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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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Wang H, Zhu B, Jing T, Yu L, Zhang K, Liu Y, Wang H. Lycopene inhibits apoptosis of mouse spermatocytes in varicocele via miR-23a/b-induced downregulation of PROK2. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23136. [PMID: 38301353 DOI: 10.1071/rd23136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Context The varicocele is the leading cause of male infertility and can impair sperm quality and testicular function through various mechanisms. In our previous study, we found that lycopene could attenuate hypoxia-induced testicular injury. Aims To illustrate the detailed mechanism of lycopene on spermatocytes. Methods The effect of lycopene on GC-2 cells under hypoxia were detected by flow cytometry and western blot assay. miR-seq was used to determine miRNA expression in varicocele rat model testes. The function of miR-23a/b were determined by flow cytometry and western blot assay. Key results We demonstrate that lycopene could alleviate hypoxia-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis and could elevate miR-23a/b expression of the hypoxia model in vivo and in vitro . The miR-23a and -23b mimics could reduce the hypoxia-induced GC-2 cell apoptosis. Both miR-23a and -23b could directly bind with prokineticin 2 (PROK2) mRNA and downregulate its expression. Conclusions Lycopene could attenuate hypoxia-induced spermatocyte injury through the miR-23a/b-PROK2 pathway. Implications Lycopene may be an effective treatment for varicocele to improve testicular impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongqiang Wang
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Baojuan Zhu
- Department of Hemodialysis Room, Nephrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Tao Jing
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Kaishu Zhang
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
| | - Hanshu Wang
- Department of Andrology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, No. 16 Jiangsu Road, Shinan District, Qingdao, Shandong Province 266000, China
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Ferrero G, Festa R, Follia L, Lettieri G, Tarallo S, Notari T, Giarra A, Marinaro C, Pardini B, Marano A, Piaggeschi G, Di Battista C, Trifuoggi M, Piscopo M, Montano L, Naccarati A. Small noncoding RNAs and sperm nuclear basic proteins reflect the environmental impact on germ cells. Mol Med 2024; 30:12. [PMID: 38243211 PMCID: PMC10799426 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00776-6] [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: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular techniques can complement conventional spermiogram analyses to provide new information on the fertilizing potential of spermatozoa and to identify early alterations due to environmental pollution. METHODS Here, we present a multilevel molecular profiling by small RNA sequencing and sperm nuclear basic protein analysis of male germ cells from 33 healthy young subjects residing in low and high-polluted areas. RESULTS Although sperm motility and sperm concentration were comparable between samples from the two sites, those from the high-pollution area had a higher concentration of immature/immune cells, a lower protamine/histone ratio, a reduced ability of sperm nuclear basic proteins to protect DNA from oxidative damage, and an altered copper/zinc ratio in sperm. Sperm levels of 32 microRNAs involved in intraflagellar transport, oxidative stress response, and spermatogenesis were different between the two areas. In parallel, a decrease of Piwi-interacting RNA levels was observed in samples from the high-polluted area. CONCLUSIONS This comprehensive analysis provides new insights into pollution-driven epigenetic alterations in sperm not detectable by spermiogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Ferrero
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
- Department of Computer Science, University of Turin, Corso Svizzera, 185, 10149, Turin, Italy
| | - Rosaria Festa
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Laura Follia
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10043, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Gennaro Lettieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Sonia Tarallo
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, SP 142 Km. 3,95, 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Tiziana Notari
- Check-Up PolyDiagnostic and Research Laboratory, Andrology Unit, Viale Andrea De Luca 5, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Antonella Giarra
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Marinaro
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Pardini
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, SP 142 Km. 3,95, 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marano
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Piaggeschi
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, SP 142 Km. 3,95, 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Carla Di Battista
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, SP 142 Km. 3,95, 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Marco Trifuoggi
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 21, 80126, Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (Eco-FoodFertility Project), S. Francesco di Assisi Hospital, 84020, Oliveto Citra, Salerno, Italy.
