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Mukherjee AG, Gopalakrishnan AV. Anti-sperm Antibodies as an Increasing Threat to Male Fertility: Immunological Insights, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Strategies. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01610-y. [PMID: 38831152 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
It is a fact that sperm possess antigenic properties. Substantial scientific research suggests that specific antibodies that attach to sperm antigens can induce infertility in both humans and other species. Antisperm antibodies (ASA) represent a significant etiology of infertility in humans, leading to immunoinfertility. The association between ASA and infertility is multifaceted. The observation of sperm agglutination, although not conclusive for the diagnosis of immunological infertility, may suggest the presence of ASA. Nevertheless, ASA may also manifest in the lack of any sperm agglutination. Managing ASA from an andrological perspective depends on the underlying cause and the specific approaches healthcare professionals adopt. The precise etiology of male infertility resulting from ASA remains unclear. Current research has examined the impact of ASA and its prevalence among infertile males to understand the relationship between ASA and changes in semen parameters. However, the findings have been inconclusive. Numerous techniques have been documented for the management of immunoinfertility. This review examines the importance of ASA in the context of infertility, encompassing the postulated mechanisms underlying the development of ASA, the various assays employed for detecting them, and the available treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Goutam Mukherjee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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2
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Gupta VK, Mohanty TK, Bhakat M, Dewry RK, Katiyar R, Nain D, Shah N, Sethi M, Rautela R, Singh M, Deori S. Bovine reproductive immunoinfertility: pathogenesis and immunotherapy. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1248604. [PMID: 37869494 PMCID: PMC10585041 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1248604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the primary factors for cattle reproduction in the present scenario. Reproduction-related immunoinfertility mainly involves immunization against the antigens related to reproductive hormones (LHRH, GnRH, Gonadal steroids, PGF2α and oxytocin), spermatozoa, seminal plasma and ovum. Anovulation, delayed ovulation, sperm immobilization, failure of fertilization, prolonged uterine involution, extended calving interval, prolonged post-partum estrus and reduced conception rate could be a result of immunoinfertility that occur due to the blockage of receptor site by antibodies formed against hormones, sperm and ovum. Immunoinfertility can be treated in the animal by giving sexual rest to females, by using various reproductive technologies such as in-vitro fertilization, gamete intra fallopian tube transfer, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, sperm washing and by treating the animals with immunomodulators such as LPS, Oyster glycogen, etc. This review summarizes the different causes of bovine reproductive immunoinfertility and amelioration strategies to overcome it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinod Kumar Gupta
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tushar Kumar Mohanty
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Mukesh Bhakat
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Raju Kumar Dewry
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rahul Katiyar
- Division of Animal and Fisheries Sciences, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, India
| | - Dipti Nain
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Nadeem Shah
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Manisha Sethi
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre (ABRC), ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rupali Rautela
- CAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
| | - Mahak Singh
- CAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Nagaland Centre, Medziphema, India
| | - Sourabh Deori
- Division of Animal and Fisheries Sciences, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, India
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Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Vieira CP, Gonçalves MFF, Brener MRG, Diniz AB, Antunes MM, Castro-Oliveira HM, Menezes GB, Costa GMJ. Activation of C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 modulates testicular macrophages number, steroidogenesis, and spermatogenesis progression. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 386:173-190. [PMID: 34296344 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03504-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) belongs to the CC chemokine family and acts in the recruitment of C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2)-positive immune cell types to inflammation sites. In testis, the MCP-1/CCR2 axis has been associated with the macrophage population's functional regulation, which presents significant functions supporting germ cell development. In this context, herein, we aimed to investigate the role of the chemokine receptor CCR2 in mice testicular environment and its impact on male sperm production. Using adult transgenic mice strain that had the CCR2 gene replaced by a red fluorescent protein gene, we showed a stage-dependent expression of CCR2 in type B spermatogonia and early primary