1
|
Kumaresan A, Yadav P, Sinha MK, Nag P, John Peter ESK, Mishra JS, Kumar S. Male infertility and perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances: evidence for alterations in phosphorylation of proteins and fertility-related functional attributes in bull spermatozoa†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:723-739. [PMID: 38847481 PMCID: PMC11402523 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae089] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are pervasive environmental pollutants and potential threats to reproductive health. Epidemiological studies have established an association between PFAS and male infertility, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. OBJECTIVES Investigate the effect of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), the most prevalent and representative PFAS, on bull sperm protein phosphorylation and function. METHODS We exposed bull sperm to PFOS at 10 (average population exposure) and 100 μM (high-exposure scenario), and analyzed global proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis by TMT labeling and Nano LC-MS/MS. We also measured sperm fertility functions by flow cytometry. RESULTS PFOS at 10-μM altered sperm proteins linked to spermatogenesis and chromatin condensation, while at 100 μM, PFOS affected proteins associated with motility and fertility. We detected 299 phosphopeptides from 116 proteins, with 45 exhibiting differential expression between control and PFOS groups. PFOS dysregulated phosphorylation of key proteins (ACRBP, PRKAR2A, RAB2B, SPAG8, TUBB4B, ZPBP, and C2CD6) involved in sperm capacitation, acrosome reaction, sperm-egg interaction, and fertilization. PFOS also affected phosphorylation of other proteins (AQP7, HSBP9, IL4I1, PRKAR1A, and CCT8L2) related to sperm stress resistance and cryotolerance. Notably, four proteins (PRM1, ACRBP, TSSK1B, and CFAP45) exhibited differential regulation at both proteomic and phosphoproteomic levels. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed that PFOS increased protein phosphorylation in sperm and also decreased sperm motility, viability, calcium, and mitochondrial membrane potential and increased mitochondrial ROS in a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that PFOS exposure negatively affects phosphorylation of proteins vital for bull sperm function and fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arumugam Kumaresan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560030, India
| | - Pankaj Yadav
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Manish Kumar Sinha
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560030, India
| | - Pradeep Nag
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, WI 65211, USA
| | - Ebenezer Samuel King John Peter
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of ICAR National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560030, India
| | - Jay S Mishra
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Sathish Kumar
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI 53706, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Miller D, Weber A, Loloi J, Reddy R, Ramasamy R. Temporal Trends of Semen Quality and Fertility Rates Over the Course of a Decade: Data From King County, Washington. Urology 2024; 183:93-99. [PMID: 37716452 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.07.042] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There has been a widely reported decline in both semen quality and fertility rate, however to date these studies have not looked at a decline of both in the same time period within the same geographical area. The objective of this study was to determine if there existed a temporal trend in both semen parameters and fertility rates for the same geographic area (King County, WA) over time. MATERIALS AND METHODS Semen parameters from sperm donors at Seattle sperm bank were obtained from 2008 to 2021. Sperm donations occurred in King County, WA. Donors were from within 50 miles of the donation site. Fertility rates were calculated for King County, WA using census data from SEER to find number of women aged 15-49 and the number of births were found using CDC Wonder data from 2006 to 2017. RESULTS There were a total of 76,622 sperm donor semen analyses from King County, WA included in our study from 2008 to 2021. The fertility rate for King County, WA was calculated from 2006 to 2017. From 2008 to 2021, there was a statistically significant decline in semen quality over time for both sperm count (P < .01), total motile sperm count (P < .01), sperm concentration (P < .01), and progressive motility (P < .01). Additionally, from 2006 to 2017 there was a statistically significant decline in fertility rate (P < .01). CONCLUSION We report a statistically significant decline in sperm parameters among donors and a corresponding decline in fertility rates from the same geographic area that warrants further investigation given the serious societal and economic impacts a shrinking population presents. While certainly not the sole contributing factor, declining sperm parameters likely need to be accounted for when accounting for declining fertility rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Weber
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | - Justin Loloi
- Department of Urology, Montefiore Health System, New York City, NY
| | - Rohit Reddy
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Virtanen HE, Rodprasert W, Toppari J. Deteriorating Semen Quality: The Role of the Environment. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:226-240. [PMID: 38499038 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Since the end of the last century, several reports have suggested that semen quality is declining, especially in Western countries. Furthermore, cross-sectional studies using similar protocols have suggested regional differences in semen quality of young and fertile men. Reasons for these regional differences and local adverse trends in semen quality are unknown, but environmental factors are suspected to have a role. Besides adulthood environmental exposures, those occurring during testicular development may also affect semen quality. Longitudinal follow-up studies and mixture risk analyses are needed to study the effect of fetal, childhood, and adult life environment on semen quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Wiwat Rodprasert
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dutta S, Sengupta P, Bagchi S, Chhikara BS, Pavlík A, Sláma P, Roychoudhury S. Reproductive toxicity of combined effects of endocrine disruptors on human reproduction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1162015. [PMID: 37250900 PMCID: PMC10214012 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1162015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Confluence of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle variables is responsible for deterioration of human fecundity. Endocrine disruptors or endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may be found in a variety of foods, water, air, beverages, and tobacco smoke. It has been demonstrated in experimental investigations that a wide range of endocrine disrupting chemicals have negative effects on human reproductive function. However, evidence on the reproductive consequences of human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals is sparse and/or conflicting in the scientific literature. The combined toxicological assessment is a practical method for assessing the hazards of cocktails of chemicals, co-existing in the environment. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of studies emphasizing the combined toxicity of endocrine disrupting chemicals on human reproduction. Endocrine disrupting chemicals interact with each other to disrupt the different endocrine axes, resulting in severe gonadal dysfunctions. Transgenerational epigenetic effects have also been induced in germ cells, mostly through DNA methylation and epimutations. Similarly, after acute or chronic exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals combinations, increased oxidative stress (OS), elevated antioxidant enzymatic activity, disrupted reproductive cycle, and reduced steroidogenesis are often reported consequences. The article also discusses the concentration addition (CA) and independent action (IA) prediction models, which reveal the importance of various synergistic actions of endocrine disrupting chemicals mixtures. More crucially, this evidence-based study addresses the research limitations and information gaps, as well as particularly presents the future research views on combined endocrine disrupting chemicals toxicity on human reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- School of Medical Sciences, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sovan Bagchi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bhupender S. Chhikara
- Molecular Medicinal and Material NanoChemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Aditi Mahavidyalaya, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Aleš Pavlík
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Petr Sláma
- Laboratory of Animal Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ali W, Bian Y, Ali H, Sun J, Zhu J, Ma Y, Liu Z, Zou H. Cadmium-induced impairment of spermatozoa development by reducing exosomal-MVBs secretion: a novel pathway. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:204675. [PMID: 37220720 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium is a heavy environmental pollutant that presents a high risk to male-fertility and targets the different cellular and steroidogenic supporting germ cells networks during spermatogenesis. However, the mechanism accounting for its toxicity in multivesicular bodies (MVBs) biogenesis, and exosomal secretion associated with spermatozoa remains obscure. In the current study, the light and electron microscopy revealed that, the Sertoli cells perform a dynamic role with secretion of well-developed early endosomes (Ee) and MVBs pathway associated with spermatozoa during spermatogenesis. In addition, some apical blebs containing nano-scale exosomes located on the cell surface and after fragmentation nano-scale exosomes were directly linked with spermatozoa in the luminal compartment of seminiferous tubules, indicating normal spermatogenesis. Controversially, the cadmium treated group showed limited and deformed spermatozoa with damaging acromion process and mid-peace, and the cytoplasmic vacuolization of spermatids. After cadmium treatment, there is very limited biogenesis of MVBs inside the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, and no obvious secretions of nano-scale exosomes interacted with spermatozoa. Interestingly, the cadmium treated group demonstrated relatively higher formation of autophagosomes and autolysosome, and the autophagosomes were enveloped by MVBs that later formed the amphisome which degraded by lysosomes, indicating the hypo-spermatogenesis. Moreover, cadmium declined the exosomal protein cluster of differentiation (CD63) and increased the autophagy-related proteins microtubule-associated light chain (LC3), sequestosome 1 (P62) and lysosomal-associated membrane protein 2 (LAMP2) expression level were confirmed by Western blotting. These results provide rich information regarding how cadmium is capable of triggering impaired spermatozoa development during spermatogenesis by reduction of MVBs pathway through high activation of autophagic pathway. This study explores the toxicant effect of cadmium on nano-scale exosomes secretion interacting with spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Waseem Ali
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Yusheng Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Hina Ali
- University of Health Sciences, Lahore 54651, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Jian Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Jiaqiao Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Yonggang Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R. China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, P.R China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Levine H, Jørgensen N, Martino-Andrade A, Mendiola J, Weksler-Derri D, Jolles M, Pinotti R, Swan SH. Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of samples collected globally in the 20th and 21st centuries. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:157-176. [PMID: 36377604 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 177.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have reported declines in semen quality and other markers of male reproductive health. Our previous meta-analysis reported a significant decrease in sperm concentration (SC) and total sperm count (TSC) among men from North America-Europe-Australia (NEA) based on studies published during 1981-2013. At that time, there were too few studies with data from South/Central America-Asia-Africa (SAA) to reliably estimate trends among men from these continents. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to examine trends in sperm count among men from all continents. The broader implications of a global decline in sperm count, the knowledge gaps left unfilled by our prior analysis and the controversies surrounding this issue warranted an up-to-date meta-analysis. SEARCH METHODS We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify studies of human SC and TSC published during 2014-2019. After review of 2936 abstracts and 868 full articles, 44 estimates of SC and TSC from 38 studies met the protocol criteria. Data were extracted on semen parameters (SC, TSC, semen volume), collection year and covariates. Combining these new data with data from our previous meta-analysis, the current meta-analysis includes results from 223 studies, yielding 288 estimates based on semen samples collected 1973-2018. Slopes of SC and TSC were estimated as functions of sample collection year using simple linear regression as well as weighted meta-regression. The latter models were adjusted for predetermined covariates and examined for modification by fertility status (unselected by fertility versus fertile), and by two groups of continents: NEA and SAA. These analyses were repeated for data collected post-2000. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine assumptions, including linearity. OUTCOMES Overall, SC declined appreciably between 1973 and 2018 (slope in the simple linear model: -0.87 million/ml/year, 95% CI: -0.89 to -0.86; P < 0.001). In an adjusted meta-regression model, which included two interaction terms [time × fertility group (P = 0.012) and time × continents (P = 0.058)], declines were seen among unselected men from NEA (-1.27; -1.78 to -0.77; P < 0.001) and unselected men from SAA (-0.65; -1.29 to -0.01; P = 0.045) and fertile men from NEA (-0.50; -1.00 to -0.01; P = 0.046). Among unselected men from all continents, the mean SC declined by 51.6% between 1973 and 2018 (-1.17: -1.66 to -0.68; P < 0.001). The slope for SC among unselected men was steeper in a model restricted to post-2000 data (-1.73: -3.23 to -0.24; P = 0.024) and the percent decline per year doubled, increasing from 1.16% post-1972 to 2.64% post-2000. Results were similar for TSC, with a 62.3% overall decline among unselected men (-4.70 million/year; -6.56 to -2.83; P < 0.001) in the adjusted meta-regression model. All results changed only minimally in multiple sensitivity analyses. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This analysis is the first to report a decline in sperm count among unselected men from South/Central America-Asia-Africa, in contrast to our previous meta-analysis that was underpowered to examine those continents. Furthermore, data suggest that this world-wide decline is continuing in the 21st century at an accelerated pace. Research on the causes of this continuing decline and actions to prevent further disruption of male reproductive health are urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, The Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jaime Mendiola
- Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), Murcia, Spain
| | - Dan Weksler-Derri
- Clalit Health Services, Kiryat Ono, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Maya Jolles
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, The Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rachel Pinotti
- Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Auger J, Eustache F, Chevrier C, Jégou B. Spatiotemporal trends in human semen quality. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:597-626. [PMID: 35978007 PMCID: PMC9383660 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-022-00626-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Over the past four decades, studies of various designs have reported spatial and temporal trends in human semen quality. Several standardized-methodology studies in homogeneous populations that compare specific cities within a country or a continent provide clear evidence of geographical differences in sperm production, even over short distances within the same country. Human sperm production is widely believed to be declining over time, but evidence from the scientific literature is less clear. Studies based on repeated cross-sectional data from a single centre have shown mixed results. Among the numerous retrospective studies conducted in a single centre, only some included homogeneous groups of men and appropriate methods, and most of them suggest a temporal decrease in human sperm production in the geographical areas considered. Conclusions reporting temporal trends in sperm production that came from existing retrospective multicentre studies based on individual semen data and those using means, medians or estimates of sperm production are questionable, owing to intrinsic limitations in the studies performed. Regardless of study design, studies on the percentage of motile or morphologically normal spermatozoa are still limited by the inherent variability in assessment. Overall, available data do not enable us to conclude that human semen quality is deteriorating worldwide or in the Western world, but that a trend is observed in some specific areas. To understand these trends and contrasts in sperm and semen quality, prospective studies should be encouraged and combined with assessment of the male exposome. Several studies over the past few decades have suggested that sperm quality varies by geographical region and might be subject to a temporal decline worldwide. However, the data supporting these conclusions have come from studies of various methodologies and heterogeneous populations, making them unreliable. In this in-depth Review, Chevrier and colleagues discuss the data surrounding discussion of spatiotemporal trends in semen parameters and consider how these trends and the factors promoting them interact. The vast literature on human semen quality trends is extremely heterogeneous in terms of the populations studied and study designs, and so these studies have been unable to draw firm conclusions. Understanding the data around spatiotemporal semen trends requires a focus on the methodological choices and application of criteria to filter findings from the studies with optimal design. Numerous appropriately designed studies suggest unambiguous geographical contrasts in human sperm production; however, evidence of a decline in sperm production is reliable only in specific populations and cities in which studies with a complete set of quality criteria have been conducted. By contrast, suggestions of a worldwide drop in human semen quality on the basis of retrospective multicentre studies cannot be substantiated, owing to intrinsic limitations in the studies performed. Many and varied factors of variation, in particular the diverse modalities of assessment, do not enable us to conclude that clear temporal trends of sperm motility and normal morphology are present. Progress in our understanding of the highlighted trends and their causal factors requires prospective studies that minimize all known biases combined with the assessment of men’s exposome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Auger
- INSERM U1016-Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de la Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Florence Eustache
- INSERM U1016-Equipe "Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiologie de la Reproduction", Institut Cochin, Université Paris Descartes-Paris, Paris, France.,CECOS, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Seine-Saint-Denis, Hôpital Jean Verdier and Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Nord Val de Seine, Hôpital Bichat, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Chevrier
- Université Rennes, INSERM, EHESP, IRSET-UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France.
