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Budzinska M, Kamieniczna M, Wojnar L, Gill K, Piasecka M, Kups M, Fraczek M. The role of the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in human ejaculated sperm damage under a state of scrotal heat stress. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:99-108. [PMID: 38062334 PMCID: PMC10789687 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02992-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to determine the associations among standard sperm characteristics and oxidative/apoptotic markers in ejaculated sperm of men exposed to prolonged scrotal hyperthermia of either environmental or clinical origin. METHODS The original study design included four research groups: professional drivers (n = 54), infertile men with varicocele (n = 78), infertile men not exposed to prolonged genital heat stress (n = 37), and fertile individuals serving as the control group (n = 29). Standard semen analysis was performed according to the 5th WHO laboratory manual. The following oxidative and apoptotic parameters of sperm were investigated: mitochondrial superoxide anion generation (MitoSOX Red dye), phosphatidylserine externalization (Annexin V binding assay), mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1 dye), DNA fragmentation (TUNEL/PI assay), and membrane fluidity (merocyanine 540 dye). RESULTS All the studied groups presented a strong deterioration in routine sperm parameters and a strongly apoptotic phenotype in sperm, characterized by both decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and enhanced DNA fragmentation, regardless of the thermal insult. Significant induction of mitochondrial superoxide anion generation was noted only in the groups exposed to genital heat stress. A positive correlation between the production of superoxide anion in the mitochondrial chain and the level of DNA fragmentation in drivers was also noted. CONCLUSION Long-term exposure to scrotal hyperthermia in real-life situations is sufficient to reduce sperm quality in humans. The thermal stress directly induces the oxidative stress cascade in ejaculated sperm, affecting the plasma membrane fluidity, mitochondrial homeostasis, and sperm DNA integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Budzinska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marzena Kamieniczna
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479, Poznan, Poland
| | - Lukasz Wojnar
- Clinic of Urology and Oncological Urology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Kamil Gill
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Michal Kups
- Department and Clinic of Urology and Oncological Urology, Regional Specialist Hospital in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
- The Fertility Partnership Vitrolive in Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Fraczek
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Strzeszynska 32, 60-479, Poznan, Poland.
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Dolatkhah MA, Khezri S, Shokoohi M, Alihemmati A. The effect of Fumaria parviflora on the expression of sexual hormones along with their receptors in testicles of adult rats induced by varicocele. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14512. [PMID: 35753722 DOI: 10.1111/and.14512] [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: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele (VCL) is a pathological dilation of the venous pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord and is also classified as male factor infertility. The current experiment aimed to examine the protective effect of Fumaria parviflora (FP), as a powerful antioxidant, against reproductive damage induced by VCL. In this experimental study, 32 male rats were randomly allocated into four groups, namely sham (simple laparotomy without additional intervention), FP (healthy rats administered 250 mg/kg FP), VCL + FP (underwent VCL and received 250 mg/kg FP), VCL (underwent VCL without receiving any treatment). The results showed that the number of Sertoli and germ cells were markedly reduced in the VCL group in comparison to the FP-treated and sham groups. The VCl + FP group had significantly higher serum levels of testosterone (T), FSH, and LH hormones than the VCL group. The quality and motility of spermatozoa were reduced in the VCL group compared with other groups (p ≤ 0.05). Moreover, our findings demonstrated that the administration of FP considerably enhanced the mRNA levels of CatSper-1 and -2, SF-1, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR (p ≤ 0.05). Based on the obtained results, treatment with FP is capable of preventing testicular dysfunction and elevating the concentration of hormones and some crucial genes, such as CatSper1 and 2, SF-1, 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD3, LHCGR, and FSHR that contribute to the spermatogenesis process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Dolatkhah
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Valiasr Hospital, Department of Radiotherapy, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shiva Khezri
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Urmia, Iran
| | - Majid Shokoohi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Alihemmati
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz, Iran
