1
|
Negus C, Pinyopummin A, Mahasawangkul S, Hobbs R, Bathgate R. Asian elephant ( Elephas maximus) seminal plasma: establishing the proteome and effect on spermatozoa when added to cryomedium. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23217. [PMID: 39052858 DOI: 10.1071/rd23217] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Context The removal or supplementation of ejaculates with seminal plasma (SP) can affect cryotolerance and post-thaw survival of spermatozoa in many species. In the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus ), elucidation of the SP proteome and investigation of how it affects spermatozoa may enable improvement of cryopreservation protocols. Aims Herein, we characterise the Asian elephant SP proteome and investigate the impacts of SP on sperm cryotolerance in the presence of conspecific or heterospecific SP. Methods Proteomic analysis of Asian elephant SP was performed using mass spectrometry on nine samples from three individuals. In a separate study, SP was removed from six ejaculates and spermatozoa were resuspended in Tris extender supplemented with: no seminal plasma (NOSP), conspecific SP from ejaculates exhibiting 'good' (GSP, >60%) or mixed sperm total motility (MSP), or horse SP (HSP). Samples underwent cryopreservation, and sperm parameters were compared prior to cryopreservation and after thawing (0 and 2h). Key results Mass spectrometry identified 155 proteins from an array of families. Significant differences were observed in post-thaw sperm quality between SP treatments: high concentrations of MSP (25%, v/v) displayed greater average path and straight-line velocity immediately after thawing (P P P Conclusions and implications These preliminary findings suggest the potential of SP to enhance the cryosurvival of Asian elephant spermatozoa, with HSP showing particularly promising results compared to conspecific SP (GSP). Further research into the specific effects of Asian elephant SP proteins is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Negus
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anuchai Pinyopummin
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | | | - Rebecca Hobbs
- Taronga Institute of Science and Learning, Dubbo, NSW, Australia
| | - Roslyn Bathgate
- Faculty of Science, Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sutovsky P, Hamilton LE, Zigo M, Ortiz D’Avila Assumpção ME, Jones A, Tirpak F, Agca Y, Kerns K, Sutovsky M. Biomarker-based human and animal sperm phenotyping: the good, the bad and the ugly†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:1135-1156. [PMID: 38640912 PMCID: PMC11180624 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae061] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Conventional, brightfield-microscopic semen analysis provides important baseline information about sperm quality of an individual; however, it falls short of identifying subtle subcellular and molecular defects in cohorts of "bad," defective human and animal spermatozoa with seemingly normal phenotypes. To bridge this gap, it is desirable to increase the precision of andrological evaluation in humans and livestock animals by pursuing advanced biomarker-based imaging methods. This review, spiced up with occasional classic movie references but seriously scholastic at the same time, focuses mainly on the biomarkers of altered male germ cell proteostasis resulting in post-testicular carryovers of proteins associated with ubiquitin-proteasome system. Also addressed are sperm redox homeostasis, epididymal sperm maturation, sperm-seminal plasma interactions, and sperm surface glycosylation. Zinc ion homeostasis-associated biomarkers and sperm-borne components, including the elements of neurodegenerative pathways such as Huntington and Alzheimer disease, are discussed. Such spectrum of biomarkers, imaged by highly specific vital fluorescent molecular probes, lectins, and antibodies, reveals both obvious and subtle defects of sperm chromatin, deoxyribonucleic acid, and accessory structures of the sperm head and tail. Introduction of next-generation image-based flow cytometry into research and clinical andrology will soon enable the incorporation of machine and deep learning algorithms with the end point of developing simple, label-free methods for clinical diagnostics and high-throughput phenotyping of spermatozoa in humans and economically important livestock animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Lauren E Hamilton
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Mayra E Ortiz D’Avila Assumpção
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexis Jones
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Filip Tirpak
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Yuksel Agca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Karl Kerns
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Miriam Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schmaltz L, Prudhomme T, Tsikis G, Reynaud K, Mérour I, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm binding to oviduct epithelial spheroids varies among males and ejaculates but not among females in pigs. Theriogenology 2024; 219:116-125. [PMID: 38428333 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
The elimination of ejaculates and males with low fertility despite good sperm motility and morphology is crucial to maintain high pregnancy rates after artificial insemination (AI) in farm animals. The ability of sperm to survive in the female tract is particularly crucial in pigs due to the large variation in the timing between AI and ovulation and the high number of oocytes to fertilise. The objective of this study was to characterise a new in vitro model of oviduct sperm reservoir using porcine oviduct epithelial spheroids (OES) and to assess the variability in sperm binding to OES among gilts, boars and their ejaculates. Isthmic mucosa fragments were collected from gilt oviducts at a slaughterhouse, and after 48 h of culture, the OES that had spontaneously formed were sorted according to their vesicle shape and size (150-200 μm in diameter) for characterisation and sperm binding assays. The OES contained viable, cytokeratin-positive and vimentin-negative cells, of which 36.4 ± 2.0% were multiciliated. The average proportion of multiciliated cells per OES did not change among culture replicates. After co-incubation with boar fresh semen, only sperm of normal morphology were found to bind, by their head, to cilia of OES. The density of sperm bound to the OES surface increased linearly with sperm concentration. The bound sperm density on OES was used to assess the binding capacity of fresh ejaculates collected from Pietrain boars. For a given ejaculate, the bound sperm density did not vary among pools of OES female donors. The analysis of five successive ejaculates from nine boars indicated significant differences in bound sperm densities on the OES among individual boars and their ejaculates (P < 0.01). There was no correlation between the sperm bound density and sperm parameters measured by computer-assisted sperm analysis or the initial dilution of the ejaculate. In conclusion, the OES characterised in this study offered physiological conditions to study sperm binding to the isthmic reservoir and evidenced that sperm from different ejaculates and different boars vary in their ability to bind to these oviduct spheroids despite homogeneous motility and morphology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Théo Prudhomme
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, PRC, F-37380, Nouzilly, France; Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, Tours University, F-37200, Tours, France.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kent K, Nozawa K, Sutton C, Daniel F, Ikawa M, Garcia TX, Matzuk MM. CUB domains are not required for OVCH2 function in sperm maturation in the mouse epididymis. Andrology 2024; 12:682-697. [PMID: 37551853 PMCID: PMC10850435 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13508] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovochymase 2 (Ovch2) is an epididymis-specific gene that is required for male fertility. While a multitude of reproductive tract-specific genes required for male fertility have been identified, OVCH2 is thus far the first protein required for male fertility that contains Complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1 (CUB) domains located in tandem in the C-terminus of the protein. Identifying the functional significance of this unique domain has implications in better understanding fertility and infertility and as a potential contraceptive target. OBJECTIVE The goals of these studies were to understand the influence and requirement of OVCH2 CUB domains in the localization and functional requirement of OVCH2 in sperm maturation and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS To this end, we performed in vivo localization analysis of OVCH2 and reproductive phenotype analysis of mice containing C-terminal FLAG tag on OVCH2, with either the entire protein intact, or CUB2 or both CUB1 and CUB2 genetically ablated. All mice were generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approach. RESULTS We found that OVCH2 is specifically expressed in the proximal caput epididymidis, and the absence of CUB2 did not affect this localization pattern. Although the absence of both CUB domains significantly reduced sperm motility and progressive motility, this effect was not manifested in a reduction in fertility over a 6-month period mating trial, which showed no significant differences between control and CUB deletant mice. Further, the absence of one or both CUB domains did not affect reproductive organ structure or sperm morphology. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that the CUB domains are not required for fertility in male mice, at least under the normal animal housing conditions our mice were tested in, and suggest that the enzymatic activity of the OVCH2 protease, in the absence of its CUB domains, is sufficient for normal sperm processing in the epididymis. Although our findings do not preclude the possibility that OVCH2 CUB domains are required under a yet-identified stress condition, our findings demonstrate that the most likely region for deleterious mutations in men with idiopathic infertility and the most vulnerable site for inhibition of OVCH2 protein function is in its protease domain, and not its CUB domains. Our findings have implications in the genetic screening of infertile men and the development of a novel non-hormonal male contraceptive by honing in on the more critical region of a functionally required protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kent
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Courtney Sutton
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Frey Daniel
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Thomas X. Garcia
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, TX 77030, USA
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ramírez-López CJ, Barros E, Vidigal PMP, Silva Okano D, Duarte Rodrigues JN, Lopes Gomes L, Montes-Vergara JC, Petro Hernandez VG, Baracat-Pereira MC, Guimarães SEF, Guimarães JD. Relative Abundance of Spermadhesin-1 in the Seminal Plasma of Young Nellore Bulls Is in Agreement with Reproductive Parameters. Vet Sci 2023; 10:610. [PMID: 37888562 PMCID: PMC10611397 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100610] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the proteomic profile of seminal plasma from young Nellore bulls. We used 20 bulls aged between 19.8 and 22.7 months, divided into two groups according to the results of the Breeding Soundness Evaluation (BSE): approved (FIT n = 10) and not approved (UNFIT n = 10). The scrotal perimeter was measured and a semen collection was performed through electroejaculation. The percentage of sperm motility, mass motility, and sperm vigor were calculated using conventional microscopy, and the percentage of sperm abnormalities was calculated using phase-contrast microscopy of all ejaculates. Seminal plasma was separated from spermatozoa using centrifugation and processed for proteomic analysis by LC-MS/MS. Seminal plasma proteins were identified using MASCOT Daemon software v.2.4.0 and label-free quantification analysis was carried out by SCAFFOLD Q+ software v.4.0 using the Exponentially Modified Protein Abundance Index (emPAI) method. Functional classification of proteins was performed based on their genetic ontology terms using KOG. Functional cluster analysis was performed on DAVID. There were no differences in scrotal perimeter and physical semen characteristics between FIT and UNFIT groups of bulls. The percentage of sperm abnormalities was higher (p < 0.05) in the UNFIT group of bulls. A total of 297 proteins were identified for the two groups. There were a total of 11 differentially abundant proteins (p < 0.05), two of them more abundant in FIT bulls (Spermadhesin-1 and Ig gamma-1 chain C region) and nine in UNFIT bulls (Vasoactive intestinal peptide, Metalloproteinase inhibitor 2, Ig lambda-1 chain C regions, Protein FAM3C, Hemoglobin beta, Seminal ribonuclease, Spermadhesin 2, Seminal plasma protein BSP-30kDa, and Spermadhesin Z13). Spermadhesin-1 was the protein with the highest relative abundance (36.7%) in the seminal plasma among all bulls, corresponding to 47.7% for the FIT bulls and 25,7% for the UNFIT bulls. Posttranslational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones were the functional categories with the highest number of classified proteins. Protein functional annotation clusters were related to Phospholipid efflux, ATP binding, and chaperonin-containing T-complex. The differentially abundant proteins in the group of FIT bulls were related to sperm capacitation and protection against reactive species of oxygen. In contrast, differentially expressed proteins in the group of UNFIT bulls were related to motility inhibition, intramembrane cholesterol removal and oxidative stress. In conclusion, the proteomic profile of the seminal plasma of FIT bulls presents proteins with participation in several biological processes favorable to fertilization, while the proteins of the seminal plasma of UNFIT bulls indicate a series of alterations that can compromise the fertilizing capacity of the spermatozoa. In addition, the relative abundance of spermadhesin-1 found in the seminal plasma of young Nellore bulls could be studied as a reproductive parameter for selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camilo José Ramírez-López
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (D.S.O.); (J.N.D.R.); (L.L.G.); (J.D.G.)
