1
|
Zhang Z, Zhang X, Zhang T, Li J, Renqing C, Baijiu Z, Baima S, Zhaxi W, Nima Y, Zhao W, Song T. Differential gene expression and gut microbiota composition in low-altitude and high-altitude goats. Genomics 2024; 116:110890. [PMID: 38909906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have presented evidence suggesting that altitude exerts detrimental effects on reproductive processes, yet the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Our study employed two distinct goat breeds inhabiting low and high altitudes, and conducted a comparative analysis of mRNA profiles in testis tissues and the composition of gut microbiota. The results revealed a reduced testis size in high-altitude goats. RNA-seq analysis identified the presence of 214 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the testis. These DEGs resulted in a weakened immunosuppressive effect, ultimately impairing spermatogenesis in high-altitude goats. Additionally, 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing recognized statistically significant variations in the abundance of the genera Treponema, unidentified_Oscillospiraceae, Desulfovibrio, Butyricicoccus, Dorea, Parabacteroides between the two groups. The collective evidence demonstrated the gut and testis played a synergistic role in causing decreased fertility at high altitudes. Our research provides a theoretical basis for future investigations into the reproductive fitness of male goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenzhen Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Key Discipline Laboratory of National Defense for Nuclear Waste and Environmental Security, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China
| | - Cuomu Renqing
- Institute of Animal Science, Xizang Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, Xizang 850009, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Xizang Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, Xizang 850009, China
| | - Zhaxi Baijiu
- Cultural Service Center of Maqian Township, Baingoin County, Nagqu, Xizang 852599, China
| | - Sangzhu Baima
- The Service Station of Agricultural and Animal, Husbandry Technical of Baingoin County, Nagqu, Xizang 852599, China
| | - Wangjie Zhaxi
- The Service Station of Agricultural and Animal, Husbandry Technical of Baingoin County, Nagqu, Xizang 852599, China
| | - Yuzhen Nima
- The Service Station of Agricultural and Animal, Husbandry Technical of Baingoin County, Nagqu, Xizang 852599, China
| | - Wangsheng Zhao
- College of Life Sciences and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, China.
| | - Tianzeng Song
- Institute of Animal Science, Xizang Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, Xizang 850009, China; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Xizang Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Lhasa, Xizang 850009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tao Y, Leng SX, Zhang H. Ketogenic Diet: An Effective Treatment Approach for Neurodegenerative Diseases. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:2303-2319. [PMID: 36043794 PMCID: PMC9890290 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220830102628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This review discusses the effects and mechanisms of a ketogenic diet on neurodegenerative diseases on the basis of available evidence. A ketogenic diet refers to a high-fat, mediumprotein, and low-carbohydrate diet that leads to a metabolic shift to ketosis. This review systematically summarizes the scientific literature supporting this effective treatment approach for neurodegenerative diseases, including effects on mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis, neuroinflammation, and the microbiota-gut-brain axis. It also highlights the clinical evidence for the effects of the ketogenic diet in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron disease. Finally, it discusses the common adverse effects of ketogenic therapy. Although the complete mechanism of the ketogenic diet in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases remains to be elucidated, its clinical efficacy has attracted many new followers. The ketogenic diet is a good candidate for adjuvant therapy, but its specific applicability depends on the type and the degree of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Tao
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Sean X Leng
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5501 Hopkins Bayview Circle - Room 1A.38A, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110001, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Nwonuma CO, Osemwegie OO, Irokanulo EO, Alejolowo OO, Kayode OT, Olaolu TD, Ada AS, Rotimi DE, Maimako RF, Adedayo AS, Ojo OA. Comparative effects of combined use of alcohol with cannabis and tobacco on testicular function in rats. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2021; 10:761-770. [PMID: 34484667 PMCID: PMC8403816 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfab060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcoholism has been linked to problems with male reproductive function. The combined effects of alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco were compared in this study. A total of 35 rats were assigned randomly into seven groups A-G: animals in A were administered distilled water. Animals in B-G were either administered alcohol orally (30 ml 40% alcohol) or exposed to smoke from ignited tobacco (exposure to smoke from 0.7 g tobacco for 5 min) or cannabis (exposure to smoke from 0.7 g tobacco and cannabis for 5 min): B (orally administered alcohol), C (exposed to the smoke from tobacco), D (exposed to smoke from cannabis), E (treated with alcohol and exposed to smoke from tobacco), F (treated with alcohol and exposed to smoke from cannabis), G (treated with alcohol and exposed to smokes from tobacco and cannabis). Assays were carried on the testicular homogenate after a 14-day treatment. There was a significant increase in activity of alkaline phosphatase (P ≤ 0.05), concentrations of cholesterol, glutathione reductase, and malondialdehyde in treated rats by the co-administration of alcohol with cannabis and tobacco compared with the control group. The combined treatment also caused degeneration and morphological distortions of testicular cells. The biochemical and histoarchitectural change was due to oxidative damage attributable to the synergistic effects. The high binding energy of tetrahydrocannabinol ligand to prostate acid phosphatase may be a prediction that the ligand can have an inhibitory effect on the function of enzymes in the prostate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Adakole Sylvanus Ada
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, University Ilorin, Ilorin 240003, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
The Complex Interplay between Endocannabinoid System and the Estrogen System in Central Nervous System and Periphery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020972. [PMID: 33478092 PMCID: PMC7835826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid cell signaling system involved in the physiology and homeostasis of the brain and peripheral tissues. Synaptic plasticity, neuroendocrine functions, reproduction, and immune response among others all require the activity of functional ECS, with the onset of disease in case of ECS impairment. Estrogens, classically considered as female steroid hormones, regulate growth, differentiation, and many other functions in a broad range of target tissues and both sexes through the activation of nuclear and membrane estrogen receptors (ERs), which leads to genomic and non-genomic cell responses. Since ECS function overlaps or integrates with many other cell signaling systems, this review aims at updating the knowledge about the possible crosstalk between ECS and estrogen system (ES) at both central and peripheral level, with focuses on the central nervous system, reproduction, and cancer.