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Fraczek M, Lewandowska A, Budzinska M, Kamieniczna M, Wojnar L, Gill K, Piasecka M, Kups M, Havrylyuk A, Chopyak V, Nakonechnyy J, Nakonechnyy A, Kurpisz M. The Role of Seminal Oxidative Stress Scavenging System in the Pathogenesis of Sperm DNA Damage in Men Exposed and Not Exposed to Genital Heat Stress. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052713. [PMID: 35270405 PMCID: PMC8910598 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Responding to the need for the verification of some experimental animal studies showing the involvement of oxidative stress in germ cell damage in the heat-induced testis, we investigated the possibility of a direct relationship between seminal oxidative stress markers (total antioxidant capacity, catalase activity, superoxide dismutase activity, and malondialdehyde concentration) and ejaculated sperm chromatin/DNA integrity (DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation abnormalities) in distinct groups of men exposed and not exposed to prolonged scrotal hyperthermia. A statistical increase in the proportion of sperm with DNA fragmentation was observed in all the studied subgroups compared to the fertile men. In turn, the groups subjected to heat stress as professional drivers or infertile men with varicocele presented greater disturbances in the oxidative stress scavenging system than men not exposed to genital heat stress. Based on the comparative analysis of the studied parameters, we can conclude that alterations in the seminal oxidative stress scavenging system are directly engaged in the pathogenesis of ejaculated sperm DNA damage regardless of the intensity of the impact of thermal insult. To the best of our knowledge, this study, for the first time, revealed the co-existence of oxidative stress and sperm DNA damage in the semen of professional drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fraczek
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (A.L.); (M.B.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (M.K.)
| | - Angelika Lewandowska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (A.L.); (M.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Marta Budzinska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (A.L.); (M.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Marzena Kamieniczna
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (A.L.); (M.B.); (M.K.)
| | - Lukasz Wojnar
- Clinic of Urology and Oncological Urology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-285 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Kamil Gill
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland; (K.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Malgorzata Piasecka
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland; (K.G.); (M.P.)
| | - Michal Kups
- Department and Clinic Urology and Oncological Urology, Regional Specialist Hospital in Szczecin, 71-455 Szczecin, Poland;
- The Fertility Partnership Vitrolive in Szczecin, 70-483 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Havrylyuk
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Danylo Halytskyy Lviv National Medical University, 79008 Lviv, Ukraine; (A.H.); (V.C.)
| | - Valentina Chopyak
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Danylo Halytskyy Lviv National Medical University, 79008 Lviv, Ukraine; (A.H.); (V.C.)
| | - Jozef Nakonechnyy
- Department of Urology, Danylo Halytskyy Lviv National Medical University, 79010 Lviv, Ukraine;
| | - Andrij Nakonechnyy
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Danylo Halytskyy Lviv National Medical University, 79059 Lviv, Ukraine;
| | - Maciej Kurpisz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, 60-479 Poznan, Poland; (A.L.); (M.B.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: (M.F.); (M.K.)
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Expression of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor1-α in Varicocele Disease: a Comprehensive Systematic Review. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2731-2743. [PMID: 34313997 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00696-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hypoxia has been suggested as an important pathophysiological feature in varicocele disease. On the other hand, the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-α) is associated with the incidence of hypoxia. In this study, we investigated the expression of HIF1-α in varicocele disease through a comprehensive systematic review. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases to identify the related studies published up to February 2021. Human studies have demonstrated an increase in the HIF-1α protein expression in the internal spermatic vein (ISV) of the varicocele testicle. HIF-1α mRNA expression in the seminal plasma was significantly higher in infertile varicocele patient compared with fertile ones. Similarly, most animal studies demonstrated a significant increase in HIF-1α gene and protein expression in varicocele testicular tissue compared with control groups. The studies illustrated that hypoxia followed by increased expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF1-α) mRNA and protein occurs in varicocele disease. Expression of HIF-1α regulates the expression of many genes, including VEGF, p53, GLUT, Bax, and Caspase-3, that could be involved in many of the varicocele pathophysiological effects such as DNA fragmentation and apoptosis of sperm cells. Further studies with a large number of patients are necessary and can provide more definitive evidence.