- Department of Animal Science, Universidad de Córdoba, Monteria 230002, Colombia;
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Protein Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil;
| | - Edvaldo Barros
- Nucleus for Analysis of Biomolecules, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (E.B.); (P.M.P.V.)
| | - Pedro Marcus Pereira Vidigal
- Nucleus for Analysis of Biomolecules, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (E.B.); (P.M.P.V.)
| | - Denise Silva Okano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (D.S.O.); (J.N.D.R.); (L.L.G.); (J.D.G.)
| | - Juliana Nascimento Duarte Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (D.S.O.); (J.N.D.R.); (L.L.G.); (J.D.G.)
| | - Lidiany Lopes Gomes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (D.S.O.); (J.N.D.R.); (L.L.G.); (J.D.G.)
| | | | | | - Maria Cristina Baracat-Pereira
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Protein Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil;
| | - Simone Eliza Facioni Guimarães
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Department of Animal Science, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil;
| | - José Domingos Guimarães
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa 36570-900, Brazil; (D.S.O.); (J.N.D.R.); (L.L.G.); (J.D.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Müller K, Müller P, Lui F, Kroh PD, Braun BC. Porcine spermadhesin AQN-3 binds to negatively charged phospholipids. Chem Phys Lipids 2023; 254:105306. [PMID: 37156322 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2023.105306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The spermadhesin AQN-3 is a major component of porcine seminal plasma. While various studies suggest that this protein binds to boar sperm cells, its attachment to the cells is poorly understood. Therefore, the capacity of AQN-3 to interact with lipids was investigated. For that purpose, AQN-3 was recombinantly expressed in E. coli and purified via the included His-tag. Characterizing the quaternary structure by size exclusion chromatography revealed that recombinant AQN-3 (recAQN-3) is largely present as multimer and/or aggregate. To determine the lipid specificity of recAQN-3, a lipid stripe method and a multilamellar vesicle (MLV)-based binding assay were used. Both assays show that recAQN-3 selectively interacts with negatively charged lipids, like phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylinositol phosphates, and cardiolipin. No interaction was observed with phosphatidylcholine, sphingomyelin, phosphatidylethanolamine, or cholesterol. The affinity to negatively charged lipids can be explained by electrostatic interactions because binding is partly reversed under high-salt condition. However, more factors have to be assumed like hydrogen bonds and/or hydrophobic forces because the majority of bound molecules was not released by high salt. To confirm the observed binding behavior for the native protein, porcine seminal plasma was incubated with MLVs comprising phosphatidic acid or phosphatidyl-4,5-bisphosphate. Attached proteins were isolated, digested, and analyzed by mass spectrometry. Native AQN-3 was detected in all samples analyzed and was - besides AWN - the most abundant protein. It remains to be investigated whether AQN-3, together with other sperm associated seminal plasma proteins, acts as decapacitation factor by targeting negative lipids with signaling or other functional roles in fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Müller
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Peter Müller
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Biology, Humboldt University Berlin, Invalidenstrasse 42, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Fan Lui
- Mass spectrometry, Leibniz Institute of Molecular Pharmacology, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, D-13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Pascal D Kroh
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Beate C Braun
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315 Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Warr S, Pini T, de Graaf SP, Rickard JP. Molecular insights to the sperm-cervix interaction and the consequences for cryopreserved sperm. Biol Reprod 2023; 108:183-196. [PMID: 36191077 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreserved ram spermatozoa are limited in their capacity to traverse the ovine cervix and achieve fertilization. This altered interaction may be related to modified molecular communication between frozen-thawed ram spermatozoa, seminal plasma, and the female tract. As such, this review aims to identify the biological processes which underpin sperm maturation and transport throughout the female reproductive tract to elucidate factors which may alter this natural process in cryopreserved ram spermatozoa. We also assess critical barriers to ram spermatozoa specific to the ovine cervix and the role of seminal plasma in mitigating these barriers. Transcriptomics is explored as a new approach to understand the sperm-cervix interaction. Recent studies have demonstrated that both spermatozoa and seminal plasma contain a complex profile of coding and non-coding RNAs. These molecular species have clear links with functional fertility, and mounting evidence suggests they may be altered by cryopreservation. Emerging in vitro cell culture models are also investigated as a "next step" in studying this interaction, utilizing transcriptomics to identify subtle changes in female tract gene expression in response to spermatozoa. The application of such models is proposed as an exciting opportunity to investigate the unique challenges faced by cryopreserved spermatozoa traversing the ovine cervix prior to fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Warr
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Taylor Pini
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessica P Rickard
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
The stallion sperm acrosome: Considerations from a research and clinical perspective. Theriogenology 2023; 196:121-149. [PMID: 36413868 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the fertilization process, the interaction between the sperm and the oocyte is mediated by a process known as acrosomal exocytosis (AE). Although the role of the sperm acrosome on fertilization has been studied extensively over the last 70 years, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that govern acrosomal function, particularly in species other than mice or humans. Even though subfertility due to acrosomal dysfunction is less common in large animals than in humans, the evaluation of sperm acrosomal function should be considered not only as a complementary but a routine test when individuals are selected for breeding potential. This certainly holds true for stallions, which might display lower levels of fertility in the face of "acceptable" sperm quality parameters determined by conventional sperm assays. Nowadays, the use of high throughput technologies such as flow cytometry or mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis is commonplace in the research arena. Such techniques can also be implemented in clinical scenarios of males with "idiopathic" subfertility. The current review focuses on the sperm acrosome, with particular emphasis on the stallion. We aim to describe the physiological events that lead to the acrosome formation within the testis, the role of very specific acrosomal proteins during AE, the methods to study the occurrence of AE under in vitro conditions, and the potential use of molecular biology techniques to discover new markers of acrosomal function and subfertility associated with acrosomal dysfunction in stallions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Interaction of sperm cells with the female reproductive tract in cattle: Focus on neutrophil extracellular trap formation. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:107056. [PMID: 36031509 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
After insemination of cows, either naturally or artificially, the deposition of semen into the vagina or uterus results in an immune reaction which is based on polymorphonuclear neutrophil activity. Sperm must be resistant to immune system actions of the female for an adequate time to allow fertilization to occur. Neutrophils, however, either directly phagocytize sperm through cell-cell attachment or entrap sperm cells in neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), structures consisting of neutrophil nuclear DNA and associated proteins. In this review article, the interaction of neutrophils and sperm cells in t cattle will be described, with a special focus on the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).
Collapse
|
10
|
Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Martinez-Serrano CA. How does the boar epididymis regulate the emission of fertile spermatozoa? Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106829. [PMID: 34452796 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The epididymis is responsible for peripheral immune tolerance of maturing spermatozoa even though these have xeno-antigens foreign to the male and female immune system. The epididymis also produces factors required for fertilization and serves as a sperm repository until the time of ejaculation. These reproduction-relevant epididymal functions occur in the mesonephros-derived duct-system that is composed of absorptive and secretory epithelial cells with the capacity for merocrine and apocrine secretion of proteins, antioxidative- and electrolyte/pH-regulating enzymes and small, non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), many stored in epididymosomes for sperm adhesion and long-lasting modifications of sperm functions. This paper provides a review summary of current and new knowledge of how the boar epididymis affects the quality of spermatozoa in the ejaculate of breeding boars. There is a particular focus on sperm maturation, survival, function and the role of signaling to the female immune system in fertility modulation. Furthermore, aspects related to the ductus epithelial contributions regarding electrolyte control, protein production, release of epididymosomes that contain sncRNAs are emphasized as are novel associations with fertility of the male, sperm quiescence during storage in the cauda epididymis, and on changes occurring in sperm subsequent to ejaculation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Cristina A Martinez-Serrano
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Boar Sperm Cryopreservation Improvement Using Semen Extender Modification by Dextran and Pentaisomaltose. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070868. [PMID: 35405857 PMCID: PMC8997129 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The long-term storage of boar sperm presents an ongoing challenge, and the modification of the cryoprotective compounds in semen extenders is crucial for improving cryopreservation’s success rate. The aim of our study was to reduce the percentage of glycerol in the extender by elimination or substitution with biocompatible, non-toxic polysaccharides. For boar semen extender improvement, we tested a novel modification with the polysaccharides dextran and pentaisomaltose in combination with unique in silico predictive modeling. We targeted the analysis of in vitro qualitative sperm parameters such as motility, viability, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, and DNA integrity. Non-penetrating polysaccharide-based cryoprotective agents interact with sperm surface proteins such as spermadhesins, which are recognized as fertility markers of boar sperm quality. The in silico docking study showed a moderate binding affinity of dextran and pentaisomaltose toward one specific spermadhesin known as AWN, which is located in the sperm plasma membrane. Pentaisomaltose formed a hydrophobic pocket for the AWN protein, and the higher energy of this protein–ligand complex compared with dextran was calculated. In addition, the root mean square deviation (RMSD) analysis for the molecular dynamics (MD) of both polysaccharides and AWN simulation suggests their interaction was highly stable. The in silico results were supported by in vitro experiments. In the experimental groups where glycerol was partially or entirely substituted, the use of pentaisomaltose resulted in improved sperm mitochondrial activity and DNA integrity after thawing when compared with dextran. In this paper, we demonstrate that pentaisomaltose, previously used for cryopreservation in hematopoietic stem cells, represents a promising compound for the elimination or reduction of glycerol in extenders for boar semen cryopreservation. This novel approach, using in silico computer prediction and in vitro testing, represents a promising technique to help identify new cryoprotectants for use in animal breeding or genetic resource programs.
