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Jueraitetibaike K, Tang T, Ma R, Zhao S, Wu R, Yang Y, Huang X, Cheng X, Zhou C, Zhang H, Zheng L, Ge X, Chen L, Yao B. MiR-425-5p suppression of Crebzf regulates oocyte aging via chromatin modification. GeroScience 2024; 46:3723-3742. [PMID: 37532927 PMCID: PMC11226420 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00875-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Female infertility due to declining oocyte quality with age remains a significant challenge for patients and physicians, despite extensive research efforts. Recent studies suggest that microRNAs (miRNAs), which respond to various stressors in the aging process, may provide a promising solution. With the approval of small RNA drugs for clinical use, miRNA-based treatment of oocyte aging appears to be a viable option. Through high-throughput sequencing, miR-425-5p was identified as the only miRNA elevated under natural aging and oxidative stress. Microinjection of inhibitors to inhibit miR-425-5p effectively improved compromised phenotypes of old oocytes in vitro. Further investigation revealed that Crebzf acts as a mediator of miR-425-5p's age-related functions in old oocytes. In vivo treatment with miR-425-5p antagomirs significantly improved impaired oocyte development in reproductively old females by targeting Crebzf. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that Crebzf plays a vital role in regulating mRNAs targeting histone H3, trimethylated lysine 4 (H3K4me3), a crucial marker for transcriptional silencing. Overexpression of miR-425-5p could hinder oocyte maturation by downregulating Crebzf expression and disrupting transcriptional regulation. Our findings provide new insights into the potential of miR-425-5p antagomirs as a treatment for female infertility and highlight an elegant mechanism by which miR-425-5p inhibition of Crebzf inhibits a developmental switch in GV oocytes by regulating a group of histone methyltransferase mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadiliya Jueraitetibaike
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, People's Republic of China
| | - Rujun Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanmeizi Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Ronghua Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Basic Medical Laboratory, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuan Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Xie Ge
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital: East Region Military Command General Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, People's Republic of China.
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Pinto S, Pereira SC, Rocha A, Barros A, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. Sperm-borne miR-34c-5p and miR-191-3p as markers for sperm motility and embryo developmental competence. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39044679 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm-borne microRNAs play a pivotal role in influencing essential cellular processes during fertilization, impacting the quality of embryo development. Dysregulated microRNA profiles have been associated with compromised embryonic development and increased incidences of pregnancy loss. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the potential associations between the abundance of miR-34c-5p and miR-191-3p in human spermatozoa with sperm quality, as well as with embryo quality and metabolic performance during in vitro development. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirteen couples who underwent a total of 13 cycles participated in this study. The sperm quality was assessed using conventional methods following World Health Organization guidelines. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to measure microRNA abundance in spermatozoa. Embryos were categorized as good, lagging, or bad based on morphokinetic evaluation. Evaluation of embryo metabolic performance involved tracking changes in specific metabolites within the cultured media using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between microRNA abundance in human spermatozoa and all other collected data. RESULTS Our findings revealed a negative correlation between the abundance of miR-34c-5p (but not miR-191-3p) and total sperm motility, potentially mediated by the modulation of key signaling pathways. Additionally, higher levels of miR-34c-5p in spermatozoa were strongly associated with the consumption or release of key metabolites by developing embryos, particularly those linked with lipid and glucose metabolism, suggesting enhanced metabolic performance, while miR-191-3p was mostly associated with glucose consumption. Concurrently, only miR-34c-5p content in spermatozoa correlated with higher embryo quality. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This study provides evidence suggesting that the abundance of miR-34c-5p in spermatozoa is correlated not only with total sperm motility but also with markers of embryo developmental competence, highlighting the potential significance of this sperm microRNA content as a biomarker in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Pinto
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara C Pereira
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - António Rocha
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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3
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Wang X, Zhang ZY, Zhao S, Liu MF. New insights into small non-coding RNAs during spermatogenesis. Sci Bull (Beijing) 2024; 69:1581-1585. [PMID: 38423874 DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.
| | - Zhen-Yi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mo-Fang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
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Hosseini M, Khalafiyan A, Zare M, Karimzadeh H, Bahrami B, Hammami B, Kazemi M. Sperm epigenetics and male infertility: unraveling the molecular puzzle. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:57. [PMID: 38835100 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00626-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of infertility among couples is estimated to range from 8 to 12%. A paradigm shift has occurred in understanding of infertility, challenging the notion that it predominantly affects women. It is now acknowledged that a significant proportion, if not the majority, of infertility cases can be attributed to male-related factors. Various elements contribute to male reproductive impairments, including aberrant sperm production caused by pituitary malfunction, testicular malignancies, aplastic germ cells, varicocele, and environmental factors. MAIN BODY The epigenetic profile of mammalian sperm is distinctive and specialized. Various epigenetic factors regulate genes across different levels in sperm, thereby affecting its function. Changes in sperm epigenetics, potentially influenced by factors such as environmental exposures, could contribute to the development of male infertility. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this review investigates the latest studies pertaining to the mechanisms of epigenetic changes that occur in sperm cells and their association with male reproductive issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hosseini
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Anis Khalafiyan
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Zare
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haniye Karimzadeh
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Basireh Bahrami
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Behnaz Hammami
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Kazemi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
- Reproductive Sciences and Sexual Health Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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Shen L, Zeng H, Fu Y, Ma W, Guo X, Luo G, Hua R, Wang X, Shi X, Wu B, Luo C, Quan S. Specific plasma microRNA profiles could be potential non-invasive biomarkers for biochemical pregnancy loss following embryo transfer. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:351. [PMID: 38720272 PMCID: PMC11080217 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06488-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma microRNAs act as biomarkers for predicting and diagnosing diseases. Reliable non-invasive biomarkers for biochemical pregnancy loss have not been established. We aim to analyze the dynamic microRNA profiles during the peri-implantation period and investigate if plasma microRNAs could be non-invasive biomarkers predicting BPL. METHODS In this study, we collected plasma samples from patients undergoing embryo transfer (ET) on ET day (ET0), 11 days after ET (ET11), and 14 days after ET (ET14). Patients were divided into the NP (negative pregnancy), BPL (biochemical pregnancy loss), and CP (clinical pregnancy) groups according to serum hCG levels at day11~14 and ultrasound at day28~35 following ET. MicroRNA profiles at different time-points were detected by miRNA-sequencing. We analyzed plasma microRNA signatures for BPL at the peri-implantation stage, we characterized the dynamic microRNA changes during the implantation period, constructed a microRNA co-expression network, and established predictive models for BPL. Finally, the sequencing results were confirmed by Taqman RT-qPCR. RESULTS BPL patients have distinct plasma microRNA profiles compared to CP patients at multiple time-points during the peri-implantation period. Machine learning models revealed that plasma microRNAs could predict BPL. RT-qPCR confirmed that miR-181a-2-3p, miR-9-5p, miR-150-3p, miR-150-5p, and miR-98-5p, miR-363-3p were significantly differentially expressed between patients with different reproductive outcomes. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the non-invasive value of plasma microRNAs in predicting BPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lang Shen
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Hong Zeng
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wenmin Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Xiaoling Guo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Guoqun Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Rui Hua
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiaocong Wang
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiao Shi
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Biao Wu
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Song Quan
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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Podgrajsek R, Bolha L, Pungert T, Pizem J, Jazbec K, Malicev E, Stimpfel M. Effects of Slow Freezing and Vitrification of Human Semen on Post-Thaw Semen Quality and miRNA Expression. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4157. [PMID: 38673743 PMCID: PMC11050687 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Semen cryopreservation has played an important role in medically assisted reproduction for decades. In addition to preserving male fertility, it is sometimes used for overcoming logistical issues. Despite its proven clinical usability and safety, there is a lack of knowledge of how it affects spermatozoa at the molecular level, especially in terms of non-coding RNAs. Therefore, we conducted this study, where we compared slow freezing and vitrification of good- and poor-quality human semen samples by analyzing conventional sperm quality parameters, performing functional tests and analyzing the expression of miRNAs. The results revealed that cryopreservation of normozoospermic samples does not alter the maturity of spermatozoa (protamine staining, hyaluronan binding), although cryopreservation can increase sperm DNA fragmentation and lower motility. On a molecular level, we revealed that in both types of cryopreservation, miRNAs from spermatozoa are significantly overexpressed compared to those in the native semen of normozoospermic patients, but in oligozoospermic samples, this effect is observed only after vitrification. Moreover, we show that expression of selected miRNAs is mostly overexpressed in native oligozoospermic samples compared to normozoospermic samples. Conversely, when vitrified normozoospermic and oligozoospermic samples were compared, we determined that only miR-99b-5p was significantly overexpressed in oligozoospermic sperm samples, and when comparing slow freezing, only miR-15b-5p and miR-34b-3p were significantly under-expressed in oligozoospermic sperm samples. Therefore, our results imply that cryopreservation of normozoospermic sperm samples can modulate miRNA expression profiles in spermatozoa to become comparable to those in oligozoospermic samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeka Podgrajsek
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.)
| | - Luka Bolha
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (L.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Tjasa Pungert
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.)
| | - Joze Pizem
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (L.B.); (J.P.)
| | - Katerina Jazbec
- Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia, Slajmerjeva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (K.J.); (E.M.)
| | - Elvira Malicev
- Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia, Slajmerjeva 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (K.J.); (E.M.)
