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Naeimi N, MohseniKouchesfehani H, Mahmoudzadeh-Sagheb H, Movahed S, Moudi B, Asemirad A, Sheibak N, Heidari Z. Downregulation of miR-211 expression in the blood plasma of infertile men compared to the fertile controls. Int J Urol 2024; 31:718-723. [PMID: 38470159 DOI: 10.1111/iju.15445] [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: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Infertility is inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected sex. MiRNA expression changes can serve as potential biomarkers for infertility in males due to impaired spermatogenesis. This research was conducted to measure the expression level of miR-211 in plasma samples as a factor identifying infertility in comparison with the control group. METHODS In this study, blood plasma were taken from the infertile men (n = 103) nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) or severe oligozoospermia (SO) and the control group (n = 121). The expression of circulating miR-211 in plasma was assessed by qRT-PCR. A relative quantification strategy was adopted using the 2-ΔΔCT method to calculate the target miR-211 expression level in both study groups. RESULTS Plasma miR-211 levels were significantly lower in infertile men compared to the control group (0.544 ± 0.028 and 1.203 ± 0.035, respectively, p < 0.001). Pearson's correlation analysis showed that miR-211 expression level has a positive and significant correlation with sperm parameters, including sperm concentration, sperm total motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Decreased expression of miR-211 in blood plasma seems to be associated with male infertility. This experiment showed that miR-211 can be considered as a biomarker for evaluation, diagnosis, and confirmation of the results of semen analysis in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Naeimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Mahmoudzadeh-Sagheb
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Saeed Movahed
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine Ali Ibne Abitaleb Hospital Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Bita Moudi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Azam Asemirad
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Nadia Sheibak
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Zahra Heidari
- Department of Histology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Research Institute of Cellular and Molecular Science in Infectious Diseases, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
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2
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Balder P, Jones C, Coward K, Yeste M. Sperm chromatin: Evaluation, epigenetic signatures and relevance for embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151429. [PMID: 38905808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151429] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin is distinct from somatic cell chromatin, as a result of extensive remodeling during the final stages of spermatogenesis. In this process, the majority of histones is replaced with protamines. The chromatin is consequently highly condensed and inert, which facilitates protection of the DNA. The sperm epigenomic landscape is shaped by histone retention, histone and protamine modification, DNA methylation, and RNAs. In recent years, sperm chromatin integrity and its epigenetic marks have been increasingly studied, and the constitution of sperm chromatin is steadily being uncovered. This growing body of research prompts assessment of the frequently overlooked involvement of sperm in fertility and embryonic development. Moreover, numerous endogenous and exogenous factors are known to affect sperm chromatin, which may in turn impact the reproductive success. Concerns have been raised about the effects of assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the sperm epigenome, embryonic development and offspring health. This review examines the structure and epigenetic signatures of sperm chromatin in the context of fertility and early embryonic development. Additionally, sperm chromatin evaluation and causes of aberrant integrity are outlined. Building on the knowledge discussed in the current review, future research should aim to elucidate the intricate relationship between all aspects of sperm chromatin and embryo development. This could lead to the uncovering of new targets for treating infertility, as well as the acquisition of much needed insights into the possible reciprocal association between ART and sperm chromatin integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Balder
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona ES-08010, Spain.
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3
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Bahmyari S, Khatami SH, Taghvimi S, Rezaei Arablouydareh S, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Farazmand T, Soltani Fard E, Solati A, Movahedpour A, Ghasemi H. MicroRNAs in Male Fertility. DNA Cell Biol 2024; 43:108-124. [PMID: 38394131 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2023.0314] [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] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Around 50% of all occurrences of infertility are attributable to the male factor, which is a significant global public health concern. There are numerous circumstances that might interfere with spermatogenesis and cause the body to produce abnormal sperm. While evaluating sperm, the count, the speed at which they migrate, and their appearance are the three primary characteristics that are analyzed. MicroRNAs, also known as miRNAs, are present in all physiological fluids and tissues. They participate in both physiological and pathological processes. Researches have demonstrated that the expression of microRNA genes differs in infertile men. These genes regulate spermatogenesis at various stages and in several male reproductive cells. Hence, microRNAs have the potential to act as useful indicators in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility and other diseases affecting male reproduction. Despite this, additional research is necessary to determine the precise miRNA regulation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Bahmyari
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Taghvimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahar Rezaei Arablouydareh
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Tooba Farazmand
- Departmant of Gynecology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elahe Soltani Fard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Arezoo Solati
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Shi Z, Yu M, Guo T, Sui Y, Tian Z, Ni X, Chen X, Jiang M, Jiang J, Lu Y, Lin M. MicroRNAs in spermatogenesis dysfunction and male infertility: clinical phenotypes, mechanisms and potential diagnostic biomarkers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1293368. [PMID: 38449855 PMCID: PMC10916303 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1293368] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples worldwide who are attempting to conceive, with male infertility accounting for 50% of infertility cases. Male infertility is related to various factors such as hormone imbalance, urogenital diseases, environmental factors, and genetic factors. Owing to its relationship with genetic factors, male infertility cannot be diagnosed through routine examination in most cases, and is clinically called 'idiopathic male infertility.' Recent studies have provided evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in a cell-or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. This review focuses on the role of miRNAs in male infertility and spermatogenesis. Data were collected from published studies that investigated the effects of miRNAs on spermatogenesis, sperm quality and quantity, fertilization, embryo development, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Based on the findings of these studies, we summarize the targets of miRNAs and the resulting functional effects that occur due to changes in miRNA expression at various stages of spermatogenesis, including undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and Sertoli cells (SCs). In addition, we discuss potential markers for diagnosing male infertility and predicting the varicocele grade, surgical outcomes, ART outcomes, and sperm retrieval rates in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Science Experiment Center, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tingchao Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Sui
