responsible for the poor quality and reduced number of sperms in several cases of infertility. The present study was designed to investigate the association between semen parameters, homocysteine, and the risk of C677T polymorphism of MTHFR gene in infertile males of Iraqi population.
Methods
This Case–control study has been conducted from February 2019 to July 2021 at a molecular laboratory in the Anatomy and Histology Department/college of Medicine/University of Kufa/Najaf/Iraq. It was composed of 353 infertile male patients. They were divided into five groups: 90 azoospermic, 84 oligospermia, 64 asthenospermic, 50 oligoasthenospermic, and 65 teratospermic with an age range 20–46 years compared with 100 fertile males as control with age range 21–49 years. In order to detect homocysteine levels, we used Hcy ELISA Kit. C677T mutation of MTHFR gene was employed by PCR–RFLP technique.
Results
Our data revealed three genotypes of MTHFR C677T, 167 (47.3%) subjects had CC genotype, 116 (32.9%) subjects had CT genotype and 70 (21.1%) subjects had TT genotype. Furthermore, T allele was associated with higher risk of infertility in all patients groups for any genetic model. In total infertile subjects (codominant model: CT vs. CC, OR = 2.0, 95% C.I = 1.2–3.3, P = 0.011; TT vs. CC, OR = 4.8, 95% C.I = 3.3–8.2, P = 0.0003; dominant model: CT + TT vs. CC, OR = 2.8, 95% C.I = 1.7–4.5, P = 0.0001). Oligoasthenospermic patients associated with higher risk in CT heterozygous genotype (OR = 2.8, 95% C.I = 1.0–4.9, P = 0.03) and TT homozygous of mutant allele (OR = 6.3, 95% C.I = 1.9–9.2, P = 0.002). Homocystein level was elevated in all infertile groups when compared with control group (P < 0.01), but the elevation was marked in oligoasthenospermia group. As well as, the level of Serum Hcy exhibited the highest value in TT mutant genotype (39.7 µmol/ml) followed by CT genotype (28.5 µmol/ml) while the lowest level of Hcy recorded in CC genotype (14.6 µmol/ml) for oligoasthenospermia group.
Conclusions
By relating the MTHFR C677T gene mutation with a higher homocystein level, the results showed that Iraqi males with this mutation are more likely to suffer from infertility.
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Aitken RJ. Role of sperm DNA damage in creating de novo mutations in human offspring: the ‘post-meiotic oocyte collusion’ hypothesis. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:109-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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14
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Aitken RJ, Drevet JR, Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P. Male Infertility and Oxidative Stress: A Focus on the Underlying Mechanisms. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020306. [PMID: 35204189 PMCID: PMC8868102 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in defining the functional competence of human spermatozoa. When generated in moderate amounts, ROS promote sperm capacitation by facilitating cholesterol efflux from the plasma membrane, enhancing cAMP generation, inducing cytoplasmic alkalinization, increasing intracellular calcium levels, and stimulating the protein phosphorylation events that drive the attainment of a capacitated state. However, when ROS generation is excessive and/or the antioxidant defences of the reproductive system are compromised, a state of oxidative stress may be induced that disrupts the fertilizing capacity of the spermatozoa and the structural integrity of their DNA. This article focusses on the sources of ROS within this system and examines the circumstances under which the adequacy of antioxidant protection might become a limiting factor. Seminal leukocyte contamination can contribute to oxidative stress in the ejaculate while, in the germ line, the dysregulation of electron transport in the sperm mitochondria, elevated NADPH oxidase activity, or the excessive stimulation of amino acid oxidase action are all potential contributors to oxidative stress. A knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for creating such stress within the human ejaculate is essential in order to develop better antioxidant strategies that avoid the unintentional creation of its reductive counterpart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert 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 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-2-4921-6851
| | - Joël R. Drevet
- GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, CRBC Building, 28 Place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (J.R.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Aron Moazamian
- GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, CRBC Building, 28 Place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France; (J.R.D.); (A.M.)