Collapse
|
5
|
Environmental Impact on Male (In)Fertility via Epigenetic Route. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082520. [PMID: 32764255 PMCID: PMC7463911 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 40 years, male reproductive health-which is very sensitive to both environmental exposure and metabolic status-has deteriorated and the poor sperm quality observed has been suggested to affect offspring development and its health in adult life. In this scenario, evidence now suggests that epigenetics shapes endocrine functions, linking genetics and environment. During fertilization, spermatozoa share with the oocyte their epigenome, along with their haploid genome, in order to orchestrate embryo development. The epigenetic signature of spermatozoa is the result of a dynamic modulation of the epigenetic marks occurring, firstly, in the testis-during germ cell progression-then, along the epididymis, where spermatozoa still receive molecules, conveyed by epididymosomes. Paternal lifestyle, including nutrition and exposure to hazardous substances, alters the phenotype of the next generations, through the remodeling of a sperm epigenetic blueprint that dynamically reacts to a wide range of environmental and lifestyle stressors. With that in mind, this review will summarize and discuss insights into germline epigenetic plasticity caused by environmental stimuli and diet and how spermatozoa may be carriers of induced epimutations across generations through a mechanism known as paternal transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
Collapse
|
6
|
Tomaszewska-Zaremba D, Wojtulewicz K, Paczesna K, Tomczyk M, Biernacka K, Bochenek J, Herman AP. The Influence of Anandamide on the Anterior Pituitary Hormone Secretion in Ewes-Ex Vivo Study. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040706. [PMID: 32316539 PMCID: PMC7222813 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabinoids (CBs) are involved in the neuroendocrine control of reproductive processes by affecting GnRH and gonadotropins secretion. The presence of cannabinoid receptors (CBR) in the pituitary raises a presumption that anandamide (AEA), the endogenous cannabinoid, may act on gonadotrophic hormones secretion directly at the level of the anterior pituitary (AP). Thus, the aim of the study was to investigate the influence of AEA on gonadotropins secretions from AP explants taken from anestrous ewes. It was demonstrated that AEA inhibited GnRH stimulated luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion from the AP explants. Anandamide influences both LH and FSH gene expressions as well as their release. AEA also affected gonadoliberin receptor (GnRHR) synthesis and expression. The presence of CB1R transcript in AP explants were also demonstrated. It could be suggested that some known negative effects of cannabinoids on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity may be caused by the direct action of these compounds at the pituitary level.
Collapse
|
7
|
Hazem NM, Zalata A, Alghobary M, Comhaire F, Elabbasy LM. Evaluation of cannabinoid receptors Type 1 and Type 2 mRNA expression in mature versus immature spermatozoa from fertile and infertile males. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13532. [PMID: 32064664 DOI: 10.1111/and.13532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression of the main cannabinoid receptors (CBR1 and CBR2) was investigated to evaluate the possible association with the sperm maturation from fertile and infertile individuals. One hundred subjects were classified into fertile (n = 50) and infertile groups (n = 50). Fresh semen samples were collected. Computer-assisted semen analysis and acrosin activity test were done. RNA was extracted from mature and immature sperm pellets. Reverse transcriptase reaction and real-time PCR were done to assess the levels of both CBR1 and CBR2 genes expression in all samples. Mature spermatozoa from both groups showed significantly higher levels of both CBR1 and CBR2 compared with the immature spermatozoa (p < .05). This increment was significantly more important in the fertile group (p < .05). In mature spermatozoa, CBR1 expression was significantly related to variation in sperm morphology, and CBR2 was significantly related to both sperm morphology and linearity index. In conclusion, CBR1 and CBR2 mRNA expression may closely direct the sperm maturation at different steps of the reproductive process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noha M Hazem
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Adel Zalata
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Moheiddin Alghobary
- Dermatology and Andrology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Frank Comhaire
- Emeritus Professor of Andrology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lamiaa M Elabbasy
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
The Epigenetics of the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031113. [PMID: 32046164 PMCID: PMC7037698 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ES) is a cell-signalling system widely distributed in biological tissues that includes endogenous ligands, receptors, and biosynthetic and hydrolysing machineries. The impairment of the ES has been associated to several pathological conditions like behavioural, neurological, or metabolic disorders and infertility, suggesting that the modulation of this system may be critical for the maintenance of health status and disease treatment. Lifestyle and environmental factors can exert long-term effects on gene expression without any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA, affecting health maintenance and influencing both disease load and resistance. This potentially reversible "epigenetic" modulation of gene expression occurs through the chemical modification of DNA and histone protein tails or the specific production of regulatory non-coding RNA (ncRNA). Recent findings demonstrate the epigenetic modulation of the ES in biological tissues; in the same way, endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists induce widespread or gene-specific epigenetic changes with the possibility of trans-generational epigenetic inheritance in the offspring explained by the transmission of deregulated epigenetic marks in the gametes. Therefore, this review provides an update on the epigenetics of the ES, with particular attention on the emerging role in reproduction and fertility.