spermatocytes. Several parameters related to sperm production were reduced in the absence of CCR2 protein, such as Sertoli cell efficiency, meiotic index, and overall yield of spermatogenesis. Daily sperm production decreased by almost 40%, and several damages in the seminiferous tubules were observed. Significant reduction in the expression of important genes related to the Sertoli cell function (Cnx43, Vim, Ocln, Spna2) and meiosis initiation (Stra8, Pcna, Prdm9, Msh5) occurred in comparison to controls. Also, the number of macrophages significantly decreased in the absence of CCR2 protein, along with a disturbance in Leydig cell steroidogenic activity. In summary, our results show that the non-activation of the MCP-1/CCR2 axis disturbs the testicular homeostasis, interfering in macrophage population, meiosis initiation, blood-testis barrier function, and androgen synthesis, leading to the malfunction of seminiferous tubules, decreased testosterone levels, defective sperm production, and lower fertility index.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F A Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - N T Wnuk
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - C P Vieira
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M F F Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M R G Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - A B Diniz
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M M Antunes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - H M Castro-Oliveira
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G B Menezes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G M J Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Al-Daghistani HI. Staphylococcusaureus protein A as a means of assessing sperm penetrability in cervical mucus in vitro. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2020; 47:186-193. [PMID: 32861238 PMCID: PMC7482942 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.03279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effectiveness of Staphylococcus protein A (SPA) in improving the penetration ability of sperm and reducing antisperm antibody (ASA) titers in immunologically infertile males was evaluated. METHODS Seminal fluid samples were obtained from 15 infertile men, and ASA titers were assessed with the latex agglutination test. Identification of immunoglobulin (Ig) classes and characterization of the antigens involved in the immune response were performed using indirect immunofluorescence. Local ASAs typically present as a mixture of IgG and IgA classes. The capillary tube penetration method was used to assess the capability of spermatozoa to penetrate the cervical mucus (CM). RESULTS ASAs associated with the neck region of sperm showed a significantly lower migration distance in the CM of infertile females than ASAs associated with the head or tail segments. ASA-positive seminal fluid exhibited significant increases in the mean migration distance (2.6 ± 1.4 cm vs. 1.54 ± 1.1 cm, respectively; p< 0.001) and sperm concentration (174 ± 121.0 × 10³/mL vs. 101 ± 93.7 × 10³/mL, respectively; p= 0.033) after treatment with SPA compared to pre-treated samples. A significant reduction (p< 0.01) in the recorded ASA titer was detected. CONCLUSION These results indicate that SPA can be used as a sorting regimen for insemination programs. However, further studies are warranted to assess its influence on pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala I. Al-Daghistani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Sciences, Al-Balqa Applied University, Al-Salt, Jordan
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Pierucci-Alves F, Midura-Kiela MT, Fleming SD, Schultz BD, Kiela PR. Transforming Growth Factor Beta Signaling in Dendritic Cells Is Required for Immunotolerance to Sperm in the Epididymis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1882. [PMID: 30166986 PMCID: PMC6105693 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis exhibits a less restrictive physical blood–tissue barrier than the testis and, while numerous immunosuppressive factors have been identified in the latter, no mechanisms for epididymal immunotolerance have been identified to date. Therefore, data are currently insufficient to explain how the immune system tolerates the extremely large load of novel antigens expressed on sperm, which become present in the male body after puberty, i.e., long after central tolerance was established. This study tested the hypothesis that transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling in dendritic cells (DCs) is required for immunotolerance to sperm located in the epididymis, and that male mice lacking TGFβ signaling in DCs would develop severe epididymal inflammation. To test this, we employed adult Tgfbr2ΔDC males, which exhibit a significant reduction of Tgfbr2 expression and TGFβ signaling in DCs, as reported previously. Results show that Tgfbr2ΔDC males exhibit sperm-specific immune response and severe epididymal leukocytosis. This phenotype is consistent with epididymal loss of immunotolerance to sperm and suggests that TGFβ signaling in DCs is a factor required for a non-inflammatory steady state in the epididymis, and therefore for male tract homeostasis and function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sherry D Fleming
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Bruce D Schultz
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Pawel R Kiela