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiying Tian
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiang Ni
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinren Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jingyi Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yongping Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meina Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Willems M, Devriendt C, Olsen C, Caljon B, Janssen T, Gies I, Vloeberghs V, Tournaye H, Van Saen D, Goossens E. Micro RNA in Semen/Urine from Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Patients as Biomarkers to Predict the Presence of Testicular Spermatozoa and Spermatogonia. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030616. [PMID: 36983773 PMCID: PMC10051987 DOI: 10.3390/life13030616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
About half of testicular sperm extraction (TESE) procedures in men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), including men with Klinefelter syndrome (KS), are unsuccessful. To avoid unnecessary invasive surgery, biomarkers for spermatozoa were studied. In addition, markers for spermatogonia in testis tissue were explored. This study aimed to find biomarkers in the semen and/or urine of NOA patients to predict the presence of spermatogonia in the testis. Differentially expressed miRNAs were identified (1) between samples from patients with and without a positive TESE procedure as well as (2) between TESE-negative patients with and without spermatogonia. A total of thirteen upregulated miRNAs (ten in seminal plasma and three in urine) were found in the TESE-negative/spermatogonia-positive group compared to the TESE-negative/spermatogonia-negative group. These miRNAs could be potential biomarkers for spermatogonia; however, more research is necessary to validate their predictive power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo Willems
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Devriendt
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Catharina Olsen
- Brussels Interuniversity Genomics High Throughput Core (BRIGHTcore) Platform, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ben Caljon
- Brussels Interuniversity Genomics High Throughput Core (BRIGHTcore) Platform, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Toon Janssen
- Brussels Interuniversity Genomics High Throughput Core (BRIGHTcore) Platform, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Inge Gies
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Veerle Vloeberghs
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproduction, Institute of Professional Education, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Trubetskaya Str. 8, b. 2, 119992 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dorien Van Saen
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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6
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Hussain T, Kandeel M, Metwally E, Murtaza G, Kalhoro DH, Yin Y, Tan B, Chughtai MI, Yaseen A, Afzal A, Kalhoro MS. Unraveling the harmful effect of oxidative stress on male fertility: A mechanistic insight. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1070692. [PMID: 36860366 PMCID: PMC9968806 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1070692] [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: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a widely debated issue that affects males globally. There are several mechanisms involved. Oxidative stress is accepted to be the main contributing factor, with sperm quality and quantity affected by the overproduction of free radicals. Excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) cannot be controlled by the antioxidant system and, thus, potentially impact male fertility and hamper sperm quality parameters. Mitochondria are the driving force of sperm motility; irregularities in their function may lead to apoptosis, alterations to signaling pathway function, and, ultimately, compromised fertility. Moreover, it has been observed that the prevalence of inflammation may arrest sperm function and the production of cytokines triggered by the overproduction of ROS. Further, oxidative stress interacts with seminal plasma proteomes that influence male fertility. Enhanced ROS production disturbs the cellular constituents, particularly DNA, and sperms are unable to impregnate the ovum. Here, we review the latest information to better understand the relationship between oxidative stress and male infertility, the role of mitochondria, the cellular response, inflammation and fertility, and the interaction of seminal plasma proteomes with oxidative stress, as well as highlight the influence of oxidative stress on hormones; collectively, all of these factors are assumed to be important for the regulation of male infertility. This article may help improve our understanding of male infertility and the strategies to prevent it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarique Hussain
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College (NIAB-C), Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
- *Correspondence: Tarique Hussain, ; Bie Tan,
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Hofuf, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelshikh University, Kafrelshikh, Egypt
| | - Elsayed Metwally
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Ghulam Murtaza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Dildar Hussain Kalhoro
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Yulong Yin
- Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bie Tan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- *Correspondence: Tarique Hussain, ; Bie Tan,
| | - Muhammad Ismail Chughtai
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College (NIAB-C), Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Anjaleena Yaseen
- Animal Sciences Division, Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology College (NIAB-C), Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Afzal
- Department of Zoology, Minhaj University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saleem Kalhoro
- Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology, Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand
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Amiri N, Mohammadi P, Allahgholi A, Salek F, Amini E. The potential of sertoli cells (SCs) derived exosomes and its therapeutic efficacy in male reproductive disorders. Life Sci 2022; 312:121251. [PMID: 36463941 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121251] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In the male reproductive system, seminiferous tubules in testis are lined by a complex stratified epithelium containing two distinct populations of cells, spermatogenic cells that develop into spermatozoa, and sertoli cells (SCs) that mainly support and nourish spermatogenic cell lineage as well as exerting powerful effect on men reproductive capacity. Different varieties of proteins, hormones, exosomes and growth factors are secreted by SCs. There are different kinds of junctions found between SCs called BTB. It was elucidated that complete absence of BTB or its dysfunction leads to infertility. To promote spermatogenesis, crosstalk of SCs with spermatogenic cells plays an important role. The ability of SCs to support germ cell productivity and development is related to its various products carrying out several functions. Exosomes (EXOs) are one of the main EVs with 30-100 nm size generating from endocytic pathway. They are produced in different parts of male reproductive system including epididymis, prostate and SCs. The most prominent characteristics of SC-based exosomes is considered mutual interaction of sertoli cells with spermatogonial stem cells and Leydig cells mainly through establishment of intercellular communication. Exosomes have gotten a lot of interest because of their role in pathobiological processes and as a cell free therapy which led to developing multiple exosome isolation methods based on different principles. Transmission of nucleic acids, proteins, and growth factors via SC-based exosomes and exosomal miRNAs are proved to have potential to be valuable biomarkers in male reproductive disease. Among testicular abnormalities, non-obstructive azoospermia and testicular cancer have been more contributed with SCs performance. The identification of key proteins and miRNAs involved in the signaling pathways related with spermatogenesis, can serve as diagnostic and regenerative targets in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Amiri