Collapse
|
9
|
Ragusa M, Barbagallo D, Chioccarelli T, Manfrevola F, Cobellis G, Di Pietro C, Brex D, Battaglia R, Fasano S, Ferraro B, Sellitto C, Ambrosino C, Roberto L, Purrello M, Pierantoni R, Chianese R. CircNAPEPLD is expressed in human and murine spermatozoa and physically interacts with oocyte miRNAs. RNA Biol 2019; 16:1237-1248. [PMID: 31135264 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1624469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have a critical role in the control of gene expression. Their function in spermatozoa (SPZ) is unknown to date. Twenty-eight genes, involved in SPZ/testicular and epididymal physiology, were given in circBase database to find which of them may generate circular transcripts. We focused on circNAPEPLDiso1, one of the circular RNA isoforms of NAPEPLD transcript, because expressed in human and murine SPZ. In order to functionally characterize circNAPEPLDiso1 as potential microRNA (miRNA) sponge, we performed circNAPEPLDiso1-miR-CATCH and then profiled the expression of 754 miRNAs, by using TaqMan® Low Density Arrays. Among them, miRNAs 146a-5p, 203a-3p, 302c-3p, 766-3p and 1260a (some of them previously shown to be expressed in the oocyte), resulted enriched in circNAPEPLDiso1-miR-CATCHed cell lysate: the network of interactions generated from their validated targets was centred on a core of genes involved in the control of cell cycle. Moreover, computational analysis of circNAPEPLDiso1 sequence also showed its potential translation in a short form of NAPEPLD protein. Interestingly, the expression analysis in murine-unfertilized oocytes revealed low and high levels of circNAPEPLDiso1 and circNAPEPLDiso2, respectively. After fertilization, circNAPEPLDiso1 expression significantly increased, instead circNAPEPLDiso2 expression appeared constant. Based on these data, we suggest that SPZ-derived circNAPEPLDiso1 physically interacts with miRNAs primarily involved in the control of cell cycle; we hypothesize that it may represent a paternal cytoplasmic contribution to the zygote and function as a miRNA decoy inside the fertilized oocytes to regulate the first stages of embryo development. This role is proposed here for the first time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ragusa
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy.,b Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS , Troina , Italy
| | - Davide Barbagallo
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Francesco Manfrevola
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Cinzia Di Pietro
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Duilia Brex
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Rosalia Battaglia
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Bruno Ferraro
- d UOSD di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Presidio Ospedaliero di Marcianise , Caserta , Italy
| | - Carolina Sellitto
- d UOSD di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Presidio Ospedaliero di Marcianise , Caserta , Italy
| | - Concetta Ambrosino
- e Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università del Sannio , Benevento , Italy
| | - Luca Roberto
- f IRGS, Biogem , Ariano Irpino, Avellino , Italy
| | - Michele Purrello
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Duca Y, Aversa A, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Substance Abuse and Male Hypogonadism. J Clin Med 2019; 8:E732. [PMID: 31121993 PMCID: PMC6571549 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8050732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive deterioration of male reproductive function is occurring in Western countries. Environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyles have been implicated in the decline of testosterone levels and sperm production observed in the last fifty years. Among unhealthy lifestyles, substance and drug abuse is a recognized cause of possible alterations of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. Alcohol, opioids and anabolic-androgenic steroids are capable to reduce testosterone production in male interfering with testicular and/or hypothalamic-pituitary function. Other substances such as nicotine, cannabis, and amphetamines alter spermatogenesis inducing oxidative stress and subsequent apoptosis in testicular tissue. Substance and drug abuse is a potentially reversible cause of hypogonadism, defined as the failure of the testis to produce physiological concentrations of testosterone and/or a normal number of spermatozoa. The identification of the abuse is important because the withdrawal of substance intake can reverse the clinical syndrome. This review summarizes the most important clinical and experimental evidence on the effect of substance abuse on testosterone and sperm production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ylenia Duca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy.