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States.,Department of Immunobiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Kawase O, Jimbo M. Detection of sperm-reactive antibodies in wild sika deer and identification of the sperm antigens. J Vet Med Sci 2018; 80:802-809. [PMID: 29553063 PMCID: PMC5989026 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.17-0660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisperm antibodies potentially inhibit sperm functions causing the sterility in humans and experimentally treated animals. However, there is no information about antisperm antibodies
emerging spontaneously in wildlife. In this study, we searched for the sperm-reactive antibodies, spontaneously produced in wild sika deer (Cervus nippon), and identified
the sperm antigens. We collected 529 fecal masses of sika deer in Japanese cities, from which we extracted the mucosal antibodies to test them for reactivities to deer sperm proteins by
ELISA. Two of the extracts contained IgAs that were highly reactive to the sperm proteins. The molecular weights of the active IgAs, partially purified by DEAE-sephadex A-50, were estimated
at more than 100 kDa, suggesting that the IgAs evaded drastic digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. Two-dimensional electrophoresis and immunoblotting detected three major antigens, and
the following LC-MS/MS analysis identified them as alpha-enolase, phosphoglycerate kinase 2 and acrosin-binding protein. The antibodies were cross-reactive to a recombinant human
acrosin-binding protein. To our knowledge, this is the first research to find that the sperm-reactive antibodies are produced spontaneously in wildlife and they recognize a common antigen
found in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Kawase
- Department of Biology, Premedical Sciences, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu-machi, Shimotsuga-gun, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Jimbo
- Department of Marine Biosciences, School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, Kitasato, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0373, Japan
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Abstract
The genetic bases and molecular mechanisms involved in the assembly and function of the flagellum components as well as in the regulation of the flagellar movement are not fully understood, especially in humans. There are several causes for sperm immotility, of which some can be avoided and corrected, whereas other are related to genetic defects and deserve full investigation to give a diagnosis to patients. This review was performed after an extensive literature search on the online databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Here, we review the involvement of regulatory pathways responsible for sperm motility, indicating possible causes for sperm immotility. These included the calcium pathway, the cAMP-dependent protein kinase pathway, the importance of kinases and phosphatases, the function of reactive oxygen species, and how the regulation of cell volume and osmolarity are also fundamental components. We then discuss main gene defects associated with specific morphological abnormalities. Finally, we slightly discuss some preventive and treatments approaches to avoid development of conditions that are associated with unspecified sperm immotility. We believe that in the near future, with the development of more powerful techniques, the genetic causes of sperm immotility and the regulatory mechanisms of sperm motility will be better understand, thus enabling to perform a full diagnosis and uncover new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rute Pereira
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
| | - Rosália Sá
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Alberto Barros, Av. do Bessa, 240, 1° Dto. Frente, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal.,Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto. Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal and Institute of Health Research an Innovation (I3S), University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
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Conservative Nonhormonal Options for the Treatment of Male Infertility: Antibiotics, Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, and Antioxidants. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:4650182. [PMID: 28164122 PMCID: PMC5253172 DOI: 10.1155/2017/4650182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 12/04/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The nonhormonal medical treatment can be divided into empirical, when the cause has not been identified, and nonempirical, if the pathogenic mechanism causing male infertility can be solved or ameliorated. The empirical nonhormonal medical treatment has been proposed for patients with idiopathic or noncurable oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and for normozoospermic infertile patients. Anti-inflammatory, fibrinolytic, and antioxidant compounds, oligo elements, and vitamin supplementation may be prescribed. Infection, inflammation, and/or increased oxidative stress often require a specific treatment with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and/or antioxidants. Combined therapies can contribute to improve sperm quality.