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (R.P.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Bahmyari S, Khatami SH, Taghvimi S, Rezaei Arablouydareh S, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Farazmand T, Soltani Fard E, Solati A, Movahedpour A, Ghasemi H. MicroRNAs in Male Fertility. DNA Cell Biol 2024; 43:108-124. [PMID: 38394131 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2023.0314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Around 50% of all occurrences of infertility are attributable to the male factor, which is a significant global public health concern. There are numerous circumstances that might interfere with spermatogenesis and cause the body to produce abnormal sperm. While evaluating sperm, the count, the speed at which they migrate, and their appearance are the three primary characteristics that are analyzed. MicroRNAs, also known as miRNAs, are present in all physiological fluids and tissues. They participate in both physiological and pathological processes. Researches have demonstrated that the expression of microRNA genes differs in infertile men. These genes regulate spermatogenesis at various stages and in several male reproductive cells. Hence, microRNAs have the potential to act as useful indicators in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility and other diseases affecting male reproduction. Despite this, additional research is necessary to determine the precise miRNA regulation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Bahmyari
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Taghvimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahar Rezaei Arablouydareh
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Tooba Farazmand
- Departmant of Gynecology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elahe Soltani Fard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Arezoo Solati
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Shi Z, Yu M, Guo T, Sui Y, Tian Z, Ni X, Chen X, Jiang M, Jiang J, Lu Y, Lin M. MicroRNAs in spermatogenesis dysfunction and male infertility: clinical phenotypes, mechanisms and potential diagnostic biomarkers. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1293368. [PMID: 38449855 PMCID: PMC10916303 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1293368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples worldwide who are attempting to conceive, with male infertility accounting for 50% of infertility cases. Male infertility is related to various factors such as hormone imbalance, urogenital diseases, environmental factors, and genetic factors. Owing to its relationship with genetic factors, male infertility cannot be diagnosed through routine examination in most cases, and is clinically called 'idiopathic male infertility.' Recent studies have provided evidence that microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed in a cell-or stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis. This review focuses on the role of miRNAs in male infertility and spermatogenesis. Data were collected from published studies that investigated the effects of miRNAs on spermatogenesis, sperm quality and quantity, fertilization, embryo development, and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Based on the findings of these studies, we summarize the targets of miRNAs and the resulting functional effects that occur due to changes in miRNA expression at various stages of spermatogenesis, including undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids, and Sertoli cells (SCs). In addition, we discuss potential markers for diagnosing male infertility and predicting the varicocele grade, surgical outcomes, ART outcomes, and sperm retrieval rates in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyan Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Yu
- Science Experiment Center, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tingchao Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yu Sui
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiying Tian
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiang Ni
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xinren Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Miao Jiang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jingyi Jiang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yongping Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meina Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Medical Genetics & Liaoning Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health, Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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9
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Dupont C, Stathopoulou MG, Illy PJ, Sermondade N, Levy R, Trabucchi M, Prades M, Haj Hamid R, Berthaut I, Grandjean V. Impact of testicular cancer on sperm small non-coding RNA signature: a pilot study. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2241009. [PMID: 37515809 PMCID: PMC10388827 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2023.2241009] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) are the most common tumours in young adults of European ancestry. The high heritability and the constantly increased incidence, which has doubled over the last 20 years, strongly suggest that both genetic and environmental factors are likely to shape the TGCT susceptibility. While genome-wide association studies have identified loci associated with TGCT susceptibility, the role played by environmental molecular vectors in TGCT susceptibility remains unclear. Evidence shows that sperm non-coding RNAs provide a good vision of the environmental stresses experienced by men. Here, to determine whether TGCT impacts the abundance of specific non-coding RNAs in sperm, small RNA deep sequencing analysis of sperm of 25 men aged between 19 and 42 years, diagnosed with (n = 16) or without (n = 9) TGCT was performed. The primary analysis showed no statistical significance in the sncRNA population between the TGCT and non-TGCT groups. However, when sperm physiological parameters were considered to look for differentially expressed sncRNA, we evidenced 11 differentially expressed sncRNA between patients and control which allow a clear discrimination between control and TGCT samples after Hierarchical Clustering analysis. Together, these findings indicate that sperm small non-coding RNAs abundance may have the potential for diagnosing men with TGCT. However, specific care should be taken regarding sperm physiological parameters of the TGCT patients. Hence, larger studies are needed to confirm our findings and to determine whether such a signature associates with the risks to develop TGCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Dupont
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon (AP-HP. Sorbonne-Université, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Nathalie Sermondade
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon (AP-HP. Sorbonne-Université, Paris, France
| | - Rachel Levy
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon (AP-HP. Sorbonne-Université, Paris, France
| | | | - Marie Prades
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
| | - Rahaf Haj Hamid
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Berthaut
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon (AP-HP. Sorbonne-Université, Paris, France
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10
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Joshi M, Sethi S, Mehta P, Kumari A, Rajender S. Small RNAs, spermatogenesis, and male infertility: a decade of retrospect. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:106. [PMID: 37924131 PMCID: PMC10625245 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01155-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), being the top regulators of gene expression, have been thoroughly studied in various biological systems, including the testis. Research over the last decade has generated significant evidence in support of the crucial roles of sncRNAs in male reproduction, particularly in the maintenance of primordial germ cells, meiosis, spermiogenesis, sperm fertility, and early post-fertilization development. The most commonly studied small RNAs in spermatogenesis are microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (ts-RNAs). Small non-coding RNAs are crucial in regulating the dynamic, spatial, and temporal gene expression profiles in developing germ cells. A number of small RNAs, particularly miRNAs and tsRNAs, are loaded on spermatozoa during their epididymal maturation. With regard to their roles in fertility, miRNAs have been studied most often, followed by piRNAs and tsRNAs. Dysregulation of more than 100 miRNAs has been shown to correlate with infertility. piRNA and tsRNA dysregulations in infertility have been studied in only 3-5 studies. Sperm-borne small RNAs hold great potential to act as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility. In this article, we review the role of small RNAs in spermatogenesis, their association with infertility, and their potential as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghali Joshi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Sethi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Poonam Mehta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anamika Kumari
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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11
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Olotu O, Ahmedani A, Kotaja N. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Male Reproduction. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:213-225. [PMID: 38346711 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive functions are strictly regulated in order to maintain sperm production and fertility. All processes are controlled by precise regulation of gene expression, which creates specific gene expression programs for different developmental stages and cell types, and forms the functional basis for the reproductive system. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in gene regulation by targeting mRNAs for translational repression and degradation through complementary base pairing to recognize their targets. This review article summarizes the current knowledge on the function of different classes of sncRNAs, in particular microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), during male germ cell differentiation, with the focus on sncRNAs expressed in the germline. Although transcriptionally inactive, mature spermatozoa contain a complex population of sncRNAs, and we also discuss the recently identified role of sperm sncRNAs in the intergenerational transmission of epigenetic information on father's environmental and lifestyle exposures to offspring. Finally, we summarize the current information on the utility of sncRNAs as potential biomarkers of infertility that may aid in the diagnosis and prediction of outcomes of medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Opeyemi Olotu
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ammar Ahmedani
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Noora Kotaja
- Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology Unit, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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12
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Santiago J, Silva JV, Santos MAS, Fardilha M. Age-Dependent Alterations in Semen Parameters and Human Sperm MicroRNA Profile. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2923. [PMID: 38001924 PMCID: PMC10669352 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The trend to delay parenthood is increasing, impacting fertility and reproductive outcomes. Advanced paternal age (APA), defined as men's age above 40 years at conception, has been linked with testicular impairment, abnormal semen parameters, and poor reproductive and birth outcomes. Recently, the significance of sperm microRNA for fertilization and embryonic development has emerged. This work aimed to investigate the effects of men's age on semen parameters and sperm microRNA profiles. The ejaculates of 333 Portuguese men were collected between 2018 and 2022, analyzed according to WHO guidelines, and a density gradient sperm selection was performed. For microRNA expression analysis, 16 normozoospermic human sperm samples were selected and divided into four age groups: ≤30, 31-35, 36-40, and >40 years. microRNA target genes were retrieved from the miRDB and TargetScan databases and Gene Ontology analysis was performed using the DAVID tool. No significant correlation was found between male age and conventional semen parameters, except for volume. Fifteen differentially expressed microRNAs (DEMs) between groups were identified. Enrichment analysis suggested the involvement of DEMs in the sperm of men with advanced age in critical biological processes like embryonic development, morphogenesis, and male gonad development. Targets of DEMs were involved in signaling pathways previously associated with the ageing process, including cellular senescence, autophagy, insulin, and mTOR pathways. These results suggest that although conventional semen parameters were not affected by men's age, alterations in microRNA regulation may occur and be responsible for poor fertility and reproductive outcomes associated with APA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Santiago
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (J.V.S.); (M.A.S.S.)
| | - Joana V. Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (J.V.S.); (M.A.S.S.)
| | - Manuel A. S. Santos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (J.V.S.); (M.A.S.S.)
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing, MIA-Portugal, University of Coimbra, 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal; (J.V.S.); (M.A.S.S.)