| | | | - Aldo Eugenio Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chianese R, Coccurello R, Viggiano A, Scafuro M, Fiore M, Coppola G, Operto FF, Fasano S, Laye S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Impact of Dietary Fats on Brain Functions. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1059-1085. [PMID: 29046155 PMCID: PMC6120115 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666171017102547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adequate dietary intake and nutritional status have important effects on brain functions and on brain health. Energy intake and specific nutrients excess or deficiency from diet differently affect cognitive processes, emotions, behaviour, neuroendocrine functions and synaptic plasticity with possible protective or detrimental effects on neuronal physiology. Lipids, in particular, play structural and functional roles in neurons. Here the importance of dietary fats and the need to understand the brain mechanisms activated by peripheral and central metabolic sensors. Thus, the manipulation of lifestyle factors such as dietary interventions may represent a successful therapeutic approach to maintain and preserve brain health along lifespan. METHODS This review aims at summarizing the impact of dietary fats on brain functions. RESULTS Starting from fat consumption, nutrient sensing and food-related reward, the impact of gut-brain communications will be discussed in brain health and disease. A specific focus will be on the impact of fats on the molecular pathways within the hypothalamus involved in the control of reproduction via the expression and the release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone. Lastly, the effects of specific lipid classes such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and of the "fattest" of all diets, commonly known as "ketogenic diets", on brain functions will also be discussed. CONCLUSION Despite the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms is still a work in progress, the clinical relevance of the manipulation of dietary fats is well acknowledged and such manipulations are in fact currently in use for the treatment of brain diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Coccurello
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council (C.N.R.), Rome, Italy.,Fondazione S. Lucia (FSL) IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Viggiano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Marika Scafuro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council (C.N.R.), Rome, Italy.,Fondazione S. Lucia (FSL) IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Giangennaro Coppola
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy.,UO Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Medical School, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sophie Laye
- INRA, Bordeaux University, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology, UMR, Bordeaux, France
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement and Wellness Sciences, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Demin KA, Meshalkina DA, Kysil EV, Antonova KA, Volgin AD, Yakovlev OA, Alekseeva PA, Firuleva MM, Lakstygal AM, de Abreu MS, Barcellos LJG, Bao W, Friend AJ, Amstislavskaya TG, Rosemberg DB, Musienko PE, Song C, Kalueff AV. Zebrafish models relevant to studying central opioid and endocannabinoid systems. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 86:301-312. [PMID: 29604314 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid and opioid systems are two interplaying neurotransmitter systems that modulate drug abuse, anxiety, pain, cognition, neurogenesis and immune activity. Although they are involved in such critical functions, our understanding of endocannabinoid and opioid physiology remains limited, necessitating further studies, novel models and new model organisms in this field. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) is rapidly emerging as one of the most effective translational models in neuroscience and biological psychiatry. Due to their high physiological and genetic homology to humans, zebrafish may be effectively used to study the endocannabinoid and opioid systems. Here, we discuss current models used to target the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish, and their potential use in future translational research and high-throughput drug screening. Emphasizing the high degree of conservation of the endocannabinoid and opioid systems in zebrafish and mammals, we suggest zebrafish as an excellent model organism to study these systems and to search for the new drugs and therapies targeting their evolutionarily conserved mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin A Demin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Darya A Meshalkina
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Preclinical Bioscreening, Russian Research Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elana V Kysil
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kristina A Antonova
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrey D Volgin
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Oleg A Yakovlev
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Medical Military Academy, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Polina A Alekseeva
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Maria M Firuleva
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anton M Lakstygal
- Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Murilo S de Abreu
- Bioscience Institute, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Leonardo J G Barcellos
- Graduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil; Graduate Programs in Environmental Sciences, and Bio-Experimentation, University of Passo Fundo (UPF), Passo Fundo, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA
| | - Wandong Bao
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ashton J Friend
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Tulane University School of Science and Engineering, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tamara G Amstislavskaya
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), Slidell, LA, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | - Pavel E Musienko
- Laboratory of Neuroprosthetics, Institute of Translational Biomedicine, St. Petersburg State University, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Motor Physiology, Pavlov Institute of Physiology RAS, St. Petersburg, Russia; Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Experimental Neurorehabilitation, St. Petersburg State Research Institute of Phthysiopulmonology, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Cai Song
- Research Institute for Marine Drugs and Nutrition, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China; Marine Medicine Research and Development Center, Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Allan V Kalueff