- CellOxess LLC, Ewing, NJ 08628, USA;
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AITKEN RJ, GIBB Z. Sperm oxidative stress in the context of male infertility: current evidence, links with genetic and epigenetic factors and future clinical needs. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2022; 47:38-57. [DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.21.03630-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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16
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Voluntary Exercise Attenuates Hyperhomocysteinemia, But Does not Protect Against Hyperhomocysteinemia-Induced Testicular and Epididymal Disturbances. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:277-290. [PMID: 34494235 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00704-1] [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: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is toxic to the cells and associated with several diseases. Clinical studies have shown changes in plasma concentrations of Hcy after physical exercise. This study aimed to assess the effect of HHcy on testis, epididymis and sperm quality and to investigate whether voluntary exercise training protects this system against damage caused by HHcy in Swiss mice. In this study, 48 mice were randomly distributed in the control, HHcy, physical exercise, and HHcy combined with physical exercise groups. HHcy was induced by daily administration of dl-homocysteine thiolactone via gavage throughout the experimental period. Physical exercise was performed through voluntary running on the exercise wheels. The plasma concentrations of homocysteine (Hcy) and testosterone were determined. The testes and epididymis were used to assess the sperm count, histopathology, lipoperoxidation, cytokine levels, testicular cholesterol, myeloperoxidase, and catalase activity. Spermatozoa were analyzed for morphology, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial activity, and motility. In the testes, HHcy increased the number of abnormal seminiferous tubules, reduced the tubular diameter and the height of the germinal epithelium. In the epididymis, there was tissue remodeling in the head region. Ultimately, voluntary physical exercise training reduced plasma Hcy concentration but did not attenuate HHcy-induced testicular and epididymal disturbances.
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Zvyagina VI, Belskikh ES. [Carnitine chloride reduces the severity of experimental hyperhomocysteinemia and promotes lactate utilization by mitochondrial fraction of the rat epididymis]. BIOMEDIT︠S︡INSKAI︠A︡ KHIMII︠A︡ 2021; 67:338-346. [PMID: 34414892 DOI: 10.18097/pbmc20216704338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for many diseases, including reproductive disorders in men. L-carnitine is used in medical practice to correct impaired bioenergetic conditions; in patients with idiopathic forms of infertility its effects are associated with improvement of the sperm parameters. However, the effect of exogenous L-carnitine on the level of homocysteine in the gonadal tissues, as a risk factor for impaired fertility, has not been investigated yet. The aim of this study was to investigate activity of bioenergetic enzymes in the epididymal mitochondrial fraction, the dynamics of changes in the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial lactate levels and LDH activity, the total carnitine content, as well as the oxidative status of these cells under conditions of oxidative stress caused by hyperhomocysteinemia, and to assess the effect of carnitine chloride on these parameters under conditions of methionine administration to male Wistar rats. Methionine administration to animals for three weeks at a dose of 3 g/kg, resulted in development of the severe forms of hyperhomocysteinemia with serum homocysteine concentrations exceeding 100 μmol/L. This was accompanied by a decrease in the activity of enzymes involved in the bioenergetic processes of the cell: tissue respiration (succinate dehydrogenase) and oxidative phosphorylation (H+-ATPase) in the epididymal head and tail. The change in lactate metabolism included an increase in its level in both the mitochondrial and cytoplasmic fractions of the epididymal head and mitochondria of the epididymal tail, and also simultaneous statistically significant decrease in LDH activity in the mitochondria and cytoplasm of the epididymal head. In male rats with severe hyperhomocysteinemia, an increase in the activity of mitochondrial SOD accompanied by an increase in the carbonylation of mitochondrial proteins in the head and tail of the epididymis was noted. Modeling of hyperhomocysteinemia under conditions of carnitine chloride of administration led to different reactions of the cells of the studied tissues assayed in the epididymal head and tail homogenate. In the epididymal head, carnitine chloride promoted an increase in the mitochondrial lactate concentration and a decrease in the cytoplasmic lactate concentration, as well as an increase in the LDH activity associated with the mitochondrial fraction. These changes were accompanied by an increase in the activity of H+-ATPase in the epididymal, thus suggesting that carnitine chloride stimulated lactate transport of into the mitochondria and its use as an energy substrate under conditions of oxidative stress caused by hyperhomocysteinemia. In the tail tissues, the changes were protective in nature and were associated with a decrease in the formation of oxidatively modified proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- V I Zvyagina