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Panner Selvam MK, Samanta L, Agarwal A. Functional Analysis of Differentially Expressed Acetylated Spermatozoal Proteins in Infertile Men with Unilateral and Bilateral Varicocele. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093155. [PMID: 32365753 PMCID: PMC7246524 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm proteins undergo post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination, which in turn play a key role in determining their fertilizing ability. In the current study, we examined the sperm proteome of men with unilateral and bilateral varicocele to identify the key proteins affected by acetylation to gain an insight into the difference in the severity of affected sperm function in the latter. An LTQ-Orbitrap Elite hybrid mass spectrometer system was used to profile the sperm proteome in pooled unilateral and bilateral varicocele patients. Bioinformatics database and tools, such as UniProtKB, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis Software (IPA) and Metacore, were used to identify the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) involved in the acetylation process. A total of 135 DEPs in the spermatozoa of unilateral and bilateral varicocele patients were found to be affected by acetylation. The majority of these DEPs found were regulated by key transcription factors such as androgen receptor, p53, and NRF2. Furthermore, the DEPs predicted to be affected by the acetylation process were associated with fertilization, acrosome reaction, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Aberrant expression of proteins and their differential acetylation process may affect the normal physiological functions of spermatozoa. Protein–protein interactions identified dysregulation of the proteasome complex in the bilateral varicocele group. Damage to the proteasome complex may result in aggregation of the misfolded proteins, which in turn increase sperm DNA damage and apoptosis in patients with bilateral varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manesh Kumar Panner Selvam
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (M.K.P.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Luna Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (M.K.P.S.); (L.S.)
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack 753003, India
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (M.K.P.S.); (L.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-216-444-9485
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Karna KK, Choi BR, You JH, Shin YS, Cui WS, Lee SW, Kim JH, Kim CY, Kim HK, Park JK. The ameliorative effect of monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and mitochondrial signaling pathway in varicocelized rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:333. [PMID: 31771569 PMCID: PMC6880392 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2736-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside (MAS) are active compounds extracted from medicinal herbs; monotropein from Morinda officinalis How (Rubiaceae), astragalin (kaempferol 3-O-glucoside) from Cuscuta chinensis Lamark (Convolvulaceae) and spiraeoside from the outer scales of Allium cepa L. (Liliceae) in a ratio of 6.69:0.41:3.61. Monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside are well-known antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive agents. The current investigation aims to study the molecular mechanism of varicocele-induced male infertility and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of MAS. Methods Four groups were included: control (CTR), MAS 200 group (MAS 200 mg/kg), varicocele group (VC), and VC + MAS 200 group (MAS 200 mg/kg). Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were treated with 200 mg/kg MAS or vehicle once daily for 28 days. The possible signaling mechanism and effects of MAS were measured via histological staining, immunohistochemistry, western blot, and biochemical assays. Results Parameters such as sperm motility and count, Johnsen’s scores, spermatogenic cell density, serum testosterone, testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) improved significantly in the VC + MAS 200 group compared with the VC group. MAS treatment of varicocele-induced group significantly decreased the levels of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), as well as testicular interleukin-6 (IL6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), ROS/RNS, and malondialdehyde (MDA). It also decreased the apoptotic index and reduced the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein levels (Grp78, p-IRE1α, and p-JNK) and apoptotic markers such as cleaved caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Conclusion This study suggests that the crosstalk between oxidative stress, ER stress, and mitochondrial pathway mediates varicocele-induced testicular germ cell apoptosis. MAS promotes spermatogenesis in varicocele-induced SD rat, probably by decreasing cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) levels, regulating abnormal sex hormones, and decreasing oxidative stress, ER stress, and apoptosis.