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13
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Cui L, Fang L, Zhuang L, Shi B, Lin CP, Ye Y. Sperm-borne microRNA-34c regulates maternal mRNA degradation and preimplantation embryonic development in mice. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:40. [PMID: 37101140 PMCID: PMC10131327 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01089-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that sperm-borne microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in mammalian preimplantation embryonic development. In humans, spermatozoan miR-34c levels are correlated with in vitro fertilization outcomes, such as embryo quality and the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. In rabbits and cows, miR-34c improves the developmental competence of embryos generated by somatic cell nuclear transfer. However, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of embryonic development by miR-34c remain unknown. METHODS Female C57BL/6 mice (6-8 weeks old) were superovulated, and pronucleated zygotes were collected and microinjected with an miR-34c inhibitor or a negative-control RNA. The embryonic development of the microinjected zygotes was evaluated, and the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression profiles of the embryos at the two-cell, four-cell and blastocyst stages (five embryos per group) were determined by RNA sequencing analysis. Gene expression levels were verified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cluster analysis and heat map visualization were performed to detect differentially expressed mRNAs. Pathway and process enrichment analyses were performed using ontology resources. Differentially expressed mRNAs were systematically analyzed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database to determine their biological functions. RESULTS Embryonic developmental potential was significantly reduced in zygotes microinjected with the miR-34c inhibitor compared with those microinjected with a negative-control RNA. Two-cell stage embryos microinjected with an miR-34c inhibitor presented altered transcriptomic profiles, with upregulated expression of maternal miR-34c target mRNAs and classical maternal mRNAs. Differentially expressed transcripts were mainly of genes associated with lipid metabolism and cellular membrane function at the two-cell stage, with cell-cycle phase transition and energy metabolism at the four-cell stage; and with vesicle organization, lipid biosynthetic process and endomembrane system organization at the blastocyst stage. We also showed that genes related to preimplantation embryonic development, including Alkbh4, Sp1, Mapk14, Sin3a, Sdc1 and Laptm4b, were significantly downregulated after microinjection of an miR-34c inhibitor. CONCLUSIONS Sperm-borne miR-34c may regulate preimplantation embryonic development by affecting multiple biological processes, such as maternal mRNA degradation, cellular metabolism, cell proliferation and blastocyst implantation. Our data demonstrate the importance of sperm-derived miRNAs in the development of preimplantation embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Cui
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Li Fang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Lili Zhuang
- Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200041, China
| | - Biwei Shi
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Chao-Po Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yinghui Ye
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China.
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14
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Singh R, Deb R, Sengar GS, Raja TV, Kumar S, Singh U, Das AK, Alex R, Kumar A, Tyagi S, Pal P, Patil NV. Differentially expressed microRNAs in biochemically characterized Frieswal TM crossbred bull semen. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:25-38. [PMID: 34106815 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1932519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In addition to the transmission of paternal genome, spermatozoa also carry coding as well as noncoding microRNAs (miRNAs) into the female oocyte during the process of biological fertilization. Based on RNA deep sequencing, a total 28 number of differentially expressed miRNAs were cataloged in categorized FrieswalTM crossbred (Holstein Friesian X Sahiwal) bull semen on the basis of conception rate (CR) in field progeny testing program. Validation of selected miRNAs viz. bta-mir-182, bta-let-7b, bta-mir-34c and bta-mir-20a revealed that, superior bull semen having comparatively (p < .05) lower level of all the miRNAs in contrast to inferior bull semen. Additionally, it was illustrated that, bta-mir-20a and bta-mir-34c miRNAs are negatively (p < .01) correlated with seminal plasma catalase (CAT) activity and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) level. Interactome studies identified that bta-mir-140, bta-mir-342, bta-mir-1306 and bta-mir-217 can target few of the important solute carrier (SLC) proteins viz. SLC30A3, SLC39A9, SLC31A1 and SLC38A2, respectively. Interestingly, it was noticed that all the SLCs were significantly (p < .05) expressed at higher level in superior quality bull semen and they are negatively correlated (p < .01) with their corresponding miRNAs as mentioned. This study may reflect the role of miRNAs in regulating few of the candidate genes and thus may influence the bull semen quality traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani Singh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Rajib Deb
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Gyanendra Singh Sengar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - T V Raja
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Umesh Singh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - A K Das
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Rani Alex
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Amod Kumar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Shrikant Tyagi
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
| | - Prasanna Pal
- Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - N V Patil
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, India
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15
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Conflitti AC, Cicolani G, Buonacquisto A, Pallotti F, Faja F, Bianchini S, Blaconà G, Bruno SM, Linari A, Lucarelli M, Montanino D, Muzii L, Lenzi A, Lombardo F, Paoli D. Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Sperm-Borne miRNAs: Molecular Biomarkers of Embryo Development? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021007. [PMID: 36674527 PMCID: PMC9864861 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of morpho-functional sperm characteristics alone is not enough to explain infertility or to predict the outcome of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): more sensitive diagnostic tools are needed in clinical practice. The aim of the present study was to analyze Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) and sperm-borne miR-34c-5p and miR-449b-5p levels in men of couples undergoing ART, in order to investigate any correlations with fertilization rate, embryo quality and development. Male partners (n = 106) were recruited. Semen analysis, SDF evaluation and molecular profiling analysis of miR-34c-5p and miR-449b-5p (in 38 subjects) were performed. Sperm DNA Fragmentation evaluation- a positive correlation between SDF post sperm selection and the percentage of low-quality embryos and a negative correlation with viable embryo were found. SDF > 2.9% increased the risk of obtaining a non-viable embryo by almost 4-fold. Sperm miRNAs profile—we found an association with both miRNAs and sperm concentration, while miR-449b-5p is positively associated with SDF. Moreover, the two miRNAs are positively correlated. Higher levels of miR-34c-5p compared to miR-449b-5p increases by 14-fold the probability of obtaining viable embryos. This study shows that SDF, sperm miR-34c-5p, and miR-449b-5p have a promising role as biomarkers of semen quality and ART outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chiara Conflitti
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Cicolani
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Buonacquisto
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabiana Faja
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Bianchini
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Blaconà
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Maria Bruno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Linari
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Lucarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Pasteur Institute, Cenci Bolognetti Foundation, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Diletta Montanino
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovico Muzii
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology–Sperm Bank “Loredana Gandini”, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Association between Sperm Morphology and Altered Sperm microRNA Expression. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11111671. [PMID: 36421385 PMCID: PMC9687816 DOI: 10.3390/biology11111671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Sperm morphology is usually determined subjectively, and studies focused exclusively on sperm morphology are scarce. There is a global tendency to find objective markers of spermatozoa quality, including sperm morphology, as this will allow for a more personalized approach to managing and treating male infertility. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are widely recognized as promising putative and objective biomarkers. In our study, we included 15 patients with normal sperm morphology and 13 patients with abnormal sperm morphology. We determined the expression profiles of 13 different miRNAs in the sperm of these participants and revealed that 9 miRNAs could serve as potential biomarkers of sperm morphology in spermatozoa. Abstract Evaluation of male infertility has been based on semen analysis for years. As this method can be subjective at times, there is a scientific tendency to discover stable and quantifiable biomarkers. This study included 28 couples who underwent an in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycle. The couples were assigned into two groups, according to sperm morphology. Couples where the males were normozoospermic were placed in the control group (15 participants), while couples where males had teratozoospermia were placed in the study group (13 participants). Thirteen candidate miRNAs were selected for qPCR analysis, based on our literature search. We determined significant under-expression of nine miRNAs (miR-10a-5p/-15b-5p/-26a-5p/-34b-3p/-122-5p/-125b-5p/-191-5p/-296-5p and let-7a-5p) in spermatozoa from patients with teratozoospermia compared to the controls, whereas expression levels of four miRNAs (miR-92a-3p/-93-3p/-99b-5p/-328-3p) did not significantly differ between the study and control groups. The expression levels of all 13 included miRNAs were significantly positively correlated with each other and significantly positively associated with spermatozoa morphology, excluding miR-99b-5p. There were no other significant associations between miRNA expression and sperm quality parameters. Only expression levels of miR-99b-5p were significantly positively correlated with good-quality day 3 embryo rate (ρ = 0.546; p = 0.003), while other variables of the IVF/ICSI cycle outcome showed no significant associations with miRNA expression profiles. This is one of the rare studies providing an insight directly into miRNA profiles in regard to sperm morphology. We identified nine miRNAs that could serve as biomarkers of spermatozoa quality in regard to teratozoospermia.