- Academician I.P. Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
| | - E S Belskikh
- Academician I.P. Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russia
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Ménézo Y, Patrizio P, Alvarez S, Amar E, Brack M, Brami C, Chouteau J, Clement A, Clement P, Cohen M, Cornet D, Dale B, D' Amato G, Jacquesson-Fournols L, Mares P, Neveux P, Sage JC, Servy E, Huong TM, Viot G. MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase: EC 1.5.1.20) SNPs (single-nucleotide polymorphisms) and homocysteine in patients referred for investigation of fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2383-2389. [PMID: 33914208 PMCID: PMC8490548 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02200-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose MTHFR, one of the major enzymes in the folate cycle, is known to acquire single-nucleotide polymorphisms that significantly reduce its activity, resulting in an increase in circulating homocysteine. Methylation processes are of crucial importance in gametogenesis, involved in the regulation of imprinting and epigenetic tags on DNA and histones. We have retrospectively assessed the prevalence of MTHFR SNPs in a population consulting for infertility according to gender and studied the impact of the mutations on circulating homocysteine levels. Methods More than 2900 patients having suffered at least two miscarriages (2 to 9) or two failed IVF/ICSI (2 to 10) attempts were included for analysis of MTHFR SNPs C677T and A1298C. Serum homocysteine levels were measured simultaneously. Results We observed no difference in the prevalence of different genetic backgrounds between men and women; only 15% of the patients were found to be wild type. More than 40% of the patients are either homozygous for one SNP or compound heterozygous carriers. As expected, the C677T SNP shows the greatest adverse effect on homocysteine accumulation. The impact of MTHFR SNPs on circulating homocysteine is different in men than in women. Conclusions Determination of MTHFR SNPs in both men and women must be seriously advocated in the presence of long-standing infertility; male gametes, from MTHFR SNPs carriers, are not exempted from exerting a hazardous impact on fertility. Patients should be informed of the pleiotropic medical implications of these SNPs for their own health, as well as for the health of future children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Ménézo
- Laboratoire Clement, Avenue d Eylau, 75016, Paris, France.
- London Fertility Associates, Harley St, London, UK.
| | | | | | - Edouard Amar
- Hopital Américain de Paris, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
| | | | - Charles Brami
- Hopital Américain de Paris, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
| | | | - Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire Clement, Avenue d Eylau, 75016, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Brian Dale
- London Fertility Associates, Harley St, London, UK
- Centro Fecondazione Assistita, Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - To Minh Huong
- VINMEC International Hospital, 458 Minh Khai, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Almagor M, Levin Y, Halevy Amiran R, Fieldust S, Harir Y, Or Y, Shoham Z. Spontaneous in vitro hatching of the human blastocyst: the proteomics of initially hatching cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2020; 56:859-865. [PMID: 33197035 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00522-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous in vitro hatching of human blastocysts starts with the formation of a tunnel through the zona pellucida (ZP) by cellular projections of trophoblast cells. Our aim was to identify the proteins that are upregulated in these initially hatching cells as compared to trophectoderm (TE) cells from blastocysts that had not yet hatched. Forty seven women that underwent assisted reproduction treatment donated their ICSI-derived polyploid blastocysts for the study. In polyploid blastocysts that started spontaneous hatching, hatched clusters of cells were collected from the outer side of the ZP. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry was applied to determine the proteins that were upregulated in these cells as compared to TE cells obtained from inside the ZP. Whole non-hatched polyploid blastocysts were used as controls. Overall 1245 proteins were identified in all samples. Forty nine proteins were significantly upregulated in hatching cells and 17 in the TE cells. There was minimal overlap between hatching and TE samples; only serine protease inhibitors (SERPINS) and lipocalin were detected in both samples. Myosin and actin were highly upregulated in the hatching cells as well as paraoxonase, N-acetylmuramoyl alanine amidase, and SERPINS clade A and galectin. In the TE cells, gamma butyrobetaine dioxygenase, lupus La protein, sialidase, lysosomal Pro-X carboxypeptidase, phospholipase b, and SERPINS clade B and A were among the most highly upregulated proteins. These findings may contribute to the basic knowledge of the molecular behavior of the specific cells that actively perforate the glycoprotein matrix of the ZP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Almagor
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel.