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Paria Mohammadi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Atefeh Allahgholi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran 15719-14911, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Salek
- Department of Biology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elaheh Amini
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
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Constâncio V, Tavares NT, Henrique R, Jerónimo C, Lobo J. MiRNA biomarkers in cancers of the male reproductive system: are we approaching clinical application? Andrology 2022; 11:651-667. [PMID: 35930290 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Specific cancer types face specific clinical management challenges. Owing to their stability, robustness and fast, easy, and cost-effective detection, microRNAs (miRNAs) are attractive candidate biomarkers to the clinic. OBJECTIVES Based on a comprehensive review of the relevant literature in the field, we explore the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers to answer relevant clinical dilemmas inherent to cancers of the male reproductive tract (prostate (PCa), testis (TGCTs) and penis (PeCa)) and identify some of the challenges/limitations hampering their widely application. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We conclude that the use of miRNAs as biomarkers is at different stages for these distinct cancer types. While for TGCTs, miRNA-371a-3p is universally accepted to fill in important clinicals gaps and is moving fast towards clinical implementation, for PCa almost no overlap of miRNAs exists between studies, denoting the absence of a consistent miRNA biomarker, and for PeCa the field of miRNAs has just recently started, with only a few studies attempting to explore their clinical usefulness. CONCLUSION Technological advances influencing miRNA detection and quantification will be instrumental to continue to move forward with implementation of miRNAs in the clinic as biomarkers for non-invasive diagnosis, risk stratification, treatment monitoring and follow-up. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Constâncio
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Doctoral Programme in Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-513, Portugal
| | - Nuno Tiago Tavares
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-513, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-513, Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, Porto, 4200-072, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, Porto, 4050-513, Portugal
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9
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Assidi M. Infertility in Men: Advances towards a Comprehensive and Integrative Strategy for Precision Theranostics. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101711. [PMID: 35626747 PMCID: PMC9139678 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an increasing and serious medical concern, though the mechanism remains poorly understood. Impaired male reproductive function affects approximately half of infertile couples worldwide. Multiple factors related to the environment, genetics, age, and comorbidities have been associated with impaired sperm function. Present-day clinicians rely primarily on standard semen analysis to diagnose male reproductive potential and develop treatment strategies. To address sperm quality assessment bias and enhance analysis accuracy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended standardized sperm testing; however, conventional diagnostic and therapeutic options for male infertility, including physical examination and semen standard analysis, remain ineffective in relieving the associated social burden. Instead, assisted reproductive techniques are becoming the primary therapeutic approach. In the post-genomic era, multiomics technologies that deeply interrogate the genome, transcriptome, proteome, and/or the epigenome, even at single-cell level, besides the breakthroughs in robotic surgery, stem cell therapy, and big data, offer promises towards solving semen quality deterioration and male factor infertility. This review highlights the complex etiology of male infertility, especially the roles of lifestyle and environmental factors, and discusses advanced technologies/methodologies used in characterizing its pathophysiology. A comprehensive combination of these innovative approaches in a global and multi-centric setting and fulfilling the suitable ethical consent could ensure optimal reproductive and developmental outcomes. These combinatorial approaches should allow for the development of diagnostic markers, molecular stratification classes, and personalized treatment strategies. Since lifestyle choices and environmental factors influence male fertility, their integration in any comprehensive approach is required for safe, proactive, cost-effective, and noninvasive precision male infertility theranostics that are affordable, accessible, and facilitate couples realizing their procreation dream.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; ; Tel.: +966-(012)-6402000 (ext. 69267)
- Medical Laboratory Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80216, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Goebel H, Koeditz B, Huerta M, Kameri E, Nestler T, Kamphausen T, Friemann J, Hamdorf M, Ohrmann T, Koehler P, Cornely OA, Montesinos-Rongen M, Nicol D, Schorle H, Boor P, Quaas A, Pallasch C, Heidenreich A, von Brandenstein M. COVID-19 Infection Induce miR-371a-3p Upregulation Resulting in Influence on Male Fertility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040858. [PMID: 35453608 PMCID: PMC9033010 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the first case of COVID-19 was reported and since then several groups have already published that the virus can be present in the testis. To study the influence of SARS-CoV-2 which cause a dysregulation of the androgen receptor (AR) level, thereby leading to fertility problems and inducing germ cell testicular changes in patients after the infection. Formalin-Fixed-Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) testicular samples from patients who died with or as a result of COVID-19 (n = 32) with controls (n = 6), inflammatory changes (n = 9), seminoma with/without metastasis (n = 11) compared with healthy biopsy samples (n = 3) were analyzed and compared via qRT-PCR for the expression of miR-371a-3p. An immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) and ELISA were performed in order to highlight the miR-371a-3p targeting the AR. Serum samples of patients with mild or severe COVID-19 symptoms (n = 34) were analyzed for miR-371a-3p expression. In 70% of the analyzed postmortem testicular tissue samples, a significant upregulation of the miR-371a-3p was detected, and 75% of the samples showed a reduced spermatogenesis. In serum samples, the upregulation of the miR-371a-3p was also detectable. The upregulation of the miR-371a-3p is responsible for the downregulation of the AR in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients, resulting in decreased spermatogenesis. Since the dysregulation of the AR is associated with infertility, further studies have to confirm if the identified dysregulation is regressive after a declining infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heike Goebel
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (H.G.); (A.Q.)