| | - Bernard Jégou
- Université Rennes, INSERM, EHESP, IRSET-UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hærvig KK, Petersen KU, Giwercman A, Hougaard KS, Høyer BB, Lindh C, Ramlau-Hansen CH, Nybo Andersen AM, Toft G, Bonde JP, Tøttenborg SS. Fetal exposure to maternal cigarette smoking and male reproductive function in young adulthood. Eur J Epidemiol 2022; 37:525-538. [PMID: 35476275 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-022-00869-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Maternal smoking during pregnancy constitutes a potential, major risk factor for adult male reproductive function. In the hitherto largest longitudinal cohort, we examined biomarkers of reproductive function according to maternal smoking during the first trimester and investigated whether associations were mitigated by smoking cessation prior to the fetal masculinization programming window. Associations between exposure to maternal smoking and semen characteristics, testicular volume and reproductive hormones were assessed among 984 young men from the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality (FEPOS) cohort. Maternal smoking was assessed through interview data and measured plasma cotinine levels during pregnancy. We applied negative binomial, logistic and linear regression models to estimate differences in outcomes according to levels of maternal smoking. Sons of light smokers (≤ 10 cigarettes/day) had a 19% (95% CI - 29%, - 6%) lower sperm concentration and a 24% (95% CI - 35%, - 11%) lower total sperm count than sons of non-smokers. These estimates were 38% (95% CI - 52%, - 22%) and 33% (95% CI - 51%, - 8%), respectively, for sons of heavy smokers (> 10 cigarettes/day). The latter group also had a 25% (95% CI 1%, 54%) higher follitropin level. Similarly, sons exposed to maternal cotinine levels of > 10 ng/mL had lower sperm concentration and total sperm count. Smoking cessation prior to gestational week seven was not associated with a higher reproductive capacity. We observed substantial and consistent exposure-response associations, providing strong support for the hypothesis that maternal smoking impairs male reproductive function. This association persisted regardless of smoking cessation in early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katia Keglberg Hærvig
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Bispebjerg Bakke 23F, entrance 20F, 1st floor, 2400, Copenhagen, NV, Denmark.
| | - Kajsa Ugelvig Petersen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Karin Sørig Hougaard
- Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgit Bjerre Høyer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Regional Development, Region of Southern Denmark, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Christian Lindh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | | | - Anne-Marie Nybo Andersen
- Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gunnar Toft
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sandra Søgaard Tøttenborg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bartl I, Ondrušová M, Kužma M, Jackuliak P, Gažová A, Kyselovič J, Payer J. Treatment With Cholecalciferol Leads to Increase Of Selected Semen Parameters in Young Infertile Males: Results of a 6-month Interventional Study. Physiol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.33549//physiolres.934781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
High incidence of infertility along with low vitamin D levels was detected in otherwise healthy young men. The aim is to observe the effect of vitamin D supplementation on semen parameters as assessed by semen analysis in infertile men. In total, 45 men (mean age 36.6 years) in consecutive order were included, of whom 34 finished the study. Subjects were supplemented by vitamin D (cholecalciferol) 2500 IU/day. Vitamin D levels were assessed by HPLC. Semen analysis was performed strictly following 2010 WHO guidelines. Study periods were baseline and month 6. During follow-up, 20 %, 7.4 %, 22 % and 0.7 % increase in serum vitamin D levels, progressive sperm motility, sperm concentration and sperm morphology, respectively, were observed (all p<0.05). At follow-up end, 9 patients (26 %) reached normal sperm parameters of whom 2 fertilized their partner. There was no correlation between vitamin D and semen parameters observed. This study proves that vitamin D supplementation is possibly a modulator of sperm parameters in vitamin D deficient, otherwise healthy men. Although a direct relationship between vitamin D and sperm parameters was not observed obtaining adequate vitamin D levels could likely play a role in the male factor of infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I. Bartl
- Urological and sexological clinical outpatient clinic, Department of Urology, University Hospital Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Systematic Analysis of Breed, Methodological, and Geographical Impact on Equine Sperm Progressive Motility. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113088. [PMID: 34827820 PMCID: PMC8614490 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Semen quality is an important indicator of reproductive health and fertility. With adverse temporal trends in human semen quality over the past 50 years paralleled in male animals, there is increasing concern for the causes and implications of perturbed male reproductive health. The evaluation of equine progressive motility (PM), a parameter closely associated with fertility, provides information on the fertilising capacity of equine ejaculate and current reproductive health of the equine stallion. Using systematic analysis, recent trends in equine PM were determined from 696 estimates from 280 individual studies. Temporal trends indicate equine PM has not significantly changed between the years 1990 and 2018. Significant breed, methodological, and geographical variations observed in equine PM may considerably influence actual and reported stallion fertility potential. Information on stallion PM meaningfully contributes to the wider literature on semen quality and provides avenues for future stallion fertility research. This systematic analysis presents the wider challenges associated with semen quality assessment, particularly within the equine sector, and provides recommendations to promote consistency across industry and research. Abstract Over the past five decades, there has been increasing evidence to indicate global declines in human semen quality. Parallel adverse trends measured in male animals indicate a potential environmental aetiology. This study evaluated the progressive motility (PM) of stallion ejaculate through a systematic review and meta-analysis. A total of 696 estimates of equine PM from 280 studies, which collected semen samples between the years 1990 and 2018, were collated for meta-analysis. The method of motility analysis, breed, season of collection, and geographical location were extracted. Simple linear regression determined temporal trends in stallion PM. Studies using microscopy estimated PM to be significantly greater compared to computer-automated methods (p ≤ 0.001). For Arabian breeds, PM was consistently higher than other breeds. Over time, there was a significant decline in PM for studies from Europe (n = 267) but a significant increase for studies from North America (n = 259). Temporal trends indicate the fertilising capacity of equine ejaculate has remained consistently high in the last three decades. That being so, variations observed suggest methodological, geographical, and individual stallion differences may significantly influence actual and reported stallion fertility potential.