| | - Yishai Levin
- The Nancy and Stephen Grand Israel National Center for Personalized Medicine, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Rona Halevy Amiran
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sheila Fieldust
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yael Harir
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yuval Or
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Zeev Shoham
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Kaplan Medical Center, affiliated with Hadassah Medical School, the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel , POB 1, 76100, Rehovot, Israel
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20
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Aitken RJ. The Male Is Significantly Implicated as the Cause of Unexplained Infertility. Semin Reprod Med 2020; 38:3-20. [PMID: 33086406 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1718941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is recognized as a relatively common, complex condition, generated by a broad array of environmental and genetic factors. Historical reliance on the conventional semen profile has tended to underestimate the true contribution of "the male factor" to human infertility. This review highlights the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the etiology of male infertility, identifying a range of mutations responsible for primary testicular failure and impaired fertilizing potential. More than three quarters of all de novo mutations arise in the male germline via mechanisms that involve the inefficient or defective repair of DNA damage. Understanding the range of factors capable of creating genetic turmoil in the paternal germline is essential, if we are to gain a deep understanding of the causes of male infertility, rather than just the symptoms that characterize its presence. High levels of DNA fragmentation induced by oxidative stress are part of this equation. Oxidative stress is, in turn, driven by biological (age, ejaculation frequency, varicocele, infection), lifestyle (smoking, obesity), and environmental factors (heat, other forms of electromagnetic radiation, and toxins) that can impair the fertilizing potential of the spermatozoa and influence the incidence of spontaneous mutations that may cause infertility in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Xie C, Ping P, Ma Y, Wu Z, Chen X. Correlation between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene polymorphism and oligoasthenospermia and the effects of folic acid supplementation on semen quality. Transl Androl Urol 2019; 8:678-685. [PMID: 32038964 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.11.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The present study investigated the correlation between 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and oligoasthenospermia, as well as the effects of folic acid supplementation on semen quality. Methods The present study was a case control study. The PCR-chip assay was applied to analyze the distribution characteristics of the frequencies and genotypes of the MTHFR C677T allele in 167 Han Chinese patients with idiopathic male infertility (including 86 patients with oligospermia and 81 patients with asthenospermia) and in 78 males with normal semen parameters. Moreover, homocysteine (Hcy) levels were assessed for the different groups. Semen quality was measured following three months of folic acid supplementation for the oligospermia and asthenospermia groups. Results The cytosine-thymine (CT) genotype (50% vs. 39.5%) and the thymine-thymine (TT) genotype (51.2% vs. 7.7%) carriers in the oligospermia group exhibited significantly higher percentages compared with those of the control group. The percentage of the CT genotype carriers in the asthenospermia group was significantly higher compared with that of the control group (59.3% vs. 50%), while the frequency of the TT genotype was significantly increased (22.2% vs. 7.7%). Furthermore, serum Hcy levels in the oligospermia and asthenospermia groups were significantly higher compared with those of the control group. The data also demonstrated that sperm density increased significantly following three months of folic acid supplementation to patients with oligospermia or asthenospermia. In these patients, the highest increase was noted for the subjects carrying the TT genotype. Conclusions The MTHFR C677T mutation and the elevated Hcy levels are important risk factors for the development of oligoasthenospermia. Folic acid supplementation can significantly improve sperm density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Xie
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China.,Shanghai Key laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Zhengmu Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China.,Shanghai Key laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China.,Shanghai Municipal Key Clinical Specialty, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xiangfeng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200135, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China.,Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai 200135, China