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Alessio Naccarati
- Italian Institute for Genomic Medicine (IIGM), c/o IRCCS Candiolo, SP 142 Km. 3,95, 10060, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
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EL Nagar AG, Salem MMI, Amin AMS, Khalil MH, Ashour AF, Hegazy MM, Abdel-Shafy H. A Single-Step Genome-Wide Association Study for Semen Traits of Egyptian Buffalo Bulls. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3758. [PMID: 38136796 PMCID: PMC10740893 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243758] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to contribute to the limited research on buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) semen traits by incorporating genomic data. A total of 8465 ejaculates were collected. The genotyping procedure was conducted using the Axiom® Buffalo Genotyping 90 K array designed by the Affymetrix Expert Design Program. After conducting a quality assessment, we utilized 67,282 SNPs genotyped in 192 animals. We identified several genomic loci explaining high genetic variance by employing single-step genomic evaluation. The aforementioned regions were located on buffalo chromosomes no. 3, 4, 6, 7, 14, 16, 20, 22, and the X-chromosome. The X-chromosome exhibited substantial influence, accounting for 4.18, 4.59, 5.16, 5.19, and 4.31% of the genomic variance for ejaculate volume, mass motility, livability, abnormality, and concentration, respectively. In the examined genomic regions, we identified five novel candidate genes linked to male fertility and spermatogenesis, four in the X-chromosome and one in chromosome no. 16. Additional extensive research with larger sample sizes and datasets is imperative to validate these findings and evaluate their applicability for genomic selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman G. EL Nagar
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture at Moshtohor, Benha University, Benha 13736, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed M. I. Salem
- Department of Animal and Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture (El-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt;
| | - Amin M. S. Amin
- Animal Production Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza 12619, Egypt; (A.M.S.A.); (A.F.A.); (M.M.H.)
| | - Maher H. Khalil
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture at Moshtohor, Benha University, Benha 13736, Egypt;
| | - Ayman F. Ashour
- Animal Production Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza 12619, Egypt; (A.M.S.A.); (A.F.A.); (M.M.H.)
| | - Mohammed M. Hegazy
- Animal Production Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza 12619, Egypt; (A.M.S.A.); (A.F.A.); (M.M.H.)
| | - Hamdy Abdel-Shafy
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, El-Gamma Street, Giza 12613, Egypt;
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Lu L, Abbott AL. Male gonad-enriched microRNAs function to control sperm production in C. elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.10.561762. [PMID: 37873419 PMCID: PMC10592766 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.10.561762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Germ cell development and gamete production in animals require small RNA pathways. While studies indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs) are necessary for normal sperm production and function, the specific roles for individual miRNAs are largely unknown. Here, we use small RNA sequencing of dissected gonads and functional analysis of new loss of function alleles to identify functions for miRNAs in the control of fecundity and sperm production in Caenorhabditis elegans males and hermaphrodites. We describe a set of 29 male gonad-enriched miRNAs and identify a set of 3 individual miRNAs (mir-58.1, mir-83, and mir-235) and a miRNA cluster (mir-4807-4810.1) that are required for optimal sperm production at 20°C and 5 additional miRNAs (mir-49, mir-57, mir-261, and mir-357/358) that are required for sperm production at 25°C. We observed defects in meiotic progression in mir-58.1, mir-83, mir-235, and mir-4807-4810.1 mutants that may contribute to the reduced number of sperm. Further, analysis of multiple mutants of these miRNAs suggested complex genetic interactions between these miRNAs for sperm production. This study provides insights on the regulatory roles of miRNAs that promote optimal sperm production and fecundity in males and hermaphrodites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
| | - Allison L. Abbott
- Department of Biological Sciences, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI, 53201 USA
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6
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Rajpert-De Meyts E, Krausz C. European Academy of Andrology (EAA): Annual report 2022. Andrology 2023; 11:1528-1536. [PMID: 37740518 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13527] [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] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth & Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Becker LS, Al Smadi MA, Koch H, Abdul-Khaliq H, Meese E, Abu-Halima M. Towards a More Comprehensive Picture of the MicroRNA-23a/b-3p Impact on Impaired Male Fertility. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:800. [PMID: 37372085 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The expression levels of various genes involved in human spermatogenesis are influenced by microRNAs (miRNAs), specifically microRNA-23a/b-3p. While certain genes are essential for spermatogenesis and male germ cell function, the regulation of their expression remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether microRNA-23a/b-3p targets genes involved in spermatogenesis and the impact of this targeting on the expression levels of these genes in males with impaired fertility. In-silico prediction and dual-luciferase assays were used to determine the potential connections between microRNA-23a/b-3p overexpression and reduced expression levels of 16 target genes. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was conducted on 41 oligoasthenozoospermic men receiving infertility treatment and 41 age-matched normozoospermic individuals to verify the lower expression level of target genes. By employing dual-luciferase assays, microRNA-23a-3p was found to directly target eight genes, namely NOL4, SOX6, GOLGA6C, PCDHA9, G2E3, ZNF695, CEP41, and RGPD1, while microRNA-23b-3p directly targeted three genes, namely SOX6, GOLGA6C, and ZNF695. The intentional alteration of the microRNA-23a/b binding site within the 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) of the eight genes resulted in the loss of responsiveness to microRNA-23a/b-3p. This confirmed that NOL4, SOX6, GOLGA6C, PCDHA9, and CEP41 are direct targets for microRNA-23a-3p, while NOL4, SOX6, and PCDHA9 are direct targets for microRNA-23b-3p. The sperm samples of oligoasthenozoospermic men had lower expression levels of target genes than age-matched normozoospermic men. Correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between basic semen parameters and lower expression levels of target genes. The study suggests that microRNA-23a/b-3p plays a significant role in spermatogenesis by controlling the expression of target genes linked to males with impaired fertility and has an impact on basic semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Mohammad A Al Smadi
- Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF Unit, King Hussein Medical Centre, Amman 11855, Jordan
| | - Hanna Koch
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Hashim Abdul-Khaliq
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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Cao H, Xu H, Zhou Y, Xu W, Lu Q, Jiang L, Rong Y, Zhang Q, Yu C. BBOF1 is required for sperm motility and male fertility by stabilizing the flagellar axoneme in mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:152. [PMID: 37198331 PMCID: PMC11072524 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04800-0] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The sperm flagellum is a specialized type of motile cilium composed of a typical "9 + 2" axonemal structure with peri-axonemal structures, such as outer dense fibers (ODFs). This flagellar arrangement is crucial for sperm movement and fertilization. However, the association of axonemal integrity with ODFs remains poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that mouse BBOF1 could interact with both MNS1, an axonemal component, and ODF2, an ODF protein, and is required for sperm flagellar axoneme maintenance and male fertility. BBOF1 is expressed exclusively in male germ cells from the pachytene stage onwards and is detected in sperm axoneme fraction. Spermatozoa derived from Bbof1-knockout mice exhibit a normal morphology, however, reduced motility due to the absence of certain microtubule doublets, resulting in the failure to fertilize mature oocytes. Furthermore, BBOF1 is found to interact with ODF2 and MNS1 and is also required for their stability. Our findings in mice suggest that Bbof1 could also be essential for human sperm motility and male fertility, thus is a novel potential candidate gene for asthenozoospermia diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiwen Cao
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Haomang Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yiqing Zhou
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wei Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qinglin Lu
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 718 East Haizhou Road, Haining, 314400, China
| | - Lingying Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yan Rong
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qianting Zhang
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 718 East Haizhou Road, Haining, 314400, China.
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Chao Yu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Abu-Halima M, Becker LS, Al Smadi MA, Abdul-Khaliq H, Raeschle M, Meese E. Sperm Motility Annotated Genes: Are They Associated with Impaired Fecundity? Cells 2023; 12:cells12091239. [PMID: 37174638 PMCID: PMC10177407 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility is a prerequisite for achieving pregnancy, and alterations in sperm motility, along with sperm count and morphology, are commonly observed in subfertile men. The aim of the study was to determine whether the expression level of genes annotated with the Gene Ontology (GO) term 'sperm motility' differed in sperm collected from healthy men and men diagnosed with oligoasthenozoospermia. Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), quantitative mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and enrichment analyses were used to validate a set of 132 genes in 198 men present at an infertility clinic. Out of the 132 studied sperm-motility-associated genes, 114 showed differentially expressed levels in oligoasthenozoospermic men compared to those of normozoospermic controls using an RT-qPCR analysis. Of these, 94 genes showed a significantly lower expression level, and 20 genes showed a significantly higher expression level. An MS analysis of sperm from an independent cohort of healthy and subfertile men identified 692 differentially expressed proteins, of which 512 were significantly lower and 180 were significantly higher in oligoasthenozoospermic men compared to those of the normozoospermic controls. Of the 58 gene products quantified with both techniques, 48 (82.75%) showed concordant regulation. Besides the sperm-motility-associated proteins, the unbiased proteomics approach uncovered several novel proteins whose expression levels were specifically altered in abnormal sperm samples. Among these deregulated proteins, there was a clear overrepresentation of annotation terms related to sperm integrity, the cytoskeleton, and energy-related metabolism, as well as human phenotypes related to spermatogenesis and sperm-related abnormalities. These findings suggest that many of these proteins may serve as diagnostic markers of male infertility. Our study reveals an extended number of sperm-motility-associated genes with altered expression levels in the sperm of men with oligoasthenozoospermia. These genes and/or proteins can be used in the future for better assessments of male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Mohammad A Al Smadi
- Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF Unit, King Hussein Medical Centre, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Hashim Abdul-Khaliq
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Markus Raeschle
- Department of Molecular Genetics, TU Kaiserslautern, 67653 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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Becker LS, Al Smadi MA, Raeschle M, Rishik S, Abdul-Khaliq H, Meese E, Abu-Halima M. Proteomic Landscape of Human Sperm in Patients with Different Spermatogenic Impairments. Cells 2023; 12:cells12071017. [PMID: 37048090 PMCID: PMC10093380 DOI: 10.3390/cells12071017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the proteome of sperm has been characterized, there is still a lack of high-throughput studies on dysregulated proteins in sperm from subfertile men, with only a few studies on the sperm proteome in asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic men. Using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) along with bioinformatics analyses, we investigated the proteomic landscape of sperm collected from subfertile men (n = 22), i.e., asthenozoospermic men (n = 13), oligoasthenozoospermic men (n = 9) and normozoospermic controls (n = 31). We identified 4412 proteins in human sperm. Out of these, 1336 differentially abundant proteins were identified in 70% of the samples. In subfertile men, 32 proteins showed a lower abundance level and 34 showed a higher abundance level when compared with normozoospermic men. Compared to normozoospermic controls, 95 and 8 proteins showed a lower abundance level, and 86 and 1 proteins showed a higher abundance level in asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic men, respectively. Sperm motility and count were negatively correlated with 13 and 35 and positively correlated with 37 and 20 differentially abundant proteins in asthenozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic men, respectively. The combination of the proteins APCS, APOE, and FLOT1 discriminates subfertile males from normozoospermic controls with an AUC value of 0.95. Combined APOE and FN1 proteins discriminate asthenozoospermic men form controls with an AUC of 1, and combined RUVBL1 and TFKC oligoasthenozoospermic men with an AUC of 0.93. Using a proteomic approach, we revealed the proteomic landscape of sperm collected from asthenozoospermic or oligoasthenozoospermic men. Identified abundance changes of several specific proteins are likely to impact sperm function leading to subfertility. The data also provide evidence for the usefulness of specific proteins or protein combinations to support future diagnosis of male subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence: (L.S.B.); (M.A.-H.)
| | - Mohammad A. Al Smadi
- Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF Unit, King Hussein Medical Centre, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Markus Raeschle
- Department of Molecular Genetics, TU Kaiserslautern, 67653 Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Shusruto Rishik
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Hashim Abdul-Khaliq
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saarland University Medical Center, 66421 Homburg, Germany
- Correspondence: (L.S.B.); (M.A.-H.)
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11
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Expression of SPAG7 and its regulatory microRNAs in seminal plasma and seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles of patients with subfertility. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3645. [PMID: 36871032 PMCID: PMC9985644 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30744-3] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma contains a variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that deliver RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) molecules. However, the roles of these EVs along with their delivered RNAs and their interactions with male infertility are not clear. Sperm-associated antigen 7 (SPAG 7) is expressed in male germ cells and plays a crucial role in several biological functions associated with sperm production and maturation. In this study, we aimed to identify the post-transcriptional regulation of SPAG7 in seminal plasma (SF-Native) and seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (SF-EVs) collected from 87 men undergoing infertility treatment. Among the multiple binding sites for miRNAs within its 3'UTR of SPAG7, we identified the binding of four miRNAs (miR-15b-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-424-5p, and miR-497-5p) to the 3'UTR of SPAG7 by the dual luciferase assays. Analyzing sperm, we found reduced mRNA expression levels of SPAG7 in SF-EVs and SF-Native samples from oligoasthenozoospermic men. By contrast, two miRNAs (miR-424-5p and miR-497-5p) form the SF-Native samples, and four miRNAs (miR-195-5p, miR-424-5p, miR-497-5p, and miR-6838-5p) from the SF-EVs samples showed significantly higher expression levels in oligoasthenozoospermic men. The expression levels of miRNAs and SPAG7 were significantly correlated with basic semen parameters. These findings contribute significantly to our understanding of regulatory pathways in male fertility by showing a direct link between upregulated miRNA, notably miR-424, and downregulated SPAG7 both in seminal plasma and in plasma-derived EVs likely contributing to oligoasthenozoospermia.
