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Faja F, Pallotti F, Bianchini S, Buonacquisto A, Cicolani G, Conflitti AC, Fracella M, Cavallari EN, Sciarra F, Pierangeli A, Paoli D, Lenzi A, Antonelli G, Lombardo F, Gianfrilli D. Molecular study of the presence and transcriptional activity of HPV in semen. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:557-570. [PMID: 37584897 PMCID: PMC10904563 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02167-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in semen represents a controversial topic. Recent evidence suggests a correlation with poor semen quality, but its detection is still unstandardized in this biological fluid. Thus, the aims of this study were to verify the ability of nested PCR to reveal HPV-DNA in semen; to evaluate association of seminal HPV with sperm parameters and risk factors for infection; to investigate the rate of HPV-DNA positivity in patients with and without risk factors; to assess HPV transcriptional activity. METHODS We enrolled sexually active men and collected clinical and anamnestic data during andrological and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) evaluation. For each patient, we performed semen analysis and nested PCR to detect HPV-DNA in semen. In positive semen samples, we proceeded with genotyping and RNA quantification to detect HPV transcriptional activity. RESULTS We enrolled 185 men (36.0 ± 8.3 years), of which 85 with (Group A) and 100 without HPV risk factors (Group B). Nested PCR was able to reveal HPV-DNA in semen, discovering a prevalence of 8.6% (11.8% in Group A and 6% in Group B, respectively). We observed no correlation between sperm quality and seminal HPV. Genital warts and previous anogenital infection were significantly associated with the risk of HPV positivity in semen. Moreover, no viral transcriptional activity was detected in positive semen samples. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that searching for seminal HPV could be important in patients both with and without risk factors, especially in assisted reproduction where the risk of injecting sperm carrying HPV-DNA is possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Faja
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - F Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna "Kore", 94100, Enna, Italy
| | - S Bianchini
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Buonacquisto
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - G Cicolani
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A C Conflitti
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - M Fracella
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - E N Cavallari
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - F Sciarra
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - A Pierangeli
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - D Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - A Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - G Antonelli
- Laboratory of Microbiology and Virology, Department of Molecular Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - F Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology - "Loredana Gandini" Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - D Gianfrilli
- Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Neto FTL, Viana MC, Cariati F, Conforti A, Alviggi C, Esteves SC. Effect of environmental factors on seminal microbiome and impact on sperm quality. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1348186. [PMID: 38455659 PMCID: PMC10918436 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1348186] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing research on the seminal microbiome and its association with male infertility, while also highlighting areas that warrant further investigation. Methods A narrative review was conducted, encompassing all relevant studies published between 1980-2023 on the male reproductive tract microbiome in humans. This review considered studies utilizing culture-based, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based, and next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based methodologies to analyze the microbiome. Data extraction encompassed sample types (semen or testicular tissue), study designs, participant characteristics, employed techniques, and critical findings. Results We included 37 studies comprising 9,310 participants. Among these, 16 studies used culture-based methods, 16 utilized NGS, and five employed a combination of methods for microorganism identification. Notably, none of the studies assessed fungi or viruses. All NGS-based studies identified the presence of bacteria in all semen samples. Two notable characteristics of the seminal microbiome were observed: substantial variability in species composition among individuals and the formation of microbial communities with a dominant species. Studies examining the testicular microbiome revealed that the testicular compartment is not sterile. Interestingly, sexually active couples shared 56% of predominant genera, and among couples with positive cultures in both partners, 61% of them shared at least one genital pathogen. In couples with infertility of known causes, there was an overlap in bacterial composition between the seminal and vaginal microbiomes, featuring an increased prevalence of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus genera. Furthermore, the seminal microbiome had discernible effects on reproductive outcomes. However, bacteria in IVF culture media did not seem to impact pregnancy rates. Conclusion Existing literature underscores that various genera of bacteria colonize the male reproductive tract. These organisms do not exist independently; instead, they play a pivotal role in regulating functions and maintaining hemostasis. Future research should prioritize longitudinal and prospective studies and investigations into the influence of infertility causes and commonly prescribed medication to enhance our understanding of the seminal microbiota's role in reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marina C. Viana