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22
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Peña FJ, O’Flaherty C, Ortiz Rodríguez JM, Martín Cano FE, Gaitskell-Phillips GL, Gil MC, Ortega Ferrusola C. Redox Regulation and Oxidative Stress: The Particular Case of the Stallion Spermatozoa. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8110567. [PMID: 31752408 PMCID: PMC6912273 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8110567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Redox regulation and oxidative stress have become areas of major interest in spermatology. Alteration of redox homeostasis is recognized as a significant cause of male factor infertility and is behind the damage that spermatozoa experience after freezing and thawing or conservation in a liquid state. While for a long time, oxidative stress was just considered an overproduction of reactive oxygen species, nowadays it is considered as a consequence of redox deregulation. Many essential aspects of spermatozoa functionality are redox regulated, with reversible oxidation of thiols in cysteine residues of key proteins acting as an “on–off” switch controlling sperm function. However, if deregulation occurs, these residues may experience irreversible oxidation and oxidative stress, leading to malfunction and ultimately death of the spermatozoa. Stallion spermatozoa are “professional producers” of reactive oxygen species due to their intense mitochondrial activity, and thus sophisticated systems to control redox homeostasis are also characteristic of the spermatozoa in the horse. As a result, and combined with the fact that embryos can easily be collected in this species, horses are a good model for the study of redox biology in the spermatozoa and its impact on the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando J. Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-927-257-167
| | - Cristian O’Flaherty
- Departments of Surgery (Urology Division) and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada;
| | - José M. Ortiz Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
| | - Francisco E. Martín Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
| | - Gemma L. Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
| | - María C. Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
| | - Cristina Ortega Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (J.M.O.R.); (F.E.M.C.); (G.L.G.-P.); (M.C.G.); (C.O.F.)
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Genetic resistance to DEHP-induced transgenerational endocrine disruption. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0208371. [PMID: 31181066 PMCID: PMC6557477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) interferes with sex hormones signaling pathways (SHP). C57BL/6J mice prenatally exposed to 300 mg/kg/day DEHP develop a testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) at adulthood, but similarly-exposed FVB/N mice are not affected. Here we aim to understand the reasons behind this drastic difference that should depend on the genome of the strain. In both backgrounds, pregnant female mice received per os either DEHP or corn oil vehicle and the male filiations were examined. Computer-assisted sperm analysis showed a DEHP-induced decreased sperm count and velocities in C57BL/6J. Sperm RNA sequencing experiments resulted in the identification of the 62 most differentially expressed RNAs. These RNAs, mainly regulated by hormones, produced strain-specific transcriptional responses to prenatal exposure to DEHP; a pool of RNAs was increased in FVB, another pool of RNAs was decreased in C57BL/6J. In FVB/N, analysis of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) impacting SHP identified rs387782768 and rs29315913 respectively associated with absence of the Forkhead Box A3 (Foxa3) RNA and increased expression of estrogen receptor 1 variant 4 (NM_001302533) RNA. Analysis of the role of SNPs modifying SHP binding sites in function of strain-specific responses to DEHP revealed a DEHP-resistance allele in FVB/N containing an additional FOXA1-3 binding site at rs30973633 and four DEHP-induced beta-defensins (Defb42, Defb30, Defb47 and Defb48). A DEHP-susceptibility allele in C57BL/6J contained five SNPs (rs28279710, rs32977910, rs46648903, rs46677594 and rs48287999) affecting SHP and six genes (Svs2, Svs3b, Svs4, Svs3a, Svs6 and Svs5) epigenetically silenced by DEHP. Finally, targeted experiments confirmed increased methylation in the Svs3ab promoter with decreased SEMG2 persisting across generations, providing a molecular explanation for the transgenerational sperm velocity decrease found in C57BL/6J after DEHP exposure. We conclude that the existence of SNP-dependent mechanisms in FVB/N inbred mice may confer resistance to transgenerational endocrine disruption.