| | - Barbara Koeditz
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Manuel Huerta
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Ersen Kameri
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Tim Nestler
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Thomas Kamphausen
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Melatengürtel 60/62, 50823 Cologne, Germany;
| | - Johannes Friemann
- Klinikum Lüdenscheid, Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Paulmannshöher Straße 14, 58515 Lüdenscheid, Germany;
| | - Matthias Hamdorf
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), 1018 Westwood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
| | - Timo Ohrmann
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
| | - Philipp Koehler
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Chair Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Oliver A. Cornely
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
- Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Chair Translational Research, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
- Clinical Trials Centre Cologne (ZKS Köln), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50935 Cologne, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Bonn-Cologne, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Manuel Montesinos-Rongen
- Department of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany;
| | - David Nicol
- The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, London SW3 6JJ, UK;
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Bonn Clinics, University of Bonn, 53113 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Peter Boor
- Department of Pathology, RWTH Aachen University, 52062 Aachen, Germany;
| | - Alexander Quaas
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (H.G.); (A.Q.)
| | - Christian Pallasch
- Excellence Center for Medical Mycology (ECMM), Department I of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (P.K.); (O.A.C.); (C.P.)
| | - Axel Heidenreich
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
- Department of Urology, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Melanie von Brandenstein
- Clinic and Polyclinic for Urology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 62, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (B.K.); (M.H.); (E.K.); (T.N.); (T.O.); (A.H.)
- Correspondence:
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Asadpour R, Mofidi Chelan E. Using microRNAs as molecular biomarkers for the evaluation of male infertility. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14298. [PMID: 34738652 DOI: 10.1111/and.14298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a multiplex disorder in the reproductive system, and men are responsible for more than half of the cases. Nowadays, semen analysis has been considered the critical assessment test to diagnose infertile men; however, it has limitations so that the cause behind infertility in 40% of infertile men is unrevealed. Weaknesses of semen assessment indicate a global need for novel and better diagnostic tools and biomarkers. MicroRNAs are short (about 18-22 nucleotide length) non-coding RNAs that control most (>60%) of our protein-coding genes post-transcriptionally. These molecules are aberrant in the body fluids, and abnormal alterations in their expression level can signify a specific disease such as infertility. Therefore, microRNAs can be novel candidate biomarkers that can diagnose different types of male infertility, including azoospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia. This narrative review aimed to collect and sum up new papers published about the significant role of microRNAs in different male infertility categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Asadpour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mofidi Chelan
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
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12
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Conduit C, Tran B. Improving outcomes in germ cell cancers using miRNA. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2021; 13:17588359211027826. [PMID: 34262617 PMCID: PMC8252353 DOI: 10.1177/17588359211027826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Owing to advances in treatment paradigms across the last five decades, testicular cancer is now eminently curable. However, current serum tumour and imaging biomarkers lack adequate sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value. Subsequently, their utility in detecting active malignancy and informing treatment decisions is minimal in a large proportion of men with testicular cancer. Micro-ribonucleic acids (miRNA), pertinently miR-371a-3p, offer a new tool, which based on early data, appears to fill many of the gaps that existing biomarkers leave. This paper reviews the evolution of the technology, potential limitations, and discusses the clinical relevance of miRNA as it moves towards the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciara Conduit
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ben Tran
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Locked Bag 1, A’Beckett St, Melbourne, VIC 8006, Australia
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Vickram A, Srikumar P, Srinivasan S, Jeyanthi P, Anbarasu K, Thanigaivel S, Nibedita D, Jenila Rani D, Rohini K. Seminal exosomes - An important biological marker for various disorders and syndrome in human reproduction. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:3607-3615. [PMID: 34121904 PMCID: PMC8176048 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes are nano-sized membrane vesicles, secreted by different types of cells into the body's biological fluids. They are found in abundance in semen as compared to other fluids. Exosomes contain a cargo of lipid molecules, proteins, phospholipids, cholesterol, mRNAs, and miRNAs. Each molecule of seminal exosomes (SE) has a potential role in male reproduction for childbirth. Many potential candidates are available within the seminal exosomes that can be used as diagnostic markers for various diseases or syndromes associated with male reproduction. Also these seminal exospmes play a major role in female reproductive tract for effective fertilization. AIM The aim of this review is to focus on the advancement of human seminal exosomal research and its various properties. METHODS We used many databases like Scopus, Google scholar, NCBI-NLM and other sources to filter the articles of interest published in exosomes. We used phrases like "Exosomes in human semen", "Composition of exosomes in human semen" and other relevant words to filter the best articles. RESULTS Seminal exosomes play a major role in sperm functions like cell-to-cell communication, motility of the sperm cells, maintaining survival capacity for the sperm in the female reproductive tract and spermatogenesis. Also, seminal exosomes are used as a carrier for many regulatory elements using small RNA molecules. miRNAs of the seminal exosomes can be used as a diagnostic marker for prostate cancer instead of prostate specific antigen (PSA). Epididymosomes can be used as a biomarker for reproductive diseases and male infertility. CONCLUSION Seminal exosomes could be used as biological markers for various reproductive disorders, male infertility diagnosis, and it can be used in anti-retroviral research for the identification of novel therapeutics for HIV-1 infection and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- A.S. Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P.S. Srikumar