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Silva JV, Cabral M, Correia BR, Carvalho P, Sousa M, Oliveira PF, Fardilha M. mTOR Signaling Pathway Regulates Sperm Quality in Older Men. Cells 2019; 8:cells8060629. [PMID: 31234465 PMCID: PMC6627782 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding how age affects fertility becomes increasingly relevant as couples delay childbearing toward later stages of their lives. While the influence of maternal age on fertility is well established, the impact of paternal age is poorly characterized. Thus, this study aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms responsible for age-dependent decline in spermatozoa quality. To attain it, we evaluated the impact of male age on the activity of signaling proteins in two distinct spermatozoa populations: total spermatozoa fraction and highly motile/viable fraction. In older men, we observed an inhibition of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in the highly viable spermatozoa population. On the contrary, when considering the entire spermatozoa population (including defective/immotile/apoptotic cells) our findings support an active mTORC1 signaling pathway in older men. Additionally, total spermatozoa fractions of older men presented increased levels of apoptotic/stress markers [e.g., cellular tumor antigen p53 (TP53)] and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activity. Moreover, we established that the levels of most signaling proteins analyzed were consistently and significantly altered in men older than 27 years of age. This study was the first to associate the mTOR signaling pathway with the age impact on spermatozoa quality. Additionally, we constructed a network of the sperm proteins associated with male aging, identifying TP53 as a central player in spermatozoa aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Vieira Silva
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Madalena Cabral
- COGE-Clínica Obstétrica e Ginecológica de Espinho, 4500-057 Espinho, Portugal.
| | - Bárbara Regadas Correia
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Carvalho
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
- COGE-Clínica Obstétrica e Ginecológica de Espinho, 4500-057 Espinho, Portugal.
| | - Mário Sousa
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Fontes Oliveira
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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Foroozan-Broojeni S, Tavalaee M, Lockshin RA, Zakeri Z, Abbasi H, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Comparison of main molecular markers involved in autophagy and apoptosis pathways between spermatozoa of infertile men with varicocele and fertile individuals. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13177. [PMID: 30353556 DOI: 10.1111/and.13177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal dilatation and tortuosity of the pampiniform plexus within the spermatic cord are termed varicocele which leads to impaired spermatogenesis due to heat-related oxidative stress and cell death. Previously, it was shown that both apoptosis and autophagy pathways were activated by heat in germ cells of mouse in vivo and in vitro. But, status of these pathways is not clear in chronic state of heat stress such as varicocele. Therefore, we aimed to access sperm apoptotic markers (active caspases 3/7 and DNA fragmentation), and autophagic markers (Atg7 and LC3 proteins) as primary outcomes, and also sperm parameters and protamine deficiency as secondary outcomes between 23 infertile men with varicocele and 16 fertile individuals. Sperm parameters were assessed according to World Health Organization 2010 protocol. Apoptotic markers (active caspases 3/7 and DNA fragmentation), autophagic markers (Atg7 and LC3 proteins), and protamine deficiency were evaluated by flow cytometry, fluorescence microscope, and western blotting techniques. Mean of autophagy and apoptosis markers, and also protamine deficiency have significantly increased in infertile men with varicocele compared to fertile individuals, but autophagy and apoptosis markers did not significantly correlate with each other. In conclusion, it seems that both apoptosis and autophagy pathways are independently active in spermatozoa of infertile men with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaghayegh Foroozan-Broojeni
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Richard A Lockshin
- Department of Biological Sciences, St. John's University, Jamaica, New York.,Department of Biology, Queens College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, Flushing, New York
| | - Zahra Zakeri
- Department of Biology, Queens College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, Flushing, New York
| | | | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Zhu SM, Rao T, Yang X, Ning JZ, Yu WM, Ruan Y, Yuan R, Li CL, Jiang K, Hu W, Li HY, Cheng F. Autophagy may play an important role in varicocele. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:5471-5479. [PMID: 28849201 PMCID: PMC5647093 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the expression of autophagy and investigate whether the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α)/BCL2 interacting protein (BNIP3)/Beclin-1 autophagy signaling pathway serves an important role in activating autophagy in varicocele (VC) rat testes cells. Furthermore, the current study aimed to explain the possible association between autophagy and apoptosis. A total of 48 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into group A (control), group B (VC 15-day), group C (VC 30-day) and group D (VC 45-day), with 12 rats in each group. The rats in group A did not receive any interventions, and in groups B, C, and D the VC model was established simultaneously. At 0, 15, 30, and 45 days, an orchidectomy on the left testes was performed in groups A-D, each on its respective day. Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the expression of autophagy. Compared with groups A and B, it was demonstrated that the expression of autophagy in groups C, and D was significantly increased. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed that as the rats survived VC longer, the testicular tissue damage became more serious. Furthermore, the Johnson score revealed that VC impaired the spermeiogenesis function of the male rats. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the apoptosis index of the seminiferous epithelia cells in VC rat testes increased over time, as measured using TUNEL staining. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that as the VC was prolonged, the expression of HIF-1α gradually increased while the expression of (apoptosis regulator Bcl-2) Bcl-2 gradually decreased. Furthermore, western blot analysis revealed that the protein expression of Bcl-2 decreased and apoptosis regulator Bax increased. Furthermore, HIF-1α, BNIP3, Beclin1 and microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 α (LC3)II/LC3I expression gradually increased. However, significant increases in Beclin 1 and LC3II/LC3I were only observed between the day 0 and day 30 groups. In addition, the expression of p62 significantly increased between day 0 and day 15, but gradually decreased between day 15 and day 45. The results of the present study revealed that VC can lead to testicular tissue hypoxia, and that the HIF-1α/BNIP3/Beclin1 autophagy signaling pathway may upregulate autophagy in VC rats testes. Thus, the association between autophagy and apoptosis may serve an important role in male infertility caused by VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Ming Zhu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Ting Rao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Zhuo Ning
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Ming Yu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Run Yuan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Long Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Kun Jiang
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Hao-Yong Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Fan Cheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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Role of Inhibitors of Apoptosis Proteins in Testicular Function and Male Fertility: Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Administration in Experimental Varicocele. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:248976. [PMID: 26347229 PMCID: PMC4539425 DOI: 10.1155/2015/248976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP) and survivin might play an important role in testicular function. We investigated the effect of PDRN, an agonist of adenosine A2A receptor, on testicular NAIP and survivin expression in an experimental model of varicocele. After the creation of experimental varicocele (28 days), adolescent male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to one of the following treatments lasting 21 days: vehicle, PDRN (8 mg/kg i.p., daily), PDRN + 3,7-dimethyl-propargylxanthine (DMPX, a specific adenosine A2A-receptor antagonist, 0.1 mg/kg i.p., daily), varicocelectomy, and varicocelectomy + PDRN (8 mg/kg i.p., daily). Sham-operated animals were used as controls. Animals were then euthanized and testis expression of NAIP and survivin was evaluated through qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemical analysis. Spermatogenetic activity was also assessed. NAIP and survivin expressions were significantly reduced following varicocele induction when compared to sham animals whereas PDRN-treated rats showed an increase in NAIP and survivin levels. Immunohistochemistry revealed an enhanced expression of NAIP and survivin with a characteristic pattern of cellular localization following PDRN treatment. Moreover, administration of PDRN significantly restored spermatogenic function in varicocele rats. PDRN may represent a rational therapeutic option for accelerating recovery from depressed testicular function through a strategic modulation of apoptosis in experimental varicocele.