Collapse
|
12
|
Knapke ET, Magalhaes DDP, Dalvie MA, Mandrioli D, Perry MJ. Environmental and occupational pesticide exposure and human sperm parameters: A Navigation Guide review. Toxicology 2021; 465:153017. [PMID: 34756984 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.153017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Global sperm counts have declined in recent decades, coinciding with the proliferation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, of which pesticides are some of the most common. Previous systematic reviews of epidemiologic studies published between 1991 through 2013 have reported associations between environmental and occupational pesticide exposure and reduced sperm quality, particularly associations with reduced sperm concentration. This systematic review used the Navigation Guide to critically evaluate the current body of evidence examining sperm quality and pesticide exposure in epidemiological studies. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for all English-language articles published after September 2012 until August 2021. Original observational studies that assessed human sperm quality parameters, defined as concentration, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity, and individual-level pesticide exposure were included. The risk of bias for each included study and the strength of evidence were evaluated using the Navigation Guide protocol. Nineteen studies assessing environmental or occupational pesticide exposure and sperm parameters were included. Eighteen studies were cross-sectional studies and one prospective cohort; sample sizes ranged from 42 to 2122 men from 14 different countries. Fifteen (79 %) studies found at least one significant association between pesticide exposure and reduced sperm quality. The overall risk of bias across studies was classified as low to moderate. The quality of evidence was determined to be moderate based on systematic evaluation criteria. There were consistent adverse associations between pesticide exposure and sperm motility (63 % of studies) and DNA integrity (80 % of studies). For sperm concentration and morphology, 42 % and 36 % of studies found significant negative associations, respectively. The strength of the body of evidence overall was rated as having sufficient evidence of toxicity. Regarding specific sperm endpoints, there was sufficient evidence that pesticides are toxic for sperm motility and DNA integrity; limited evidence of toxicity for sperm concentration; and inadequate evidence of toxicity for sperm morphology. The studies reviewed here showed consistent associations between pesticide exposure and diminished sperm parameters, particularly sperm motility and sperm DNA integrity. These findings are largely consistent with results of previous reviews, which have found significant negative associations between pesticide exposure and sperm quality in 13 of 20 (65 %) studies published between 1991 and 2008, and in 14 of 17 (82 %) studies published between 2008 and 2012. After thirty years of mounting evidence, actions are needed to reduce pesticide risks to testicular function and male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric T Knapke
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Danielly de P Magalhaes
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mohamed Aqiel Dalvie
- Center for Environmental and Occupational Health Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Daniele Mandrioli
- Cesare Maltoni Cancer Research Center, Ramazzini Institute, Bologna, Italy; Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Melissa J Perry
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fink C, Baal N, Wilhelm J, Sarode P, Weigel R, Schumacher V, Nettersheim D, Schorle H, Schröck C, Bergmann M, Kliesch S, Kressin M, Savai R. On the origin of germ cell neoplasia in situ: Dedifferentiation of human adult Sertoli cells in cross talk with seminoma cells in vitro. Neoplasia 2021; 23:731-742. [PMID: 34153645 PMCID: PMC8233172 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) is the noninvasive precursor of testicular germ cell tumors type II, the most common cancer in young men, which originates from embryonic germ cells blocked in their maturation. GCNIS is associated with impaired Sertoli cells (SCs) that express fetal keratin 18 (KRT18) and the pluripotency factor SRY-Box transcription factor 2 (SOX2). According to the current theory concerning the origin of GCNIS, these SCs are prepubertal cells arrested in their maturation due to (epi)genetic anomalies and/or environmental antiandrogens. Thus, they are unable to support the development of germ cells, which leads to their maturational block and further progresses into GCNIS. Alternatively, these SCs are hypothesized to be adult cells dedifferentiating secondarily under the influence of GCNIS. To examine whether tumor cells can dedifferentiate SCs, we established a coculture model of adult human SCs (FS1) and a seminoma cell line similar to GCNIS (TCam-2). After 2 wk of coculture, FS1 cells showed progressive expression of KRT18 and SOX2, mimicking the in vivo changes. TCam-2 cells showed SOX2 expression and upregulation of further pluripotency- and reprogramming-associated genes, suggesting a seminoma to embryonal carcinoma transition. Thus, our FS1/TCam-2 coculture model is a valuable tool for investigating interactions between SCs and seminoma cells. Our immunohistochemical and ultrastructural studies of human testicular biopsies with varying degrees of GCNIS compared to biopsies from fetuses, patients with androgen insensitivity syndrome, and patients showing normal spermatogenesis further suggest that GCNIS-associated SCs represent adult cells undergoing progressive dedifferentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cornelia Fink
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Nelli Baal
- Institute for Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Universities of Giessen and Marburg, Giessen, Germany
| | - Jochen Wilhelm
- Department of Internal Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Germany; Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Poonam Sarode
- Department of Lung Development and Remodelling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Member of the DZL, Member of CPI, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Roswitha Weigel
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Valérie Schumacher
- Department of Urology and Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Surgery and Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Nettersheim
- Department of Urology, Urological Research Lab, Translational UroOncology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- University Hospital Bonn, Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, Bonn, Germany
| | - Carmen Schröck
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- University of Münster, Centre of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Monika Kressin
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rajkumar Savai
- Department of Internal Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Germany; Department of Lung Development and Remodelling, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Member of the DZL, Member of CPI, Bad Nauheim, Germany; Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sun X, Zhan F, Yu RQ, Chen L, Wu Y. Bio-accumulation of organic contaminants in Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins: Preliminary unique features of the brain and testes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 267:115511. [PMID: 32892017 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
There is little information about the residue levels and congener composition of organic contaminants (OCs) in cetaceans. In the present study, we investigated the polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in the blubber, blood, brain and testes of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins (Sousa chinensis) stranded in the Pearl River Estuary (PRE), China. The lowest blubber/tissue partition coefficients were found for sum hexachlorocyclohexanes (ΣHCHs) and ΣPAHs, while the highest were in ΣPCBs and sum dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (ΣDDTs), likely attributing to the octanol-water partition features. The low levels of OCs in brain and testes theoretically resulted from the blood-brain barrier, blood-testes barrier, contaminant molecule dimensions and unique lipid compositions in the brain and testes. Compared with other contaminants, the higher mean brain/blood and testes/blood partition coefficients found for mirex, heptachlor, dieldrin and endrin would increase the risks associated with exposure-related toxicity and the bioavailability of contaminants within these tissues. Observations also suggest that as lipid mobilizes from blubber, contaminants may redistribute, leading to elevated tissue (such as brain) concentrations. Therefore, dolphins with less blubber may be more susceptible to health risks. The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins living in PRE are at great risk due to variety of OCs in indirect contact with non-target organisms, affecting the health of animals (toxic effects and accumulation). Our findings contribute to the knowledge of the potential effects of OCs exposure on developmental neurotoxicity and reproductive damage in marine mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xian Sun
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Fengping Zhan
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Ri-Qing Yu
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, TX, 75799, USA
| | - Laiguo Chen
- Urban Environment and Ecology Research Center, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences (SCIES), Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Yuping Wu
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhuhai), Zhuhai Key Laboratory of Marine Bioresources and Environment, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Coastal Engineering, School of Marine Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ogunlade B, Adelakun S, Iteire K. Sulforaphane response on aluminum-induced oxidative stress, alterations in sperm characterization and testicular histomorphometry in Wistar rats. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:611-624. [PMID: 32923928 PMCID: PMC7457154 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v13i8.7503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The exposure of male individual to environmental toxicant is regarded as a channel that results in reduced sperm counts and infertility.
Objective This study investigated the ameliorative response of Sulforaphane (SFN) on Aluminum trichloride (AlCl3) induced testicular toxicity in adult male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods A total of 32 adult male Wistar rats (180-200 gm between 8-10 wk) were divided into four groups (n = 8/each). Group A) received distilled water orally as placebo; Group B) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl3 only orally; Group C) received 100 mg/kgbw AlCl3 and 100 mg/kgbw SFN orally; and Group D) received 100 mg/kgbw SFN only orally. After 28 days of experiment, animals underwent cervical dislocation, blood serum was obtained for analysis, and testes were harvested for biochemical assays, histology, hormonal profile, and sperm characterization. Results The sperm parameters showed a significant difference within the AlCl3 only group compared with the control and SFN only groups (p = 0.02). However, AlCl3 and SFN co-treatment showed improvement in the motility, viability, and sperm count compared with the AlCl3 only group (p = 0.02). Furthermore, there was a significant decline in the levels of hormones profile and antioxidant status in AlCl3 only group compared to the control and SFN only (p = 0.02). The testicular histoarchitecture of the AlCl3 only group showed shrinkage of seminiferous tubules, spermatogenesis disruption, and empty lumen compared to the control and SFN only groups. Conclusion The present study revealed the ameliorative response of SFN on AlCl3-induced testicular toxicity on serum hormone profiles, antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation, and histomorphometric analysis through oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Babatunde Ogunlade
- Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Sunday Adelakun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley Iteire
- Department of Human Anatomy, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo city, Ondo State, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Salmon-Divon M, Shrem G, Balayla J, Nehushtan T, Volodarsky-Perel A, Steiner N, Son WY, Dahan MH. An age-based sperm nomogram: the McGill reference guide. Hum Reprod 2020; 35:2213-2225. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION
How does age affect various semen parameters?
SUMMARY ANSWER
For most semen parameters, the nomogram of the entire population was biphasic, peaking around the fourth decade of life.
WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY
In clinical practice, semen quality is examined by using the WHO 2010 reference limits but these limits do not account for male age. A percentile-based, large-scale nomogram describing how different semen parameters change throughout reproductive life has been lacking.
STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION
A retrospective study was conducted with 12 188 sperm samples, obtained from individuals who attended the McGill University Health Centre reproductive clinic between 2009 and 2018.
PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS
One sample from each individual who attended the clinic during the study period was analysed by using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). The analysed parameters were human-verified and included sperm concentration, motility, progressive motility, total count, morphology and semen volume. Based on this analysis, the entire dataset (n = 12 188) was further divided into two groups of samples: samples that surpassed the WHO 2010 lower reference limits (‘above reference limits’ group, ARL; n = 6305), and samples that did not (‘below reference limit’ group, BRL; n = 5883). Regression quantiles were fitted as a function of age to generate age-dependent nomograms, and these quantiles were divided into 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th percentiles.
MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE
In the entire dataset, age had a significant influence (P < 0.001) on all parameters (except morphology) which demonstrated a biphasic trend peaking in the fourth decade of life. In the ARL group, age had a significant influence (P < 0.01) on all semen parameters except sperm concentration and morphology. However, unlike in the entire dataset, only semen volume demonstrated a biphasic trend in the ARL group (peaking in the fourth decade of life), whereas other parameters either remained unchanged (concentration and morphology) or consistently declined with age (sperm motility, progressive motility and total sperm count). Percentile-based nomograms were generated for individuals between the ages of 20 and 60 years in the entire dataset and in the ARL group.
LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION
First, the semen samples were obtained from individuals who were referred to a fertility clinic, such that the entire dataset does not necessarily represent the general population. Second, the cross-sectional sampling design increases variance, and the nomograms are less accurate in the 5th and 95th percentiles and at the extremes of the age distributions. Third, the observed age-dependent changes in semen parameters do not necessarily indicate changes in fertility, as not all factors that affect male fertility were analysed. Fourth, some of our semen analyses employed CASA, which can have variability issues. Finally, our models did not incorporate possible secular trends.
WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS
We provide the first nomogram that correlates age with semen quality parameters in different population percentiles, thus complementing the current reference limits set by the WHO in 2010. Most examined semen parameters in our study changed non-linearly with age; therefore, age should be regularly employed as a factor in the clinical analysis of semen samples.
STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)
The authors have not received any funding to support this study. There are no conflicts of interest to declare.
TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER
N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mali Salmon-Divon
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Guy Shrem
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jacques Balayla
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tamar Nehushtan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Alexander Volodarsky-Perel
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Naama Steiner
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Weon-Young Son
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Michael H Dahan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhu Q, Li X, Ge RS. Toxicological Effects of Cadmium on Mammalian Testis. Front Genet 2020; 11:527. [PMID: 32528534 PMCID: PMC7265816 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium is a heavy metal, and people are exposed to it through contaminated foods and smoking. In humans and other mammals, cadmium causes damage to male testis. In this review, we summarize the effects of cadmium on the development and function of the testis. Cadmium causes severe structural damage to the seminiferous tubules, Sertoli cells, and blood-testis barrier, thus leading to the loss of sperm. Cadmium hinders Leydig cell development, inhibits Leydig cell function, and induces Leydig cell tumors. Cadmium also disrupts the vascular system of the testis. Cadmium is a reactive oxygen species inducer and possibly induces DNA damage, thus epigenetically regulating somatic cell and germ cell function, leading to male subfertility/infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Haervig KK, Høyer BB, Giwercman A, Hougaard KS, Ramlau-Hansen CH, Specht IO, Toft G, Bonde JP, Søgaard Tøttenborg S. Fetal exposure to paternal smoking and semen quality in the adult son. Andrology 2020; 8:1117-1125. [PMID: 32150347 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The negative impact of maternal smoking during pregnancy on offspring semen quality is well established. Less is known about the impact of paternal smoking. METHODS We estimated differences in semen parameters and testicle size according to paternal smoking in 772 adult sons of women enrolled in the Danish National Birth Cohort when pregnant. Parents' smoking was reported around gestational week 16, and analyses were adjusted for parents' ages at conception, maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index, maternal alcohol and caffeine intake, family occupational status, ejaculatory abstinence time, clinic of semen analysis, and season. RESULTS Sons of smoking fathers and non-smoking mothers had a 10% (95% confidence interval: -24%, 7%) lower semen concentration and 11% (95% confidence interval: -27%, 8%) lower sperm count than sons of non-smoking parents. Having two smoking parents was associated with 19% reduction in sperm count (95% confidence interval: -37%, 3%). Paternal smoking was not associated with volume, motility, or morphology. Adjusting for maternal smoking, paternal smoking was associated with a 26% increased risk of small testicular volume (95% confidence interval: 0.89, 1.78). DISCUSSION Exclusion of sons with a history of testicular cancer, chemotherapy, orchiectomy, and with only one or no testicles may have caused us to underestimate associations if these men's reproductive health including semen quality are in fact more sensitive to paternal smoking. CONCLUSION The study provides limited support for slightly lower sperm concentration and total sperm concentration in sons of smoking fathers, but findings are also compatible with no association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katia Keglberg Haervig
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Birgit Bjerre Høyer
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, Research Unit for Epidemiology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Department of Translational Medicine, Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karin Sørig Hougaard
- Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Ina Olmer Specht
- Research Unit for Dietary Studies, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gunnar Toft
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jens Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Public Health, The Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sandra Søgaard Tøttenborg
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg & Frederiksberg Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Baskaran S, Agarwal A, Panner Selvam MK, Finelli R, Robert KA, Iovine C, Pushparaj PN, Samanta L, Harlev A, Henkel R. Tracking research trends and hotspots in sperm DNA fragmentation testing for the evaluation of male infertility: a scientometric analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:110. [PMID: 31878936 PMCID: PMC6931248 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0550-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article describes the research trends in sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) over the past 20 years (1999-2018) using a scientometric approach. METHODS A stepwise approach was adopted to retrieve scientometric data (articles per year, authors, affiliations, journals, countries) from Scopus and analyze the publication pattern of SDF with reference to key areas of research in the field of Andrology. RESULTS A total of 2121 articles were retrieved related to SDF. Our data revealed an increasing research trend in SDF (n = 33 to n = 173) over the past 20 years (R2 = 0.894). Most productive country in publications was the USA (n = 450), while Agarwal A. (n = 129) being the most productive author. Most of the articles in SDF were primarily focused on lifestyle (n = 157), asthenozoospermia (n = 135) and varicocele (130). Mechanistic studies on SDF were published twice as much as prognostic/diagnostic studies, with significant emphasis on oxidative stress. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was the most widely used technique to evaluate SDF. Publications on SDF related to assisted reproductive techniques also showed a linear increasing trend (R2 = 0.933). CONCLUSIONS Our analysis revealed an increasing trend in SDF publications predominantly investigating lifestyle, asthenozoospermia and varicocele conditions with TUNEL being the most widely used technique. A substantial increase in research is warranted to establish SDF as prognostic/diagnostic parameter to evaluate clinical scenarios and ART outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Manesh Kumar Panner Selvam
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Kathy Amy Robert
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Concetta Iovine
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Luna Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, -753003, Cuttack, India
| | - Avi Harlev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
The current status and future of andrology: A consensus report from the Cairo workshop group. Andrology 2019; 8:27-52. [PMID: 31692249 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In attempting to formulate potential WHO guidelines for the diagnosis of male infertility, the Evidence Synthesis Group noted a paucity of high-quality data on which to base key recommendations. As a result, a number of authors suggested that key areas of research/evidence gaps should be identified, so that appropriate funding and policy actions could be undertaken to help address key questions. OBJECTIVES The overall objective of this Consensus workshop was to clarify current knowledge and deficits in clinical laboratory andrology, so that clear paths for future development could be navigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Following a detailed literature review, each author, prior to the face-to-face meeting, prepared a summary of their topic and submitted a PowerPoint presentation. The topics covered were (a) Diagnostic testing in male fertility and infertility, (b) Male fertility/infertility in the modern world, (c) Clinical management of male infertility, and (d) The overuse of ICSI. At the meeting in Cairo on February 18, 2019, the evidence was presented and discussed and a series of consensus points agreed. RESULTS The paper presents a background and summary of the evidence relating to these four topics and addresses key points of significance. Following discussion of the evidence, a total of 36 consensus points were agreed. DISCUSSION The Discussion section presents areas where there was further debate and key areas that were highlighted during the day. CONCLUSION The consensus points provide clear statements of evidence gaps and/or potential future research areas/topics. Appropriate funding streams addressing these can be prioritized and consequently, in the short and medium term, answers provided. By using this strategic approach, andrology can make the rapid progress necessary to address key scientific, clinical, and societal challenges that face our discipline now and in the near future.
Collapse
|
21
|
Male Infertility and Future Cardiometabolic Health: Does the Association Vary by Sociodemographic Factors? Urology 2019; 133:121-128. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2019.06.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
22
|
Rahban R, Priskorn L, Senn A, Stettler E, Galli F, Vargas J, Van den Bergh M, Fusconi A, Garlantezec R, Jensen TK, Multigner L, Skakkebæk NE, Germond M, Jørgensen N, Nef S. Semen quality of young men in Switzerland: a nationwide cross-sectional population-based study. Andrology 2019; 7:818-826. [PMID: 31115178 PMCID: PMC6790593 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm counts have been steadily decreasing over the past five decades with regional differences in the Western world. The reasons behind these trends are complex, but numerous insights indicate that environmental and lifestyle factors are important players. OBJECTIVE To evaluate semen quality and male reproductive health in Switzerland. MATERIALS AND METHODS A nationwide cross-sectional study was conducted on 2523 young men coming from all regions of Switzerland, recruited during military conscription. Semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were analyzed. Anatomy of the genital area and testicular volume was recorded. Testicular cancer incidence rates in the general population were retrieved from Swiss regional registries. RESULTS Median sperm concentration adjusted for period of sexual abstinence was 48 million/mL. Comparing with the 5th percentile of the WHO reference values for fertile men, 17% of men had sperm concentration below 15 million/mL, 25% had less than 40% motile spermatozoa, and 43% had less than 4% normal forms. Disparities in semen quality among geographic regions, urbanization rates, and linguistic areas were limited. A larger proportion of men with poor semen quality had been exposed in utero to maternal smoking. Furthermore, testicular cancer incidence rates in the Swiss general population increased significantly between 1980 and 2014. DISCUSSION For the first time, a systematic sampling among young men has confirmed that semen quality is affected on a national level. The median sperm concentration measured is among the lowest observed in Europe. No specific geographical differences could be identified. Further studies are needed to determine to what extent the fertility of Swiss men is compromised and to evaluate the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors. CONCLUSION A significant proportion of Swiss young men display suboptimal semen quality with only 38% having sperm concentration, motility, and morphology values that met WHO semen reference criteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Rahban
- Department of Genetic Medicine and DevelopmentUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - L. Priskorn
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - A. Senn
- Department of Genetic Medicine and DevelopmentUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - E. Stettler
- Department of Genetic Medicine and DevelopmentUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
- Swiss Armed Forces Joint StaffMedical ServicesIttigenSwitzerland
| | - F. Galli
- National Institute for Cancer Epidemiology and Registration (NICER)ZürichSwitzerland
| | - J. Vargas
- Centre de Procréation Médicalement Assistée SAFertas SA et Fondation FABERLausanneSwitzerland
| | | | - A. Fusconi
- Centro Cantonale di FertilitàOspedale di Locarno La CaritàLocarnoSwitzerland
| | - R. Garlantezec
- Inserm, EHESPIrset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) – UMR_S 1085Université de RennesRennesFrance
| | - T. K. Jensen
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - L. Multigner
- Inserm, EHESPIrset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) – UMR_S 1085Université de RennesRennesFrance
| | - N. E. Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - M. Germond
- Centre de Procréation Médicalement Assistée SAFertas SA et Fondation FABERLausanneSwitzerland
| | - N. Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and ReproductionRigshospitalet, University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
| | - S. Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and DevelopmentUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
The effects of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) on fetal and adult rat testis. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 90:68-76. [PMID: 31412280 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a widely dispersed synthetic chemical, which accumulates in living organisms and has been connected with male reproductive disorders. To monitor the effects of PFOA, fetal rat testes or seminiferous tubule segments (stage VII-VIII) of adult rats were cultured in 0-100 μg/ml PFOA for 24 h. Afterwards, cAMP, progesterone, testosterone and StAR protein levels were measured from the fetal testes culture. Measurements were combined with immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, TUNEL and flow cytometric analysis to monitor cell death in somatic and germ cells. This study shows that the levels of cAMP, progesterone, testosterone and expression of StAR decreased significantly in PFOA 50 and 100 μg/ml. PFOA affected cell populations significantly by decreasing the amount of diploid, proliferating, meiotic I and G2/M-phase cells in adult rat testis. However, PFOA did not affect fetal, proliferating or adult rat Sertoli cells but an increased tendency of apoptosis in fetal Leydig cells was observed.
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang YX, Wu Y, Chen HG, Duan P, Wang L, Shen HQ, Lu WQ, Sun B, Wang Q, Zhang B, Chavarro JE, Zhang J, Pan A. Seminal plasma metabolome in relation to semen quality and urinary phthalate metabolites among Chinese adult men. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 129:354-363. [PMID: 31150977 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of evidence has found links between endocrine disruptor phthalates and male reproductive disorders, but the mechanisms underlying these relationships are poorly known. Seminal plasma metabolomes may mediate associations of phthalate exposure with impaired semen quality. OBJECTIVE To identify seminal plasma metabolomes associated with poor semen quality and evaluate their associations with urinary phthalate metabolites among 660 Chinese adult men. METHOD The seminal plasma metabolic profiles were acquired using an untargeted approach based on liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. We explored the differences in seminal plasma metabolites between participants with poor and good semen quality and evaluated cross-sectional associations between discriminatory metabolic biomarkers and urinary phthalate metabolites. RESULTS Differences between poor and good semen quality groups were observed in relation to 25 seminal plasma metabolites, mostly related to the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and acylcarnitine (all p < 0.05). After adjusting for various confounders and multiple tests, metabolites were all significantly associated with one or more individual sperm quality parameters (motility, concentration, total count, and morphology) (all p < 0.05). Among identified metabolic biomarkers, seminal plasma L-palmitoylcarnitine, linoelaidyl carnitine, and oleic acid were inversely associated with urinary mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), and seminal plasma L-acetylcarnitine was inversely associated with the proportion of di-(2-ethylhexyl)-phthalate metabolites (DEHP) excreted as MEHP in urine (%MEHP) (all p < 0.05). Mediation analysis revealed that oleic acid and L-acetylcarnitine mediated significant proportions (6.7% and 17%, respectively) of the positive associations between urinary DEHP metabolites and the percentage of spermatozoa with an abnormal head. CONCLUSIONS Elevated urinary phthalate metabolites may impact semen quality by causing metabolic disorders of seminal plasma PUFAs and acylcarnitine. These pathways warrant further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yan Wu
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
| | - Heng-Gui Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - He-Qing Shen
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
| | - Wen-Qing Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Pathology, Bengbu Medical College, Anhui, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Jorge E Chavarro
- Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jie Zhang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - An Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Predicting Seminal Quality via Imbalanced Learning with Evolutionary Safe-Level Synthetic Minority Over-Sampling Technique. Cognit Comput 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s12559-019-09657-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
26
|
Marsh C, McCracken M, Gray M, Nangia A, Gay J, Roby KF. Low total motile sperm in transgender women seeking hormone therapy. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1639-1648. [PMID: 31250175 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01504-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was undertaken to compare semen quality, hormonal status, and social factors in transgender women seeking fertility preservation with those of fertile cisgender men. Long-range goals are to establish standard practice measures ensuring optimum semen quality for cryopreservation and fertility preservation in transgender women. METHODS This is a case-control study carried out at an academic medical center. Cases are transgender women seeking fertility preservation prior to initiation of hormone therapy. Controls are cisgender men recently fathering a child. All participants completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 survey and additional survey questions related to personal behaviors. Complete semen analysis was carried out in a clinical andrology laboratory according to WHO guidelines, 5th edition. Serum follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, and testosterone were measured at the time of semen analysis. RESULTS Sperm concentration, total sperm per ejaculate, total motile sperm, volume, and normal sperm morphology were significantly lower in transgender females compared with fertile cisgender men. Other measures of semen parameters and hormone concentrations were not different between groups. Survey results indicated transgender women were more likely to have symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress and utilize tucking and tight undergarments, compared with controls; however, both groups reported similar numbers of ejaculations per week. CONCLUSIONS Although semen parameters were low, cryopreservation of sperm prior to hormone therapy is a viable fertility preservation option for most transgender women. The etiology of the differences in semen parameters is not known. Enhanced education related to personal behaviors or treatment to reduce effects of stressors prior to cryopreservation may improve future fertility potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Overland Park, KS, 66211, USA.