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Yeh LY, Lee RKK, Lin MH, Huang CH, Li SH. Correlation between Sperm Micro Ribonucleic Acid-34b and -34c Levels and Clinical Outcomes of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection in Men with Male Factor Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012381. [PMID: 36293237 PMCID: PMC9604024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have examined the correlation between sperm miRNA levels and clinical outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In this study, we aimed to assess the correlation of sperm miR-34b, miR-34c, miR-122, and miR-429 levels with ICSI outcomes in men with teratozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. TaqMan microRNA quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the relative expression of miRNAs in sperm. The relative miRNA levels quantified using a comparative method found that the four miRNAs were not associated with fertilization rate and early embryo development. However, revels of miR-34b and miR-34c in teratozoospermia sperm of the live birth group were significantly higher than those in the non-live birth group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the optimal cut-off delta cycle threshold values of miR-34b and miR-34c were 8.630 and 7.883, respectively. Statistical analysis found that the levels of miR-34b and the miR-34c in teratozoospermic and asthenozoospermic sperm above the thresholds were not associated with the fertilization rate and the high-quality embryo rate above 50%; however, they were more likely to exhibit higher implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates. miR-34b and miR-34c were significantly associated with ICSI clinical outcomes in male factor infertility, especially teratozoospermia. Further validation is required before it becomes a clinically valid reference indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yu Yeh
- Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Robert Kuo-Kuang Lee
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Huei Lin
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Huang
- Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hsiang Li
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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18
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Donnellan EM, Perrier JP, Keogh K, Štiavnická M, Collins CM, Dunleavy EM, Sellem E, Bernecic NC, Lonergan P, Kenny DA, Fair S. Identification of differentially expressed mRNAs and miRNAs in spermatozoa of bulls of varying fertility. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:993561. [PMID: 36277068 PMCID: PMC9581129 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.993561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Bulls used in artificial insemination, with apparently normal semen quality, can vary significantly in their field fertility. This study aimed to characterize the transcriptome of spermatozoa from high (HF) and low (LF) fertility bulls at the mRNA and miRNA level in order to identify potential novel markers of fertility. Holstein-Friesian bulls were assigned to either the HF or LF group (n = 10 per group) based on an adjusted national fertility index from a minimum of 500 inseminations. Total RNA was extracted from a pool of frozen-thawed spermatozoa from three different ejaculates per bull, following which mRNA-seq and miRNA-seq were performed. Six mRNAs and 13 miRNAs were found differentially expressed (P < 0.05, FC > 1.5) between HF and LF bulls. Of particular interest, the gene pathways targeted by the 13 differentially expressed miRNAs were related to embryonic development and gene expression regulation. Previous studies reported that disruptions to protamine 1 mRNA (PRM1) had deleterious consequences for sperm chromatin structure and fertilizing ability. Notably, PRM1 exhibited a higher expression in spermatozoa from LF than HF bulls. In contrast, Western Blot analysis revealed a decrease in PRM1 protein abundance for spermatozoa from LF bulls; this was not associated with increased protamine deficiency (measured by the degree of chromatin compaction) or DNA fragmentation, as assessed by flow cytometry analyses. However, protamine deficiency was positively and moderately correlated with the percentage of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation, irrespective of fertility group. This study has identified potential biomarkers that could be used for improving semen quality assessments of bull fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eimear M. Donnellan
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Jean-Philippe Perrier
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Kate Keogh
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Ireland
| | - Miriam Štiavnická
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Elaine M. Dunleavy
- Centre for Chromosome Biology, Biomedical Sciences, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Eli Sellem
- ALLICE, Innovation and Development, Paris, France
| | - Naomi C. Bernecic
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David A. Kenny
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland,*Correspondence: Sean Fair
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19
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sncRNAs in Epididymosomes: The Contribution to Embryonic Development and Offspring Health. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810851. [PMID: 36142765 PMCID: PMC9501405 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Much progress has been made in determining that paternal environmental exposures can remodel their spermatozoa small noncoding RNAs (sncRANs) and, in turn, affect the phenotypes of their offspring. Studies have shown that changes in the spermatozoa sncRNAs profile occur during passing through the epididymis. Due to the absence of transcription and translation in the epididymis, spermatozoa remodel their sncRNAs profile through communication with the epididymal microenvironment. Since epididymosomes contribute to the process of spermatozoa maturation by mediating the crosstalk between the epididymis and the passing spermatozoa, they are considered to be the leading candidate to mediate these changes. Previous studies and reviews on the role of epididymal transfer proteins in sperm maturation and function are myriad. This review focuses on the role and mechanisms of epididymosome-mediated transfer of sncRNAs cargoes onembryonic development and offspring health.
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Joshi M, Andrabi SW, Yadav RK, Sankhwar SN, Gupta G, Rajender S. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of sperm miRNAs identifies hsa-miR-9-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p and hsa-miR-122-5p as potential biomarkers of male infertility and sperm quality. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:122. [PMID: 35971175 PMCID: PMC9377062 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00990-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast with the preceding stages of the germ cells, spermatozoa are unusually rich in small non-coding RNAs in comparison to the coding RNAs. These small RNAs may have had an essential role in the process of spermatogenesis or may have critical roles in the post-fertilization development. Sporadic efforts have identified a few differentially expressed miRNAs in infertile individuals, which do not replicate in other studies. METHODS In order to identify miRNAs signatures of infertility or poor sperm quality, we compared miRNA differential expression data across nine datasets, followed by their analysis by real-time PCR in a case-control study. This was followed by the validation of potential biomarkers in yet another set of cases and controls. For this, total RNA was isolated from 161 sperm samples. miRNA expression levels in infertile cases and fertile controls were measured using TaqMan real-time PCR. Meta-analyses of two miRNAs (hsa-miR-9-3p and hsa-miR-122-5p) were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software (version 2). All statistical analyses were performed with the help of GraphPad Prism Software (version 8). RESULTS Literature search identified seven miRNAs (hsa-let-7a-5p, hsa-miR-9-3p, hsa-miR-22-5p, has-miR-30b-5p, hsa-miR-103-3p, hsa-miR-122-5p and hsa-miR-335-5p) showing consistent dysregulation in infertility across a minimum of four studies. In the discovery phase, six miRNAs showed strong association with infertility with four (hsa-miR-9-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p, hsa-miR-103-3p and hsa-miR-122-5p) showing consistent differential regulation across all sub-groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the area under curve of > 0.75 was achieved by three (hsa-mir-9-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p and hsa-miR-122-5p) miRNAs. In the validation phase, these three miRNAs showed consistent association with infertility (hsa-mir-9-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p, and hsa-miR-122-5p). Meta-analysis on hsa-miR-122-5p showed its significant quantitative association with infertility [Hedge's g = -2.428, p = 0.001 (Random effects)]. CONCLUSIONS Three miRNAs (hsa-miR-9-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p and hsa-miR-122-5p) have strong linkage with infertility and a high potential as sperm quality biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghali Joshi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | | | | | - Gopal Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, India.
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Zou Y, Pan Y, Ge N, Xu Y, Gu R, Li Z, Fu J, Gao J, Sun X, Sun Y. Can the combination of time-lapse parameters and clinical features predict embryonic ploidy status and implantation outcome of transferred euploid blastocysts: an artificial intelligence perspective. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:643-651. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Esmaeilivand M, Abedelahi A, Hamdi K, Farzadi L, Goharitaban S, Fattahi A, Niknafs B. Role of miRNAs in preimplantation embryo development and their potential as embryo selection biomarkers. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:589-597. [PMID: 35440361 DOI: 10.1071/rd21274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play different roles in oocyte fertilisation, degradation of maternal transcripts, embryo development, and implantation. During in vitro fertilisation (IVF), different miRNAs are released from embryos into the spent culture media (SCM) that can potentially reflect the status of the embryo. AIMS This study is the assessment of miRNAs, which secreted in SCM during the IVF cycles can be used as noninvasive biomarkers to predict an embryo's ability to form a blastocyst, implant, and give live birth. METHODS Systematic literature search was conducted to review all recent studies about miRNAs as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle. KEY RESULTS Studies have shown that levels of some miRNAs in the SCM have an association with the implantation potential and pregnancy outcome of the embryo. CONCLUSIONS Embryo-secreted miRNAs can be used as potential non-invasive biomarkers for selecting the best embryos in the ART cycle. Unfortunately, few human studies evaluated the association between ART outcomes and miRNAs in SCM. IMPLICATIONS This review can pave the way for further miRNAs transcriptomic studies on human embryo culture media and introducing a specific miRNA profile as a multivariable prediction model for embryo selection in IVF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Esmaeilivand
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sepide Goharitaban
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; and Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Skakkebæk NE, Lindahl-Jacobsen R, Levine H, Andersson AM, Jørgensen N, Main KM, Lidegaard Ø, Priskorn L, Holmboe SA, Bräuner EV, Almstrup K, Franca LR, Znaor A, Kortenkamp A, Hart RJ, Juul A. Environmental factors in declining human fertility. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:139-157. [PMID: 34912078 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00598-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A severe decline in child births has occurred over the past half century, which will lead to considerable population declines, particularly in industrialized regions. A crucial question is whether this decline can be explained by economic and behavioural factors alone, as suggested by demographic reports, or to what degree biological factors are also involved. Here, we discuss data suggesting that human reproductive health is deteriorating in industrialized regions. Widespread infertility and the need for assisted reproduction due to poor semen quality and/or oocyte failure are now major health issues. Other indicators of declining reproductive health include a worldwide increasing incidence in testicular cancer among young men and alterations in twinning frequency. There is also evidence of a parallel decline in rates of legal abortions, revealing a deterioration in total conception rates. Subtle alterations in fertility rates were already visible around 1900, and most industrialized regions now have rates below levels required to sustain their populations. We hypothesize that these reproductive health problems are partially linked to increasing human exposures to chemicals originating directly or indirectly from fossil fuels. If the current infertility epidemic is indeed linked to such exposures, decisive regulatory action underpinned by unconventional, interdisciplinary research collaborations will be needed to reverse the trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels E Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Hagai Levine
- School of Public Health, Hadassah Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katharina M Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Øjvind Lidegaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Gynecology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine A Holmboe
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elvira V Bräuner
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Luiz R Franca
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ariana Znaor
- Cancer Surveillance Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Andreas Kortenkamp
- Division of Environmental Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
| | - Roger J Hart
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Fertility Specialists of Western Australia, Bethesda Hospital, Claremont, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Dysregulation of Human Somatic piRNA Expression in Parkinson's Disease Subtypes and Stages. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052469. [PMID: 35269612 PMCID: PMC8910154 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Piwi interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are small non-coding single-stranded RNA species 20–31 nucleotides in size generated from distinct loci. In germline tissues, piRNAs are amplified via a “ping-pong cycle” to produce secondary piRNAs, which act in transposon silencing. In contrast, the role of somatic-derived piRNAs remains obscure. Here, we investigated the identity and distribution of piRNAs in human somatic tissues to determine their function and potential role in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Human datasets were curated from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and a workflow was developed to identify piRNAs, which revealed 902 somatic piRNAs of which 527 were expressed in the brain. These were mainly derived from chromosomes 1, 11, and 19 compared to the germline tissues, which were from 15 and 19. Approximately 20% of somatic piRNAs mapped to transposon 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs), but a large proportion were sensed to the transcript in contrast to germline piRNAs. Gene set enrichment analysis suggested that somatic piRNAs function in neurodegenerative disease. piRNAs undergo dysregulation in different PD subtypes (PD and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD)) and stages (premotor and motor). piR-has-92056, piR-hsa-150797, piR-hsa-347751, piR-hsa-1909905, piR-hsa-2476630, and piR-hsa-2834636 from blood small extracellular vesicles were identified as novel biomarkers for PD diagnosis using a sparse partial least square discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA) (accuracy: 92%, AUC = 0.89). This study highlights a role for piRNAs in PD and provides tools for novel biomarker development.