Collapse
|
12
|
Kroh PD, Braun BC, Lui F, Müller P, Müller K. Boar spermadhesin AWN: Novel insights in its binding behavior and localization on sperm. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:775-791. [PMID: 35020825 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As a major spermadhesin first found in the seminal plasma of boars, AWN is described to fulfil a variety of reproduction related tasks. Although being the best investigated boar spermadhesin, information about its interaction with membranes is inconsistent. In this regard, previous reports locate AWN either inside or on the surface of sperm cells and at different regions, depending on the method and antibody used. Here, we localize native AWN in/on epididymal, ejaculated, capacitated and acrosome-reacted boar sperm using epifluorescence and electron microscopy, as well as an analysis of potential lipid binding partners of native and recombinant AWN. By applying a custom-made anti-AWN antibody, localization of AWN in the equatorial segment of ejaculated, capacitated and acrosome-reacted boar sperm was discovered. Electron microscopy showed that AWN is localized both on the sperm surface and on the cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane, and in close vicinity to the nuclear and both acrosomal membranes of sperm. Analysis of epididymal sperm indicated migration of AWN from the retral postacrosomal part to the equatorial segment during the epididymal passage. In contrast to hypotheses claiming a specific association of AWN to phosphatidylethanolamine and in line with our previous study describing an interaction with phosphatidic acid, the current results show a rather electrostatically-driven binding mechanism of AWN to negative lipids. In conclusion, this work provides new insights into the arrangement of AWN in the equatorial segment that suggest a possible role in sperm-oocyte fusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal D Kroh
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Beate C Braun
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Fan Lui
- Mass Spectrometry, Leibniz Research Institute for Molecular Pharmacology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Müller
- Department of Biology/Biophysics, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Karin Müller
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xu Y, Han Q, Ma C, Wang Y, Zhang P, Li C, Cheng X, Xu H. Comparative Proteomics and Phosphoproteomics Analysis Reveal the Possible Breed Difference in Yorkshire and Duroc Boar Spermatozoa. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:652809. [PMID: 34336820 PMCID: PMC8322956 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.652809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cells are of unique elongated structure and function, the development of which is tightly regulated by the existing proteins and the posttranslational modifications (PTM) of these proteins. Based on the phylogenetic relationships of various swine breeds, Yorkshire boar is believed to be distinctly different from Duroc boar. The comprehensive differential proteomics and phosphoproteomics profilings were performed on spermatozoa from both Yorkshire and Duroc boars. By both peptide and PTM peptide quantification followed by statistical analyses, 167 differentially expressed proteins were identified from 1,745 proteins, and 283 differentially expressed phosphopeptides corresponding to 102 unique differentially phosphorylated proteins were measured from 1,140 identified phosphopeptides derived from 363 phosphorylated proteins. The representative results were validated by Western blots. Pathway enrichment analyses revealed that majority of differential expression proteins and differential phosphorylation proteins were primarily concerned with spermatogenesis, male gamete generation, sperm motility, energy metabolism, cilium morphogenesis, axonemal dynein complex assembly, sperm–egg recognition, and capacitation. Remarkably, axonemal dynein complex assembly related proteins, such as SMCP, SUN5, ODF1, AKAP3, and AKAP4 that play a key regulatory role in the sperm physiological functions, were significantly higher in Duroc spermatozoa than that of Yorkshire. Furthermore, phosphorylation of sperm-specific proteins, such as CABYR, ROPN1, CALM1, PRKAR2A, and PRKAR1A, participates in regulation of the boar sperm motility mainly through the cAMP/PKA signal pathway in different breeds, demonstrating that protein phosphorylation may be an important mechanism underlying the sperm diversity. Protein–protein interaction analysis revealed that the 14 overlapped proteins between differential expression proteins and differential phosphorylation proteins potentially played a key role in sperm development and motility of the flagellum, including the proteins ODF1, SMCP, AKAP4, FSIP2, and SUN5. Taken together, these physiologically and functionally differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and differentially expressed phosphorylated proteins (DPPs) may constitute the proteomic backgrounds between the two different boar breeds. The validation will be performed to delineate the roles of these PTM proteins as modulators of Yorkshire and Duroc boar spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Xu
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China.,Institute for Conservation and Utilization of Agro-Bioresources in Dabie Mountains, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Qiu Han
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Chaofeng Ma
- Xinyang Animal Disease Control and Prevention Center, Xinyang, China
| | - Yaling Wang
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Pengpeng Zhang
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China.,Institute for Conservation and Utilization of Agro-Bioresources in Dabie Mountains, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Cencen Li
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China.,Institute for Conservation and Utilization of Agro-Bioresources in Dabie Mountains, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Xiaofang Cheng
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China.,Institute for Conservation and Utilization of Agro-Bioresources in Dabie Mountains, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| | - Haixia Xu
- College of Life Science, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China.,Institute for Conservation and Utilization of Agro-Bioresources in Dabie Mountains, Xinyang Normal University, Xinyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Young and Adult Bull ( Bos taurus) Cryopreserved Semen. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11072013. [PMID: 34359141 PMCID: PMC8300238 DOI: 10.3390/ani11072013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The age of the bull is widely accepted to influence the production of sperm, affecting the amount and quality of produced semen, which in turn impacts the results of cryopreservation. However, the exact influence of the maturation process on cryopreserved sperm, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms of this process, are not fully understood. The goal of this study was to evaluate changes in the proteome of thawed semen (spermatozoa and supernatant) collected from young and adult bulls (n = 6) using the 2D-DIGE approach. The quality of semen was assessed using a CASA system and flow cytometry. We found no significant age-related variation in semen quality, with the exception of the average path velocity of sperm movement, which was higher in adult bulls. Proteomic analysis indicated 15 spermatozoa proteins and 10 supernatant proteins with significant age-related changes. Our results suggest that semen from adult bulls is better equipped with proteins related to energy production, protection of spermatozoa against oxidative stress and fertilizing ability. Proteins increased in abundance in young bull spermatozoa were connected to the cytoskeleton and its development, which strongly suggests that developmental processes are still in progress. In conclusion, our results provide novel insight into the mechanism of the development of the male reproductive system of cattle.