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
| | - Megan McCracken
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Overland Park, KS, 66211, USA
| | - Meredith Gray
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Ajay Nangia
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Judy Gay
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Overland Park, KS, 66211, USA
| | - Katherine F Roby
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Overland Park, KS, 66211, USA.
- Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Health, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Olesen IA, Joensen UN, Petersen JH, Almstrup K, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Carlsen E, McLachlan R, Juul A, Jørgensen N. Decrease in semen quality and Leydig cell function in infertile men: a longitudinal study. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1963-1974. [PMID: 30247578 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are infertile men with reduced semen quality at risk of a further decrease in testicular function? SUMMARY ANSWER Infertile men with severely reduced semen quality risk further deterioration of semen quality 15 years after treatment for infertility, and a lower baseline sperm concentration was associated with a more pronounced increase in LH and decrease in testosterone/LH ratio at follow-up. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Male factors account for up to 50% of human infertility. The most common finding is spermatogenic failure (SgF) yet the life course of semen quality and testosterone production in such men has not been described. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A follow-up study of men with SgF was performed 15 years after the initial infertility assessment between January 1995 and December 2000. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Hospital records were used to identify potential participants in the study. A total of 137 men with primary male infertility due to SgF and 70 controls with good semen quality from couples with female factor infertility who attended a tertiary referral centre were included: the participation rate was 31% and 26%, respectively. The men provided semen samples and underwent a physical examination. Blood samples were taken to measure levels of reproductive hormones (FSH, LH, testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, estradiol and inhibin B). Current results were compared with results from the initial assessments. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE At the time of follow up the SgF men had significantly lower Leydig cell capacity than the control group as well as much lower semen quality. For the SgF men, between baseline sampling and follow up, the median sperm concentration decreased from 1.9 to 0.6 mill/ml and total sperm count from 7.7 to 2.0 million (P = 0.019 and 0.012, respectively), and 10% developed azoospermia. Calculated free testosterone (cFT), but not total testosterone (tT) decreased in the SgF group by ~0.6% (95% CI 0.1-1.2%) per year. In the SgF group, LH increased by 1.6% (CI 0.9-2.3%) annually, and consequently tT/LH and cFT/LH ratios had decreased by 1.3% (CI 0.5-2.1) and 2.1% (CI 1.2-3.0%), respectively. The increase in LH and the decreases in tT/LH and cFT/LH ratios were more pronounced in men with lower baseline sperm concentrations. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We consider the case group as representative of infertile men not in need of testosterone treatment at baseline investigation, but do not have information on those that chose not to participate in the follow-up study. There were alterations in some hormone analysis methods during the follow-up period that may introduce uncertainty in interpretation of long-term changes in hormone levels despite rigorous quality control. The validity of the control group suffers from a lack of hormone values at baseline. Also, at follow-up, for practical reasons only one semen sample could be obtained, which makes the effect estimate more uncertain and there is a risk of non-differential misclassification. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Without being able to predict individual outcomes, it is prudent to consider sperm cryopreservation or advise not to postpone fertility treatment when men present with infertility due to impaired semen quality. Whether partly compensated Leydig cell insufficiency in men with SgF will eventually develop into overt testosterone deficiency cannot be determined from our study. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(s) Aase and Einar Danielsen (Grant no. 10-001053), Nordic Research Committee (Grant no. 5109), The Kirsten and Freddie Johansen Fund, and Rigshospitalet's Research Fund (grant no. R24-A812). There are no competing interests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I A Olesen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - U N Joensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - J H Petersen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5 Building 10, Copenhagen K, Denmark
| | - K Almstrup
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - E Rajpert-De Meyts
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - E Carlsen
- University Department of Fertility, Rigshospitalet section 4071, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - R McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Monash University, 27-31 Wright St, Clayton, Australia
| | - A Juul
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - N Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet section 5064, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Priskorn L, Nordkap L, Bang AK, Krause M, Holmboe SA, Egeberg Palme DL, Winge SB, Mørup N, Carlsen E, Joensen UN, Blomberg Jensen M, Main KM, Juul A, Skakkebaek NE, Jensen TK, Jørgensen N. Average sperm count remains unchanged despite reduction in maternal smoking: results from a large cross-sectional study with annual investigations over 21 years. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:998-1008. [PMID: 29659832 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How are temporal trends in lifestyle factors, including exposure to maternal smoking in utero, associated to semen quality in young men from the general population? SUMMARY ANSWER Exposure to maternal smoking was associated with lower sperm counts but no overall increase in sperm counts was observed during the study period despite a decrease in this exposure. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Meta-analyses suggest a continuous decline in semen quality but few studies have investigated temporal trends in unselected populations recruited and analysed with the same protocol over a long period and none have studied simultaneous trends in lifestyle factors. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Cross-sectional population-based study including ~300 participants per year (total number = 6386) between 1996 and 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study is based on men from the Greater Copenhagen area, Denmark, with a median age of 19 years, and unselected with regard to fertility status and semen quality. The men delivered a semen sample, had a blood sample drawn and a physical examination performed and answered a comprehensive questionnaire, including information on lifestyle and the mother's pregnancy. Temporal trends in semen quality and lifestyle were illustrated graphically, and trends in semen parameters and the impact of prenatal and current lifestyle factors were explored in multiple regression analyses. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Throughout the study period, 35% of the men had low semen quality. Overall, there were no persistent temporal trends in semen quality, testicular volume or levels of follicle-stimulating hormone over the 21 years studied. The men's alcohol intake was lowest between 2011 and 2016, whereas BMI, use of medication and smoking showed no clear temporal trends. Parental age increased, and exposure in utero to maternal smoking declined from 40% among men investigated in 1996-2000 to 18% among men investigated in 2011-2016. Exposure to maternal smoking was associated with lower sperm counts but no overall increase in sperm counts was observed despite the decrease in this exposure. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Information of current and prenatal lifestyle was obtained by self-report, and the men delivered only one semen sample each. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The significant decline in in utero exposure to maternal smoking, which was not reflected in an overall improvement of semen quality at the population level, suggest that other unknown adverse factors may maintain the low semen quality among Danish men. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study has received financial support from the ReproUnion; the Research fund of Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital; the European Union (Contract numbers BMH4-CT96-0314,QLK4-CT-1999-01422, QLK4-CT-2002-00603, FP7/2007-2013, DEER Grant agreement no. 212844); the Danish Ministry of Health; the Danish Environmental Protection Agency; A.P. Møller and wife Chastine McKinney Møllers foundation; and Svend Andersens Foundation. None of the funders had any role in the study design, collection, analysis or interpretation of data, writing of the paper or publication decisions. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - L Nordkap
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - A K Bang
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - M Krause
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - S A Holmboe
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - D L Egeberg Palme
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - S B Winge
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - N Mørup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - E Carlsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - U N Joensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,Department of Urology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - M Blomberg Jensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - K M Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - A Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - N E Skakkebaek
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - T K Jensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,Department of Environmental Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsløws Vej 17, Odense 5000, Denmark
| | - N Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Importance Temporal global trends of sperm quality remain a matter of debate. Objective The aim of this study was to present a comprehensive review of studies reporting on sperm quality counts, summarize the main end points, and assess the main reasons for potential discrepancies. Evidence Acquisition An evidence-based review of PubMed and Scopus databases was performed regarding studies reporting on modification of sperm quality counts, independently of study character, study language, or date. Results Since the meta-analysis of Carlsen et al in 1992 (Br Med J 1992;305:609-613) that suggested an annual decline in sperm count of 1%, several reports confirmed the decline in sperm quality, whereas others disproved them, suggesting a slight increase or absence of change in sperm count. Such controversies may be attributed to geographical and time-related variability in sperm values and also to several confounding factors that influence the semen parameters. Intrinsic weaknesses of the studies include heterogeneity of subjects recruited, lack of adjustment for confounding factors, and samples that do not always represent the general population. Conclusions No consensus exists on whether sperm counts actually decrease because studies' results are often controversial or inconclusive with methodological deficiencies. More prospective, large-scale, population based studies are needed in order to provide sound evidence of possible global trends in sperm count.