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Liang M, Wen J, Dong Q, Zhao LG, Shi BK. Testicular hypofunction caused by activating p53 expression induced by reactive oxygen species in varicocele rats. Andrologia 2015; 47:1175-82. [PMID: 25611575 DOI: 10.1111/and.12400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Liang
- Department of Urology; Qilu Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan China
- Reproductive Medical Center; The Second Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Jinan China
| | - J. Wen
- Reproductive Medical Center; The Second Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine; Jinan China
| | - Q. Dong
- National Health and Family Planning Commission of the People's Republic of China; Beijing China
| | - L.-G. Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center; The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University; Guangzhou China
| | - B.-K. Shi
- Department of Urology; Qilu Hospital; Shandong University; Jinan China
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Eid AA, Younan DN. Seminal Tumour necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand and its relationship to infertility in Egyptian patients with varicocele. Andrologia 2014; 47:1028-33. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- A. A. Eid
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology; Faculty of Medicine; Alexandria University; Alexandria Egypt
| | - D. N. Younan
- Department of Clinical Pathology; Faculty of Medicine; Alexandria University; Alexandria Egypt
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Celik-Ozenci C, Tasatargil A. Role of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases in male reproduction. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e24194. [PMID: 23885303 PMCID: PMC3710221 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.24194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) are a family of enzymes involved in a wide variety of biological processes, including DNA repair and maintenance of genomic stability following genotoxic stress, and regulates the expression of various proteins at the transcriptional level as well as replication and differentiation. However, excessive activation of PARP has been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis of several diseases associated with oxidative stress (OS), which has been known to play a fundamental role in the etiology of male infertility. Based on the degree and type of the stress stimulus, PARP directs cells to specific fates (such as, DNA repair vs. cell death). A large volume of accumulated evidence indicates the presence of PARP and its homologs in testicular germ line cells and its activity may offer a key mechanism for keeping DNA integrity in spermatogenesis. On the other hand, a possible role of PARP overactivation in OS-induced male reproductive disorders and in human sperm is gaining significance in recent years. In this review, we focus on the findings about the importance of PARP-1 and PARP-2 in male reproduction and possible involvement of PARP overactivation in various clinical conditions associated with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Akdeniz University Medical Faculty Department of Histology and Embryology; Antalya, Turkey
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Gentile V, Nicotra M, Minucci S, Ambrosi S, Saccucci P, Gloria-Bottini F, Bottini E. The relationship between p53 codon 72 genetic polymorphism and sperm parameters. A study of men with varicocele. Reprod Med Biol 2014; 14:11-15. [PMID: 29259398 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-014-0188-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Regulation of the apoptotic process has an important role in spermatogenesis. p53 has a prominent function in apoptosis and recent data suggest a relationship between varicocele and p53 codon 72 polymorphism and male infertility. This prompted us to study the relationship between this polymorphism and spermatic parameters. Methods We studied 134 subjects with varicocele admitted consecutively to the outpatients Department of Infertility at the University of Rome La Sapienza. We investigated in these subjects the effect of a strong apoptosis inducer, the p53 codon 72 *Arg/*Arg genotype, on spermatic parameters.The p53 codon 72 genotype was determined by DNA analysis. Results The proportion of spermatozoa with abnormal (curvilinear) motility is higher in men with the *Arg/*Arg genotype than in men carrying the *Pro allele (p = 0.003). No statistical significant relationship has been observed with spermatozoa concentration and atypical spermatozoa. Conclusions We conclude: the p53 codon 72*Arg/*Arg genotype, with its strong apoptotic effects, negatively influences spermatozoa motility and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Gentile
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences University of Rome La Sapienza Rome Italy
| | - M Nicotra
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences University of Rome La Sapienza Rome Italy
| | | | - S Ambrosi
- Department of Gynaecologic, Obstetric and Urologic Sciences University of Rome La Sapienza Rome Italy
| | - P Saccucci
- Department of Biomedicine and Preventio nUniversity of Rome Tor Vergata Via Montpellier, 100133 Rome Italy
| | - F Gloria-Bottini
- Department of Biomedicine and Preventio nUniversity of Rome Tor Vergata Via Montpellier, 100133 Rome Italy
| | - E Bottini
- Department of Biomedicine and Preventio nUniversity of Rome Tor Vergata Via Montpellier, 100133 Rome Italy