Collapse
|
15
|
Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martinez EA, Calvete JJ, Peña Vega FJ, Roca J. Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094368. [PMID: 33922047 PMCID: PMC8122421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA-the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-132-869-25
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| | - Juan J. Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Estructural y Funcional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, C.S.I.C., 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando J. Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 10003 Caceres, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Desantis S, Lacalandra GM, Batista M, Amann O, Antonelli D, Monaco D. Seminal plasma Alters surface Glycoprofile of dromedary camel cryopreserved epididymal spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2021; 167:77-84. [PMID: 33774369 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The high viscosity of Camelidae semen continues to present a major impediment for its application in assisted reproduction technology. The exposure of epididymal spermatozoa (ES) to seminal plasma (SP) may provide an approach to enhance the development of assisted reproductive techniques in these important domestic species. Since the sperm glycocalyx plays a key role in reproduction we aimed to evaluate whether SP exposure modifies the surface glycosylation patterns of cryopreserved dromedary ES. Epididymal sperm was collected through retrograde flushing of the cauda epididymidis that were obtained from orchidectomized mature dromedary bulls. The collected samples were then cryopreserved after dilution with a tris citrate clarified egg yolk extender, with and without the supplementation of 15% SP. Post-thaw carbohydrate surface profiles of both control and SP-treated spermatozoa were analyzed using 15 fluorescent lectins. Morpho-functional properties were also investigated via computer assisted sperm analysis. Lectin-binding analysis of the glycocalyx in control sperm revealed the presence of (1) N-glycans terminating with lactosamine (Con A, PHA-L, and RCA120), in both acrosomal and tail regions. Whilst (2) α2,3-/α2,6-linked sialic acids (MALII, SNA), and O-linked glycans terminating with a single N-acetylgalactosamine residue (Tn antigen) (HPA, SBA) along with galactoseβ1,3N-acetylgalactosamine (T antigen) (PNA) were observed in the acrosomal cap. The expression of both N-acetylglucosamine (sWGA and GSA II) and terminalαgalactose (GSA I-B4) residues was also noted in the acrosomal cap region of control sperm. Compared with controls, SP treated samples displayed: 1) the appearance of bisected di-triantennary complex-type N-glycans (PHA-E), terminating with lactosamine, as well as an increase of O-glycans terminating with Tn and T antigens in both the acrosomal and tail regions; 2) an increase in glycans containing α2,6-linked sialic acid, N-acetylglucosamine, and αgalactose in the tail region. The cytoplasmic droplets of both control and seminal plasma-treated sperm bound Con A, PHA-E, PHA-L, RCA120, HPA, PNA, sWGA, GSA I-B4, and GSA II. These results indicate that SP treatment affects the glycan composition of the dromedary camel ES glycocalyx. More comprehensive studies are required in order to evaluate the fertilization capacity of SP-treated ES in order to facilitate its application in dromedary camel assisted reproduction technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Desantis
- Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplants (D.E.T.O), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy
| | | | - Miguel Batista
- Reproduction Clinic, University Institute of Biomedical Research, University of Las Palmas Gran Canaria (ULPGC), Spain
| | - Olga Amann
- Museo Del Campo Majorero, Oasis Park, Fuerteventura, Spain
| | | | - Davide Monaco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (Di.Me.V.), University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
da Silva LS, Ruivo MA, da Cruz TM, Meneguello JE, Pilau EJ, Caruso ÍP, de Moraes GV, Martinez AC, Seixas FAV. Structural and biophysical characterization of the major proteins from the seminal plasma of Dorper rams. Theriogenology 2021; 166:64-70. [PMID: 33689929 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.019] [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: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy rates using frozen semen from rams are higher than for horses. One of the factors that positively influences this effect is the composition of low-molecular-weight proteins from seminal plasma, since the amounts of these proteins are much lower in horses. The aim of this work was to purify the major protein components from ram seminal plasma for structural and biophysical characterization. First, the ram semen was collected and the plasma separated by centrifugation. The protein fractions were isolated by gel filtration chromatography, analyzed by circular dichroism spectroscopy and the amino acid sequence identified by mass spectrometry (LC-MSE), the results of which were used to model the protein structure by bioinformatics techniques. This protein was identified by LC-MSE as a spermadhesin, being an unglycosylated monomer with Tm = 69.3 °C and ΔHm= 371 kJ mol-1 at pH 7.0. This work describes for the first time the structural characterization of a spermadhesin from seminal plasma of Dorper rams.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luan Sitó da Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Maycon Araújo Ruivo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Tainá Michelle da Cruz
- Department of Technology, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jean Eduardo Meneguello
- Department of Clinical Analyses and Biomedicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Jorge Pilau
- Department of Chemistry, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ícaro Putinhon Caruso
- Department of Physics and Biomolecular Innovation Center (CMIB), Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciências Exatas - IBILCE/UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; National Center for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance of Macromolecules, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and National Center for Structural Biology and Bioimaging (CENABIO), UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gentil Vanini de Moraes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Umuarama, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ligands and Receptors Involved in the Sperm-Zona Pellucida Interactions in Mammals. Cells 2021; 10:cells10010133. [PMID: 33445482 PMCID: PMC7827414 DOI: 10.3390/cells10010133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm-zona pellucida (ZP) interaction, involving the binding of sperm surface ligands to complementary carbohydrates of ZP, is the first direct gamete contact event crucial for subsequent gamete fusion and successful fertilization in mammals. It is a complex process mediated by the coordinated engagement of multiple ZP receptors forming high-molecular-weight (HMW) protein complexes at the acrosomal region of the sperm surface. The present article aims to review the current understanding of sperm-ZP binding in the four most studied mammalian models, i.e., murine, porcine, bovine, and human, and summarizes the candidate ZP receptors with established ZP affinity, including their origins and the mechanisms of ZP binding. Further, it compares and contrasts the ZP structure and carbohydrate composition in the aforementioned model organisms. The comprehensive understanding of sperm-ZP interaction mechanisms is critical for the diagnosis of infertility and thus becomes an integral part of assisted reproductive therapies/technologies.
Collapse
|
19
|
Saint-Dizier M, Mahé C, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X. Sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract: A key for successful fertilization in mammals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110956. [PMID: 32712384 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm migration through the female genital tract is not a quiet journey. Uterine contractions quickly operate a drastic selection, leading to a very restrictive number of sperm reaching the top of uterine horns and finally, provided the presence of key molecules on sperm, the oviduct, where fertilization takes place. During hours and sometimes days before fertilization, subpopulations of spermatozoa interact with dynamic and region-specific maternal components, including soluble proteins, extracellular vesicles and epithelial cells lining the lumen of the female tract. Interactions with uterine and oviductal cells play important roles for sperm survival as they modulate the maternal immune response and allow a transient storage before ovulation. The body of work reported here highlights the importance of sperm interactions with proteins originated from both the uterine and oviductal fluids, as well as hormonal signals around the time of ovulation for sperm acquisition of fertilizing competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, UMR PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37000, Tours, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gomes FP, Park R, Viana AG, Fernandez-Costa C, Topper E, Kaya A, Memili E, Yates JR, Moura AA. Protein signatures of seminal plasma from bulls with contrasting frozen-thawed sperm viability. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14661. [PMID: 32887897 PMCID: PMC7474054 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71015-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the seminal plasma proteome of Holstein bulls with low (LF; n = 6) and high (HF; n = 8) sperm freezability. The percentage of viable frozen-thawed sperm (%ViableSperm) determined by flow cytometry varied from -2.2 in LF to + 7.8 in HF bulls, as compared to the average %ViableSperm (54.7%) measured in an 860-sire population. Seminal proteins were analyzed by label free mass spectrometry, with the support of statistical and bioinformatics analyses. This approach identified 1,445 proteins, associated with protein folding, cell-cell adhesion, NADH dehydrogenase activity, ATP-binding, proteasome complex, among other processes. There were 338 seminal proteins differentially expressed (p < 0.05) in LF and HF bulls. Based on multivariate analysis, BSP5 and seminal ribonuclease defined the HF phenotype, while spermadhesin-1, gelsolin, tubulins, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, calmodulin, ATP synthase, sperm equatorial segment protein 1, peroxiredoxin-5, secretoglobin family 1D and glucose-6-phosphate isomerase characterized the LF phenotype. Regression models indicated that %ViableSperm of bulls was related to seminal plasma peroxiredoxin-5, spermadhesin-1 and the spermadhesin-1 × BSP5 interaction (R2 = 0.84 and 0.79; p < 0.05). This report is the largest dataset of bovine seminal plasma proteins. Specific proteins of the non-cellular microenvironment of semen are potential markers of sperm cryotolerance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin Park
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John R Yates
- The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Höfner L, Luther AM, Palladini A, Fröhlich T, Waberski D. Tolerance of Stored Boar Spermatozoa to Autologous Seminal Plasma: A Proteomic and Lipidomic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21186474. [PMID: 32899843 PMCID: PMC7555833 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term exposure of liquid preserved boar spermatozoa to seminal plasma (SP) can cause dramatic sperm injury. This study examined whether boar specificity exists in the sensitivity of spermatozoa to SP and whether correspondent biomarkers can be identified. Consecutive ejaculates (n = 4–5) collected from 19 boars were centrifuged, diluted with a pH-stablising extender with 10% (v/v) autologous SP and evaluated by computer-assisted semen analysis and flow cytometry. Up until 144 h storage, four boars showed consistently high sperm motility, viability and mitochondria activity, and one boar showed consistently low values. Intra-boar variability was high in the other boars. Screening of SP (n = 12 samples) for protein markers using mass spectrometry identified three protein candidates of which the granulin precursor, legumain and AWN were 0.5 to 0.9 log2-fold less abundant (p < 0.05) in SP-resistant compared to SP-sensitive samples. Lipidome analysis by mass spectrometry revealed 568 lipids showing no difference between the SP-groups. The most abundant lipids were cholesterol (42,442 pmol), followed by phosphatidylserine (20,956 pmol) and ether-linked phosphatidylethanolamine (13,039 pmol). In conclusion, three candidate proteins were identified which might be indicative of SP-tolerance of sperm during long-term storage. Noteworthy, a first lipidomic profile of boar SP is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Höfner
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.H.); (A.-M.L.)
| | - Anne-Marie Luther
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.H.); (A.-M.L.)