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Jakubowski H. Homocysteine Modification in Protein Structure/Function and Human Disease. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:555-604. [PMID: 30427275 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00003.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies established that elevated homocysteine, an important intermediate in folate, vitamin B12, and one carbon metabolism, is associated with poor health, including heart and brain diseases. Earlier studies show that patients with severe hyperhomocysteinemia, first identified in the 1960s, exhibit neurological and cardiovascular abnormalities and premature death due to vascular complications. Although homocysteine is considered to be a nonprotein amino acid, studies over the past 2 decades have led to discoveries of protein-related homocysteine metabolism and mechanisms by which homocysteine can become a component of proteins. Homocysteine-containing proteins lose their biological function and acquire cytotoxic, proinflammatory, proatherothrombotic, and proneuropathic properties, which can account for the various disease phenotypes associated with hyperhomocysteinemia. This review describes mechanisms by which hyperhomocysteinemia affects cellular proteostasis, provides a comprehensive account of the biological chemistry of homocysteine-containing proteins, and discusses pathophysiological consequences and clinical implications of their formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hieronim Jakubowski
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, International Center for Public Health , Newark, New Jersey ; and Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Poznań University of Life Sciences , Poznań , Poland
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Li D, Liu HX, Fang YY, Huo JN, Wu QJ, Wang TR, Zhou YM, Wang XX, Ma XX. Hyperhomocysteinemia in polycystic ovary syndrome: decreased betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase and cystathionine β-synthase-mediated homocysteine metabolism. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:234-241. [PMID: 29804940 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the metabolic characteristics of homocysteine in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? DESIGN Homocysteine concentrations were determined in serum samples from non-obese and obese control subjects and PCOS patients. Homocysteine metabolism was studied in a rat model of PCOS established using dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) or DHEA in combination with a high-fat diet (HFD). RESULTS It was shown that (i) serum homocysteine concentrations were greater in PCOS patients than in control subjects in the obese group (P < 0.05) and serum homocysteine concentrations were significantly higher in the obese group than in the non-obese group, regardless of PCOS status (both P < 0.05); (ii) serum homocysteine concentrations were significantly increased in DHEA + HFD-induced rats compared with controls (P < 0.05); (iii) when compared with the control group, mRNA concentrations of homocysteine metabolic enzymes Bhmt and Cbs were significantly reduced in the liver tissues of DHEA + HFD-induced rats (both P < 0.0001); (iv) when compared with the control group, there was a significant decrease in the methylation concentrations of the Cbs (P < 0.05) and Bhmt (P < 0.05 and P < 0.0001) promoter in the DHEA + HFD group. The methylation patterns, together with previous data, indicate that hypomethylated promoter-mediated transcriptional activation of Bhmt and Cbs might be a defence mechanism against PCOS-related hyperhomocysteinemia. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that decreased liver Bhmt and Cbs-mediated homocysteine metabolism might have a role in hyperhomocysteinemia in PCOS and provides further evidence for a potential role of decreased liver function in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Li
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Hong-Xiang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Fang
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jia-Ning Huo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Qi-Jun Wu
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Tian-Ren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yi-Ming Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Institutes of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xiu-Xia Wang
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
| | - Xiao-Xin Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShengJing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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Samarasinghe SVAC, Krishnan K, Naidu R, Megharaj M, Miller K, Fraser B, Aitken RJ. Parabens generate reactive oxygen species in human spermatozoa. Andrology 2018; 6:532-541. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. V. A. C. Samarasinghe
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - K. Krishnan
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - R. Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - M. Megharaj
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - K. Miller
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - B. Fraser
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - R. J. Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
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Pérez-Patiño C, Parrilla I, Barranco I, Vergara-Barberán M, Simó-Alfonso EF, Herrero-Martínez JM, Rodriguez-Martínez H, Martínez EA, Roca J. New In-Depth Analytical Approach of the Porcine Seminal Plasma Proteome Reveals Potential Fertility Biomarkers. J Proteome Res 2018; 17:1065-1076. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pérez-Patiño
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Emilio A. Martínez
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