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25
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Cheuquemán C, Maldonado R. Non-coding RNAs and chromatin: key epigenetic factors from spermatogenesis to transgenerational inheritance. Biol Res 2021; 54:41. [PMID: 34930477 PMCID: PMC8686607 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-021-00364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular fate and gene expression patterns are modulated by different epigenetic factors including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and chromatin organization. Both factors are dynamic throughout male germ cell differentiation on the seminiferous tubule, despite the transcriptional inactivation in the last stages of spermatogenesis. Sperm maturation during the caput-to-cauda transit on the epididymis involves changes in chromatin organization and the soma-to-germ line transference of ncRNAs that are essential to obtain a functional sperm for fertilization and embryo development. Here, the male environment (diseases, drugs, mental stress) is crucial to modulate these epigenetic factors throughout sperm maturation, affecting the corresponding offspring. Paternal transgenerational inheritance has been directly related to sperm epigenetic changes, most of them associated with variations in the ncRNA content and chromatin marks. Our aim is to give an overview about how epigenetics, focused on ncRNAs and chromatin, is pivotal to understand spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, and how the male environment impacts the sperm epigenome modulating the offspring gene expression pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Cheuquemán
- Núcleo de Ciencias Biológicas, Dirección de Núcleos Transversales, Facultad de estudios Interdisciplinarios, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
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26
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Small Noncoding RNAs in Reproduction and Infertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121884. [PMID: 34944700 PMCID: PMC8698561 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been reported as one of the most common reproductive impairments, affecting nearly one in six couples worldwide. A large proportion of infertility cases are diagnosed as idiopathic, signifying a deficit in information surrounding the pathology of infertility and necessity of medical intervention such as assisted reproductive therapy. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are well-established regulators of mammalian reproduction. Advanced technologies have revealed the dynamic expression and diverse functions of sncRNAs during mammalian germ cell development. Mounting evidence indicates sncRNAs in sperm, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are sensitive to environmental changes and mediate the inheritance of paternally acquired metabolic and mental traits. Here, we review the critical roles of sncRNAs in mammalian germ cell development. Furthermore, we highlight the functions of sperm-borne sncRNAs in epigenetic inheritance. We also discuss evidence supporting sncRNAs as promising biomarkers for fertility and embryo quality in addition to the present limitations of using sncRNAs for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
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27
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Sellem E, Jammes H, Schibler L. Sperm-borne sncRNAs: potential biomarkers for semen fertility? Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:160-173. [PMID: 35231268 DOI: 10.1071/rd21276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen infertility or sub-fertility, whether in humans or livestock species, remains a major concern for clinicians and technicians involved in reproduction. Indeed, they can cause tragedies in human relationships or have a dramatic overall negative impact on the sustainability of livestock breeding. Understanding and predicting semen fertility issues is therefore crucial and quality control procedures as well as biomarkers have been proposed to ensure sperm fertility. However, their predictive values appeared to be too limited and additional relevant biomarkers are still required to diagnose sub-fertility efficiently. During the last decade, the study of molecular mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation highlighted the regulatory role of a variety of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and led to the discovery that sperm sncRNAs comprise both remnants from spermatogenesis and post-testicular sncRNAs acquired through interactions with extracellular vesicles along epididymis. This has led to the hypothesis that sncRNAs may be a source of relevant biomarkers, associated either with sperm functionality or embryo development. This review aims at providing a synthetic overview of the current state of knowledge regarding implication of sncRNA in spermatogenesis defects and their putative roles in sperm maturation and embryo development, as well as exploring their use as fertility biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- Université Paris Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy en Josas, France; and Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Lal A, Pike JFW, Polley EL, Huang S, Sanni M, Hailat T, Zimmerman S, Clay-Gilmour A, Bruce TF, Marcus KR, Roudebush WE, Chosed RJ. Comparison of RNA content from hydrophobic interaction chromatography-isolated seminal plasma exosomes from intrauterine insemination (IUI) pregnancies. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14325. [PMID: 34837240 DOI: 10.1111/and.14325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Male factors account for roughly half of infertility cases, with most male infertility diagnosed as idiopathic. Researchers predicting intrauterine insemination success rates have identified multiple prognostic factors, including semen parameters and seminal fluid composition. Seminal plasma contains extracellular exosomes, which contain RNAs and proteins involved in spermatogenesis. The contents of seminal plasma exosomes may be an indicator of overall sperm quality or fertility potential; therefore, analysis of exosomes may provide a measure for sperm viability and fertilization potential. In our study, exosomes were isolated and purified from seminal plasma obtained from IUI treatments with known pregnancy outcomes. We used a unique method to isolate the exosomes which made use of the hydrophobic interaction chromatography method. RNASeq was performed on RNAs from the purified exosomes. This analysis revealed holistic trends, including increased expression associated with RNA originating from chromosomes 1, 10, 12, 16 and 21. Overall, total RNA was significantly decreased and rRNA was significantly increased in successful IUI attempts. Furthermore, we found specific mRNAs and lincRNAs associated with positive versus negative pregnancy outcomes. Our study isolated and purified seminal plasma exosomes without ultracentrifugation, and it provides further evidence for differences in seminal plasma exosome molecular contents associated with pregnancy status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnav Lal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - James Frederick W Pike
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Emily L Polley
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Sisi Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Mustapha Sanni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Tareq Hailat
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Alyssa Clay-Gilmour
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Terri F Bruce
- Department of Bioengineering, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kenneth R Marcus
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - William E Roudebush
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Renee J Chosed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
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Asadpour R, Mofidi Chelan E. Using microRNAs as molecular biomarkers for the evaluation of male infertility. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14298. [PMID: 34738652 DOI: 10.1111/and.14298] [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: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a multiplex disorder in the reproductive system, and men are responsible for more than half of the cases. Nowadays, semen analysis has been considered the critical assessment test to diagnose infertile men; however, it has limitations so that the cause behind infertility in 40% of infertile men is unrevealed. Weaknesses of semen assessment indicate a global need for novel and better diagnostic tools and biomarkers. MicroRNAs are short (about 18-22 nucleotide length) non-coding RNAs that control most (>60%) of our protein-coding genes post-transcriptionally. These molecules are aberrant in the body fluids, and abnormal alterations in their expression level can signify a specific disease such as infertility. Therefore, microRNAs can be novel candidate biomarkers that can diagnose different types of male infertility, including azoospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia. This narrative review aimed to collect and sum up new papers published about the significant role of microRNAs in different male infertility categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Asadpour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mofidi Chelan
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
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Santiago J, Silva JV, Howl J, Santos MAS, Fardilha M. All you need to know about sperm RNAs. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:67-91. [PMID: 34624094 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis generates a small and highly specialised type of cell that is apparently incapable of transcription and translation. For many years, this dogma was supported by the assumption that (i) the compact sperm nucleus, resulting from the substitution of histones by protamine during spermatogenesis, renders the genome inaccessible to the transcriptional machinery; and (ii) the loss of most organelles, including endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes, limits or prevents translational activity. Despite these observations, several types of coding and non-coding RNAs have been identified in human sperm. Their functional roles, particularly during fertilisation and embryonic development, are only now becoming apparent. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aimed to summarise current knowledge of the origin, types and functional roles of sperm RNAs, and to evaluate the clinical benefits of employing these transcripts as biomarkers of male fertility and reproductive outcomes. The possible contribution of sperm RNAs to intergenerational or transgenerational phenotypic inheritance is also addressed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive literature search on PubMed was conducted using the search terms 'sperm' AND 'RNA'. Searches focussed upon articles written in English and published prior to August 2020. OUTCOMES The development of more sensitive and accurate RNA technologies, including RNA sequencing, has enabled the identification and characterisation of numerous transcripts in human sperm. Though a majority of these RNAs likely arise during spermatogenesis, other data support an epididymal origin of RNA transmitted to maturing sperm by extracellular vesicles. A minority may also be synthesised by de novo transcription in mature sperm, since a small portion of the sperm genome remains packed by histones. This complex RNA population has important roles in paternal chromatin packaging, sperm maturation and capacitation, fertilisation, early embryogenesis and developmental maintenance. In recent years, additional lines of evidence from animal models support a role for sperm RNAs in intergenerational or transgenerational inheritance, modulating both the genotype and phenotype of progeny. Importantly, several reports indicate that the sperm RNA content of fertile and infertile men differs considerably and is strongly modulated by the environment, lifestyle and pathological states. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Transcriptional profiling has considerable potential for the discovery of fertility biomarkers. Understanding the role of sperm transcripts and comparing the sperm RNA fingerprint of fertile and infertile men could help to elucidate the regulatory pathways contributing to male factor infertility. Such data might also provide a molecular explanation for several causes of idiopathic male fertility. Ultimately, transcriptional profiling may be employed to optimise ART procedures and overcome some of the underlying causes of male infertility, ensuring the birth of healthy children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Santiago