| | - Alessandra Palladini
- Paul Langerhans Institute Dresden, Helmholtz Zentrum München, University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
- German Centre for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany;
| | - Dagmar Waberski
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (L.H.); (A.-M.L.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Luongo C, González-Brusi L, Cots-Rodríguez P, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Avilés M, García-Vázquez FA. Sperm Proteome after Interaction with Reproductive Fluids in Porcine: From the Ejaculation to the Fertilization Site. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176060. [PMID: 32842715 PMCID: PMC7570189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ejaculated sperm are exposed to different environments before encountering the oocyte. However, how the sperm proteome changes during this transit remains unsolved. This study aimed to identify proteomic changes in boar sperm after incubation with male (seminal plasma, SP) and/or female (uterine fluid, UF; and oviductal fluid, OF) reproductive fluids. The following experimental groups were analyzed: (1) SP: sperm + 20% SP; (2) UF: sperm + 20% UF; (3) OF: sperm + 20% OF; (4) SP + UF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% UF; and (5) SP+OF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% OF. The proteome analysis, performed by HPLC-MS/MS, allowed the identification of 265 proteins. A total of 69 proteins were detected in the UF, SP, and SP + UF groups, and 102 proteins in the OF, SP, and SP + OF groups. Our results showed a higher number of proteins when sperm were incubated with only one fluid than when they were co-incubated with two fluids. Additionally, the number of sperm-interacting proteins from the UF group was lower than the OF group. In conclusion, the interaction of sperm with reproductive fluids alters its proteome. The description of sperm-interacting proteins in porcine species after co-incubation with male and/or female reproductive fluids may be useful to understand sperm transport, selection, capacitation, or fertilization phenomena.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Luongo
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Leopoldo González-Brusi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Paula Cots-Rodríguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Mª José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Sperm surface changes and their consequences for sperm transit through the female reproductive tract. Theriogenology 2020; 150:96-105. [PMID: 32067798 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.018] [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: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatozoa are faced with considerable challenges during their passage through the female reproductive tract. Following deposition, they must deal with several physical and biochemical barriers as well as an aggressive immune defence system before they reach the site of fertilisation. While many factors are at play, the surface characteristics of spermatozoa are central to communication with the female and successful transit. The surface proteome of spermatozoa has been extensively studied and shown to vary considerably between species that deposit semen in the vagina (ram and bull) and uterus (boar and stallion), likely due to major differences in accessory sex gland anatomy. Comparing the surface characteristics of spermatozoa from these domestic species and how individual components may equip spermatozoa to interact with different features of the female tract could help understand how spermatozoa navigate from vagina or uterus to oviduct ampulla. Furthermore, we can begin to explain why use of high quality preserved spermatozoa in artificial insemination programs may still result in reduced fertility due to altered interaction with the female. In this review, we describe the sperm surface characteristics of the ram, bull, boar and stallion and compare changes as a result of mixture with seminal plasma and/or in vitro processing. The role of these seminal components in facilitating sperm survival and transit within the female reproductive tract is summarised, drawing attention to potential implications for applied reproductive technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Höfner L, Luther AM, Waberski D. The role of seminal plasma in the liquid storage of spermatozoa. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 220:106290. [PMID: 32001046 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Ongoing progress in proteomic characterization of seminal plasma has stimulated research on the identification of biomarkers for male fertility and sperm preservability. So far, many studies have evaluated the benefits of reconstituting cryopreserved or sex-sorted semen with seminal plasma. Less information is available about the effect of remaining or added seminal plasma in liquid preserved semen. The interaction between seminal plasma and spermatozoa is species -specific, and within species often complex and ambiguous. This article aims to review the action of seminal plasma on sperm function in preserved semen with a focus on liquid storage. Effects of seminal plasma on sperm traits during in vitro storage are summarized for males from four domestic farm animals, namely the bull, ram, boar and stallion. Special emphasis is placed on the effect of seminal plasma on long-term stored boar semen, including novel data demonstrating the attenuating effect of protective extender on the adverse effect of seminal plasma in some boars.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Höfner
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne-Marie Luther
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Dagmar Waberski
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine of Clinics/Clinic for Pigs and Small Ruminants, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, D-30559, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
De Lazari FL, Sontag ER, Schneider A, Araripe Moura AA, Vasconcelos FR, Nagano CS, Dalberto PF, Bizarro CV, Mattos RC, Mascarenhas Jobim MI, Bustamante-Filho IC. Proteomic identification of boar seminal plasma proteins related to sperm resistance to cooling at 17 °C. Theriogenology 2019; 147:135-145. [PMID: 31780059 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The modern pig industry relies on extensive use of artificial insemination with cooled semen. It is important that semen doses maintain their quality during processing, transport and storage before insemination to guarantee maximum fertility rates. However, ejaculates may respond differently to liquid preservation at 17 °C, despite the optimal quality assessed before cooling. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify differences in seminal plasma proteome of ejaculates with a higher or lower seminal resistance to storage at 17 °C. A total of 148 ejaculates from 65 sexually mature healthy boars were classified as: High Resistance to cooling (HR, total motility > 60% at 144h) and Low resistance to cooling (LR, total motility <60 at 72h). To identify differentially expressed seminal plasma proteins between HR and LR ejaculates, ten ejaculates of each group were analyzed by 2D SDS-PAGE and ESI-Q-TOF mass spectrometry. The proteins associated with HR ejaculates were cathepsin B (spot 2803 and 6601, p < 0.01); spermadhesin PSP-I (spots 3101 and 3103, p < 0.05); epididymal secretory protein E1 precursor (spot 2101, p < 0.05) and IgGFc binding protein (spot 1603, p < 0.01). The protein associated with LR group was the Major seminal plasma PSPI (spot 9103, p < 0.01). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the association of boar seminal plasma proteins to semen resistance to cold storage at 17 °C. These results suggest the use of these proteins as biomarkers for semen resistance to preservation at 17 °C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franciele Lucca De Lazari
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Tallini, 171, 95914-014, Lajeado, RS, Brazil
| | - Elistone Rafael Sontag
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Tallini, 171, 95914-014, Lajeado, RS, Brazil
| | - Alexander Schneider
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Tallini, 171, 95914-014, Lajeado, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Fábio Roger Vasconcelos
- Laboratório de Fisiologia Animal, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Celso Shiniti Nagano
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Pedro Ferrari Dalberto
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional (CPBMF), Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose (INCT-TB), Av. Ipiranga 6681 - Prédio 92A Tecnopuc, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiano Valim Bizarro
- Centro de Pesquisas em Biologia Molecular e Funcional (CPBMF), Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Tuberculose (INCT-TB), Av. Ipiranga 6681 - Prédio 92A Tecnopuc, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Costa Mattos
- REPROLAB, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Ivan Cunha Bustamante-Filho
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari - Univates, Rua Avelino Tallini, 171, 95914-014, Lajeado, RS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Valencia J, Yeste M, Quintero-Moreno A, Niño-Cardenas CDP, Henao FJ. Relative content of Niemann-Pick C2 protein (NPC2) in seminal plasma, but not that of spermadhesin AQN-1, is related to boar sperm cryotolerance. Theriogenology 2019; 145:181-189. [PMID: 31711697 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Variation between and within boar ejaculates in terms of their ability to withstand freeze-thawing is a limitation for sperm cryopreservation. Consequently, searching for freezability markers not only in sperm but also in seminal plasma (SP) is imperative. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between cholesterol content, relative levels of NPC2 and AQN-1 at two different holding times (0 h: HT0 and 24 h: HT24) at 17 °C, and boar sperm freezability. Forty-five ejaculates were cryopreserved and subsequently classified as of good (GFE) or poor (PFE) freezability according to their post-thaw sperm viability and total motility. Prior to cryopreservation, relative abundances of two SP proteins (NPC2 and AQN-1) and cholesterol content in sperm and SP were determined through immunoblotting and colorimetric methods, respectively. These determinations were made after ejaculation (HT0) and after 24 h of storage at 17 °C (HT24). Two bands for NPC2 protein (16 kDa and 19 kDa) were identified. Relative amounts of the 16 kDa-band were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in poor (PFE) than in good (GFE) freezability ejaculates both at HT0 and HT24, whereas those of the 19 kDa-band were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in PFE than in GFE at HT24 only. In the case of AQN-1, no significant differences between GFE and PFE were observed. In addition, no variations in the cholesterol content of sperm and SP were observed either between HT0 and HT24 or between GFE and PFE. We can conclude that the content of two NPC2 isoforms in SP, but not of that of spermadhesin AQN-1, may be involved in the sperm resilience to withstand freeze-thawing procedures and may predict ejaculate freezability. While a possible mechanism through which NPC2 during HT could affect boar sperm cryotolerance is suggested to be related to its ability to bind the plasma membrane cholesterol, further research is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian Valencia
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agricultural Production, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.
| | - Armando Quintero-Moreno
- Laboratory of Andrology, Unit of Animal Production (UNIPA), Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | | | - Francisco Javier Henao
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agricultural Production, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fu Q, Pan L, Huang D, Wang Z, Hou Z, Zhang M. Proteomic profiles of buffalo spermatozoa and seminal plasma. Theriogenology 2019; 134:74-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
28
|
Transcriptional characterisation of the Exaiptasia pallida pedal disc. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:581. [PMID: 31299887 PMCID: PMC6626399 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5917-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biological adhesion (bioadhesion), enables organisms to attach to surfaces as well as to a range of other targets. Bioadhesion evolved numerous times independently and is ubiquitous throughout the kingdoms of life. To date, investigations have focussed on various taxa of animals, plants and bacteria, but the fundamental processes underlying bioadhesion and the degree of conservation in different biological systems remain poorly understood. This study had two aims: 1) To characterise tissue-specific gene regulation in the pedal disc of the model cnidarian Exaiptasia pallida, and 2) to elucidate putative genes involved in pedal disc adhesion. RESULTS Five hundred and forty-seven genes were differentially expressed in the pedal disc compared to the rest of the animal. Four hundred and twenty-seven genes were significantly upregulated and 120 genes were significantly downregulated. Forty-one condensed gene ontology terms and 19 protein superfamily classifications were enriched in the pedal disc. Eight condensed gene ontology terms and 11 protein superfamily classifications were depleted. Enriched superfamilies were consistent with classifications identified previously as important for the bioadhesion of unrelated marine invertebrates. A host of genes involved in regulation of extracellular matrix generation and degradation were identified, as well as others related to development and immunity. Ab initio prediction identified 173 upregulated genes that putatively code for extracellularly secreted proteins. CONCLUSION The analytical workflow facilitated identification of genes putatively involved in adhesion, immunity, defence and development of the E. pallida pedal disc. When defence, immunity and development-related genes were identified, those remaining corresponded most closely to formation of the extracellular matrix (ECM), implicating ECM in the adhesion of anemones to surfaces. This study therefore provides a valuable high-throughput resource for the bioadhesion community and lays a foundation for further targeted research to elucidate bioadhesion in the Cnidaria.
Collapse
|
29
|
Seminal plasma mitigates the adverse effect of uterine fluid on boar spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2019; 136:28-35. [PMID: 31234054 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
After natural or artificial insemination, spermatozoa start their journey within the uterus to reach the site of fertilization, but only few of them attain this goal. Part of this spermatozoa loss happens in the uterus, in which uterine fluid (UF) seems to be involved. It is known from other species that UF provokes damage to spermatozoa, which is avoided when seminal plasma (SP) is present. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of UF on the quality of ejaculated (previously contacted with SP) and epididymal (without previous contact with SP) boar spermatozoa analyzing motility, kinetic parameters, viability and acrosome integrity in the presence or absence of SP over time. Three experimental groups were evaluated in each source of spermatozoa (ejaculated and epididymal): 1) Control: spermatozoa with 20% of SP; 2) UF: spermatozoa with 20% of UF; and 3) UF-SP: spermatozoa with 20% of SP and 20% of UF. Total and progressive motility, kinetic parameters (VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, STR, WOB, and BCF), viability and acrosome damage were analyzed at 15, 60, 120 and 180 min after incubation. Total and progressive motility decreased when ejaculated spermatozoa were incubated in UF in contrast to control and UF-SP groups (p < 0.0007), with no differences between control and UF-SP. The VCL decreased in the UF group compared to the control and UF-SP groups in ejaculated spermatozoa (p = 0.0002). The VSL, VAP, LIN and STR kinetic parameters were greater when ejaculated spermatozoa were incubated in the UF-SP group than in the UF group (all: p ≤ 0.02). Acrosome damage increased in ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa incubated in the UF group compared to the control and UF-SP groups (both: p < 0.0001). Also, the viability of epididymal spermatozoa decreased in the UF group, while it did not change in the control and UF-SP groups (p = 0.0004). The rest of the parameters in either ejaculated or epididymal spermatozoa did not differ between experimental groups, except for WOB when epididymal spermatozoa were used (UF-SP higher than the control group, with UF being similar for both; p = 0.03). In conclusion, both ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa are affected by UF, suggesting a negative effect on their quality. This negative effect is reduced by the presence of SP, improving the spermatozoa functionality, preserving motility, viability and acrosome integrity.