- School of Pharmacy, Southwest University, Chongqing, China; Laboratory of Translational Biopsychiatry, Research Institute of Physiology and Basic Medicine, Novosibirsk, Russia; Neuroscience Department, Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia; ZENEREI Research Center, Slidell, LA, USA; Russian Research Center of Radiology and Surgical Technologies, Ministry of Health, St. Petersburg, Russia; Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, Russia; Aquatic Laboratory, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Agrawal A, Chou YL, Carey CE, Baranger DAA, Zhang B, Sherva R, Wetherill L, Kapoor M, Wang JC, Bertelsen S, Anokhin AP, Hesselbrock V, Kramer J, Lynskey MT, Meyers JL, Nurnberger JI, Rice JP, Tischfield J, Bierut LJ, Degenhardt L, Farrer LA, Gelernter J, Hariri AR, Heath AC, Kranzler HR, Madden PAF, Martin NG, Montgomery GW, Porjesz B, Wang T, Whitfield JB, Edenberg HJ, Foroud T, Goate AM, Bogdan R, Nelson EC. Genome-wide association study identifies a novel locus for cannabis dependence. Mol Psychiatry 2018; 23:1293-1302. [PMID: 29112194 PMCID: PMC5938138 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite moderate heritability, only one study has identified genome-wide significant loci for cannabis-related phenotypes. We conducted meta-analyses of genome-wide association study data on 2080 cannabis-dependent cases and 6435 cannabis-exposed controls of European descent. A cluster of correlated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a novel region on chromosome 10 was genome-wide significant (lowest P=1.3E-8). Among the SNPs, rs1409568 showed enrichment for H3K4me1 and H3K427ac marks, suggesting its role as an enhancer in addiction-relevant brain regions, such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the angular and cingulate gyri. This SNP is also predicted to modify binding scores for several transcription factors. We found modest evidence for replication for rs1409568 in an independent cohort of African American (896 cases and 1591 controls; P=0.03) but not European American (EA; 781 cases and 1905 controls) participants. The combined meta-analysis (3757 cases and 9931 controls) indicated trend-level significance for rs1409568 (P=2.85E-7). No genome-wide significant loci emerged for cannabis dependence criterion count (n=8050). There was also evidence that the minor allele of rs1409568 was associated with a 2.1% increase in right hippocampal volume in an independent sample of 430 EA college students (fwe-P=0.008). The identification and characterization of genome-wide significant loci for cannabis dependence is among the first steps toward understanding the biological contributions to the etiology of this psychiatric disorder, which appears to be rising in some developed nations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arpana Agrawal
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Yi-Ling Chou
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Caitlin E. Carey
- Washington University in St. Louis, Dept. of Psychological and Brain Sciences, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David A. A. Baranger
- Washington University in St. Louis, Dept. of Psychological and Brain Sciences, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Bo Zhang
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Developmental Biology, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Richard Sherva
- Boston University School of Medicine, Dept. of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leah Wetherill
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Dept. of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Manav Kapoor
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dept. of Neuroscience, New York, NY USA
| | - Jen-Chyong Wang
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dept. of Neuroscience, New York, NY USA
| | - Sarah Bertelsen
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dept. of Neuroscience, New York, NY USA
| | - Andrey P Anokhin
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Victor Hesselbrock
- University of Connecticut Health, Dept. of Psychiatry, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - John Kramer
- University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, Iowa City, IA USA
| | - Michael T. Lynskey
- King’s College, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Addictions Department, London, UK
| | - Jacquelyn L. Meyers
- State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Dept. of Psychiatry, Brooklyn, NY USA
| | - John I Nurnberger
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Depts. of Psychiatry and Medical and Molecular Genetics, and Stark Neuroscience Center, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - John P. Rice
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jay Tischfield
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey: New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Laura J. Bierut
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lindsay A Farrer
- Boston University School of Medicine, Dept. of Medicine (Biomedical Genetics), Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joel Gelernter
- Yale University School of Medicine: New Haven, CT, USA
- US Department of Veterans Affairs: West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ahmad R. Hariri
- Duke University, Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrew C. Heath
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Henry R. Kranzler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, VISN 4 MIRECC, Crescenz VAMC, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pamela A. F. Madden
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | | | - Grant W Montgomery
- University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bernice Porjesz
- State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center, Dept. of Psychiatry, Brooklyn, NY USA
| | - Ting Wang
- Washington University School of Medicine, Department of Genetics, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Howard J. Edenberg
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Dept. of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Indiana University, Dept. of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tatiana Foroud
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Dept. of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Alison M. Goate
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Dept. of Neuroscience, New York, NY USA
| | - Ryan Bogdan
- Washington University in St. Louis, Dept. of Psychological and Brain Sciences, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Elliot C. Nelson
- Washington University School of Medicine, Dept. of Psychiatry, 660 S. Euclid, CB 8134, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cobellis G, Meccariello R, Chianese R, Chioccarelli T, Fasano S, Pierantoni R. Effects of Neuroendocrine CB1 Activity on Adult Leydig Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:47. [PMID: 27375550 PMCID: PMC4891325 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids control male reproduction acting at central and local level via cannabinoid receptors. The cannabinoid receptor CB1 has been characterized in the testis, in somatic and germ cells of mammalian and non-mammalian animal models, and its activity related to Leydig cell differentiation, steroidogenesis, spermiogenesis, sperm quality, and maturation. In this short review, we provide a summary of the insights concerning neuroendocrine CB1 activity in male reproduction focusing on adult Leydig cell ontogenesis and steroid biosynthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Marijuana, phytocannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system, and male fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1575-88. [PMID: 26277482 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Marijuana has the highest consumption rate among all of the illicit drugs used in the USA, and its popularity as both a recreational and medicinal drug is increasing especially among men of reproductive age. Male factor infertility is on the increase, and the exposure to the cannabinoid compounds released by marijuana could be a contributing cause. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is deeply involved in the complex regulation of male reproduction through the endogenous release of endocannabinoids and binding to cannabinoid receptors. Disturbing the delicate balance of the ECS due to marijuana use can negatively impact reproductive potential. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have reported on the empirical role that marijuana plays in disrupting the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis, spermatogenesis, and sperm function such as motility, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. In this review, we highlight the latest evidence regarding the effect of marijuana use on male fertility and also provide a detailed insight into the ECS and its significance in the male reproductive system.