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Federica Cariati
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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3
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Garolla A, Graziani A, Grande G, Ortolani C, Ferlin A. HPV-related diseases in male patients: an underestimated conundrum. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:261-274. [PMID: 37770654 PMCID: PMC10859347 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02192-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted disease, in males and females worldwide. While the role of HPV in female diseases is well known and largely studied, males have negligibly been included in these programs, also because the proportion of women suffering and dying from HPV-related diseases is much larger than men. The aim of this review is to focus on HPV-related diseases in male patients. METHODS We performed a literature analysis on the electronic database PubMed. We considered randomized trials, observational and retrospective studies, original articles having as topic the relationship between HPV male infection and the following items: oral, anal penile cancers, warts, condylomas, male infertility, altered sperm parameters, anti-sperm antibodies (ASA). We also included experimental in vitro studies focused on the effects of HPV infection on oocyte fertilization, blastocyst development, and trophoblastic cell invasiveness. In addition, studies describing the adjuvant administration of the HPV vaccination as a possible strategy to promote HPV clearance from semen in infected males were included. RESULTS Regarding head and neck HPV-related diseases, the most important non-neoplastic disease is recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). Regarding neoplastic diseases, the proportion of head and neck cancers attributable to HPV has increased dramatically worldwide. In addition, nowadays, it is thought that half of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) cases in the United States are caused by infection with high-risk HPV. HPV is noteworthy in andrological practice too. It was described as having a high HPV prevalence, ranging between 50 and 70%, in male penile shaft, glans penis/coronal sulcus, semen as well as in scrotal, perianal, and anal regions. Moreover, in male patients, HPV infection has been associated, among other diseases, with penile cancers. HPV semen infection has been reported in about 10% in men from the general population and about 16% in men with unexplained infertility, although these data seem widely underestimated according to clinical experience. In particular, HPV semen infection seems to be most related to asthenozoospermia and to anti-sperm antibodies (ASAs). CONCLUSIONS HPV infection represents a health problem with a detrimental social and public impact. Despite this evidence, little has been done to date to widely promote vaccination among young males.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - A Graziani
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - G Grande
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - C Ortolani
- Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - A Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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Salas-Espejo E, Terrón-Camero LC, Ruiz JL, Molina NM, Andrés-León E. Exploring the Microbiome in Human Reproductive Tract: High-Throughput Methods for the Taxonomic Characterization of Microorganisms. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:125-143. [PMID: 38320576 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779025] [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: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms are important due to their widespread presence and multifaceted roles across various domains of life, ecology, and industries. In humans, they underlie the proper functioning of multiple systems crucial to well-being, including immunological and metabolic functions. Emerging research addressing the presence and roles of microorganisms within human reproduction is increasingly relevant. Studies implementing new methodologies (e.g., to investigate vaginal, uterine, and semen microenvironments) can now provide relevant insights into fertility, reproductive health, or pregnancy outcomes. In that sense, cutting-edge sequencing techniques, as well as others such as meta-metabolomics, culturomics, and meta-proteomics, are becoming more popular and accessible worldwide, allowing the characterization of microbiomes at unprecedented resolution. However, they frequently involve rather complex laboratory protocols and bioinformatics analyses, for which researchers may lack the required expertise. A suitable pipeline would successfully enable both taxonomic classification and functional profiling of the microbiome, providing easy-to-understand biological interpretations. However, the selection of an appropriate methodology would be crucial, as it directly impacts the reproducibility, accuracy, and quality of the results and observations. This review focuses on the different current microbiome-related techniques in the context of human reproduction, encompassing niches like vagina, endometrium, and seminal fluid. The most standard and reliable methods are 16S rRNA gene sequencing, metagenomics, and meta-transcriptomics, together with complementary approaches including meta-proteomics, meta-metabolomics, and culturomics. Finally, we also offer case examples and general recommendations about the most appropriate methods and workflows and discuss strengths and shortcomings for each technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Salas-Espejo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Laura C Terrón-Camero