Collapse
|
30
|
Soriano-Úbeda C, Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Matás C, Visconti PE, García-Vázquez FA. Manipulation of bicarbonate concentration in sperm capacitation media improvesin vitro fertilisation output in porcine species. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2019; 10:19. [PMID: 30899459 PMCID: PMC6410524 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-019-0324-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The in vivo concentration of bicarbonate (HCO3 -), one of the essential sperm capacitating effectors, varies greatly in the different environments sperm go through from cauda epididymis to the fertilisation site. On the contrary, porcine in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilisation media usually contains a standard concentration of 25 mmol/L, and one of the main problems presented is the unacceptable high incidence of polyspermy. This work hypothesised that by modifying the HCO3 - concentration of the medium, the output of in vitro sperm capacitation and fertilisation could be increased. Results Once exposed to the capacitation medium, the intracellular pH (pHi) of spermatozoa increased immediately even at low concentrations of HCO3 -, but only extracellular concentrations of and above 15 mmol/L increased the substrates protein kinase A phosphorylation (pPKAs). Although with a significant delay, 15 mmol/L of HCO3 - stimulated sperm linear motility and increased other late events in capacitation such as tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P) to levels similar to those obtained with 25 mmol/L. This information allowed the establishment of a new in vitro fertilisation (IVF) system based on the optimization of HCO3 - concentration to 15 mmol/L, which led to a 25.3% increment of the viable zygotes (8.6% in the standard system vs. 33.9%). Conclusions Optimising HCO3 - concentrations allows for establishing an IVF method that significantly reduced porcine polyspermy and increased the production of viable zygotes. A concentration of 15 mmol/L of HCO3 - in the medium is sufficient to trigger the in vitro sperm capacitation and increase the fertilisation efficiency in porcine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Jon Romero-Aguirregomezcorta
- 3Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Bizkaia Spain
| | - Carmen Matás
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA USA
| | - Francisco A García-Vázquez
- 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.,2Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bezerra MJB, Arruda-Alencar JM, Martins JAM, Viana AGA, Viana Neto AM, Rêgo JPA, Oliveira RV, Lobo M, Moreira ACO, Moreira RA, Moura AA. Major seminal plasma proteome of rabbits and associations with sperm quality. Theriogenology 2019; 128:156-166. [PMID: 30772659 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to describe the major seminal plasma proteome of rabbits and potential associations between seminal proteins and semen criteria. Semen samples were collected from 18 New Zealand adult rabbits, and seminal plasma proteins were analyzed by 2-D SDS-PAGE and tandem mass spectrometry. Sperm motility, vigor, concentration, morphology and membrane sperm viability were evaluated. Rabbits ejaculated 364 ± 70 million sperm/ml, with 81 ± 6.1% motile cells, 3.8 ± 0.2 vigor and 66.7 ± 2.5% sperm with normal morphology. Based on the viability and acrosome integrity assay, there were 65.8 ± 2.5% live sperm with intact acrosome and most spermatozoa had both intact acrosome and functional membrane. On average, 2-D gels of rabbit seminal plasma had 232 ± 69.5 spots, as determined by PDQuest software (Bio Rad, USA). Mass spectrometry allowed the identification of 137 different proteins. The most abundant proteins in rabbit seminal plasma were hemoglobin subunit zeta-like, annexins, lipocalin, FAM115 protein and albumin. The intensity of the spots associated with these five proteins represented 71.5% of the intensity of all spots detected in the master gel. Multiple regression models were estimated using sperm traits as dependent variables and seminal plasma proteins as independent ones. Also, sperm motility had positive association with beta-nerve growth factor and cysteine-rich secretory protein 1-like and a negative one with galectin-1. The percentage of rabbit sperm with intact membrane was related to seminal plasma protein FAM115 complex and tropomyosin. Then, the population of morphologically normal sperm in rabbit semen was positively linked to carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 6-like and down regulated by seminal plasma isocitrate dehydrogenase. Based on another regression model, the variation in the percentage of live sperm with intact acrosome was partially explained by the amount of leukocyte elastase inhibitor and the peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase A in the rabbit seminal fluid. The current study reports the identification of 137 proteins of rabbit seminal plasma. Major proteins of seminal secretion relate primarily to prevention of damages caused by lipid peroxide radicals and oxidative stress, membrane functionality, transport of lipids to the sperm membrane and temperature regulation. Moreover, finding seminal plasma proteins as indicators of semen parameters will improve assisted reproductive technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M J B Bezerra
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - J M Arruda-Alencar
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - J A M Martins
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A G A Viana
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A M Viana Neto
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - J P A Rêgo
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - R V Oliveira
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - M Lobo
- School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A C O Moreira
- School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - R A Moreira
- School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A A Moura
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Pérez-Patiño C, Parrilla I, Li J, Barranco I, Martínez EA, Rodriguez-Martínez H, Roca J. The Proteome of Pig Spermatozoa Is Remodeled During Ejaculation. Mol Cell Proteomics 2019; 18:41-50. [PMID: 30257877 PMCID: PMC6317480 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.000840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteins are essential for sperm function, including their fertilizing capacity. Pig spermatozoa, emitted in well-defined ejaculate fractions, vary in their functionality, which could be related to different sperm protein composition. This study aimed (i) to update the porcine sperm proteome and (ii) to identify proteins differentially expressed in mature spermatozoa from cauda epididymis and those delivered in separate ejaculate fractions. Ejaculates from nine mature and fertile boars were manually collected in three separate portions: the first 10 ml of the sperm-rich ejaculate fraction (SRF), the rest of the SRF and the post-SRF. The contents of cauda epididymides of the boars were collected post-mortem by retrograde duct perfusion, generating four different semen sources for each boar. Following centrifugation, the resulting pellets of each semen source were initially pooled and later split to generate two technical replicates per source. The resulting eight sperm samples (two per semen source) were subjected to iTRAQ-based 2D-LC-MS/MS for protein identification and quantification. A total of 1,723 proteins were identified (974 of Sus scrofa taxonomy) and 1,602 of them were also quantified (960 of Sus scrofa taxonomy). After an ANOVA test, 32 Sus scrofa proteins showed quantitative differences (p < 0.01) among semen sources, which was particularly relevant for sperm functionality in the post-SRF. The present study showed that the proteome of boar spermatozoa is remodeled during ejaculation involving proteins clearly implicated in sperm function. The findings provide valuable groundwork for further studies focused on identifying protein biomarkers of sperm fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pérez-Patiño
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain
| | - Junwei Li
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A Martínez
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Jordi Roca
- From the ‡Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Spain;.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
De Lazari FL, Sontag ER, Schneider A, Moura AAA, Vasconcelos FR, Nagano CS, Mattos RC, Jobim MIM, Bustamante-Filho IC. Seminal plasma proteins and their relationship with sperm motility and morphology in boars. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13222. [PMID: 30592081 DOI: 10.1111/and.13222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers associated with seminal traits could aid in the selection of higher quality ejaculates and benefit the swine industry. The objective of this study was to identify boar seminal plasma proteins associated with sperm motility and morphology. Twenty ejaculates from fifteen adult boars from a commercial boar stud were used for this work. After routine semen collection and analysis, ejaculates were classified into two groups: high-quality semen (HQS) and low-quality semen (LQS), based on sperm motility and morphology. Semen samples were processed for seminal plasma separation and analysis by 2D SDS-PAGE. Total and progressive sperm motility differed between groups (p < 0.001), as well sperm morphology (p < 0.05). The intensity of spots identified as Major seminal plasma PSP-I (PSP-I) and cathepsin B (CTSB) was higher in LQS as compared to HQS samples (p < 0.05). Also, PSP-I was positively associated with major and sperm cauda defects. Sperm motility was negatively correlated with both PSP-I and cathepsin B. We conclude that high concentrations of Major seminal plasma PSP-I and cathepsin B in boar seminal plasma are associated with reduced total and progressive sperm motility and low sperm morphology and might be used as biomarkers for semen quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franciele L De Lazari
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Elistone R Sontag
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Alexander Schneider
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Universidade do Vale do Taquari-Univates, Lajeado, Brazil
| | - Arlindo A A Moura
- Laboratório de Fisiologia Animal, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Fábio R Vasconcelos
- Laboratório de Fisiologia Animal, Departamento de Zootecnia, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Celso S Nagano
- Departamento de Engenharia de Pesca, Universidade Federal do Ceará, Fortaleza, Brasil
| | - Rodrigo C Mattos
- REPROLAB, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês M Jobim
- REPROLAB, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Druart X, de Graaf S. Seminal plasma proteomes and sperm fertility. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 194:33-40. [PMID: 29657075 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.04.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During ejaculation, the spermatozoa are transported by the seminal plasma, a fluid resulting from secretions originating mainly from the prostate and the seminal vesicles in mammals. The interaction of the seminal plasma with spermatozoa induces binding of seminal proteins onto the sperm surface and membrane remodeling potentially impacting the sperm transport, survival and fertilizing ability in the female genital tract. The seminal plasma also contains peptides and proteins involved in the inflammatory and immune response of the female tract. Therefore the seminal plasma proteome has been investigated in a large range of taxa, including mammals, birds, fishes and insect species. The association of the seminal plasma with semen preservation or fertility identified proteic markers of seminal plasma function in domestic species. This review summarizes the current knowledge in seminal plasma proteomes and proteic markers of sperm preservation in animal species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et du Comportement, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Simon de Graaf
- RMC Gunn Building (B19), Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pérez-Patiño C, Parrilla I, Barranco I, Vergara-Barberán M, Simó-Alfonso EF, Herrero-Martínez JM, Rodriguez-Martínez H, Martínez EA, Roca J. New In-Depth Analytical Approach of the Porcine Seminal Plasma Proteome Reveals Potential Fertility Biomarkers. J Proteome Res 2018; 17:1065-1076. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.7b00728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pérez-Patiño
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Parrilla
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | - Emilio A. Martínez
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department
of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tsikis G, Reynaud K, Ferchaud S, Druart X. Seminal plasma differentially alters the resistance of dog, ram and boar spermatozoa to hypotonic stress. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 193:1-8. [PMID: 29706418 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