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,i3S-Institute for Innovation and Health Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - John Howl
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Manuel A S Santos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Chen H, Alves MBR, Belleannée C. Contribution of epididymal epithelial cell functions to sperm epigenetic changes and the health of progeny. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:51-66. [PMID: 34618012 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa acquire their motility and fertilizing abilities during their maturation through the epididymis. This process is controlled by epididymal epithelial cells that possess features adapted to sense and respond to their surrounding environment and to communicate with spermatozoa. During the past decade, new intercellular communication processes have been discovered, including the secretion and transport of molecules from the epithelium to spermatozoa via extracellular vesicles (EVs), as well as sensing of the intraluminal milieu by cellular extensions. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review addresses recent findings regarding epididymal epithelial cell features and interactions between spermatozoa and the epididymal epithelium as well as epigenetic modifications undergone by spermatozoa during transit through the epididymal microenvironment. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed with the keyword 'epididymis'. Results were filtered on original research articles published from 2009 to 2021 and written in the English language. One hundred fifteen original articles presenting recent advancements on the epididymis contribution to sperm maturation were selected. Some additional papers cited in the primary reference were also included. A special focus was given to higher mammalian species, particularly rodents, bovines and humans, that are the most studied in this field. OUTCOMES This review provides novel insights into the contribution of epididymal epithelium and EVs to post-testicular sperm maturation. First, new immune cell populations have been described in the epididymis, where they are proposed to play a role in protecting the environment surrounding sperm against infections or autoimmune responses. Second, novel epididymal cell extensions, including dendrites, axopodia and primary cilia, have been identified as sensors of the environment surrounding sperm. Third, new functions have been outlined for epididymal EVs, which modify the sperm epigenetic profile and participate in transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal traits. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Although the majority of these findings result from studies in rodents, this fundamental research will ultimately improve our knowledge of human reproductive physiopathologies. Recent discoveries linking sperm epigenetic modifications with paternal environmental exposure and progeny outcome further stress the importance of advancing fundamental research on the epididymis. From this, new therapeutic options for infertile couples and better counseling strategies may arise to increase positive health outcomes in children conceived either naturally or with ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
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Domingues WB, Silveira TLR, Nunes LS, Blodorn EB, Schneider A, Corcine CD, Varela Junior AS, Acosta IB, Kütter MT, Greif G, Robello C, Pinhal D, Marins LF, Campos VF. GH Overexpression Alters Spermatic Cells MicroRNAome Profile in Transgenic Zebrafish. Front Genet 2021; 12:704778. [PMID: 34567067 PMCID: PMC8455951 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.704778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of growth hormone (GH) in gh-transgenic zebrafish of a highly studied lineage F0104 has earlier been reported to cause increased muscle growth. In addition to this, GH affects a broad range of cellular processes in transgenic fish, such as morphology, physiology, and behavior. Reports show changes such as decreased sperm quality and reduced reproductive performance in transgenic males. It is hypothesized that microRNAs are directly involved in the regulation of fertility potential during spermatogenesis. The primary aim of our study was to verify whether gh overexpression disturbs the sperm miRNA profile and influences the sperm quality in transgenic zebrafish. We report a significant increase in body weight of gh-transgenic males along with associated reduced sperm motility and other kinetic parameters in comparison to the non-transgenic group. MicroRNA transcriptome sequencing of gh-transgenic zebrafish sperms revealed expressions of 186 miRNAs, among which six miRNA were up-regulated (miR-146b, miR-200a-5p, miR-146a, miR-726, miR-184, and miR-738) and sixteen were down-regulated (miR-19d-3p, miR-126a-5p, miR-126b-5p, miR-22a-5p, miR-16c-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-126b-3p, miR-107a-3p, miR-93, miR-2189, miR-202–5p, miR-221–3p, miR-125a, miR-125b-5p, miR-126a-3p, and miR-30c-5p) in comparison to non-transgenic zebrafish. Some of the dysregulated miRNAs were previously reported to be related to abnormalities in sperm quality and reduced reproduction ability in other species. In this study, an average of 134 differentially expressed miRNAs-targeted genes were predicted using the in silico approach. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis demonstrated that the genes of affected pathways were primarily related to spermatogenesis, sperm motility, and cell apoptosis. Our results suggested that excess GH caused a detrimental effect on sperm microRNAome, consequently reducing the sperm quality and reproductive potential of zebrafish males.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Domingues
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Tony L R Silveira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Leandro S Nunes
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Eduardo B Blodorn
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Augusto Schneider
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Carine D Corcine
- ReproPel, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Antônio S Varela Junior
- ReproPel, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Izani B Acosta
- ReproPel, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Mateus T Kütter
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Gonzalo Greif
- Unidad de Biología Molecular, Institut Pasteur, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Carlos Robello
- Unidad de Biología Molecular, Institut Pasteur, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Danillo Pinhal
- Laboratório Genômica e Evolução Molecular Departamento de Genética, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Luís F Marins
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande, Rio Grande, Brazil
| | - Vinicius F Campos
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
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Alsaadi M, Khan MY, Dalhat MH, Bahashwan S, Khan MU, Albar A, Almehdar H, Qadri I. Dysregulation of miRNAs in DLBCL: Causative Factor for Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Prognosis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11101739. [PMID: 34679437 PMCID: PMC8535125 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA is a small non-coding RNA (sncRNA) involved in gene silencing and regulating post-transcriptional gene expression. miRNAs play an essential role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, viral diseases and cancer. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), arising from different stages of B-cell differentiation whose pathogenesis involves miRNAs. Various viral and non-viral vectors are used as a delivery vehicle for introducing specific miRNA inside the cell. Adenoviruses are linear, double-stranded DNA viruses with 35 kb genome size and are extensively used in gene therapy. Meanwhile, Adeno-associated viruses accommodate up to 4.8 kb foreign genetic material and are favorable for transferring miRNA due to small size of miRNA. The genetic material is integrated into the DNA of the host cell by retroviruses so that only dividing cells are infected and stable expression of miRNA is achieved. Over the years, remarkable progress was made to understand DLBCL biology using advanced genomics and epigenomics technologies enabling oncologists to uncover multiple genetic mutations in DLBCL patients. These genetic mutations are involved in epigenetic modification, ability to escape immunosurveillance, impaired BCL6 and NF-κβ signaling pathways and blocking terminal differentiation. These pathways have since been identified and used as therapeutic targets for the treatment of DLBCL. Recently miRNAs were also identified to act either as oncogenes or tumor suppressors in DLBCL pathology by altering the expression levels of some of the known DLBCL related oncogenes. i.e., miR-155, miR-17-92 and miR-21 act as oncogenes by altering the expression levels of MYC, SHIP and FOXO1, respectively, conversely; miR-34a, mir-144 and miR-181a act as tumor suppressors by altering the expression levels of SIRT1, BCL6 and CARD11, respectively. Hundreds of miRNAs have already been identified as biomarkers in the prognosis and diagnosis of DLBCL because of their significant roles in DLBCL pathogenesis. In conclusion, miRNAs in addition to their role as biomarkers of prognosis and diagnosis could also serve as potential therapeutic targets for treating DLBCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alsaadi
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.Y.K.); (A.A.); (H.A.)
- Hematology Research Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Muhammad Yasir Khan
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.Y.K.); (A.A.); (H.A.)
- Vaccine and Immunotherapy Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmood Hassan Dalhat
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Salem Bahashwan
- Hematology Research Unit, King Fahad Medical Research Center, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- King AbdulAziz University Hospital, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Uzair Khan
- Department of Health Sciences, City University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar 25000, Pakistan;
| | - Abdulgader Albar
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.Y.K.); (A.A.); (H.A.)
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah University, Jeddah 23218, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussein Almehdar
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.Y.K.); (A.A.); (H.A.)
| | - Ishtiaq Qadri
- Department of Biological Science, Faculty of Science, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (M.Y.K.); (A.A.); (H.A.)
- Correspondence:
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Sperm miR-34c-5p Transcript Content and Its Association with Sperm Parameters in Unexplained Infertile Men. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:84-90. [PMID: 34494232 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00733-w] [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: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an essential role in regulatory functions during gametogenesis. There is evidence that dysregulation of miR-34c-5p is implicated in the pathogenesis of male infertility. Whether miR-34c-5p expression could represent the semen quality and be useful in prediction of the fertilizing ability in normozoospermic men was examined in this study. Normozoospermic infertile patients (n = 15) and fertile men (n = 15) were recruited from the Infertility Clinic of Ahvaz, Iran. Sperm contents of miR-34c-5p transcript in were assessed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. No significant differences were seen in semen characteristics between patients and fertile men. Infertile patients showed significant (p = 0.019) lower contents of sperm miR-34c-5p than fertile controls. Men with lower transcript contents of miR-34c-5p exhibit lower sperm motility and normal morphology. Sperm miR-34c-5p transcript with a relatively good diagnostic power discriminated unexplained infertile men (AUC = 0.751, 95% CI: 0.568-0.934; p = 0.019). Our findings show that sperm contents of miR-34c-5p transcript could reflect the quality of spermatozoa in etiology of unexplained male infertility and be helpful in predicting a successful pregnancy.