- Unit of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong, Kedah,Malaysia
| | - S. Srinivasan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanivelu Jeyanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - K. Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S. Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dey Nibedita
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - D. Jenila Rani
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karunakaran Rohini
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong, Kedah, Malaysia
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Mørup N, Stakaitis R, Golubickaite I, Riera M, Dalgaard MD, Schierup MH, Jørgensen N, Daugaard G, Juul A, Almstrup K. Small RNAs in Seminal Plasma as Novel Biomarkers for Germ Cell Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102346. [PMID: 34067956 PMCID: PMC8152278 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men. It is rarely diagnosed at early stages, being only detected with a highly invasive procedure that presents notable side-effects. Circulating small RNAs have recently been identified as testicular tumor markers, but are unable to diagnose testicular cancer at an early pre-invasive stage. So far, studies have been limited to microRNAs, with other small RNAs remaining unexplored as likely biomarkers. By sequencing all small RNAs in semen samples from men with different stages of testicular cancer and healthy men, we identify signatures predictive of cancer, even at an early stage. Thus, our study provides great potential for non-invasive early diagnosis of testicular cancer. Extensive biological variance in small RNA levels across samples, together with small sample sizes, limit the power to detect single small RNA markers. Hence, larger studies are needed to confirm our findings and deduce their full diagnostic capacity. Abstract Circulating miRNAs secreted by testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) show great potential as novel non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of TGCT. Seminal plasma (SP) represents a biofluid closer to the primary site. Here, we investigate whether small RNAs in SP can be used to diagnose men with TGCTs or the precursor lesions, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). Small RNAs isolated from SP from men with TGCTs (n = 18), GCNIS-only (n = 5), and controls (n = 25) were sequenced. SP from men with TGCT/GCNIS (n = 37) and controls (n = 22) were used for validation by RT-qPCR. In general, piRNAs were found at lower levels in SP from men with TGCTs. Ten small RNAs were found at significantly (q-value < 0.05) different levels in SP from men with TGCT/GCNIS than controls. Random forests classification identified sets of small RNAs that could detect either TGCT/GCNIS or GCNIS-only with an area under the curve of 0.98 and 1 in ROC analyses, respectively. RT-qPCR validated hsa-miR-6782-5p to be present at 2.3-fold lower levels (p = 0.02) in the SP from men with TGCTs compared with controls. Small RNAs in SP show potential as novel biomarkers for diagnosing men with TGCT/GCNIS but validation in larger cohorts is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Mørup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rytis Stakaitis
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurooncology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Ieva Golubickaite
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Meritxell Riera
- Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Marlene Danner Dalgaard
- DTU Multi-Assay Core, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Lyngby, Denmark;
| | - Mikkel H. Schierup
- Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark; (M.R.); (M.H.S.)
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gedske Daugaard
- Department of Oncology, Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; (N.M.); (R.S.); (I.G.); (N.J.); (A.J.)
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +45-3545-6639
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martinez EA, Calvete JJ, Peña Vega FJ, Roca J. Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094368. [PMID: 33922047 PMCID: PMC8122421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA-the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-132-869-25
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| | - Juan J. Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Estructural y Funcional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, C.S.I.C., 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando J. Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 10003 Caceres, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
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Lobo J, Leão R, Jerónimo C, Henrique R. Liquid Biopsies in the Clinical Management of Germ Cell Tumor Patients: State-of-the-Art and Future Directions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052654. [PMID: 33800799 PMCID: PMC7961393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsies constitute a minimally invasive means of managing cancer patients, entailing early diagnosis, follow-up and prediction of response to therapy. Their use in the germ cell tumor field is invaluable since diagnostic tissue biopsies (which are invasive) are often not performed, and therefore only a presumptive diagnosis can be made, confirmed upon examination of the surgical specimen. Herein, we provide an overall review of the current liquid biopsy-based biomarkers of this disease, including the classical, routinely used serum tumor markers—the promising microRNAs rapidly approaching the introduction into clinical practice—but also cell-free DNA markers (including DNA methylation) and circulating tumor cells. Finally, and importantly, we also explore novel strategies and challenges for liquid biopsy markers and methodologies, providing a critical view of the future directions for liquid biopsy tests in this field, highlighting gaps and unanswered questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Leão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, IPO Porto Research Center (GEBC CI-IPOP), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) & Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (P.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-513 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (C.J.); (R.H.); Tel.: +351-22-225084000 (C.J. & R.H.); Fax: +351-22-5084199 (C.J. & R.H.)