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Ma F, Deng L, Secrest P, Shi L, Zhao J, Gagneux P. A Mouse Model for Dietary Xenosialitis: ANTIBODIES TO XENOGLYCAN CAN REDUCE FERTILITY. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:18222-31. [PMID: 27382056 PMCID: PMC5000070 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.739169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans can incorporate the xenoglycan N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc) from the diet into reproductive tissues and secretions. Most humans also have circulating antibodies specific for this dietary xenoglycan. The potential for inflammation induced by incorporated Neu5Gc and circulating anti-Neu5Gc antibodies, termed xenosialitis, has been discussed as a factor influencing several human diseases. Potential effects of xenosialitis on human fertility remain unknown. Here, we investigate possible adverse effects of the presence of Neu5Gc on sperm or endometrium combined with anti-Neu5Gc antibodies in semen or uterine secretions in a mouse model. We use Cmah(-/-) mice, humanized for Neu5Gc deficiency. We find that the viability, migration, and capacitation of sperm with incorporated Neu5Gc are negatively affected when these are exposed to anti-Neu5Gc antibodies. In addition, we find that after copulation, activated uterine neutrophils and macrophages show increased phagocytosis of sperm in the presence of anti-Neu5Gc antibodies via the complement receptor 3 (C3R) and Fcγ I/II/III (Fc receptor). Furthermore, Neu5Gc in endometrial cells combined with the presence of anti-Neu5Gc antibodies alters the receptivity and decidualization of endometrial explants. These studies provide mechanistic insights on how Neu5Gc on sperm and/or endometrium combined with anti-Neu5Gc antibodies in semen and uterine fluid might contribute to unexplained human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Ma
- From the Sichuan University - The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China and
| | - Liwen Deng
- the Glycobiology Research and Training Center and Department of Pathology
| | - Patrick Secrest
- the Glycobiology Research and Training Center and Department of Pathology
| | | | - June Zhao
- Transgenic Mouse Core, University of California - San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Pascal Gagneux
- the Glycobiology Research and Training Center and Department of Pathology,
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Chen X, Liu X, Ren X, Li X, Wang L, Zang W. Discovery of human posterior head 20 (hPH20) and homo sapiens sperm acrosome associated 1 (hSPACA1) immunocontraceptive epitopes and their effects on fertility in male and female mice. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 28:416-27. [DOI: 10.1071/rd14134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The key goals of immunocontraception research are to obtain full contraceptive effects using vaccines administered to both males and females. Current research concerning human anti-sperm contraceptive vaccines is focused on delineating infertility-related epitopes to avoid autoimmune disease. We constructed phage-display peptide libraries to select epitope peptides derived from human posterior head 20 (hPH20) and homo sapiens sperm acrosome associated 1 (hSPACA1) using sera collected from infertile women harbouring anti-sperm antibodies. Following five rounds of selection, positive colonies were reconfirmed for reactivity with the immunoinfertile sera. We biopanned and analysed the chemical properties of four epitope peptides, named P82, Sa6, Sa37 and Sa76. Synthetic peptides were made and coupled to either bovine serum albumin (BSA) or ovalbumin. We used the BSA-conjugated peptides to immunise BALB/c mice and examined the effects on fertility in female and male mice. The synthetic peptides generated a sperm-specific antibody response in female and male mice that caused a contraceptive state. The immunocontraceptive effect was reversible and, with the disappearance of peptide-specific antibodies, there was complete restoration of fertility. Vaccinations using P82, Sa6 and Sa76 peptides resulted in no apparent side effects. Thus, it is efficient and practical to identify epitope peptide candidates by phage display. These peptides may find clinical application in the specific diagnosis and treatment of male and female infertility and contraceptive vaccine development.
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Heng BC, Huang W, Zhong X, Yin P, Tong GQ. Roles of Antiphospholipid Antibodies, Antithyroid Antibodies and Antisperm Antibodies in Female Reproductive Health. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1159/000381900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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12
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Xu Y, Liu M, Gu YH, Jia XF, Chen YM, Santos M, Wu AZ, Zhang XD, Shi HJ, Chen CLC. cDNA cloning and localization of Sp3111 (also called Ms4a14) in the rat testis. Reproduction 2014; 148:81-6. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
With tetraspanning topology, members of the membrane-spanning four-domain subfamily A (MS4A) may facilitate signaling or ion channel functions in many tissues. In this study, we report the cloning of a full-length cDNA from rat testis, designatedMs4a14(Sp3111), which encodes the MS4A protein with 1139 amino acid residues.In situhybridization and immunohistochemical analyses indicate thatMs4a14is predominantly expressed from round spermatids to spermatozoa at specific stages in the rat testis at both the mRNA and protein level. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that MS4A14 (SP3111) is located in the acrosome and the midpiece of the flagellum in mature sperm. Previously, we explored and reported the involvement of MS4A14 in reproductive functions, using antibody blockage during IVF and a transgenic RNA interference method in a mouse model. Our results suggested that MS4A14 is involved in fertilization and zygote division. As MS4A14 protein exists in mammals, such as humans, cows, dogs, and rodents, MS4A14 may play a ubiquitous role in mammalian reproduction.