During ejaculation and the deposition in the female genital tract, spermatozoa undergo hypo-osmotic stress and need to withstand it for optimal fertility. Resistance to hypo-osmotic stress may be affected by the interaction of the spermatozoa with seminal fluid components. The hypo-osmotic resistance of epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa from dogs, rams and boars was assessed by flow cytometric measurement of sperm viability after incubation in NaCl solutions with osmolalities ranging from 0 to 300 mmol/kg. The hypotonic resistance of epididymal spermatozoa was greater than those of ejaculated spermatozoa in all three species. Among species comparison revealed that ejaculated spermatozoa from dogs were much more resistant than those from rams and boars as 80.4 ± 5.3%, 56.7 ± 4.7 and 9.6 ± 3.6% of live spermatozoa were observed following exposure to an osmolality of 90 mmol/kg in dogs, rams and boars respectively. This can be explained by the fact that dog, ram and boar differ markedly in composition of the seminal plasma owing to the presence (ram, boar) or absence (dog) of seminal vesicles. Hypotonic resistance of epididymal and ejaculated dog spermatozoa was similar whereas ram and boar spermatozoa showed a marked drop in resistance after ejaculation. The in vitro incubation of boar epididymal spermatozoa with raw seminal plasma or the seminal plasma protein fraction induced a similar loss of resistance, suggesting that seminal proteins are involved in the lack of resistance to hypotonic stress of boar ejaculated spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Tsikis
- INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Karine Reynaud
- INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Stéphane Ferchaud
- INRA, GenESI, UE 1372 Génétique, expérimentations et systèmes innovants, F-86480 Rouillé, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Villela Condessa MAK, Pimentel AL, Vicente Seixas FA, Martinez AC. Purification, structural and biophysical characterisation of the major seminal plasma protein from Texel rams. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 189:11-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
38
|
Menezes EB, de Oliveira RV, van Tilburg MF, Barbosa EA, Nascimento NV, Velho ALMCS, Moreno FB, Moreira RA, Monteiro-Moreira ACO, Carvalho GMC, Ramos AF, Memili E, Moura AA. Proteomic analysis of seminal plasma from locally-adapted "Curraleiro Pé-Duro bulls" (Bos taurus): identifying biomarkers involved in sperm physiology in endangered animals for conservation of biodiversity. Anim Reprod Sci 2017. [PMID: 28625714 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study was aimed at evaluating the seminal plasma proteins and sperm parameters of Curraleiro Pé-Duro bulls. Semen was collected from 10 bulls by electroejaculation, and sperm parameters were evaluated in fresh and frozen-thawed semen. Seminal plasma proteins were analyzed by 2-D SDS-PAGE and mass spectrophotometry. Tools in computational biology were used to generate bioinformatic knowledge and evaluate gene ontology, protein-protein interactions, phylogenetic trees and multiple sequence alignments. Sperm motility in fresh and frozen-thawed semen was 78.8±1.8% and 21.2±1.6%, respectively. Pearson's correlations were evaluated (p<0.05). Sperm motility and vigor in fresh semen were correlated with clusterin, TIMP2 and cathepsin S (r=0.64-0.71) and sperm defects were related to inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase and BSP 5 (r=0.78-0.80). Clusterin, BSP 5, alpha-enolase, creatine kinase M-type, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, BSP 3, albumin, and 5'-nucleotidase and legumain were correlated with acrosome intact live sperm (r=0.80-0.64). Associations were detected between sperm vigor and spermadhesin 1 (r=-0.89), and between sperm defects in fresh semen and spermadhesin 1 and clusterin (r=-0.81). Sperm motility in frozen-thawed semen was associated with BSP 1, spermadhesin 1, clusterin and spermadhesin Z13 (r=0.64-0.85). The percent of motile sperm after freeze-thawing was negatively correlated (r=-0.64) with the amount of spermadhesin 1 in the seminal plasma. Based on in silico analysis, TIMP2 interacted with BSP1, BSP3, BSP5 and metalloproteinases. Molecular functions of proteins associated with sperm parameters were binding, catalytic activity and enzymatic regulation. Amino acid sequences of spermadhesin 1 and BSP 1 from Bos taurus, and other domestic species were similar. Phylogenetic tree analysis demonstrated that clusterin from Bos taurus was related to Ovis aries and domains of clusterin, spermadhesin 1, BSP 1 and inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase were conserved as well. In summary, specific seminal proteins are associated with sperm parameters of locally-adapted bulls. Use of the endangered mammalian as a model may assist in understanding aspects of evolutionary adaptations and could improve assisted reproductive biotechnologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E B Menezes
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA; Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, 60455760, Brazil
| | - R V de Oliveira
- Department of Animal Production - Animal Science Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Rio de Janeiro, 23890000, Brazil
| | - M F van Tilburg
- Department of Biology, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, 60714-903, Brazil
| | - E A Barbosa
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia, Brazilian Federal District, 70770901, Brazil
| | - N V Nascimento
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia, Brazilian Federal District, 70770901, Brazil
| | - A L M C S Velho
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, 60455760, Brazil
| | - F B Moreno
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil, 60811905
| | - R A Moreira
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil, 60811905
| | | | | | - A F Ramos
- Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasilia, Brazilian Federal District, 70770901, Brazil
| | - E Memili
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - A A Moura
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, 60455760, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Schröter F, Müller K, Müller P, Krause E, Braun BC. Recombinant expression of porcine spermadhesin AWN and its phospholipid interaction: Indication for a novel lipid binding property. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:585-595. [PMID: 28326614 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AWN is a porcine (Sus scrofa domestica) seminal plasma protein and has been linked to a variety of processes related to fertilization. To acquire the protein in sufficient amount and purity for functional studies, we established its recombinant expression in E. coli and a three-step purification protocol based on different chromatographies. The test for AWN-phospholipid interaction revealed phosphatidic acid and cardiolipin as potential binding partners. As phosphatidic acid is surmised to play a role in cation-induced membrane destabilization and fusion events, we propose a membrane protective function of the presented binding affinity. Further studies with recombinant AWN will allow new insights into the mechanism of sperm-spermadhesin interaction and might provide new approaches for artificial reproduction techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Schröter
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Müller
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - P Müller
- Department of Biology/Biophysics, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Krause
- Department Mass Spectrometry, Leibniz Institute for Molecular Pharmacology, Berlin, Germany
| | - B C Braun
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Flowers W, Deller F, Stewart K. Use of heterospermic inseminations and paternity testing to evaluate the relative contributions of common sperm traits and seminal plasma proteins in boar fertility. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 174:123-131. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
41
|
Martins K, Gheller S, Ferreira C, Goularte K, Corcini C, Mondadori R, Vieira A, Lucia T. Post-thawing quality of ram spermatozoa is impaired by inclusion of boar seminal plasma in the freezing extender. Small Rumin Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2016.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
42
|
Pini T, Leahy T, Soleilhavoup C, Tsikis G, Labas V, Combes-Soia L, Harichaux G, Rickard JP, Druart X, de Graaf SP. Proteomic Investigation of Ram Spermatozoa and the Proteins Conferred by Seminal Plasma. J Proteome Res 2016; 15:3700-3711. [PMID: 27636150 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.6b00530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sperm proteomes have emerged for several species; however, the extent of species similarity is unknown. Sheep are an important agricultural species for which a comprehensive sperm proteome has not been produced. In addition, potential proteomic factors from seminal plasma that may contribute to improved fertility after cervical insemination are yet to be explored. Here we use liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to investigate the proteome of ejaculated ram spermatozoa, with quantitative comparison to epididymal spermatozoa. We also present a comparison to published proteomes of five other species. We identified 685 proteins in ejaculated ram spermatozoa, with the most abundant proteins involved in metabolic pathways. Only 5% of ram sperm proteins were not detected in other species, which suggest highly conserved structures and pathways. Of the proteins present in both epididymal and ejaculated ram spermatozoa, 7% were more abundant in ejaculated spermatozoa. Only two membrane-bound proteins were detected solely in ejaculated sperm lysates: liver enriched gene 1 (LEG1/C6orf58) and epidermal growth factor-like repeats and discoidin I-like domains 3 (EDIL3). This is the first evidence that despite its relatively complex proteomic composition, seminal plasma exposure leads to few novel proteins binding tightly to the ram sperm plasma membrane.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Pini
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney , Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Tamara Leahy
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney , Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | | | - Guillaume Tsikis
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours , 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Valerie Labas
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours , 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Jessica P Rickard
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney , Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Xavier Druart
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours , 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney , Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Westfalewicz B, Dietrich MA, Ciereszko A. Impact of cryopreservation on bull () semen proteome. J Anim Sci 2016; 93:5240-53. [PMID: 26641044 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-9237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of bull spermatozoa is a well-established technique, allowing artificial insemination of cattle on a commercial scale. However, the extent of proteome changes in seminal plasma and spermatozoa during cryopreservation are not yet fully known. The objective of this study was to compare the proteomes of fresh, equilibrated, and cryopreserved bull semen (spermatozoa and seminal plasma) to establish the changes in semen proteins during the cryopreservation process. Semen was collected from 6 mature Holstein Friesian bulls. After sample processing, comparative analysis and identification of proteins was performed using 2-dimensional difference in-gel electrophoresis coupled with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry. Analysis of spermatozoa extracts revealed that 25 identified protein spots, representing 16 proteins, underwent significant ( < 0.05) changes in abundance due to equilibration and cryopreservation. Eighteen protein spots decreased in abundance, 5 protein spots increased in abundance, and 2 protein spots showed different, specific patterns of abundance changes. Analysis of seminal fluid containing seminal plasma showed that 6 identified protein spots, representing 4 proteins, underwent significant ( < 0.05) changes in abundance due to equilibration and cryopreservation. Two protein spots increased in abundance and 4 decreased in abundance. Semen extending and equilibration seems to be responsible for a significant portion of the proteome changes related to cryopreservation technology. Most sperm proteins affected by equilibration and cryopreservation are membrane bound, and loss of those proteins may reduce natural spermatozoa coating. Further research is needed to unravel the mechanisms of the particular protein changes described in this study and establish the relationship between those changes and sperm quality.