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12
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Giwercman A, Hofmann MC. Editorial: Andrology Awards 2021. Andrology 2022; 10:1459. [PMID: 36250392 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie Claude Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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13
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Huang S, Huang Y, Li S, He Y. Chromosome 17 translocation affects sperm morphology: Two case studies and literature review. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14620. [PMID: 36270636 DOI: 10.1111/and.14620] [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: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We present two cases of infertile males with teratozoospermia stemming from chromosome 17 translocation. The patients present karyotypes that have not been previously reported. Genes located on breakpoints (17p11.2, 9q31, and 11p15) were analysed to find the probable mechanism affecting sperm morphology. Our results suggest that ALKBH5, TOP3A, and LLGL1 interactions may be an underlying cause of abnormal sperm head morphology. Translocation of chromosome 17 occurred in conjunction with chromosome 9 and chromosome 11 translocation in the two cases, resulting in oligozoospermia and asthenozoospermia, respectively. These abnormal phenotypes may involve meiosis- and motility-related genes such as LDHC, DNHD1, UBQLN3, and NUP98. Translocation is thus a risk factor for sperm morphological abnormalities and motility deficiency. The interaction network of 22 genes on breakpoints suggests that they contribute to spermatogenesis as a group. In conclusion, this study highlighted the importance of investigating genes linked to sperm morphology, together with chromosome 17 translocation and reproductive risks. For patients interested in screening before a future pregnancy, we recommend preimplantation genetic diagnosis to reduce the risk of karyotypically unbalanced foetuses and birth defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yingting Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yu He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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Abu-Halima M, Becker LS, Ayesh BM, Meese E. MicroRNA-targeting in male infertility: Sperm microRNA-19a/b-3p and its spermatogenesis related transcripts content in men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:973849. [PMID: 36211460 PMCID: PMC9533736 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.973849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To elucidate and validate the potential regulatory function of miR-19a/b-3p and its spermatogenesis-related transcripts content in sperm samples collected from men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Methods: Men presenting at an infertility clinic were enrolled. MicroRNA (miRNA) and target genes evaluation were carried out using in silico prediction analysis, Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) validation, and Western blot confirmation. Results: The expression levels of miRNA-19a/b-3p were significantly up-regulated and 51 target genes were significantly down-regulated in oligoasthenozoospermic men compared with age-matched normozoospermic men as determined by RT-qPCR. Correlation analysis highlighted that sperm count, motility, and morphology were negatively correlated with miRNA-19a/b-3p and positively correlated with the lower expression level of 51 significantly identified target genes. Furthermore, an inverse correlation between higher expression levels of miRNA-19a/b-3p and lower expression levels of 51 target genes was observed. Consistent with the results of the RT-qPCR, reduced expression levels of STK33 and DNAI1 protein levels were identified in an independent cohort of sperm samples collected from men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the higher expression of miRNA-19a/b-3p or the lower expression of target genes are associated with oligoasthenozoospermia and male infertility, probably through influencing basic semen parameters. This study lay the groundwork for future studies focused on investigating therapies for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Masood Abu-Halima,
| | | | - Basim M. Ayesh
- Department of Laboratory Medical Sciences, Alaqsa University, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
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15
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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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Abu-Halima M, Becker LS, Ayesh BM, Baus SL, Hamza A, Fischer U, Hammadeh M, Keller A, Meese E. Characterization of micro-RNA in women with different ovarian reserve. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13351. [PMID: 34172798 PMCID: PMC8233349 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92901-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Women undergoing infertility treatment are routinely subjected to one or more tests of ovarian reserve. Therefore, an adequate assessment of the ovarian reserve is necessary for the treatment. In this study, we aimed to characterize the potential role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers for women with different ovarian reserves. A total of 159 women were recruited in the study and classified according to their anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level into three groups: (1) low ovarian reserve (LAMH, n = 39), (2) normal ovarian reserve (NAMH, n = 80), and (3) high ovarian reserve (HAMH, n = 40). SurePrint Human miRNA array screening and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) were respectively employed to screen and validate the miRNA abundance level in the three tested groups. Compared with NAMH, the abundance level of 34 and 98 miRNAs was found to be significantly altered in LAMH and HAMH, respectively. The abundance level of miRNAs was further validated by RT-qPCR in both, the screening samples as well as in an independent set of validation samples. The abundance levels of the validated miRNAs were significantly correlated with the AMH level. The best AUC value for the prediction of the increase and decrease in the AMH level was obtained for the miR-100-5p and miR-21-5p, respectively. The level of miRNAs abundance correlates with the level of AMH, which may serve as a tool for identifying women with a different ovarian reserve and may help to lay the ground for the development of novel diagnostic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Abu-Halima
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
| | - Lea Simone Becker
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Basim M Ayesh
- Department of Laboratory Medical Sciences, Alaqsa University, Gaza, Palestine
| | - Simona Lucia Baus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Amer Hamza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany.,Kantonspital Baden, Im Ergel 1, 5400, Baden, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Fischer
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Mohamad Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Andreas Keller
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123, Saarbruecken, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Institute of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg, Saar, Germany
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