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Schanz S. [Autoimmune dermatoses: impact on sexuality and fertility]. MMW Fortschr Med 2013; 155:42-46. [PMID: 23901578 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-013-0949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
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14
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Naz RK, Butler TS. Antibodies to prostate-specific antigen in immunoinfertile women and men. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 97:217-22. [PMID: 23415846 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2012.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunoinfertility is caused by antisperm antibodies (ASA) present in the female or male partner of an infertile couple. PSA is a serine protease produced primarily by the prostate gland and is present in human semen. Although the modulation of PSA has been investigated in prostate abnormalities, its role and effect of its dysfunction on human fertility has not been examined. The present study was conducted to examine the presence and incidence of antibodies to PSA in sera of immunoinfertile women and men. The presence of iso- and autoantibodies in the sera of immunoinfertile patients was examined using the well-characterized purified human PSA and seminal plasma from normal fertile men in ELISA. Sera were collected from infertile women (n=25) and infertile men (n=19) who were positive for ASA. Sera from ASA-negative fertile women (n=24) and fertile men (n=19) served as controls. In women, sera from 40% of the immunoinfertile women showed positive reactivity with PSA, and 20% reacted positively with seminal plasma. None of the sera from fertile women reacted positively with PSA or seminal plasma. In men, sera from 16% of the immunoinfertile men showed positive reactivity with PSA, and none (0%) with seminal plasma. None of the sera from fertile men reacted positively with PSA or seminal plasma. This is the first study to examine the presence and incidence of PSA antibodies in immunoinfertile women and men. The findings may have clinical application in the specific diagnosis and treatment of immunoinfertility in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh K Naz
- Reproductive Immunology and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West Virginia University, School of Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA.
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15
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Clark S, Naz RK. Presence and Incidence of Izumo Antibodies in Sera of Immunoinfertile Women and Men. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 69:256-63. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.12060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Clark
- Reproductive Immunology and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; West Virginia University, School of Medicine; Morgantown; WV; USA
| | - Rajesh K. Naz
- Reproductive Immunology and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; West Virginia University, School of Medicine; Morgantown; WV; USA
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16
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Carp HJ, Selmi C, Shoenfeld Y. The autoimmune bases of infertility and pregnancy loss. J Autoimmun 2012; 38:J266-74. [PMID: 22284905 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2011.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2011] [Revised: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 11/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Silva CA, Cocuzza M, Borba EF, Bonfá E. Cutting-Edge Issues in Autoimmune Orchitis. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2011; 42:256-63. [DOI: 10.1007/s12016-011-8281-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
Immunoinfertility is one of several causes of infertility in humans. Although progress on antisperm immunity and infertility has advanced during the past three decades, the nature of a real antisperm antibody (ASA) is still poorly understood. Dozens of sperm antigens have been isolated and characterized in association with infertility. However, it is difficult to identify a single predominant target antigen that could interact with all the ASAs. There are some protective mechanisms preventing ASA production in males and females. As chronic infection, vasectomy and vasovasostomy, heavy metals, and testicular cancer and torsion may induce the production of ASAs, they may be responsible for decreased motility and sperm penetration of cervical mucus, and the blockage of the acrosome reaction and the sperm-egg interaction. Many ASA assay methods have been developed, each with advantages and disadvantages. Efforts for the treatment of ASA-mediated infertility have been attempted. However, current therapy for ASA-associated infertility is almost empiric and largely unproven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Chun Lu
- Department of Laboratory Science, Nanjing Hospital, Jiangsu Corps, The Armed Police Force, PLA, 256 Heyan Road, Nanjing 210028, China.
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Sato A, Naganuma M, Asakura K, Nishiwaki Y, Yajima T, Hisamatsu T, Iwao Y, Takebayashi T, Watanabe M, Hibi T. Conception outcomes and opinions about pregnancy for men with inflammatory bowel disease. J Crohns Colitis 2010; 4:183-8. [PMID: 21122503 DOI: 10.1016/j.crohns.2009.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2009] [Revised: 10/08/2009] [Accepted: 10/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who want to have children are anxious to receive medical treatment. The consensus regarding pregnancy has not been surveyed for male IBD patients. The present study was investigated opinions among male IBD patients about pregnancy, conception and neonatal outcomes for partners. METHODS Subjects comprised 364 of 386 patients enrolled (94.3%). Subjects received a questionnaire regarding their opinions and thoughts about pregnancy. The course of partner's conceptions and presence of neonatal malformations was also surveyed. RESULTS The rate of live births for partners of male IBD patients was 91.6% (219/239). Most patients with CD (29/33; 88%) had their children after surgery had been performed. The rate of expressing hopes to have a child tended to be higher for patients with UC (93/128; 73%) than for patients with CD (61/97; 63%; p=0.21). Furthermore, the rate of hesitation was significantly higher in CD patients (34/107; 32%) than in UC patients (38/188; 20%; p=0.03).Patients considered that safety of medication (51%) and maintenance of remission (41%) was more important than receiving no treatment for IBD (19%) when planning to conceive. Mesalamine and infliximab were more favorable at conception than sulfasalazine and immunomodulators. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report to survey the thinking of male IBD patients regarding pregnancy. Most male IBD patients considered "maintaining remission" as important at conception. Our study provides important information for IBD patients and for the treating physician when planning to conceive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asaka Sato
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Japan
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Ellerman DA, Cohen DJ, Weigel Muñoz M, Da Ros VG, Ernesto JI, Tollner TL, Cuasnicu PS. Immunologic behavior of human cysteine-rich secretory protein 1 (hCRISP1) in primates: prospects for immunocontraception. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:2551-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.01.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2009] [Revised: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 01/27/2010] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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21
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Oliva R, Martínez-Heredia J, Estanyol JM. Proteomics in the Study of the Sperm Cell Composition, Differentiation and Function. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2009; 54:23-36. [DOI: 10.1080/19396360701879595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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22
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Does glucocorticoid therapy in the peri-implantation period have an impact on IVF outcomes? Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2008; 20:249-56. [DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e3282f8aff5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Williams J, Samuel A, Naz RK. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Presence of Antisperm Antibodies Reactive with Peptide Epitopes of FA-1 and YLP12 in Sera of Immunoinfertile Women. Am J Reprod Immunol 2008; 59:518-24. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2008.00581.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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IL-13 induces the expression of the alternative activation marker Ym1 in a subset of testicular macrophages. J Reprod Immunol 2008; 78:140-8. [PMID: 18329106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2008.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2007] [Revised: 10/20/2007] [Accepted: 01/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are thought to play an important role in the maintenance of immune privilege in the testis, which functions to prevent immune responses to developing sperm. Two populations of macrophages are known to exist in the testis, one of which exhibits immunosuppressive activity. Macrophages that are alternatively activated with either IL-4 or IL-13 have been shown to be anti-inflammatory and promote wound healing. Expression of the Ym1 protein is an established marker of alternatively activated macrophages. Testicular macrophages were examined for expression of Ym1 protein, and it was found to be highly expressed in a subpopulation of CD11b(+) cells. Furthermore, we have shown that Ym1 protein expression in the testis is dependent upon IL-13R signaling, and that IL-13 is produced in the testis. These data suggest that IL-13 plays a role in testicular immune privilege by the maintenance of an alternatively activated macrophage population.
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Wang DG, Huang TH, Xie QD, An G. Investigation of recombinant mouse sperm protein izumo as a potential immunocontraceptive antigen. Am J Reprod Immunol 2008; 59:225-34. [PMID: 18275515 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2007.00571.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM To determine if the recombinant mouse Izumo (mIzumo) could be used as a potential immunocontraceptive antigen. METHOD OF STUDY The recombinant mIzumo fused with 6His tag (6His-mIzumo) was purified by immobilized Ni2+ affinity chromatography. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot were used to detect anti-6His-mIzumo activities of serum from the mice immunized with 6His-mIzumo. Inhibition of the anti-6His-mIzumo antibody on mouse sperm-egg fusion in vitro was performed using the zona free oocytes and acrosome reacted sperm. Fertility of the 6His-mIzumo immunized male and female mice was compared with control mice. RESULTS The recombinant mIzumo was successfully produced. Female and male mice inoculated with 6His-mIzumo developed a specific serum antibody and the highest antibody titer lasted at least 6 weeks. The serum anti-6His-mIzumo antibody almost completely blocked mouse sperm-egg fusion in vitro. However, there was no significant reduction in fertility for both male and female mice immunized with 6His-mIzumo compared with control mice. CONCLUSION The circulated anti-mIzumo antibody can block mouse sperm-egg fusion in vitro but has no effect on fertility in vivo. It seems that application of Izumo as a candidate antigen in development of contraceptive vaccine needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- De-Gang Wang
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