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Leon M, Sawmiller D, Shytle RD, Tan J. Therapeutic Cocktail Approach for Treatment of Hyperhomocysteinemia in Alzheimer's Disease. CELL MEDICINE 2018; 10:2155179017722280. [PMID: 32634177 PMCID: PMC6172991 DOI: 10.1177/2155179017722280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia, accompanied by substantial economic and emotional costs. During 2015, more than 15 million family members who provided care to AD patients had an estimated total cost of 221 billion dollars. Recent studies have shown that elevated total plasma levels of homocysteine (tHcy), a condition known as hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), is a risk factor for AD. HHcy is associated with cognitive decline, brain atrophy, and dementia; enhances the vulnerability of neurons to oxidative injury; and damages the blood-brain barrier. Many therapeutic supplements containing vitamin B12 and folate have been studied to help decrease tHcy to a certain degree. However, a therapeutic cocktail approach with 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, methyl B12, betaine, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) have not been studied. This novel approach may help target multiple pathways simultaneously to decrease tHcy and its toxicity substantially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Leon
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Darrell Sawmiller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - R Douglas Shytle
- Department of Neurosurgery and Brain Repair, Center for Excellence in Aging and Brain Repair, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jun Tan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Rashid Laboratory for Developmental Neurobiology, Silver Child Development Center, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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Aitken RJ. Reactive oxygen species as mediators of sperm capacitation and pathological damage. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:1039-1052. [PMID: 28749007 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 343] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a major role in the life and death of mammalian spermatozoa. These gametes are professional generators of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which appear to derive from three potential sources: sperm mitochondria, cytosolic L-amino acid oxidases, and plasma membrane Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases. The oxidative stress created via these sources appears to play a significant role in driving the physiological changes associated with sperm capacitation through the stimulation of a cyclic adenosine monophosphate/Protein kinase A phosphorylation cascade, including the activation of Extracellular signal regulated kinase-like proteins, massive up-regulation of tyrosine phosphorylation in the sperm tail, as well as the induction of sterol oxidation. When generated in excess, however, ROS can induce lipid peroxidation that, in turn, disrupts membrane characteristics that are critical for the maintenance of sperm function, including the capacity to fertilize an egg. Furthermore, the lipid aldehydes generated as a consequence of lipid peroxidation bind to proteins in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, triggering yet more ROS generation in a self-perpetuating cycle. The high levels of oxidative stress created as a result of this process ultimately damage the DNA in the sperm nucleus; indeed, DNA damage in the male germ line appears to be predominantly induced oxidatively, reflecting the vulnerability of these cells to such stress. Extensive evaluation of antioxidants that protect the spermatozoa against oxidative stress while permitting the normal reduction-oxidation regulation of sperm capacitation is therefore currently being undertaken, and has already proven efficacious in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Analysis of the effects of polyphenols on human spermatozoa reveals unexpected impacts on mitochondrial membrane potential, oxidative stress and DNA integrity; implications for assisted reproductive technology. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 121:78-96. [PMID: 27659810 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The need to protect human spermatozoa from oxidative stress during assisted reproductive technology, has prompted a detailed analysis of the impacts of phenolic compounds on the functional integrity of these cells. Investigation of 16 individual compounds revealed a surprising variety of negative effects including: (i) a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) via mechanisms that were not related to opening of the permeability transition pore but associated with a reduction in thiol expression, (ii) a decline in intracellular reduced glutathione, (iii) the stimulation of pro-oxidant activity including the induction of ROS generation from mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial sources, (iv) stimulation of lipid peroxidation, (v) the generation of oxidative DNA damage, and (vi) impaired sperm motility. For most of the polyphenolic compounds examined, the loss of motility was gradual and highly correlated with the induction of lipid peroxidation (r=0.889). The exception was gossypol, which induced a rapid loss of motility due to its inherent alkylating activity; one consequence of which was a marked reduction in carboxymethyl lysine expression on the sperm tail; a post-translational modification that is known to play a key role in the regulation of sperm movement. The only polyphenols that did not appear to have adverse effects on spermatozoa were resveratrol, genistein and THP at doses below 100μM. These compounds could, therefore, have some therapeutic potential in a clinical setting.
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