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Wang F, Yang W, Ouyang S, Yuan S. The Vehicle Determines the Destination: The Significance of Seminal Plasma Factors for Male Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228499. [PMID: 33198061 PMCID: PMC7696680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Of all human infertility cases, up to 50% show contributing factors leading to defects in the male reproductive physiology. Seminal plasma (SP) is the biological fluid derived from the male accessory sex gland which carries spermatozoa passing throughout the male and female reproductive tract during ejaculation. It contains a complicated set of heterogeneous molecular structures, including proteins, cell-free nucleic acid (DNA, microRNA and LncRNA), and small-molecule metabolites as well as inorganic chemicals (ions). For a long time, the substantial significance of seminal plasma factors’ functions has been underestimated, which is restricted to spermatozoa transport and protection. Notably, significant advancements have been made in dissecting seminal plasma components, revealing new insights into multiple aspects of sperm function, as well as fertilization and pregnancy outcomes in recent years. In this review, we summarize the state-of-art discoveries regarding SP compositions and their implications in male fertility, particularly describing the novel understanding of seminal plasma components and related modifications using “omics” approaches and mainly focusing on proteome and RNA-seq data in the latest decade. Meanwhile, we highlighted the proposed mechanism of the regulation of SP molecules on immunomodulation in the female reproductive tract. Moreover, we also discussed the proteins investigated as non-invasive diagnosis biomarkers for male infertility in the clinic.
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18
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Kops AL, Hulsker CC, Fiocco M, Zsiros J, Mavinkurve-Groothuis AMC, Looijenga LH, van der Steeg AF, Wijnen MH. Malignant recurrence after mature Sacrococcygeal teratoma: A meta-analysis and review of the literature. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 156:103140. [PMID: 33142194 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is a rare extragonadal germ cell tumour mostly diagnosed during infancy and early childhood. Neonatal SCTs are mostly mature, but can also contain immature and/or malignant components. Recurrence of an SCT alters prognosis, especially when it is malignant, of which its mechanism is not yet fully understood. This study is a review and meta-analysis of the literature on malignant recurrences after an initially mature SCT. METHODS A literature search was performed to identify studies describing children with SCT and presenting specific information on histology of the initial tumour as well as the recurrence. Random effect models for mature recurrence and malignant recurrence after an initially mature SCT were employed to pool study-specific percentages in order to estimate an overall percentage and its associated 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Inverse variance method, which gives more weight to larger studies, was used to pool outcomes for the different studies. RESULTS A total of 22 articles, comprising 1516 patients with SCT, were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled proportions of mature and malignant recurrences after mature SCT were 3 % (95 % CI 1-4 %) and 5% (95 % CI 3-6 %), respectively. Fifty-seven (56 %) of a total of 102 recurrences after resection of an initially mature SCT were malignant, mostly yolk sac tumour (YST). Many recurrences occurred within 1-6 years, however some occurred as long as 20 years after initial diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS A substantial number of recurrences of mature SCT present as a malignant tumour. Overlooking malignant components on initial pathological evaluation and the progression of mature SCT cells to malignant cells may play a role. Treatment of mature SCTs with resection alone requires thorough follow-up of at least 6 years. Future research is needed to determine whether SCTs with malignant microfoci should be treated or followed-up differently from mature or immature SCTs. In addition, the value of serum biomarkers in follow-up after SCT needs to be further evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aranka L Kops
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | - Marta Fiocco
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - József Zsiros
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Marc Hw Wijnen
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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19
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Cannarella R, Barbagallo F, Crafa A, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE. Seminal Plasma Transcriptome and Proteome: Towards a Molecular Approach in the Diagnosis of Idiopathic Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197308. [PMID: 33022946 PMCID: PMC7582752 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
As the “-omic” technology has largely developed, its application in the field of medical science seems a highly promising tool to clarify the etiology, at least in part, of the so-called idiopathic male infertility. The seminal plasma (SP) is made-up of secretions coming from the male accessory glands, namely epididymis, seminal vesicles, and prostate. It is not only a medium for sperm transport since it is able to modulate the female reproductive environment and immunity, to allow the acquisition of sperm competence, to influence the sperm RNA content, and even embryo development. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an updated and comprehensive description of the main transcripts and proteins reported by transcriptome and proteome studies performed in the human SP of patients with idiopathic infertility, in the attempt of identifying possible candidate molecular targets. We recurrently found that micro RNA (miR)-34, miR-122, and miR-509 are down-regulated in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and oligozoospermia compared with fertile controls. These molecules may represent interesting targets whose predictive role in testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or assisted reproductive techniques (ART) outcome deserves further investigation. Furthermore, according to the available proteomic studies, ECM1, TEX101, lectingalactoside-binding andsoluble 3 binding protein (LGALS3BP) have been reported as accurate predictors of TESE outcome. Interestingly, ECM1 is differently expressed in patients with different ART outcomes. Further prospective, ample-sized studies are needed to validate these molecular targets that will help in the counseling of patients with NOA or undergoing ART.