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Grunewald S, Paasch U, Glander HJ. Systemic dermatological treatment with relevance for male fertility. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2007; 5:15-21. [PMID: 17229200 DOI: 10.1111/j.1610-0387.2007.06169.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The dermatologist employs systemic agents with likely gametotoxic side effects, including cytotoxic, immunosuppressive, immunomodulatory and biological agents. The impact of chemotherapy on male fertility depends on the treatment protocol as well as the pre-treatment spermatogenesis status. Sperm concentration starts to drop about 2 weeks after beginning chemotherapy and reaches a maximum after 2-3 months. About half show recovery after 12-36 months. One year after therapy is completed, a treated patient has no increased risk of fathering a malformed child. There are no reports of methotrexate patients fathering children with malformations, most likely because impaired fertility or embryogenesis arrest. Cryopreservation of male gametes should be recommended prior to cytotoxic treatment, since the likelihood of post-treatment fertility is unpredictable. The cryopreservation causes a loss of vital spermatozoa by 30-70% but does not influence the genetic information of gametes. Males treated with retinoids have no reproductive safety risk. Biologicals inhibiting TNF alpha show a positive effect on sperm function in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Grunewald
- Division of Andrology, Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Clinic, Leipzig, Germany
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Wakle M, Khole V. A sperm cytoskeletal protein TSA70 is a novel phosphorylated member of cenexin/odf2 family. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 354:528-34. [PMID: 17240355 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2006] [Accepted: 01/04/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Using post-vasectomy monoclonal antibody we recently identified a testis specific sperm auto-antigen called TSA70 which is post-meiotically expressed and plays a role in sperm motility and capacitation-acrosome reaction. In the present study, we report its cytoskeletal nature based on its resistance to various high ionic salt solutions. TSA70 is developmentally regulated and appears postpubertally. The two protein spots identified by 2D WB namely TSA1-pI=5.821, MW=77.050 and TSA3-pI=6.173, MW=75.519 showed sequence homology to Cenexin/odf2 indicating that two are isoforms of the same protein. The immunoreactivity of TSA70 with anti-Cenexin antibody substantiates its homology with Cenexin/odf2. In silico analysis revealed the presence of two leucine zippers in TSA70 and also predicted potential phosphorylation sites at serine, threonine, and tyrosine residues. The phosphorylated status of TSA70 was further confirmed by immunoblot analysis. The differential cellular expression suggests that TSA70 is a novel member of Cenexin/odf2 family that exhibits functional divergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monali Wakle
- Gamete Immunobiology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai, India
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Abstract
The production, differentiation, and presence of male gametes represent inimitable challenges to the immune system, as they are unique to the body and appear long after the maturation of the immune system and formation of systemic self-tolerance. Known to protect germ cells and foreign tissue grafts from autoimmune attack, the 'immune privilege' of the testis was originally, and somewhat simplistically, attributed to the existence of the blood-testis barrier. Recent research has shown a previously unknown level of complexity with a multitude of factors, both physical and immunological, necessary for the establishment and maintenance of the immunotolerance in the testis. Besides the blood-testis barrier and a diminished capability of the large testicular resident macrophage population to mount an inflammatory response, it is the constitutive expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the testis by immune and particularly somatic cells, that represents an essential element for local immunosuppression. The role of androgens in testicular immune regulation has long been underestimated; yet, accumulating evidence now shows that they orchestrate the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine expression and shift cytokine balance toward a tolerogenic environment. Furthermore, the role of the testicular dendritic cells in suppressing antigen-specific immunity and T-lymphocyte activation is discussed. Finally, the active role mast cells play in the induction and amplification of immune responses, both in infertile humans and in experimental models, highlights the importance of preventing mast cell activation to maintain the immune-privileged status of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Bhande S, Naz RK. Molecular identities of human sperm proteins reactive with antibodies in sera of immunoinfertile women. Mol Reprod Dev 2006; 74:332-40. [PMID: 16998854 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Antisperm antibodies (ASA) can cause infertility in both men and women. It is important to delineate the sperm antigens against which these ASA are directed. Sperm proteins were separated by 2D gel electrophoresis and transferred to nitrocellulose membrane and incubated with sera from fertile women or immunoinfertile women having ASA. The corresponding immunoreactive peptide spots were cored from the gel and analyzed by the two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis/matrix-assisted laser desoprtion ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS/LC-MS). A total of 68 spots belonging to 38 different proteins and their isomers were identified. Fourteen of these proteins and their isomers reacted with both the fertile and immunoinfertile sera. Twenty-four of these proteins reacted specifically only with the immunoinfertile sera and not with the fertile sera. Among them was a novel protein designated as a hypothetical protein FLJ32704 (accession # Q96MA6). An immunodominant sequence (amino acid 151-159) of this protein was identified and a nonamer peptide based upon this sequence (IQTLG1TPR) was synthesized and examined for its immunoreactivity. This synthetic peptide reacted with 90% (36/40) of immunoinfertile sera and not with any of the fertile sera (0/40) in the enzyme-linked immnosorbent assay (ELISA). In conclusion, using the 2D gel electrophoresis/MALDI-TOF-MS/LC-MS procedure, we have identified several known and at least one novel antigen against which the antibodies are present in sera of immunoinfertile but not fertile women. Some of these antigens may find applications in specific diagonsis and treatment of infertility/immunoinfertility, and in the development of new generation of contraceptive modalities including contraceptive vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Bhande