Collapse
|
30
|
Dziewirska E, Radwan M, Wielgomas B, Klimowska A, Radwan P, Kałużny P, Hanke W, Słodki M, Jurewicz J. Human Semen Quality, Sperm DNA Damage, and the Level of Urinary Concentrations of 1N and TCPY, the Biomarkers of Nonpersistent Insecticides. Am J Mens Health 2018; 13:1557988318816598. [PMID: 30813854 PMCID: PMC6775546 DOI: 10.1177/1557988318816598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between environmental exposure to nonpersistent insecticides and semen quality (concentration, motility, morphology, computer-aided semen analysis [CASA] parameters, and sperm DNA damage). Urine samples (n = 315) collected from men who attended the infertility clinic with normal semen concentration of 15 to 300 mln/ml and age under 45 years were analyzed for two metabolites (1-naphthol [1N] and 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol [TCPY]) of nonpersistent insecticides. Participants provided semen, blood, and saliva samples; additionally, men filled a detailed questionnaire. The results identified that urinary TCPY concentration was significantly associated with a decrease in motility; also there was a positive association between TCPY and DNA fragmentation index (DFI). 1N concentration was negatively associated with a percentage of sperm with normal morphology and positively with one of the CASA parameters (curvilinear velocity [VCL]). The results suggest that environmental exposure to nonpersistent insecticides may have an impact on semen quality parameters and sperm DNA damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michał Radwan
- 2 Department of Gynecology and Reproduction, "Gameta" Hospital, Rzgów, Poland.,3 Faculty of Health Sciences. The State University of Applied Sciences in Płock, Poland
| | - Bartosz Wielgomas
- 4 Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Klimowska
- 4 Department of Toxicology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Paweł Radwan
- 2 Department of Gynecology and Reproduction, "Gameta" Hospital, Rzgów, Poland
| | - Paweł Kałużny
- 1 Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Wojciech Hanke
- 1 Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Maciej Słodki
- 3 Faculty of Health Sciences. The State University of Applied Sciences in Płock, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Mishra P, Negi MPS, Srivastava M, Singh K, Rajender S. Decline in seminal quality in Indian men over the last 37 years. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:103. [PMID: 30352581 PMCID: PMC6199708 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0425-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the first report of a decline in semen quality in 1974, there have been several reports of similar declines across populations. Despite some scattered reports of declining semen quality in the Indian sub-continent, comprehensive studies analyzing semen quality over the last few decades have not been undertaken. We undertook the present study to investigate the temporal trend in semen parameters in Indian populations over a period of 37 years (1979-2016). METHODS Publications providing semen analysis details for fertile and infertile men from the Indian sub-continent were collected by a thorough literature search. Semen quality data for 6466 normal fertile or presumptive normal men (from 119 studies/data sets) and 7020 infertile men (from 63 studies/data sets) published between 1979 and 2016 were retrieved. We undertook systematic review and quantitative analysis of mean sperm count, motility, normal morphology and other available parameters. Data were analyzed to estimate semen parameters reference values for Indian men and to assess temporal trends in infertile, fertile and all subjects. RESULTS Seminal quality shows a decreasing temporal trend and the decrease is higher in infertile than fertile males. In pooled analysis for all individuals, significant (p < 0.05 or < 0.001) declines in sperm concentration and normal morphology are observed; however, isolated analysis for each group shows declines without statistical significance. The mean (± SD) semen volume, sperm concentration, total motility, rapid linear progressive motility, normal sperm morphology and sperm viability for Indian fertile men are 2.88 ± 0.77 ml, 81.08 ± 29.21 million/ml, 66.37 ± 10.95%, 52.64 ± 15.78%, 56.68 ± 20.23% and 72.63 ± 8.31%, respectively, whereas in infertile these are 3.07 ± 1.27 ml, 37.94 ± 26.41 million/ml, 40.22 ± 13.76%, 26.79 ± 15.47%, 36.41 ± 21.66% and 55.25 ± 11.99%, respectively. The mean seminal parameter values were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in infertile as compared to fertile men, except semen volume. CONCLUSIONS Semen parameters in Indian men have declined with time and the deterioration is quantitatively higher in the infertile group. The study also provides reference values for semen parameters in Indian men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Mishra
- Male Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Mahendra Pal Singh Negi
- Division of Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Mukesh Srivastava
- Division of Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, UP, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Male Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, UP, India.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Rodprasert W, Virtanen HE, Sadov S, Perheentupa A, Skakkebaek NE, Jørgensen N, Toppari J. An update on semen quality among young Finnish men and comparison with Danish data. Andrology 2018; 7:15-23. [PMID: 30251363 PMCID: PMC6519379 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Finnish men used to have higher semen quality than Danish men. However, recent studies showed that semen quality in Finland has declined, but it has been relatively stable in Denmark. Objective This study aimed to compare new data on semen quality of the young Finnish men to that of Danish men. Materials and methods In this cross‐sectional study, 18‐ to 19‐year‐old men residing in Turku, Finland and Copenhagen, Denmark, were invited to participate in 2008–2011. Each man filled in a questionnaire, provided one semen sample and underwent andrological examination. Semen samples were analyzed according to WHO. Multiway ANOVA was used to adjust semen variables for duration of sexual abstinence and age (and time from ejaculation to the start of semen analysis for sperm motility). Results Altogether 287 Finnish men and 873 Danish men participated in the study. The adjusted median sperm concentrations were 49 and 47 million/mL for Finnish and Danish men, respectively (p = 0.48). The adjusted median total sperm counts were 148 million in Finland and 146 million in Denmark (p = 0.87). The adjusted median percentages of morphologically normal spermatozoa were 6.9% in Finland and 6.5% in Denmark, p = 0.27. Finnish men had higher adjusted median percentages of motile spermatozoa (A+B+C) than Danish men (80% vs. 69%, p < 0.001). The proportion of men who had low semen quality (sperm concentration, percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa or percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa below WHO reference limits) was lower in Finland (25.4%) than in Denmark (34.6%), p = 0.004. Discussion Considerable percentage of men in both countries had low semen quality. The deteriorating semen quality in Finland may result in decreasing fecundity, which is a cause of concern. Conclusion The formerly high semen quality in Finland has converged to the lower Danish levels. Our findings demonstrate the importance of continuing surveillance of semen quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Rodprasert
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - H E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - S Sadov
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - A Perheentupa
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - N E Skakkebaek
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - N Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,University Department of Growth and Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mínguez-Alarcón L, Gaskins AJ, Chiu YH, Messerlian C, Williams PL, Ford JB, Souter I, Hauser R, Chavarro JE. Type of underwear worn and markers of testicular function among men attending a fertility center. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1749-1756. [PMID: 30102388 PMCID: PMC6530653 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is self-reported type of underwear worn associated with markers of testicular function among men at a fertility center? SUMMARY ANSWER Men who reported most frequently wearing boxers had higher sperm concentration and total count, and lower FSH levels, compared to men who did not. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Elevated scrotal temperatures are known to adversely affect testicular function. However, the epidemiologic literature on type of underwear, as a proxy of scrotal temperature, and male testicular function is inconsistent. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a cross-sectional study including 656 male partners of couples seeking infertility treatment at a fertility center (2000-2017). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Self-reported information on type of underwear worn was collected from a take-home questionnaire. Semen samples were analyzed following World Health Organization guidelines. Enzyme immunoassays were used to assess reproductive hormone levels and neutral comet assays for sperm DNA damage. We fit linear regression models to evaluate the association between underwear type and testicular function, adjusting for covariates and accounting for multiple semen samples. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Men had a median (interquartile range) age of 35.5 (32.0, 39.3) years and BMI of 26.3 (24.4, 29.9) kg/m2. About half of the men (53%; n = 345) reported usually wearing boxers. Men who reported primarily wearing boxers had a 25% higher sperm concentration (95% CI = 7, 31%), 17% higher total count (95% CI = 0, 28%) and 14% lower serum FSH levels (95% CI = -27, -1%) than men who reported not primarily wearing boxers. Sperm concentration and total count were inversely related to serum FSH. Furthermore, the differences in sperm concentration and total count according to type of underwear were attenuated after adjustment for serum FSH. No associations with other measured reproductive outcomes were observed. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our results may not be generalizable to men from the general population. Underwear use was self-reported in a questionnaire and there may be misclassification of the exposure. The cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and residual confounding is still possible owing to lack of information on other modifiable life styles that can also modify scrotal heat (e.g. type of trousers worn, textile fabric of the underwear). Blood sampling was not limited to the morning and, as a result, we may have missed associations with testosterone or other hormones with significant circadian variation despite statistical adjustment for time of blood draw. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Certain styles of male underwear may impair spermatogenesis and this may result in a compensatory increase in gonadotrophin secretion, as reflected by higher serum FSH levels among men who reported most frequently wearing tight underwear. Confirmation of these findings, and in particular the findings on FSH levels suggesting a compensatory mechanism, is warranted. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The project was financed by Grants (R01ES022955, R01ES009718, P30ES000002, and K99ES026648) from the National Institutes of Health. None of the authors has any conflicts of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Audrey J Gaskins
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yu-Han Chiu
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer B Ford
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Irene Souter
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and IVF, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jorge E Chavarro
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ingle ME, Mínguez-Alarcón L, Carignan CC, Butt CM, Stapleton HM, Williams PL, Ford JB, Hauser R, Meeker JD. The association between urinary concentrations of phosphorous-containing flame retardant metabolites and semen parameters among men from a fertility clinic. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 221:809-815. [PMID: 29739653 PMCID: PMC5997557 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of PFRs has steadily increased as brominated compounds have been or are being phased out. Human exposure is widespread and animal studies have shown adverse impacts on male reproduction, but human data are lacking. OBJECTIVE To study the associations between urinary concentrations of phosphorous-containing flame retardant (PFR) metabolites and semen parameters. METHODS A subset of 220 men from an existing longitudinal cohort of couples were recruited from Massachusetts General Hospital fertility clinic between 2005 and 2015. Semen parameters included sperm count, concentration, motility, and morphology; some men had samples measured from multiple clinic visits (up to five visits; n = 269 semen samples). Metabolites [bis(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BDCIPP), diphenyl phosphate (DPHP), isopropylphenyl phenyl phosphate (ip-PPP), tert-butylphenyl phenyl phosphate (tb-PPP) and bis(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (BCIPP)] were measured in urine samples (between one and five urine samples per participant; n = 355 urine samples). Semen parameters were evaluated continuously and dichotomized for models. Metabolites were assessed for associations with semen parameters as continuous and categorized into quartiles using multivariable generalized mixed models, adjusted for specific gravity, age, BMI, smoking, and abstinence period. RESULTS Metabolites BDCIPP, DPHP, and ip-PPP were detected in a high proportion of urine samples (85%, 86%, and 65% respectively). Concentrations varied by season of collection, particularly for BDCIPP where samples collected in the summer were approximately 2-fold higher than concentrations of other seasons (p < 0.0001). The odds of having a sperm count less than 39 mil/ejaculate decreased by 20% for increasing BDCIPP concentrations (p = 0.04). When regressing semen parameters on PFR metabolite quartiles, some negative associations were observed for individual quartiles among sample volume and morphology, but overall associations were weak and inconsistent. CONCLUSION Detection rates were high for BDCIPP, DPHP, and ip-PPP. We did not observe consistent associations between PFR metabolites and semen parameters. Due to the high prevalence of exposure, further investigation of other potential health effects should be conducted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary E Ingle
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Courtney C Carignan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Craig M Butt
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Paige L Williams
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer B Ford
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John D Meeker
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Levine H, Jørgensen N, Martino-Andrade A, Mendiola J, Weksler-Derri D, Mindlis I, Pinotti R, Swan SH. Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 23:646-659. [PMID: 28981654 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 748] [Impact Index Per Article: 124.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reported declines in sperm counts remain controversial today and recent trends are unknown. A definitive meta-analysis is critical given the predictive value of sperm count for fertility, morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE To provide a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of recent trends in sperm counts as measured by sperm concentration (SC) and total sperm count (TSC), and their modification by fertility and geographic group. SEARCH METHODS PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for English language studies of human SC published in 1981-2013. Following a predefined protocol 7518 abstracts were screened and 2510 full articles reporting primary data on SC were reviewed. A total of 244 estimates of SC and TSC from 185 studies of 42 935 men who provided semen samples in 1973-2011 were extracted for meta-regression analysis, as well as information on years of sample collection and covariates [fertility group ('Unselected by fertility' versus 'Fertile'), geographic group ('Western', including North America, Europe Australia and New Zealand versus 'Other', including South America, Asia and Africa), age, ejaculation abstinence time, semen collection method, method of measuring SC and semen volume, exclusion criteria and indicators of completeness of covariate data]. The slopes of SC and TSC were estimated as functions of sample collection year using both simple linear regression and weighted meta-regression models and the latter were adjusted for pre-determined covariates and modification by fertility and geographic group. Assumptions were examined using multiple sensitivity analyses and nonlinear models. OUTCOMES SC declined significantly between 1973 and 2011 (slope in unadjusted simple regression models -0.70 million/ml/year; 95% CI: -0.72 to -0.69; P < 0.001; slope in adjusted meta-regression models = -0.64; -1.06 to -0.22; P = 0.003). The slopes in the meta-regression model were modified by fertility (P for interaction = 0.064) and geographic group (P for interaction = 0.027). There was a significant decline in SC between 1973 and 2011 among Unselected Western (-1.38; -2.02 to -0.74; P < 0.001) and among Fertile Western (-0.68; -1.31 to -0.05; P = 0.033), while no significant trends were seen among Unselected Other and Fertile Other. Among Unselected Western studies, the mean SC declined, on average, 1.4% per year with an overall decline of 52.4% between 1973 and 2011. Trends for TSC and SC were similar, with a steep decline among Unselected Western (-5.33 million/year, -7.56 to -3.11; P < 0.001), corresponding to an average decline in mean TSC of 1.6% per year and overall decline of 59.3%. Results changed minimally in multiple sensitivity analyses, and there was no statistical support for the use of a nonlinear model. In a model restricted to data post-1995, the slope both for SC and TSC among Unselected Western was similar to that for the entire period (-2.06 million/ml, -3.38 to -0.74; P = 0.004 and -8.12 million, -13.73 to -2.51, P = 0.006, respectively). WIDER IMPLICATIONS This comprehensive meta-regression analysis reports a significant decline in sperm counts (as measured by SC and TSC) between 1973 and 2011, driven by a 50-60% decline among men unselected by fertility from North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Because of the significant public health implications of these results, research on the causes of this continuing decline is urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University, the Hebrew University Center of Excellence in Agriculture and Environmental Health, Ein Kerem Campus, PO BOX 12272, Jerusalem 9110202, Israel.,Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, CopenhagenDK-2100, Denmark
| | - Anderson Martino-Andrade
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Physiology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Jaime Mendiola
- Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), Murcia30100, Spain
| | - Dan Weksler-Derri
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva6676814, Israel
| | - Irina Mindlis
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
| | - Rachel Pinotti
- Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Erenpreiss J, Punab M, Zilaitiene B, Hlevicka S, Zayakin P, Matulevicius V, Tomas Preiksa R, Jørgensen N. Semen quality of young men from the general population in Baltic countries. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1334-1340. [PMID: 28383690 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the parameters of semen quality in Baltic men? SUMMARY ANSWER Combined parameters of sperm concentration, motility and morphology revealed that 11-15% of men had low semen quality, 37-50% intermediate and 38-52% high semen quality. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Previous studies have revealed regional differences in semen parameters, and semen quality of Baltic men has been suggested to be better than that of other European men. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a cross-sectional study of 1165 men aged 16-29 years from Estonia (N = 573), Latvia (N = 278) and Lithuania (N = 314) conducted in 2003-2004. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Men from the general population, median age 19.8 years, provided one semen sample each, had blood samples taken, had testis size determined, and provided information on lifestyle. Based on combined data of sperm concentration, sperm motility and morphology the cohort was classified into three categories: low, intermediate or high semen quality. Comparisons between groups (including subgroups of Estonian men of Russian versus Estonian ethnicity) were tested, adjusting for ejaculation abstinence and age. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The median sperm concentration of the Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian populations of Baltic men was 63 mill/ml. Low semen quality was detected in 11-15% of the men, intermediate in 37-50% and high in 38-52%. No crucial differences between national subgroups were detected, except that a higher percentage (9.6%) of the subgroup of Russian Estonians reported having had cryptorchidism compared to the other men (2.5-3.6%, P < 0.001). Smoking had an adverse impact on both sperm concentration and total sperm counts (P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The semen quality data were collected >10 years ago. Thus, a recent change in semen quality cannot be excluded. Owing to the study design, it is assumed, but unproven, that the men were representative of the general populations. Some men were very young (16 years), however, this was also the case for other European studies of similar populations. Assessment of sperm motility is associated with inter-observer variation, and no quality control was undertaken for sperm motility assessment to account for that. Thus, estimates of sperm motility should be interpreted with caution. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Analysis of the semen variables separately did not identify that a considerable percentage of Baltic men had low semen quality. The combined analysis, however, showed that more than one out of nine men had semen quality at a level indicating reduced fertility chances. We suggest that future studies of semen quality should be carried out reporting both results of single semen parameters and estimates that combine the most frequently assessed variables. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was funded by the EU fifth framework project Number QLK4-1999-01422 'Envir.Repro.Health' extension to Baltic countries Number QLRT-2001-02911; Estonian Science Foundation, grant numbers 2991 and PUT181. There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juris Erenpreiss
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Riga LV-1067, Latvia
| | - Margus Punab
- Andrology Center, Tartu University Hospital, 50406 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Birute Zilaitiene
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas LT-50009, Lithuania
| | | | - Pawel Zayakin
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Riga LV-1067, Latvia
| | - Valentinas Matulevicius
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas LT-50009, Lithuania
| | - Romualdas Tomas Preiksa
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas LT-50009, Lithuania
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, GR-5064, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), GR-5064, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Perinatal exposure to 2,2',4'4' -Tetrabromodiphenyl ether induces testicular toxicity in adult rats. Toxicology 2017; 389:21-30. [PMID: 28712647 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2017.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Since 1965, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been used internationally as flame-retardant additives. PBDEs were recently withdrawn from commerce in North America and Europe due to their environmental persistence, bioaccumulative properties and endocrine-disrupting effects. Generations exposed perinatally to the highest environmental doses of PBDE account for one-fifth of the total United States population. While, toxicity of PBDE for the male reproductive system has been demonstrated in several human and animal studies, the long-lasting effects of perinatal exposures on male reproduction are still poorly understood. In this study, pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to 0.2mg/kg 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) from gestation day 8 until postnatal day 21. Male reproductive outcomes were analyzed on postnatal day 120 in offspring. Exposed animals had significantly smaller testes, displayed decreased sperm production per testis weight, had significantly increased percentage of morphologically abnormal spermatozoa, and showed an increase in spermatozoa head size. Perinatal BDE-47 exposure led to significant changes in testes transcriptome, including suppression of genes essential for spermatogenesis and activation of immune response genes. In particular, we observed a 4-fold average decrease in expression of protamine and transition protein genes in testes, suggesting that histone-protamine exchange may be dysregulated during spermatogenesis, resulting in an aberrant sperm epigenome. The possibility of long-lasting effects of developmental PBDE exposures calls for additional studies to build a foundation for the development of preventive and protective interventions against the environmentally-induced decline in fertility.
Collapse
|
38
|
Horan TS, Marre A, Hassold T, Lawson C, Hunt PA. Germline and reproductive tract effects intensify in male mice with successive generations of estrogenic exposure. PLoS Genet 2017; 13:e1006885. [PMID: 28727826 PMCID: PMC5519010 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothesis that developmental estrogenic exposure induces a constellation of male reproductive tract abnormalities is supported by experimental and human evidence. Experimental data also suggest that some induced effects persist in descendants of exposed males. These multi- and transgenerational effects are assumed to result from epigenetic changes to the germline, but few studies have directly analyzed germ cells. Typically, studies of transgenerational effects have involved exposing one generation and monitoring effects in subsequent unexposed generations. This approach, however, has limited human relevance, since both the number and volume of estrogenic contaminants has increased steadily over time, intensifying rather than reducing or eliminating exposure. Using an outbred CD-1 mouse model, and a sensitive and quantitative marker of germline development, meiotic recombination, we tested the effect of successive generations of exposure on the testis. We targeted the germline during a narrow, perinatal window using oral exposure to the synthetic estrogen, ethinyl estradiol. A complex three generation exposure protocol allowed us to compare the effects of individual, paternal, and grandpaternal (ancestral) exposure. Our data indicate that multiple generations of exposure not only exacerbate germ cell exposure effects, but also increase the incidence and severity of reproductive tract abnormalities. Taken together, our data suggest that male sensitivity to environmental estrogens is increased by successive generations of exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tegan S. Horan
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Alyssa Marre
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Terry Hassold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Crystal Lawson
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Patricia A. Hunt
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Wang YX, Wang P, Feng W, Liu C, Yang P, Chen YJ, Sun L, Sun Y, Yue J, Gu LJ, Zeng Q, Lu WQ. Relationships between seminal plasma metals/metalloids and semen quality, sperm apoptosis and DNA integrity. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 224:224-234. [PMID: 28274591 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.01.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the relationships between environmental exposure to metals/metalloids and semen quality, sperm apoptosis and DNA integrity using the metal/metalloids levels in seminal plasma as biomarkers. We determined 18 metals/metalloids in seminal plasma using an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry among 746 men recruited from a reproductive medicine center. Associations of these metals/metalloids with semen quality (n = 746), sperm apoptosis (n = 331) and DNA integrity (n = 404) were evaluated using multivariate linear and logistic regression models. After accounting for multiple comparisons and confounders, seminal plasma arsenic (As) quartiles were negatively associated with progressive and total sperm motility using multivariable linear regression analysis, which were in accordance with the trends for increased odds ratios (ORs) for below-reference semen quality parameters in the logistic models. We also found inverse correlations between cadmium (Cd) quartiles and progressive and total sperm motility, whereas positive correlations between zinc (Zn) quartiles and sperm concentration, between copper (Cu) and As quartiles and the percentage of tail DNA, between As and selenium (Se) quartiles and tail extent and tail distributed moment, and between tin (Sn) categories and the percentage of necrotic spermatozoa (all Ptrend<0.05). These relationships remained after the simultaneous consideration of various elements. Our results indicate that environmental exposure to As, Cd, Cu, Se and Sn may impair male reproductive health, whereas Zn may be beneficial to sperm concentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wei Feng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Pan Yang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ying-Jun Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yang Sun
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jing Yue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Long-Jie Gu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wen-Qing Lu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Sengupta P, Borges E, Dutta S, Krajewska-Kulak E. Decline in sperm count in European men during the past 50 years. Hum Exp Toxicol 2017; 37:247-255. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327117703690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate whether the sperm concentration of European men is deteriorating over the past 50 years of time. Materials and Methods: We analysed the data published in English language articles in the past 50 years in altering sperm concentration in European men. Results: A time-dependent decline of sperm concentration ( r = −0.307, p = 0.02) in the last 50 years and an overall 32.5% decrease in mean sperm concentration was noted. Conclusion: This comprehensive, evidence-based meta-analysis concisely presents the evidence of decreased sperm concentration in European male over the past 50 years to serve the scientific research zone related to male reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Sengupta
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Lincoln University College, Malaysia
- Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - E Borges
- Fertility Medical Group, Avenida Brigadeiro Luiz Antônio, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - S Dutta
- Faculty of Science, Lincoln University College, Malaysia
| | - E Krajewska-Kulak
- Integrated Medical Care, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Sifakis S, Androutsopoulos VP, Tsatsakis AM, Spandidos DA. Human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals: effects on the male and female reproductive systems. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 51:56-70. [PMID: 28292651 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) comprise a group of chemical compounds that have been examined extensively due to the potential harmful effects in the health of human populations. During the past decades, particular focus has been given to the harmful effects of EDCs to the reproductive system. The estimation of human exposure to EDCs can be broadly categorized into occupational and environmental exposure, and has been a major challenge due to the structural diversity of the chemicals that are derived by many different sources at doses below the limit of detection used by conventional methodologies. Animal and in vitro studies have supported the conclusion that endocrine disrupting chemicals affect the hormone dependent pathways responsible for male and female gonadal development, either through direct interaction with hormone receptors or via epigenetic and cell-cycle regulatory modes of action. In human populations, the majority of the studies point towards an association between exposure to EDCs and male and/or female reproduction system disorders, such as infertility, endometriosis, breast cancer, testicular cancer, poor sperm quality and/or function. Despite promising discoveries, a causal relationship between the reproductive disorders and exposure to specific toxicants is yet to be established, due to the complexity of the clinical protocols used, the degree of occupational or environmental exposure, the determination of the variables measured and the sample size of the subjects examined. Future studies should focus on a uniform system of examining human populations with regard to the exposure to specific EDCs and the direct effect on the reproductive system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stavros Sifakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Crete, Medical School, Heraklion, GR 71003, Greece
| | | | - Aristeidis M Tsatsakis
- Department of Toxicology, University of Crete, Medical School, Heraklion, GR 71003, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Department of Clinical Virology, University of Crete, Medical School, Heraklion, GR 71003, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Chang WH, Wu MH, Pan HA, Guo PL, Lee CC. Semen quality and insulin-like factor 3: Associations with urinary and seminal levels of phthalate metabolites in adult males. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 173:594-602. [PMID: 28152410 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Certain phthalates have adverse effects on male reproductive functions in animals, and potentially affect human testicular function and spermatogenesis, but little is known about the active mechanisms. We measured the urinary and seminal phthalate metabolites and explored their associations on insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) and semen quality. Urine, blood, and semen samples were collected from the male partners of subfertile (n = 253) and fertile (n = 37) couples in a reproductive center in southern Taiwan. INSL3, reproductive hormones, semen-quality, and 11 phthalate metabolites in urine and semen were measured. There were significant correlations in the distribution pattern of metabolites, such as the relative contribution of low or high molecular weight phthalate metabolites. The significantly monotonic trends in semen volume, sperm concentration and motility were associated with increasing quartiles of INSL3 (all p-trend < 0.001). In adjusted regression models, increases in urinary phthalate metabolites levels were adversely associated with sperm concentration (monobenzyl phthalate [MBzP], mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate [MEHP] and MEHP%), motility (MBzP and MEHP) and INSL3 (MBzP, MEHP and MEHP%) (all p < 0.01). Higher seminal phthalate metabolite levels were associated with decreases in sperm concentration (MEHP and mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate), motility (mono-ethyl phthalate [MEP] and di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate [DEHP] metabolites), normal morphology (MEP), and INSL3 (monomethyl phthalate and MEP) (all p < 0.05). Our data suggest that INSL3 secretion, reproductive hormone balance, and sperm production and quality might be simultaneously adversely affected for individuals excreting increasing levels of phthalates metabolites (especially di-ethyl phthalate, butylbenzyl phthalate, and DEHP) in urine and semen samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsiang Chang
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Meng-Hsing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Hsien-An Pan
- An-An Women and Children Clinic, 286 Kaiyuan Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Pao-Lin Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital of National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Chang Lee
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan; Research Center of Environmental Trace Toxic Substance, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 70403, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Pilsner JR, Parker M, Sergeyev O, Suvorov A. Spermatogenesis disruption by dioxins: Epigenetic reprograming and windows of susceptibility. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:221-229. [PMID: 28286111 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dioxins are a group of highly persistent chemicals that are generated as by-products of industrial and natural processes. Reduction in sperm counts is among the most sensitive endpoints of dioxin toxicity. The exact mechanism by which dioxins reduce sperm counts is not known. Recent data implicate the role of epididymal factors rather than disruption of spermatogenesis. Studies reviewed here demonstrate that dioxins induce the transfer of environmental conditions to the next generation via male germline following exposures during the window of epigenetic reprogramming of primordial germ cells. Increased incidence of birth defects in offspring of male veterans exposed to dioxin containing, Agent Orange, suggest that dioxins may induce epigenomic changes in male germ cells of adults during spermatogenesis. This is supported by recent animal data that show that environmental conditions can cause epigenetic dysregulation in sperm in the context of specific windows of epigenetic reprogramming during spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Richard Pilsner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 N. Pleasant St., 171 Goessmann, Amherst, MA 01003-9303, USA.