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20
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Qasemi M, Amidi F. Extracellular microRNA profiling in human follicular fluid: new biomarkers in female reproductive potential. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1769-1780. [PMID: 32642870 PMCID: PMC7468023 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01860-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, about 22 nucleotides, non-coding RNAs which regulate a wide range of gene expression during post-transcriptional stage. They are released into intra- and extracellular microenvironments and play vital roles in different physiological and pathological pathways. Due to easy accessibility, detection of extracellular miRNAs in body fluids, e.g. serum, plasma, cerebrospinal fluid, and follicular fluid, has been explored in recent years. Since miRNAs are stable at unsuitable conditions, scientists have been investigating to use them as biomarkers in different fields of medicines. It goes without saying that experienced biomarkers would be required in reproductive medicine as well. Biomarkers can help clinicians and embryologists to diagnose disorders and assess the embryo quality via molecular pattern which is more reliable than nowadays routine methods. Follicular fluid as a noninvasive fluid in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has attracted researchers as a rich pool for biomarkers, and miRNAs are not exception. Although miRNA biomarkers in reproduction field are located on their initial stage and there is a long path to move forward, several meticulous studies have been performed and discovered their associations with various conditions. In this regard, we summarize the reported miRNAs in follicular fluid and their correlations with female infertility and ART success rate, while subsequent investigations are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Qasemi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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Sun J, Sun X. Recent advances in the construction of DNA nanostructure with signal amplification and ratiometric response for miRNA sensing and imaging. Trends Analyt Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2020.115900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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22
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Liang M, Wang H, He C, Zhang K, Hu K. LncRNA-Gm2044 is transcriptionally activated by A-MYB and regulates Sycp1 expression as a miR-335-3p sponge in mouse spermatocyte-derived GC-2spd(ts) cells. Differentiation 2020; 114:49-57. [PMID: 32585553 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to execute key roles in spermatogenesis. However, little is known about how lncRNAs gene expression is itself regulated in the germ cells of testis. We previously demonstrated that high expression of lncRNA-Gm2044 exists in spermatocytes and can regulate male germ cell proliferation. Here, the transcriptional regulation of lnRNA-Gm2044 expression in spermatocytes and the downstream signaling were further explored. A bioinformatics assessment predicted two potential binding-sites for the spermatocyte-specific transcription factor A-MYB in the promoter region of lncRNA-Gm2044. Our results proved that the transcription factor A-MYB promotes the expression of lncRNA-Gm2044 in mouse spermatocyte-derived GC-2spd(ts) cells. ChIP and luciferase assays verified that A-MYB mainly binds to the distal promoter region (-819 bp relative to the transcription start site) of lncRNA-Gm2044 and regulates lncRNA-Gm2044 expression through the -819 bp binding-site. In addition, we confirmed that lncRNA-Gm2044 functions as a miR-335-3p sponge to enhance the levels of miR-335-3p's direct target protein, Sycp1. Furthermore, A-MYB can up-regulate Sycp1 expression and down-regulate GC-2spd(ts) cell proliferation by activating its target, lncRNA-Gm2044. Overexpression of lncRNA-Gm2044 or knockdown of miR-335-3p can, at least partially, rescue the effects of A-MYB on Sycp1 expression and GC-2spd(ts) cell proliferation.Taken together, our results provide new information on the mechanistic roles of lncRNA-miRNA in transcription factor A-MYB regulation of spermatocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haiyan Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaofan He
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Kejia Zhang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Belge G, Hennig F, Dumlupinar C, Grobelny F, Junker K, Radtke A, Dieckmann KP. Graded expression of microRNA-371a-3p in tumor tissues, contralateral testes, and in serum of patients with testicular germ cell tumor. Oncotarget 2020; 11:1462-1473. [PMID: 32363003 PMCID: PMC7185068 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.27565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Serum levels of microRNA-371a-3p represent a specific tumor marker of testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) but the origin of circulating miR-371a-3p is not finally resolved. The correlation between miR-levels in tissue and serum is unclear.
Results: MiR-levels in GCT tissue are 399-fold higher than in contralateral testicular tissue and 5843-fold higher than in non-testicular tissue. MiR tissue levels correlate with corresponding serum levels (r2 = 0.181). ISH detected miR-371a-3p intracellularly in GCT cells except teratoma. A low expression was also detected in normal testicular germ cells.
Conclusions: Circulating miR-371a-3p is specifically derived from GCT tissue. The miR is present in GCT cells except teratoma. A low expression is also found in normal testicular tissue but not in non-testicular tissue. MiR-371a-3p levels in tissue and serum correlate significantly. This study underscores the usefulness of serum miR-371a-3p as tumor marker of GCT.
Patients and methods: Expression levels of miR-371a-3p were concurrently measured in tissues of GCT, contralateral testes (n = 38), and in serum (n = 36) with real time PCR. For control, 5 healthy testicles and 4 non-testicular tissue samples were examined. MiR-levels were compared using descriptive statistical methods. We also performed in situ hybridization (ISH) of GCT tissue with a probe specific for miR-371a-3p.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gazanfer Belge
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Finja Hennig
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Cansu Dumlupinar
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | | | - Klaus Junker
- Department of Pathology, Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Bremen, Germany
| | - Arlo Radtke
- Faculty of Biology and Chemistry, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
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CRIPTO and miR-371a-3p Are Serum Biomarkers of Testicular Germ Cell Tumors and Are Detected in Seminal Plasma from Azoospermic Males. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030760. [PMID: 32210110 PMCID: PMC7140045 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
miR-371a-3p is currently the most informative reported biomarker for germ cell tumors (GCTs). Another developmental-related biomarker, CRIPTO, is involved in the regulation of pluripotency and germ cell fate commitment. We aimed to assess the value of CRIPTO as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of testicular GCTs (TGCTs) and also to assess its presence in seminal plasma samples, compared with miR-371a-3p. In total, 217 and 94 serum/seminal plasma samples were analyzed. CRIPTO was quantified using ELISA and miR-371a-3p using bead-based isolation followed by RT-qPCR. Methylation profiling (EPIC array) for the CRIPTO promoter region was undertaken in 35 TGCT tissues plus four (T)GCT cell lines. Significantly higher CRIPTO concentration was found in sera of non-seminomas compared to controls (p = 0.0297), and in stage II/III disease compared to stage I (p = 0.0052, p = 0.0097). CRIPTO concentration was significantly positively correlated with miR-371a-3p levels in serum (r = 0.16) and seminal plasma (r = 0.40). CRIPTO/miR-371a-3p levels were significantly higher in seminal plasma controls when compared to serum controls (p = 0.0001, p < 0.0001). CRIPTO/miR-371a-3p were detected both in normospermic and azoospermic males, and levels were higher in TGCTs compared to GCNIS-only. We have provided the largest dataset of evaluation of CRIPTO in serum and seminal plasma of GCTs, showing its potential value as a biomarker of the disease.