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Bozhedomov VA, Lipatova NA, Rokhlikov IM, Alexeev RA, Ushakova IV, Sukhikh GT. Male fertility and varicocoele: role of immune factors. Andrology 2013; 2:51-8. [PMID: 24285668 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00160.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 10/13/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The role of antisperm antibodies (ASA) in the aetiopathogenesis of varicocoele-related male infertility remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine whether varicocoele is associated with antisperm immune response and whether this factor provides additional affect on male fertility. We performed a multicentral, prospective study that included the clinical examination of 1639 male subjects from infertile couples and 90 fertile men, the evaluation of the absolute and relative risks of immune infertility associated with varicocoele and the impact of the autoimmune response on the semen quality. The methods used were as follows: standard examination of seminal fluid according to WHO criteria; ASA detection in seminal fluid using mixed antiglobulin reaction (MAR) and direct flow cytometry; measurement of spontaneous and ionophore-induced acrosome reactions; oxidative stress evaluation with luminal-dependent chemiluminescence method and evaluation of DNA fragmentation by sperm chromatin dispersion. The prevalence of varicocoele-related immune infertility is about 15% and does not depend on the grade of vein dilatation both in primary and secondary fertility disorders. Varicocoele is not an immediate cause of autoimmune reactions against spermatozoa, but is a cofactor increasing ASA risk; the OR of immune infertility after a testicular trauma in varicocoele patients increases twofold. In varicocoele patients, the autoimmune antisperm reaction is accompanied by a more significant decrease in the semen quality (concentration and number of progressively motile and morphologically normal spermatozoa in the ejaculate), acrosome reaction disorders (presence of pre-term spontaneous and lack of induced reactions) and an increase in the proportion of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation. These disorders correlate with the level of sperm oxidative stress; reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in ASA-positive varicocoele patients is 2.8 and 3.5 times higher than in ASA-negative varicocoele patients and fertile men respectively. We did not find correlation between the grade of spermatic cord vein dilatation and ROS production.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Bozhedomov
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproduction, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Department of Clinical Andrology, The Federal State Budget Institution Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia; Federal State Budget Institution "Polyclinic No 1" of the Business Administration for the President of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Jankovic Velickovic L, Stefanovic V. Hypoxia and spermatogenesis. Int Urol Nephrol 2013; 46:887-94. [PMID: 24265038 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-013-0601-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This review mainly focuses on our understanding of spermatogenesis in physiological and pathological hypoxic condition. Real hypoxia is closely related to vascular changes and an increase in testicular temperature. Both induce a reduction in sperm count and can be related to the increase in germ cell apoptosis. On the other hand, change in the temperature, and oxygen levels in the microenvironment have influence on spermatogonial stem cell function and differentiation. The initial connection between hypoxia and a factor critical for stem cell maintenance is alteration in Oct-4 expression, and these data may be a useful strategy for modulating stem cell function. Unilateral testicular ischemia-induced cell death can be accompanied by an increase in germ cell apoptosis in the contralateral testis. The injury of contralateral testis following unilateral testicular damage is controversial, and it can contribute to the reduction in fertility.
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The hypoxic testicle: physiology and pathophysiology. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2012; 2012:929285. [PMID: 23056665 PMCID: PMC3465913 DOI: 10.1155/2012/929285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2012] [Revised: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex biological process occurring in the seminiferous tubules in the testis. This process represents a delicate balance between cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In most mammals, the testicles are kept in the scrotum 2 to 7°C below body core temperature, and the spermatogenic process proceeds with a blood and oxygen supply that is fairly independent of changes in other vascular beds in the body. Despite this apparently well-controlled local environment, pathologies such as varicocele or testicular torsion and environmental exposure to low oxygen (hypoxia) can result in changes in blood flow, nutrients, and oxygen supply along with an increased local temperature that may induce adverse effects on Leydig cell function and spermatogenesis. These conditions may lead to male subfertility or infertility. Our literature analyses and our own results suggest that conditions such as germ cell apoptosis and DNA damage are common features in hypoxia and varicocele and testicular torsion. Furthermore, oxidative damage seems to be present in these conditions during the initiation stages of germ cell damage and apoptosis. Other mechanisms like membrane-bound metalloproteinases and phospholipase A2 activation could also be part of the pathophysiological consequences of testicular hypoxia.