Collapse
|
16
|
Chianese R, Ciaramella V, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Hypothalamus-pituitary axis: an obligatory target for endocannabinoids to inhibit steroidogenesis in frog testis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 205:88-93. [PMID: 24566122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids - primarily anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) - are lipophilic molecules that bind to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). They affect neuroendocrine activity inhibiting gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion and testosterone production in rodents, through a molecular mechanism supposed to be hypothalamus dependent. In order to investigate such a role, we choose the seasonal breeder, the anuran amphibian Rana esculenta, an experimental model in which components of the endocannabinoid system have been characterized. In February, at the onset of a new spermatogenetic wave, we carried out in vitro incubations of frog testis with AEA, at 10(-9)M dose. Such a treatment had no effect on the expression of cytochrome P450 17alpha hydroxylase/17,20 lyase (cyp17) nor 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ-5-4 isomerase (3β-HSD), key enzymes of steroidogenesis. To understand whether or not the functionality of the hypothalamus-pituitary axis could be essential to support the role of endocannabinoids in steroidogenesis, frogs were injected with AEA, at 10(-8)M dose. Differently from in vitro experiment, the in vivo administration of AEA reduced the expression of cyp17 and 3β-HSD. Whereas the effect on 3β-HSD was counteracted by SR141716A (Rimonabant) - a selective antagonist of CB1, thus indicating a CB1 dependent modulation - the effect on cyp17 was not, suggesting a possible involvement of receptors other than CB1, probably the type-1 vanilloid receptor (TRPV1), since AEA works as an endocannabinoid and an endovanilloid as well. In conclusion our results indicate that endocannabinoids, via CB1, inhibit the expression of 3β-HSD in frog testis travelling along the hypothalamus-pituitary axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenza Ciaramella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Meccariello R, Chianese R, Chioccarelli T, Ciaramella V, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Intra-testicular signals regulate germ cell progression and production of qualitatively mature spermatozoa in vertebrates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:69. [PMID: 24847312 PMCID: PMC4021137 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis, a highly conserved process in vertebrates, is mainly under the hypothalamic-pituitary control, being regulated by the secretion of pituitary gonadotropins, follicle stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone, in response to stimulation exerted by gonadotropin releasing hormone from hypothalamic neurons. At testicular level, gonadotropins bind specific receptors located on the somatic cells regulating the production of steroids and factors necessary to ensure a correct spermatogenesis. Indeed, besides the endocrine route, a complex network of cell-to-cell communications regulates germ cell progression, and a combination of endocrine and intra-gonadal signals sustains the production of high quality mature spermatozoa. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in the area of the intra-gonadal signals supporting sperm development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Ciaramella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Riccardo Pierantoni, Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, Naples 80138, Italy e-mail:
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez “F. Bottazzi”, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Meccariello R, Battista N, Bradshaw HB, Wang H. Updates in reproduction coming from the endocannabinoid system. Int J Endocrinol 2014; 2014:412354. [PMID: 24550985 PMCID: PMC3914453 DOI: 10.1155/2014/412354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an evolutionarily conserved master system deeply involved in the central and local control of reproductive functions in both sexes. The tone of these lipid mediators-deeply modulated by the activity of biosynthetic and hydrolyzing machineries-regulates reproductive functions from gonadotropin discharge and steroid biosynthesis to the formation of high quality gametes and successful pregnancy. This review provides an overview on ECS and reproduction and focuses on the insights in the regulation of endocannabinoid production by steroids, in the regulation of male reproductive activity, and in placentation and parturition. Taken all together, evidences emerge that the activity of the ECS is crucial for procreation and may represent a target for the therapeutic exploitation of infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy
- *Rosaria Meccariello:
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC), Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Heather B. Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Haibin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Cacciola G, Chioccarelli T, Altucci L, Viggiano A, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Nuclear size as estrogen-responsive chromatin quality parameter of mouse spermatozoa. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 193:201-9. [PMID: 23973938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we have investigated the endocannabinoid involvement in chromatin remodeling events occurring in male spermatids. Indeed, we have demonstrated that genetic inactivation of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) negatively influences chromatin remodeling mechanisms, by reducing histone displacement and indices of sperm chromatin quality (chromatin condensation and DNA integrity). Conversely, Cnr1 knock-out (Cnr1(-/-)) male mice, treated with estrogens, replaced histones and rescued chromatin condensation as well as DNA integrity. In the present study, by exploiting Cnr1(+/+), Cnr(+/-) and Cnr1(-/-) epididymal sperm samples, we show that histone retention directly correlates with low values of sperm chromatin quality indices determining sperm nuclear size elongation. Moreover, we demonstrate that estrogens, by promoting histone displacement and chromatin condensation rescue, are able to efficiently reduce the greater nuclear length observed in Cnr1(-/-) sperm. As a consequence of our results, we suggest that nucleus length may be used as a morphological parameter useful to screen out spermatozoa with low chromatin quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cacciola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cacciola G, Chioccarelli T, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Estrogens and spermiogenesis: new insights from type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout mice. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:501350. [PMID: 24324492 PMCID: PMC3845505 DOI: 10.1155/2013/501350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex mechanism which allows the production of male gametes; it consists of mitotic, meiotic, and differentiation phases. Spermiogenesis is the terminal differentiation process during which haploid round spermatids undergo several biochemical and morphological changes, including extensive remodelling of chromatin and nuclear shape. Spermiogenesis is under control of endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors, like gonadotropins and testosterone. More recently, emerging pieces of evidence are suggesting that, among these factors, estrogens may have a role. To date, this is a matter of debate and concern because of the agonistic and antagonistic estrogenic effects that environmental chemicals may have on animal and human with damaging outcome on fertility. In this review, we summarize data which fuel this debate, with a particular attention to our recent results, obtained using type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout male mice as animal model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cacciola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- *Riccardo Pierantoni:
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chianese R, Ciaramella V, Scarpa D, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Endocannabinoids and endovanilloids: a possible balance in the regulation of the testicular GnRH signalling. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:904748. [PMID: 24072997 PMCID: PMC3773452 DOI: 10.1155/2013/904748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive functions are regulated both at central (brain) and gonadal levels. In this respect, the endocannabinoid system (eCS) has a very influential role. Interestingly, the characterization of eCS has taken many advantages from the usage of animal models different from mammals. Therefore, this review is oriented to summarize the main pieces of evidence regarding eCS coming from the anuran amphibian Rana esculenta, with particular interest to the morphofunctional relationship between eCS and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Furthermore, a novel role for endovanilloids in the regulation of a testicular GnRH system will be also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenza Ciaramella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Donatella Scarpa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- *Riccardo Pierantoni:
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lewis SEM, Rapino C, Di Tommaso M, Pucci M, Battista N, Paro R, Simon L, Lutton D, Maccarrone M. Differences in the endocannabinoid system of sperm from fertile and infertile men. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47704. [PMID: 23082196 PMCID: PMC3474715 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major cause of problems for many couples in conceiving a child. Recently, lifestyle pastimes such as alcohol, tobacco and marijuana have been shown to have further negative effects on male reproduction. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), mainly through the action of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) at cannabinoid (CB1, CB2) and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors, plays a crucial role in controlling functionality of sperm, with a clear impact on male reproductive potential. Here, sperm from fertile and infertile men were used to investigate content (through LC-ESI-MS), mRNA (through quantitative RT-PCR), protein (through Western Blotting and ELISA) expression, and functionality (through activity and binding assays) of the main metabolic enzymes of AEA and 2-AG (NAPE-PLD and FAAH, for AEA; DAGL and MAGL for 2-AG), as well as of their binding receptors CB1, CB2 and TRPV1. Our findings show a marked reduction of AEA and 2-AG content in infertile seminal plasma, paralleled by increased degradation: biosynthesis ratios of both substances in sperm from infertile versus fertile men. In addition, TRPV1 binding was detected in fertile sperm but was undetectable in infertile sperm, whereas that of CB1 and CB2 receptors was not statistically different in the two groups. In conclusion, this study identified unprecedented alterations of the ECS in infertile sperm, that might impact on capacitation and acrosome reaction, and hence fertilization outcomes. These alterations might also point to new biomarkers to determine male reproductive defects, and identify distinct ECS elements as novel targets for therapeutic exploitation of ECS-oriented drugs to treat male fertility problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- School of Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Institute of Clinical Science, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Battista N, Meccariello R, Cobellis G, Fasano S, Di Tommaso M, Pirazzi V, Konje JC, Pierantoni R, Maccarrone M. The role of endocannabinoids in gonadal function and fertility along the evolutionary axis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 355:1-14. [PMID: 22305972 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2011] [Revised: 12/05/2011] [Accepted: 01/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are natural lipids able to bind to cannabinoid and vanilloid receptors. Their biological actions at the central and peripheral level are under the tight control of the proteins responsible for their synthesis, transport and degradation. In the last few years, several reports have pointed out these lipid mediators as critical signals, together with sex hormones and cytokines, in various aspects of animal and human reproduction. The identification of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in reproductive cells and tissues of invertebrates, vertebrates and mammals highlights the key role played by these endogenous compounds along the evolutionary axis. Here, we review the main actions of endocannabinoids on female and male reproductive events, and discuss the interplay between them, steroid hormones and cytokines in regulating fertility. In addition, we discuss the involvement of endocannabinoid signalling in ensuring a correct chromatin remodeling, and hence a good DNA quality, in sperm cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Battista
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche Comparate, Università di Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Chianese R, Ciaramella V, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Anandamide modulates the expression of GnRH-II and GnRHRs in frog, Rana esculenta, diencephalon. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 173:389-95. [PMID: 21802420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2011.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2011] [Revised: 06/17/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
In the hypothalamus, endocannabinoids affect neuroendocrine activity by means of Gonadotropin-Releasing-Hormone-I (GnRH-I) inhibition. Since most vertebrates, human included, possess at least two GnRH molecular forms, the aim of this work was to investigate the effect of endocannabinoids on GnRH molecular forms other than GnRH-I and on GnRHRs. Thus, we cloned GnRH precursors as well as GnRH receptors (GnRHR-I, GnRHR-II, GnRHR-III) from the diencephalons of the anuran amphibian, Rana esculenta. GnRH-II expression was evaluated in pituitary, whole brain, spinal cord, hindbrain, midbrain and forebrain during the annual sexual cycle. Then, in post-reproductive period (May), GnRH-I, GnRH-II and GnRHRs expression was evaluated by quantitative real time (qPCR) after incubation of diencephalons with the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). AEA significantly decreased GnRH-I and GnRH-II expression, up regulated GnRHR-I and GnRHR-II mRNA and it had no effect upon GnRHR-III expression. These effects were counteracted by SR141716A (Rimonabant), a selective antagonist of type I cannabinoid receptor (CB1). In conclusion our results demonstrate a CB1 receptor dependent modulation of GnRH system expression rate (both ligands and receptors) in frog diencephalons. In particular, we show that AEA, besides GnRH-I, also acts on GnRH-II expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez F. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Barboni B, Bernabò N, Palestini P, Botto L, Pistilli MG, Charini M, Tettamanti E, Battista N, Maccarrone M, Mattioli M. Type-1 cannabinoid receptors reduce membrane fluidity of capacitated boar sperm by impairing their activation by bicarbonate. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23038. [PMID: 21829686 PMCID: PMC3150387 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2011] [Accepted: 07/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammalian spermatozoa acquire their full fertilizing ability (so called capacitation) within the female genital tract, where they are progressively exposed to inverse gradients of inhibiting and stimulating molecules. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS In the present research, the effect on this process of anandamide, an endocannabinoid that can either activate or inhibit cannabinoid receptors depending on its concentration, and bicarbonate, an oviductal activatory molecule, was assessed, in order to study the role exerted by the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1R) in the process of lipid membrane remodeling crucial to complete capacitation. To this aim, boar sperm were incubated in vitro under capacitating conditions (stimulated by bicarbonate) in the presence or in the absence of methanandamide (Met-AEA), a non-hydrolysable analogue of anandamide. The CB1R involvement was studied by using the specific inhibitor (SR141716) or mimicking its activation by adding a permeable cAMP analogue (8Br-cAMP). By an immunocytochemistry approach it was shown that the Met-AEA inhibits the bicarbonate-dependent translocation of CB1R from the post-equatorial to equatorial region of sperm head. In addition it was found that Met-AEA is able to prevent the bicarbonate-induced increase in membrane disorder and the cholesterol extraction, both preliminary to capacitation, acting through a CB1R-cAMP mediated pathway, as indicated by MC540 and filipin staining, EPR spectroscopy and biochemical analysis on whole membranes (CB1R activity) and on membrane enriched fraction (C/P content and anisotropy). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Altogether, these data demonstrate that the endocannabinoid system strongly inhibits the process of sperm capacitation, acting as membrane stabilizing agent, thus increasing the basic knowledge on capacitation-related signaling and potentially opening new perspectives in diagnostics and therapeutics of male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Barboni
- Department of Biomedical Comparative Sciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chianese R, Chioccarelli T, Cacciola G, Ciaramella V, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R, Cobellis G. The contribution of lower vertebrate animal models in human reproduction research. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2011; 171:17-27. [PMID: 21192939 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2010] [Revised: 12/11/2010] [Accepted: 12/16/2010] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Many advances have been carried out on the estrogens, GnRH and endocannabinoid system that have impact in the reproductive field. Indeed, estrogens, the generally accepted female hormones, have performed an unsuspected role in male sexual functions thanks to studies on non-mammalian vertebrates. Similarly, these animal models have provided important contributions to the identification of several GnRH ligand and receptor variants and their possible involvement in sexual behavior and gonadal function regulation. Moreover, the use of non-mammalian animal models has contributed to a better comprehension about the endocannabinoid system action in several mammalian reproductive events. We wish to highlight here how non-mammalian vertebrate animal model research contributes to advancements with implications on human health as well as providing a phylogenetic perspective on the evolution of reproductive systems in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università degli Studi di Napoli, via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Starting from an historical overview of lasting Cannabis use over the centuries, we will focus on a description of the cannabinergic system, with a comprehensive analysis of chemical and pharmacological properties of endogenous and synthetic cannabimimetic analogues. The metabolic pathways and the signal transduction mechanisms, activated by cannabinoid receptors stimulation, will also be discussed. In particular, we will point out the action of cannabinoids and endocannabinoids on the different neuronal networks involved in reproductive axis, and locally, on male and female reproductive tracts, by emphasizing the pivotal role played by this system in the control of fertility.
Collapse
|
28
|
Taylor AH, Amoako AA, Bambang K, Karasu T, Gebeh A, Lam PMW, Marzcylo TH, Konje JC. Endocannabinoids and pregnancy. Clin Chim Acta 2010; 411:921-30. [PMID: 20302856 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2010.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2009] [Revised: 03/09/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Acylethanolamides such as anandamide (AEA), and monoacylglycerols like 2-arachidonoylglycerol are endocannabinoids that bind to cannabinoid, vanilloid and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. These compounds, their various receptors, the purported membrane transporter(s), and related enzymes that synthesize and degrade them are collectively referred to as the "endocannabinoid system (ECS)". Poorly defined cellular and molecular mechanisms control the biological actions of the ECS. Over the last decade evidence has been emerging to suggest that the ECS plays a significant role in various aspects of human reproduction. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of this role especially the involvement of AEA and related ECS elements in regulating oogenesis, embryo oviductal transport, blastocyst implantation, placental development and pregnancy outcomes, and sperm survival, motility, capacitation and acrosome reaction. Additionally, the possibility that plasma and tissue AEA and other cannabinoids may represent reliable diagnostic markers of natural and assisted reproduction and pregnancy outcomes in women will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony H Taylor
- Reproductive Sciences Section, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoids: friends and foes of reproduction. Prog Lipid Res 2009; 48:344-54. [PMID: 19602425 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2009.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2009] [Revised: 07/07/2009] [Accepted: 07/07/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are fatty acid amides like anandamide (AEA), and monoacylglycerols like 2-arachidonoylglycerol, that bind to cannabinoid, vanilloid and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors. Their biological actions are controlled through not yet fully characterized cellular mechanisms. These compounds, together with their related enzymes, that include key proteins for the synthesis and degradation of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid and non-cannabinoid receptors, and purported membrane transporter(s), form the "endocannabinoid system (ECS)". In the past few years AEA and related ECS elements have emerged as essential players in various aspects of human reproduction, both for males and females. Here, the key features of the ECS and the potential of its components to direct human fertility towards a positive or negative end will be reviewed. In particular, the involvement of AEA and related ECS elements in regulating embryo oviductal transport, blastocyst implantation and placental development (in females), and sperm survival, motility, capacitation and acrosome reaction (in males) will be addressed, as well as the role of endocannabinoids in sperm-oviduct interactions. Additionally, the possibility that blood AEA and its hydrolase FAAH may represent reliable diagnostic markers of natural and assisted reproduction in humans will be discussed, along with the therapeutic exploitation of ECS-oriented drugs as useful fertility enhancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Teramo, Piazza Aldo Moro 45, Teramo 64100, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|