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25
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Non-Coding microRNAs as Novel Potential Tumor Markers in Testicular Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12030749. [PMID: 32235691 PMCID: PMC7140096 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12030749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular cancer is an important disease with increasing incidence and a high burden of morbidity and mortality in young men worldwide. Histological examination of the testicular tissue after orchiectomy plays an important role alongside patient history, imaging, clinical presentation and laboratory parameters. Surgical procedures and chemotherapeutic treatment provide a high chance of cure in early stages, though some patients in advanced stages belonging to a poor risk group experience cancer-related death. Though conventional serum-based tumor markers, including α-fetoprotein (AFP), the β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), are useful as prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, unfortunately, these tumor markers only have a sensitivity of about 60%, and in pure seminoma even lower with about 20%. Therefore, the development of new tumor markers is an important and intensively ongoing issue. The analysis of epigenetic modification and non-coding RNA microRNAs (miRNAs) are carrying most promising potential as tumor markers in future. miRNAs are small RNAs secreted by testicular tumor cells and circulate and be measurable in body fluids. In recent years, miRNAs of the miR-371-373 cluster in particular have been identified as potentially superior tumor markers in testicular cancer patients. Studies showed that miR-371a-3p and miR-302/367 expression significantly differ between testicular tumors and healthy testicular tissue. Several studies including high prospective multi-center trials clearly demonstrated that these miRNAs significantly exceed the sensitivity and specificity of conventional tumor markers and may help to facilitate the diagnosis, follow-up, and early detection of recurrences in testicular cancer patients. In addition, other miRNAs such as miR-223-3p, miR-449, miR-383, miR-514a-3p, miR-199a-3p, and miR-214 will be discussed in this review. However, further studies are needed to identify the value of these novel markers in additional clinical scenarios, including the monitoring in active surveillance or after adjuvant chemotherapy, but also to show the limitations of these tumor markers. The aim of this review is to give an overview on the current knowledge regarding the relevance of non-coding miRNAs as biomarkers in testicular cancer.
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26
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Daneshmandpour Y, Bahmanpour Z, Hamzeiy H, Mazaheri Moghaddam M, Mazaheri Moghaddam M, Khademi B, Sakhinia E. MicroRNAs association with azoospermia, oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia: a systematic review. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:763-775. [PMID: 32189180 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01674-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a major health problem across the world. One of the main reasons for male infertility are defects in sperm. Semen analysis is the most common test utilized to evaluate male fertility and since it suffers from multiple drawbacks, reproduction scientists have tried to find new molecular markers for detecting sperm defects. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules in cells which take part in regulating gene expression. Various studies have confirmed miRNAs to have a role in defining multiple sperm characteristics, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. In this paper, we have systematically reviewed the role of miRNAs in infertile men with sperm defects including azoospermia, oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia. Also, we have assembled various bioinformatics tools to come up with a pipeline for predicting novel miRNAs which could possibly participate in sperm count, motility, and morphology. Also, related KEGG and GO terms for predicted miRNAs have been included in order to highlight their role in sperm function. Our study emphasizes the potential role of miRNAs in male infertility and provides a general overview for future studies aiming to find robust molecular markers for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Daneshmandpour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Tabriz Genetic Analysis Centre (TGAC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahmanpour
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Hamzeiy
- Tabriz Genetic Analysis Centre (TGAC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Genomize Inc., Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Marziyeh Mazaheri Moghaddam
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Tabriz Genetic Analysis Centre (TGAC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Madiheh Mazaheri Moghaddam
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences (ZUMS), Zanjan, Iran
| | - Bahareh Khademi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Sakhinia
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Tabriz Genetic Analysis Centre (TGAC), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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27
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Application of miRNAs in the diagnosis and monitoring of testicular germ cell tumours. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 17:201-213. [PMID: 32157202 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-0296-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most frequent cancer type in young men and originate from the common precursor germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). For decades, clinical management of patients with TGCT has relied on classic serum tumour markers: α-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin subunit-β and lactate dehydrogenase. In the past 10 years, microRNAs have been shown to outperform classic serum tumour markers in the diagnosis of primary tumours and in follow-up monitoring and prediction of relapse. miR-371a-3p is the most consistent marker and exhibits >90% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity in TGCT. However, miR-371a-3p cannot be used to diagnose GCNIS or mature teratoma. Future efforts must technically standardize the microRNA-based methods internationally and introduce miR-371a-3p as a molecular liquid biopsy-based marker for TGCTs in the clinic.
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28
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Rajpert-De Meyts E. Testicular germ cell cancer: recent developments in biology and clinical management. Andrology 2019; 7:391-393. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth and Reproduction; Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet); Copenhagen Denmark
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