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Abstract
Sperm DNA can be damaged due to a multitude of different noxae, which include disease, and occupational and environmental factors. Depending on the magnitude of the damage, such lesions may be repaired by the oocyte or the embryo. If this is not possible, a permanent damage can be manifested leading to mutations of the male genome. In cases where the oocyte or the embryo does not counter these damages to the male genome in terms of repair or an early abortion, sperm DNA damage and fragmentation can be a cause of numerous diseases including childhood cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf R. Henkel
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Daniel R. Franken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Sperm caspase-9 in oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with and without varicocele. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:1097-9. [PMID: 21868008 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2011] [Revised: 08/02/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess sperm caspase-9 activity in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men with and without varicocele. DESIGN Prospective. SETTING Academic setting. PATIENT(S) Eighty men: healthy fertile control subjects (n = 20), OAT (n = 25), and OAT associated with left-side varicocele (n = 35). INTERVENTION(S) History taking, clinical examination, semen analysis,assessment of seminal caspase-9. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Semen analysis, sperm caspase-9. RESULT(S) Sperm caspase-9 was significantly increased in infertile OAT men associated with varicocele compared with OAT men without varicocele and healthy fertile control subjects. Sperm casapse-9 activity demonstrated significant negative correlation with sperm count, sperm motility, sperm velocity, sperm linear velocity, sperm linearity index, and sperm normal morphology. CONCLUSION(S) Sperm caspase-9 is exaggerated in infertile OAT cases with varicocele compared with infertile OAT cases without varicocele or healthy fertile men. Sperm caspase-9 demonstrated significant negative correlation with semen variables.
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Sperm DNA integrity assays: diagnostic and prognostic challenges and implications in management of infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:1073-85. [PMID: 21904910 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm is not a simple carrier of paternal genetic information but its role extends clearly beyond fertilization. Integrity of sperm genome is an essential pre-requisite for birth of healthy offspring and evaluation of sperm should entail DNA integrity analysis. DNA integrity analysis is a better diagnostic and prognostic marker of sperm reproductive potential. Conventional semen analysis emphasizes on sperm concentration, viability, motility and morphology and has been proven to be a poor indicator of reproductive potential and pregnancy outcome. To overcome the drawbacks associated with conventional semen analysis more useful fertility tests and molecular biomarkers have been explored. Among the different tests which have evolved for assessing the sperm reproductive potential, tests for sperm DNA quality are most promising. Sperm DNA damage has been closely associated with numerous indicators of reproductive health including fertilization, embryo quality, implantation, spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations and childhood diseases. It therefore has great potential as a prognostic test for both in vitro and in vivo conception. This review presents an updated account of tests that have better diagnostic and prognostic implications in the evaluation of sperm DNA damage. The basic principles, outline of methodology, advantage, disadvantage, clinical significance of each technique and implications of these tests have been discussed. The logistics of each test with respect to available resources and equipment in an andrology laboratory, the feasibility of performing these tests in routine diagnostic workup of infertile men and the opportunities and challenges provided by DNA testing in male fertility determination are also presented.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the role of varicocele repair in the treatment of male infertility. RECENT FINDINGS Since the advent of technologies bypassing boundaries of natural selection, this question may seem outdated. Over the past 20 years, fertility has decreased, and testicular damage (cryptorchidism, tumors) has increased. Thus the exploration of the infertile male is still unavoidable. However, what should be done and assigned to the discovery of a varicocele?The issue raised is whether varicocele found during the review of the infertile couple should be treated or 'ignored'.This study will update significant findings with regards to the pathophysiology of varicocele-induced infertility, such as oxidative stress and role of varicocele in bilaterality of testicular damage. Benefits of varicocele repair in semen analysis and simplifications of assisted reproductive techniques are reported. But reviews of randomized clinical trials have raised doubts about the benefit of varicocele treatment in infertile men. SUMMARY We conclude that varicocele repair may be effective in men with subnormal semen analysis, a clinical varicocele and otherwise unexplained infertility. Deleterious cofactors, like obesity or smoking, could also be reduced for the benefit of general health and fertility.
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2011. [DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e32834731fb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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