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Immunology and Molecular Biology Laboratories, School of Medicine, The West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia 26505-9186, USA
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30
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Abstract
Antisperm antibodies (ASA) are present in a high percentage of infertile patients. The development of ASA in the male depends on the sequestration of antigens on germ cells, the testis being an immune privileged region. In this study, we investigated the specificity of ASA binding to sperm antigens by exposing a number of organ preparations to ASA. In none of the organ homogenates was a significant difference between the results of the Western blot with ASA-containing fluids, neither serum nor seminal plasma, and those without ASA observed. We conclude from our results that the ASA tested in our study obviously are sperm-specific. ASA as an autoimmune are thus restricted to spermatozoa. The antigens are suitable for trials in immune therapy, they may also serve for the development of antigen-specific diagnosis and treatment in infertility. They also indicate cognate antigens of possible immune contraceptive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Dörr
- Department of Andrology and Venerology, University Hospital, Philipp University, Deutschhausstrasse 9, D-35033 Marburg, Germany
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31
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2005. [DOI: 10.1097/01.gco.0000169110.00376.bd] [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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Naz RK. Search for peptide sequences involved in human antisperm antibody-mediated male immunoinfertility by using phage display technology. Mol Reprod Dev 2005; 72:25-30. [PMID: 15895468 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to delineate peptide sequences against which antisperm antibodies (ASA) are raised in immunoinfertile men. Using the phage display technology, seven unique and novel dodecamer amino acid sequences were identified that reacted with the sera of immunoinfertile men. The peptides were synthesized based upon these amino acid sequences and examined for their immunoreactivity with sera from ASA-positive immunofertile men (n = 15) and ASA-negative fertile men (n = 18) for IgM, IgG, and IgA class of antibody in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). All the seven synthetic peptides showed a significantly (P < 0.001) higher mean absorbance values for IgG and/or IgA class of antibody with the immunoinfertile sera compared to fertile control sera. Three of the seven peptides demonstrated a stronger reaction (>2 SD units) with 27%-40% of immunoinfertile sera compared to fertile controls. These peptide sequences may find applications in the specific diagnosis and treatment of immunoinfertility and in contraceptive vaccine development. The phage display technique provides an exciting and novel technology to delineate sperm epitopes involved in immunoinfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh K Naz
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Education Building, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo, Ohio, USA.
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Abstract
Male subfertility is a common problem with a complex etiology, requiring a complete andrological work-up for proper diagnosis. The male reproductive tract is controlled by a well-balanced hormonal system, in which hypothalamic (GnRH), pituitary (LH, FSH) and testicular hormones (androgens, inhibin B) participate. Any disturbance of this hormonal system may therefore lead to testicular dysfunction and interfere with the spermatogenesis process. In addition, also other components along the ductal system, such as epididymis, prostate and seminal vesicles, that improve sperm fertility by contributing their secretions to the semen, might function inadequately and thus fail to enhance the fertilizing capacity of the sperm cells. External factors (heat, chemicals, life style) and anatomical abnormalities (varicocele) were shown to have a negative influence on male fertility. In a number of patients genetic defects can be identified as the cause of their infertility. Laboratory tests are available to assess hormone concentrations, semen composition, accessory gland function and sperm cell function. Conventional semen analysis includes the determination of sperm concentration, semen volume, sperm motility (qualitative and quantitative), sperm morphology, sperm cell vitality, pH, leucocytes and antibodies. The usefulness of the determination of these parameters as predictor of fertility appears to be rather limited, however. Therefore, alternative tests, some based on more functional aspects (sperm penetration, capacitation, acrosome reaction), have been developed. Furthermore, there is an increasing attention for the assessment of DNA integrity, for instance by the flowcytometer-based Sperm Chromation Structure Assay (SCSA), as an additional or alternative parameter of sperm quality. It is likely and desirable that further assays with better predictive value are being developed in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F A Weber
- Department of Andrology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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