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Turri F, Capra E, Lazzari B, Cremonesi P, Stella A, Pizzi F. A Combined Flow Cytometric Semen Analysis and miRNA Profiling as a Tool to Discriminate Between High- and Low-Fertility Bulls. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:703101. [PMID: 34355036 PMCID: PMC8329915 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.703101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Predicting bull fertility is one of the main challenges for the dairy breeding industry and artificial insemination (AI) centers. Semen evaluation performed in the AI center is not fully reliable to determine the level of bull fertility. Spermatozoa are rich in active miRNA. Specific sperm-borne miRNAs can be linked to fertility. The aim of our study is to propose a combined flow cytometric analysis and miRNA profiling of semen bulls with different fertility to identify markers that can be potentially used for the prediction of field fertility. Sperm functions were analyzed in frozen-thawed semen doses (CG: control group) and high-quality sperm (HQS) fraction collected from bulls with different field fertility levels (estimated relative conception rate or ERCR) by using advanced techniques, such as the computer-assisted semen analysis system, flow cytometry, and small RNA-sequencing. Fertility groups differ for total and progressive motility and in the abnormality degree of the chromatin structure (P < 0.05). A backward, stepwise, multiple regression analysis was applied to define a model with high relation between in vivo (e.g., ERCR) and in vitro (i.e., semen quality and DE-miRNA) fertility data. The analysis produced two models that accounted for more than 78% of the variation of ERCR (CG: R2 = 0.88; HQS: R2 = 0.78), identifying a suitable combination of parameters useful to predict bull fertility. The predictive equation on CG samples included eight variables: four kinetic parameters and four DNA integrity indicators. For the HQS fraction, the predictive equation included five variables: three kinetic parameters and two DNA integrity indicators. A significant relationship was observed between real and predicted fertility in CG (R2 = 0.88) and HQS fraction (R2 = 0.82). We identified 15 differentially expressed miRNAs between high- and low-fertility bulls, nine of which are known (miR-2285n, miR-378, miR-423-3p, miR-191, miR-2904, miR-378c, miR-431, miR-486, miR-2478) while the remaining are novel. The multidimensional preference analysis model partially separates bulls according to their fertility, clustering three semen quality variable groups relative to motility, DNA integrity, and viability. A positive association between field fertility, semen quality parameters, and specific miRNAs was revealed. The integrated approach could provide a model for bull selection in AI centers, increasing the reproductive efficiency of livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Turri
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Emanuele Capra
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Barbara Lazzari
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Paola Cremonesi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Alessandra Stella
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Flavia Pizzi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology, National Research Council (IBBA-CNR), Lodi, Italy
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Sellem E, Marthey S, Rau A, Jouneau L, Bonnet A, Le Danvic C, Guyonnet B, Kiefer H, Jammes H, Schibler L. Dynamics of cattle sperm sncRNAs during maturation, from testis to ejaculated sperm. Epigenetics Chromatin 2021; 14:24. [PMID: 34030709 PMCID: PMC8146655 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-021-00397-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During epididymal transit, spermatozoa go through several functional maturation steps, resulting from interactions with epididymal secretomes specific to each region. In particular, the sperm membrane is under constant remodeling, with sequential attachment and shedding of various molecules provided by the epididymal lumen fluid and epididymosomes, which also deliver sncRNA cargo to sperm. As a result, the payload of sperm sncRNAs changes during the transit from the epididymis caput to the cauda. This work was designed to study the dynamics of cattle sperm sncRNAs from spermatogenesis to final maturation. Results Comprehensive catalogues of sperm sncRNAs were obtained from testicular parenchyma, epididymal caput, corpus and cauda, as well as ejaculated semen from three Holstein bulls. The primary cattle sncRNA sperm content is markedly remodeled as sperm mature along the epididymis. Expression of piRNAs, which are abundant in testis parenchyma, decreases dramatically at epididymis. Conversely, sperm progressively acquires miRNAs, rsRNAs, and tsRNAs along epididymis, with regional specificities. For instance, miRNAs and tsRNAs are enriched in epididymis cauda and ejaculated sperm, while rsRNA expression peaks at epididymis corpus. In addition, epididymis corpus contains mainly 20 nt long piRNAs, instead of 30 nt in all other locations. Beyond the bulk differences in abundance of sncRNAs classes, K-means clustering was performed to study their spatiotemporal expression profile, highlighting differences in specific sncRNAs and providing insights into their putative biological role at each maturation stage. For instance, Gene Ontology analyses using miRNA targets highlighted enriched processes such as cell cycle regulation, response to stress and ubiquitination processes in testicular parenchyma, protein metabolism in epididymal sperm, and embryonic morphogenesis in ejaculated sperm. Conclusions Our findings confirm that the sperm sncRNAome does not simply reflect a legacy of spermatogenesis. Instead, sperm sncRNA expression shows a remarkable level of plasticity resulting probably from the combination of multiple factors such as loss of the cytoplasmic droplet, interaction with epididymosomes, and more surprisingly, the putative in situ production and/or modification of sncRNAs by sperm. Given the suggested role of sncRNA in epigenetic trans-generational inheritance, our detailed spatiotemporal analysis may pave the way for a study of sperm sncRNAs role in embryo development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13072-021-00397-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli Sellem
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France.
| | - Sylvain Marthey
- AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,INRAE, MaIAGE, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Andrea Rau
- AgroParisTech, INRAE, GABI, Université Paris-Saclay, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France.,BioEcoAgro Joint Research Unit, INRAE, Université de Liège, Université de Lille, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Estrées-Mons, France
| | - Luc Jouneau
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Aurelie Bonnet
- R&D Department, ALLICE, 149 rue de Bercy, 75012, Paris, France
| | | | - Benoît Guyonnet
- R&D Department, Union Evolution, rue Eric Tabarly, 35538, Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France
| | - Hélène Kiefer
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Hélène Jammes
- UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Université Paris Saclay, 78350, Jouy en Josas, France.,Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire D'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
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Li H, Li L, Lin C, Hu M, Liu X, Wang L, Le F, Jin F. Decreased miR-149 expression in sperm is correlated with the quality of early embryonic development in conventional in vitro fertilization. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 101:28-32. [PMID: 33610732 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
miRNAs play a critical role in the regulation of highly orchestrated gene expression profiles during spermatogenesis and early human embryonic development. However, there is much less information available on the effects of sperm-borne miRNAs on human embryonic development than on spermatogenesis. This study was designed to assess the relationship between two sperm-borne miRNAs (miR-34c and miR-149) and preimplantation embryo development in conventional in vitro fertilization treatment. A positive correlation was seen between a decreased level of miR-149 and a higher percentage of good-quality embryos on day 3 in conventional in vitro fertilization treatment (P < 0.0001), but no correlation was seen between miR-34c and a higher percentage of good-quality embryos (P = 0.1084). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis and logistic regression analysis showed that sperm-borne miR-149 with decreased expression was significantly associated with a high rate of good-quality embryos (area under the curve 0.781) (odds ratio: 0.078, 95 % confidence interval: 0.024-0.259, P < 0.0001). Our results demonstrate that the expression profile of miR-149 with significantly decreased expression could be used as a first indication of early embryonic development and may provide novel insight into the biological background of idiopathic infertile males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongping Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lejun Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chuanping Lin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Minhao Hu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaozhen Liu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liya Wang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fang Le
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fan Jin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, China.
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Sperm Methylome Profiling Can Discern Fertility Levels in the Porcine Biomedical Model. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052679. [PMID: 33800945 PMCID: PMC7961483 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A combined Genotyping By Sequencing (GBS) and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) protocol was used to identify—in parallel—genetic variation (Genomic-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and epigenetic differences of Differentially Methylated Regions (DMR) in the genome of spermatozoa from the porcine animal model. Breeding boars with good semen quality (n = 11) and specific and well-documented differences in fertility (farrowing rate, FR) and prolificacy (litter size, LS) (n = 7) in artificial insemination programs, using combined FR and LS, were categorized as High Fertile (HF, n = 4) or Low Fertile (LF, n = 3), and boars with Unknown Fertility (UF, n = 4) were tested for eventual epigenetical similarity with those fertility-proven. We identified 165,944 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) that explained 14–15% of variance among selection lines. Between HF and LF individuals (n = 7, 4 HF and 3 LF), we identified 169 SNPs with p ≤ 0.00015, which explained 58% of the variance. For the epigenetic analyses, we considered fertility and period of ejaculate collection (late-summer and mid-autumn). Approximately three times more DMRs were observed in HF than in LF boars across these periods. Interestingly, UF boars were clearly clustered with one of the other HF or LF groups. The highest differences in DMRs between HF and LF experimental groups across the pig genome were located in the chr 3, 9, 13, and 16, with most DMRs being hypermethylated in LF boars. In both HF and LF boars, DMRs were mostly hypermethylated in late-summer compared to mid-autumn. Three overlaps were detected between SNPs (p ≤ 0.0005, n = 1318) and CpG sites within DMRs. In conclusion, fertility levels in breeding males including FR and LS can be discerned using methylome analyses. The findings in this biomedical animal model ought to be applied besides sire selection for andrological diagnosis of idiopathic sub/infertility.