| | - Mikhail Parker
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 N. Pleasant St., 171 Goessmann, Amherst, MA 01003-9303, USA.
| | - Oleg Sergeyev
- Department of Genomics and Human Genetics, Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 3 Gubkina St., 119991 Moscow, Russia; Chapaevsk Medical Association, 3a Meditsinskaya St., 446100 Chapaevsk, Samara Region, Russia.
| | - Alexander Suvorov
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 N. Pleasant St., 171 Goessmann, Amherst, MA 01003-9303, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
MInguez-Alarcón L, Chavarro JE, Mendiola J, Roca M, Tanrikut C, Vioque J, Jørgensen N, Torres-Cantero AM. Fatty acid intake in relation to reproductive hormones and testicular volume among young healthy men. Asian J Androl 2017; 19:184-190. [PMID: 27834316 PMCID: PMC5312216 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.190323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that dietary fats may influence testicular function. However, most of the published literature on this field has used semen quality parameters as the only proxy for testicular function. We examined the association of fat intake with circulating reproductive hormone levels and testicular volume among healthy young Spanish men. This is a cross-sectional study among 209 healthy male volunteers conducted between October 2010 and November 2011 in Murcia Region of Spain. Participants completed questionnaires on lifestyle, diet, and smoking, and each underwent a physical examination, and provided a blood sample. Linear regression was used to examine the association between each fatty acid type and reproductive hormone levels and testicular volumes. Monounsaturated fatty acids intake was inversely associated with serum blood levels of calculated free testosterone, total testosterone, and inhibin B. A positive association was observed between the intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and luteinizing hormone concentrations. In addition, the intake of trans fatty acids was associated with lower total testosterone and calculated free testosterone concentrations (P trend = 0.01 and 0.02, respectively). The intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was positively related to testicular volume while the intake of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids was inversely related to testicular volume. These data suggest that fat intake, and particularly intake of omega 3, omega 6, and trans fatty acids, may influence testicular function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia MInguez-Alarcón
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Health and Social Sciences, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Espinardo (Murcia), Spain
| | - Jorge E Chavarro
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jaime Mendiola
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Espinardo (Murcia), Spain
| | - Manuela Roca
- Roca Fertility, Advanced Clinic Management SLU, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cigdem Tanrikut
- Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jesús Vioque
- CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain.,Department of Public Health, Miguel Hernández University, Elche-Alicante, Spain
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alberto M Torres-Cantero
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine, IMIB-Arrixaca, Espinardo (Murcia), Spain.,Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
|
46
|
Vecoli C, Montano L, Andreassi MG. Environmental pollutants: genetic damage and epigenetic changes in male germ cells. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:23339-23348. [PMID: 27672044 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-7728-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
About a quarter of the human diseases occurs for exposure to air pollution. The male reproductive system, and especially spermatogenesis, seems to be particularly sensitive. As result, male infertility is increasing in industrial countries becoming a top priority for public health. In addition to psychological distress and economic constraints, poorer semen quality may have trans-generational effects including congenital malformations in the offspring and predispose to later onset adult diseases. Genetic and epigenetic alterations are involved in the failure of spermatogenesis. In this paper, we reviewed the major evidences of the effects of air pollutants on male infertility as well as the role of sperm DNA damage and epigenetic changes in affecting spermatogenesis. A better knowledge on the effects of air contaminants on the molecular mechanisms leading to infertility is of huge importance to help clinicians in identifying the cause of infertility but above all, in defining preventive and therapeutic protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Vecoli
- Institute of Clinical Physiology-CNR, via G.Moruzzi 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit of the "San Francesco d'Assisi" Hospital - ASL Salerno, EcoFoodFertility Project Coordination Unit, via M. Clemente, 84020, Oliveto Citra, SA, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Varicocele Is Associated with Impaired Semen Quality and Reproductive Hormone Levels: A Study of 7035 Healthy Young Men from Six European Countries. Eur Urol 2016; 70:1019-1029. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2016.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
48
|
Decline in semen quality among 30,636 young Chinese men from 2001 to 2015. Fertil Steril 2016; 107:83-88.e2. [PMID: 27793371 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide information of semen quality among young Chinese men in the past 15 years. DESIGN Retrospective cross-sectional study. SETTING Sperm bank. PATIENT(S) A total of 30,636 young adult men who applied to be sperm donors at the Hunan Province Human Sperm Bank of China in 2001-2015 were included in the study. INTERVENTION(S) Physical examination and analysis of blood and semen samples. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Semen parameters, such as semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, progressively motile sperm count, sperm progressive motility, sperm morphology, and round cells. RESULT(S) Many of the semen parameters showed a decreasing trend over the 15-year observation period. The sperm concentration and percentage of sperm with normal morphology decreased from 68 × 106/mL to 47 × 106/mL and from 31.8% to 10.8%, respectively. Although sperm progressive motility showed irregular variation, the progressively motile sperm count decreased from 34 × 106 to 21 × 106 over the 15-year period. Furthermore, the rate of qualified donors fell from 55.78% in 2001 to 17.80% in 2015, and the rate for 2015 was approximately threefold lower than the corresponding rates in 2001. CONCLUSION(S) The semen quality among young Chinese men has declined over a period of 15 years, especially in terms of sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm progressive motility, and normal morphology.
Collapse
|
49
|
Sengupta P, Dutta S, Krajewska-Kulak E. The Disappearing Sperms: Analysis of Reports Published Between 1980 and 2015. Am J Mens Health 2016; 11:1279-1304. [PMID: 27099345 DOI: 10.1177/1557988316643383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Reports regarding the changes in sperm concentration in different counties of the world are inconsistent. Furthermore, the reports that sprung up from specific epidemiological and experimental examinations did not include data of prior studies or geographical variations. The current study, following a previous report of massive fall in semen volume over the past 33 years, attempts to delineate the trend of altering sperm concentrations and factors responsible for this by reviewing article published from 1980 to July 2015 with geographic differences. The current study identified an overall 57% diminution in mean sperm concentration over the past 35 years ( r = -.313, p = .0002), which, when analyzed for each geographical region, identified a significant decline in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. An increasing trend of sperm concentration was identified only in Australia. The association of male age with such a trend ( R2 = .979) is reported. The authors also correlated male fertility with sperm concentration. Thus, this comprehensive, evidence-based literature review aims to concisely and systematically present the available data on sperm concentration from 1980 to 2015, as well as to statistically analyze the same and correlate male health with the declining pattern of sperm count in a single scientific review to serve the scientific research zone related to reproductive health. It points to the threat of male infertility in times ahead.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- 2 Ex-guest Teacher, Serampore College, University of Calcutta, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Matulevicius V, Zilaitiene B, Preiksa RT, Banisauskaite I, Jurevičiūtė J, Abramavicius S, Matuleviciute I, Kurakovas T, Ostrauskas R, Verkauskiene R, Urbanavicius V. APPROACHES TO THE 26-36-YEAR-OLD LITHUANIAN MEN'S SEXUAL FUNCTION. ACTA ENDOCRINOLOGICA-BUCHAREST 2016; 12:168-176. [PMID: 31149083 DOI: 10.4183/aeb.2016.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Context In the year 2003-2004 a circumstantial investigation of young men reproductive health parameters was performed in Nordic and Baltic countries, but sexuality remained undetermined. Objective To determine the suitability of the European Male Ageing Study - Sexual Function Questionnaire (EMAS - SFQ) for investigation of sexuality of 26-36 year aged general population and to investigate sexuality of Kaunas participants in the project "The reproductive function of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian Young men (2003-2004)" (KELLY), using EMAS - SFQ. Design Sixty one 26-36 year aged KELLY men were recaptured from the list of participants in a 2003-2004 study and completed EMAS - SFQ. Their anthropometric characteristics, scores of sexuality (22 parameters from EMAS - SFQ, 3 calculated parameters and 2 parameters consisting from answers to the only question - masturbation and erectile function-for each participant) were analysed, in conjunction with anthropometric, sperm quality and hormone levels of 2003-2004 18-25 year old general population. Results Overall sexual functioning and masturbation were higher as compared to all the published data for different age men and different testosterone concentration groups of EMAS study. Conclusions KELLY sexuality results, obtained using EMAS - SFQ, would be considered as referral values for young men in countries with generally good reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Matulevicius
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - B Zilaitiene
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - R T Preiksa
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - I Banisauskaite
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - J Jurevičiūtė
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - S Abramavicius
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - I Matuleviciute
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - T Kurakovas
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - R Ostrauskas
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - R Verkauskiene
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Institute of Endocrinology, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - V Urbanavicius
- Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|