Collapse
|
44
|
Defaus S, Avilés M, Andreu D, Gutiérrez-Gallego R. Identification of Bovine Sperm Surface Proteins Involved in Carbohydrate-mediated Fertilization Interactions. Mol Cell Proteomics 2016; 15:2236-51. [PMID: 27094474 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m115.057703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glycan-protein interactions play a key role in mammalian fertilization, but data on the composition and identities of protein complexes involved in fertilization events are scarce, with the added complication that the glycans in such interactions tend to differ among species. In this study we have used a bovine model to detect, characterize and identify sperm lectins relevant in fertilization. Given the complexity of the sperm-toward-egg journey, two important aspects of the process, both primarily mediated by protein-sugar interactions, have been addressed: (1) formation of the sperm reservoir in the oviductal epithelium, and (2) gamete recognition (oocyte-sperm interaction). Using whole sperm cells and a novel affinity capture method, several groups of proteins with different glycan specificities, including 58 hitherto unreported as lectins, have been identified in sperm surface, underscoring both the efficacy of our selective approach and the complex composition and function of sperm. Based on these results and previous data, we suggest that sperm surface proteins play significant roles in fertilization events such as membrane remodeling, transport, protection and function, thus supporting the hypothesis that rather than a simple lock-and-key model, mammalian fertilization relies on a complex interactome involving multiple ligands/receptors and recognition/binding events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sira Defaus
- From the ‡Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- §Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and IMIB, Campus Mare Nostrum, 30071 Murcia, Spain
| | - David Andreu
- From the ‡Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Ricardo Gutiérrez-Gallego
- From the ‡Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tanphaichitr N, Kongmanas K, Kruevaisayawan H, Saewu A, Sugeng C, Fernandes J, Souda P, Angel JB, Faull KF, Aitken RJ, Whitelegge J, Hardy D, Berger T, Baker M. Remodeling of the plasma membrane in preparation for sperm-egg recognition: roles of acrosomal proteins. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:574-82. [PMID: 25994642 PMCID: PMC4492047 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.152817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction of sperm with the egg's extracellular matrix, the zona pellucida (ZP) is the first step of the union between male and female gametes. The molecular mechanisms of this process have been studied for the past six decades with the results obtained being both interesting and confusing. In this article, we describe our recent work, which attempts to address two lines of questions from previous studies. First, because there are numerous ZP binding proteins reported by various researchers, how do these proteins act together in sperm–ZP interaction? Second, why do a number of acrosomal proteins have ZP affinity? Are they involved mainly in the initial sperm–ZP binding or rather in anchoring acrosome reacting/reacted spermatozoa to the ZP? Our studies reveal that a number of ZP binding proteins and chaperones, extracted from the anterior sperm head plasma membrane, coexist as high molecular weight (HMW) complexes, and that these complexes in capacitated spermatozoa have preferential ability to bind to the ZP. Zonadhesin (ZAN), known as an acrosomal protein with ZP affinity, is one of these proteins in the HMW complexes. Immunoprecipitation indicates that ZAN interacts with other acrosomal proteins, proacrosin/acrosin and sp32 (ACRBP), also present in the HMW complexes. Immunodetection of ZAN and proacrosin/acrosin on spermatozoa further indicates that both proteins traffic to the sperm head surface during capacitation where the sperm acrosomal matrix is still intact, and therefore they are likely involved in the initial sperm–ZP binding step.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nongnuj Tanphaichitr
- Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Mino M, Sawada H. Follicle cell trypsin-like protease HrOvochymase: Its cDNA cloning, localization, and involvement in the late stage of oogenesis in the ascidian Halocynthia roretzi. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:347-58. [PMID: 26896838 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that the sperm trypsin-like protease HrAcrosin and its precursor HrProacrosin participate in fertilization of the ascidian Halocynthia roretzi. The HrProacrosin gene is annotated in the H. roretzi genome database as Harore.CG.MTP2014.S89.g15383; our previously reported sequence of HrProacrosin gene appeared to include four nucleotides inserted near the 3'-end of HrProacrosin, resulting in a frame-shift mutation and a premature termination codon. The gene architecture of HrProacrosin and Harore.CG.MTP2014.S89.g15383 resembles that of Xenopus laevis ovochymase-1/OVCH1 and ovochymase-2/OVCH2, which encode egg extracellular polyproteases. Considering these new observations, we evaluated the cDNA cloning, expression, localization, and function of Harore.CG.MTP2014.S89.g15383, herein designated as HrOvochymase/HrOVCH. We found that HrOVCH cDNA consists of a single open reading frame of 1,575 amino acids, containing a signal peptide, three trypsin-like protease domains, and six CUB domains. HrOVCH was transcribed by the testis and ovary, but the majority of protein exists in ovarian follicle cells surrounding eggs. An anti-HrOVCH antibody inhibited elevation of the vitelline coat at a late stage of oogenesis, during the period when self-sterility is acquired. As trypsin inhibitors are reported to block the acquisition of self-sterility during oogenesis, whereas trypsin induces the acquisition of self-sterility and elevation of the vitelline coat in defolliculated ovarian eggs, we propose that HrOVCH may play a role in the acquisition of self-sterility by late-stage H. roretzi oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masako Mino
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Sawada
- Sugashima Marine Biological Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Sugashima, Toba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Casares-Crespo L, Talaván AM, Viudes-de-Castro MP. Can the Genetic Origin Affect Rabbit Seminal Plasma Protein Profile along the Year? Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 51:294-300. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- L Casares-Crespo
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Animal-Instituto Valenciano de Investigaciones Agrarias (CITA-IVIA); Segorbe Castellón Spain
| | - AM Talaván
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Animal; Universidad Politécnica de Valencia; Valencia Spain
| | - MP Viudes-de-Castro
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Animal-Instituto Valenciano de Investigaciones Agrarias (CITA-IVIA); Segorbe Castellón Spain
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Does the inclusion of protease inhibitors in the insemination extender affect rabbit reproductive performance? Theriogenology 2016; 85:928-932. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.10.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
49
|
Communication requested: Boar semen transport through the uterus and possible consequences for insemination. Theriogenology 2016; 85:94-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
50
|
Soleilhavoup C, Riou C, Tsikis G, Labas V, Harichaux G, Kohnke P, Reynaud K, de Graaf SP, Gerard N, Druart X. Proteomes of the Female Genital Tract During the Oestrous Cycle. Mol Cell Proteomics 2016; 15:93-108. [PMID: 26518761 PMCID: PMC4762522 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m115.052332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract includes several anatomical regions whose luminal fluids successively interact with gametes and embryos and are involved in the fertilisation and development processes. The luminal fluids from the inner cervix, the uterus and the oviduct were collected along the oestrous cycle at oestrus (Day 0 of the cycle) and during the luteal phase (Day 10) from adult cyclic ewes. The proteomes were assessed by GeLC-MS/MS and quantified by spectral counting. A set of 940 proteins were identified including 291 proteins differentially present along the cycle in one or several regions. The global analysis of the fluid proteomes revealed a general pattern of endocrine regulation of the tract, with the cervix and the oviduct showing an increased differential proteins abundance mainly at oestrus while the uterus showed an increased abundance mainly during the luteal phase. The proteins more abundant at oestrus included several families such as the heat shock proteins (HSP), the mucins, the complement cascade proteins and several redox enzymes. Other proteins known for their interaction with gametes such as oviductin (OVGP), osteopontin, HSPA8, and the spermadhesin AWN were also overexpressed at oestrus. The proteins more abundant during the luteal phase were associated with the immune system such as ceruloplasmin, lactoferrin, DMBT1, or PIGR, and also with tissue remodeling such as galectin 3 binding protein, alkaline phosphatase, CD9, or fibulin. Several proteins differentially abundant between estrus and the luteal phase, such as myosin 9 and fibronectin, were also validated by immunohistochemistry. The potential roles in sperm transit and uterine receptivity of the proteins differentially regulated along the cycle in the female genital tract are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clement Soleilhavoup
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Cindy Riou
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Valerie Labas
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; **INRA, Plate-forme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules (PAIB), Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Gregoire Harichaux
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; **INRA, Plate-forme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules (PAIB), Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Philippa Kohnke
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ‡‡Alfort Veterinary School, 94700 Maisons Alfort, France
| | - Simon P de Graaf
- §§Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Nadine Gerard
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- From the ‡INRA, UMR 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; §CNRS, UMR7247, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; ¶Université François Rabelais de Tours, F-37000 Tours, France; ‖IFCE, Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, F-37380 Nouzilly, France;
| |
Collapse
|