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Zhang R, Zuo Y, Cao S. Upregulated microRNA-423-5p promotes oxidative stress through targeting glutathione S-transferase mu 1 in asthenozoospermia. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:158-166. [PMID: 33507590 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays an important role in asthenozoospermia. This study evaluated the sperm microRNA-423-5p (miR-423-5p) expression in asthenozoospermia and normozoospermia, exploring the role of miR-423-5p in asthenozoospermia. Eighty participants were divided into asthenozoospermic (AZS, n = 40) and normozoospermic (Norm, n = 40) groups. Fresh semen samples were collected and the sperm cells were separated. Quantitative Real-Time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the sperm miR-423-5p level. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was employed to test the diagnostic performance of miR-423-5p in asthenospermia. Dual-reporter luciferase assay was adopted to confirm the target gene of miR-423-5p. The target gene level in asthenozoospermia and normozoospermia was measured, and the biological function of target gene in asthenozoospermia was evaluated. Results showed that the miR-423-5p expression level in the AZS group was higher than that in Norm group, which was positively correlated with the severity of asthenozoospermia. ROC analysis of miR-423-5p showed an area under curve (AUC) of 0.69 (95% confidence interval = 0.57-0.80, p <0 .01), with 80% sensitivity and 60% specificity. Glutathione S-transferase mu 1 (GSTM1) is a target gene of miR-423-5p, which significantly decreased in the AZS group. Compared with Norm group, glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level decreased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) level increased in the AZS group. Furthermore, GST activity and TAC level were negatively correlated with miR-423-5p expression, while MDA level was positively correlated with miR-423-5p expression. In conclusion, the sperm miR-423-5p level significantly was upregulated in asthenozoospermia. High-level miR-423-5p inhibited sperm motility through targeting GSTM1 to promote oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongxue Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huai'an Maternity and Child Health Care Center, Huai'an, China
| | - Yanghua Zuo
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huai'an Maternity and Child Health Care Center, Huai'an, China
| | - Senyang Cao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huai'an Maternity and Child Health Care Center, Huai'an, China
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40
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Gòdia M, Reverter A, González-Prendes R, Ramayo-Caldas Y, Castelló A, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Sánchez A, Clop A. A systems biology framework integrating GWAS and RNA-seq to shed light on the molecular basis of sperm quality in swine. Genet Sel Evol 2020; 52:72. [PMID: 33292187 PMCID: PMC7724732 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-020-00592-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic pressure in animal breeding is sparking the interest of breeders for selecting elite boars with higher sperm quality to optimize ejaculate doses and fertility rates. However, the molecular basis of sperm quality is not yet fully understood. Our aim was to identify candidate genes, pathways and DNA variants associated to sperm quality in swine by analysing 25 sperm-related phenotypes and integrating genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and RNA-seq under a systems biology framework. RESULTS By GWAS, we identified 12 quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated to the percentage of head and neck abnormalities, abnormal acrosomes and motile spermatozoa. Candidate genes included CHD2, KATNAL2, SLC14A2 and ABCA1. By RNA-seq, we identified a wide repertoire of mRNAs (e.g. PRM1, OAZ3, DNAJB8, TPPP2 and TNP1) and miRNAs (e.g. ssc-miR-30d, ssc-miR-34c, ssc-miR-30c-5p, ssc-miR-191, members of the let-7 family and ssc-miR-425-5p) with functions related to sperm biology. We detected 6128 significant correlations (P-value ≤ 0.05) between sperm traits and mRNA abundances. By expression (e)GWAS, we identified three trans-expression QTL involving the genes IQCJ, ACTR2 and HARS. Using the GWAS and RNA-seq data, we built a gene interaction network. We considered that the genes and interactions that were present in both the GWAS and RNA-seq networks had a higher probability of being actually involved in sperm quality and used them to build a robust gene interaction network. In addition, in the final network we included genes with RNA abundances correlated with more than four semen traits and miRNAs interacting with the genes on the network. The final network was enriched for genes involved in gamete generation and development, meiotic cell cycle, DNA repair or embryo implantation. Finally, we designed a panel of 73 SNPs based on the GWAS, eGWAS and final network data, that explains between 5% (for sperm cell concentration) and 36% (for percentage of neck abnormalities) of the phenotypic variance of the sperm traits. CONCLUSIONS By applying a systems biology approach, we identified genes that potentially affect sperm quality and constructed a SNP panel that explains a substantial part of the phenotypic variance for semen quality in our study and that should be tested in other swine populations to evaluate its relevance for the pig breeding sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gòdia
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Antonio Reverter
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, 306 Carmody Rd., St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD, 4067, Australia
| | - Rayner González-Prendes
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University & Research, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yuliaxis Ramayo-Caldas
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Program, Institute for Research and Technology in Food and Agriculture (IRTA), Torre Marimon, 08140, Caldes de Montbui, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Anna Castelló
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Unit of Animal Science, Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joan-Enric Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Armand Sánchez
- Unit of Animal Science, Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alex Clop
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. .,Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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41
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Zhou W, Dimitriadis E. Secreted MicroRNA to Predict Embryo Implantation Outcome: From Research to Clinical Diagnostic Application. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:586510. [PMID: 33072767 PMCID: PMC7537741 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.586510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation failure is considered a leading cause of infertility and a significant bottleneck for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Confirmed factors that lead to implantation failure involve unhealthy embryos, unreceptive endometrium, and asynchronous development and communication between the two. The quality of embryos is further dependent on sperm parameters, oocyte quality, and early embryo development after fertilization. The extensive involvement of such different factors contributes to the variability of implantation potential across different menstrual cycles. An ideal approach to predict the implantation outcome should not compromise embryo implantation. The use of clinical material, including follicular fluid, cumulus cells, sperm, seminal exosomes, spent blastocyst culture medium, blood, and uterine fluid, that can be collected relatively non-invasively without compromising embryo implantation in a transfer cycle opens new perspectives for the diagnosis of embryo implantation potential. Compositional comparison of these samples between fertile women and women or couples with implantation failure has identified both quantitative and qualitative differences in the expression of microRNAs (miRs) that hold diagnostic potential for implantation failure. Here, we review current findings of secreted miRs that have been identified to potentially be useful in predicting implantation outcome using material that can be collected relatively non-invasively. Developing non-invasive biomarkers of implantation potential would have a major impact on implantation failure and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Nätt D, Öst A. Male reproductive health and intergenerational metabolic responses from a small RNA perspective. J Intern Med 2020; 288:305-320. [PMID: 32415866 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The world has recently experienced a decline in male reproductive (e.g. sperm counts and motility) and metabolic (e.g. obesity and diabetes) health. Accumulated evidence from animal models also shows that the metabolic health of the father may influence the metabolic health in his offspring. Vectors for such paternal intergenerational metabolic responses (IGMRs) involve small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) that often increase in spermatozoa during the last days of maturation in the epididymis. We and others have shown that the metabolic state - depending on factors such as diet, obesity and physical exercise - may affect sperm quality and sperm sncRNA. Together, this suggests that there are overlapping aetiologies between the male metabolic syndrome, male factor infertility and intergenerational responses. In this review, we present a theoretical framework for an overlap of these aetiologies by exploring the advances in our understanding of the roles of sncRNA in spermatogenesis and offspring development. A special focus will lie on novel findings about tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), rRNA-derived small RNA (rsRNA) and small mitochondrial RNA (mitoRNA), and their emerging roles in intergenerational metabolic and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nätt
- From the, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - A Öst
- From the, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
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Wang S, Tao R, Ming T, Wang M, Liu J, He G, Zou X, Wang Z, Hou Y. Expression profile analysis and stability evaluation of 18 small RNAs in the Chinese Han population. Electrophoresis 2020; 41:2021-2028. [PMID: 32770750 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202000058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, differentially expressed small RNAs have been widely used to identify the compositions of forensically relevant biological samples, and a vast number of such RNA candidates have been proposed. Nevertheless, when assessing the expression levels of target small RNAs using relative quantitative analysis methods, credible internal controls are usually required for reliable data normalization. Therefore, the identification of optimal reference genes is an important task. In this study, the expression profile of 18 small RNA reference genes was characterized in the Chinese Han population using TaqMan real-time quantitative PCR. Systematic evaluations of these candidate genes were performed based on their expression levels and stability in several common types of body fluids (i.e., venous blood, menstrual blood, saliva, semen, and vaginal secretions). Analysis results from the ΔCq method, BestKeeper, NormFinder, and geNorm were integrated by RefFinder for ranking and comparing the candidates in each type of body fluid. Among all the candidates, miR-191 was identified as the most suitable reference gene because it had a favorable ranking value in all tested samples. In addition, miR-423, miR-93, miR-484, and let-7i were also shown to be applicable reference genes. Overall, this study provides detailed assessment results of these candidate genes in different body fluids; thus, it could be used as a guide for the selection of reference genes according to their performance in the sample of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shouyu Wang
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Ruiyang Tao
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Tianyue Ming
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Mengge Wang
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Jing Liu
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Guanglin He
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Xing Zou
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yiping Hou
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, P. R. China
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James ER, Carrell DT, Aston KI, Jenkins TG, Yeste M, Salas-Huetos A. The Role of the Epididymis and the Contribution of Epididymosomes to Mammalian Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5377. [PMID: 32751076 PMCID: PMC7432785 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well-established that testicular spermatozoa are immature and acquire motility and fertilization capabilities during transit throughout the epididymis. The epididymis is a duct-like organ that connects the testis to the vas deferens and is comprised of four anatomical regions: the initial segment, caput, corpus, and cauda. Sperm maturation occurs during epididymal transit by the interaction of sperm cells with the unique luminal environment of each epididymal region. In this review we discuss the epididymis as an essential reproductive organ responsible for sperm concentration, maturation (including sperm motility acquisition and fertilizing ability), protection and storage. Importantly, we also discuss specific characteristics and roles of epididymal-derived exosomes (epididymosomes) in establishing sperm competency within the intricate process of reproduction. This review suggests that an increasing body of evidence is working to develop a complete picture of the role of the epididymis in male reproduction, offspring health, and disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R. James
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Douglas T. Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
| | - Timothy G. Jenkins
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA;
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
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