- Bioinformatics Unit, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN), CSIC, Granada, Spain
| | - José L Ruiz
- Bioinformatics Unit, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN), CSIC, Granada, Spain
| | - Nerea M Molina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Eduardo Andrés-León
- Bioinformatics Unit, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN), CSIC, Granada, Spain
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Dass M, Singh Y, Ghai M. A Review on Microbial Species for Forensic Body Fluid Identification in Healthy and Diseased Humans. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:299. [PMID: 37491404 PMCID: PMC10368579 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03413-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Microbial communities present in body fluids can assist in distinguishing between types of body fluids. Metagenomic studies have reported bacterial genera which are core to specific body fluids and are greatly influenced by geographical location and ethnicity. Bacteria in body fluids could also be due to bacterial infection; hence, it would be worthwhile taking into consideration bacterial species associated with diseases. The present review reports bacterial species characteristic of diseased and healthy body fluids across geographical locations, and bacteria described in forensic studies, with the aim of collating a set of bacteria to serve as the core species-specific markers for forensic body fluid identification. The most widely reported saliva-specific bacterial species are Streptococcus salivarius, Prevotella melaninogenica, Neisseria flavescens, with Fusobacterium nucleatum associated with increased diseased state. Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus iners are frequently dominant in the vaginal microbiome of healthy women. Atopobium vaginae, Prevotella bivia, and Gardnerella vaginalis are more prevalent in women with bacterial vaginosis. Semen and urine-specific bacteria at species level have not been reported, and menstrual blood bacteria are indistinguishable from vaginal fluid. Targeting more than one bacterial species is recommended for accurate body fluid identification. Although metagenomic sequencing provides information of a broad microbial profile, the specific bacterial species could be used to design biosensors for rapid body fluid identification. Validation of microbial typing methods and its application in identifying body fluids in a mixed sample would allow regular use of microbial profiling in a forensic workflow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mishka Dass
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X 54001, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
| | - Yashna Singh
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X 54001, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
| | - Meenu Ghai
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Westville Campus, Private Bag X 54001, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
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Zuber A, Peric A, Pluchino N, Baud D, Stojanov M. Human Male Genital Tract Microbiota. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24086939. [PMID: 37108103 PMCID: PMC10139050 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24086939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is vastly colonised by microorganisms, whose impact on health is increasingly recognised. The human genital tract hosts a diverse microbiota, and an increasing number of studies on the male genital tract microbiota suggest that bacteria have a role in male infertility and pathological conditions, such as prostate cancer. Nevertheless, this research field remains understudied. The study of bacterial colonisation of the male genital tract is highly impacted by the invasive nature of sampling and the low abundance of the microbiota. Therefore, most studies relied on the analysis of semen microbiota to describe the colonisation of the male genital tract (MGT), which was thought to be sterile. The aim of this narrative review is to present the results of studies that used next-generation sequencing (NGS) to profile the bacterial colonisation patterns of different male genital tract anatomical compartments and critically highlight their findings and their weaknesses. Moreover, we identified potential research axes that may be crucial for our understanding of the male genital tract microbiota and its impact on male infertility and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnaud Zuber
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Adriana Peric
- 360° Fertility Center Zurich, 8702 Zollikon, Switzerland
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Milos Stojanov
- Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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7
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Webb EM, Holman DB, Schmidt KN, Crouse MS, Dahlen CR, Cushman RA, Snider AP, McCarthy KL, Amat S. A Longitudinal Characterization of the Seminal Microbiota and Antibiotic Resistance in Yearling Beef Bulls Subjected to Different Rates of Gain. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0518022. [PMID: 36916922 PMCID: PMC10100376 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.05180-22] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the seminal and fecal microbiota in yearling beef bulls fed a common diet to achieve moderate (1.13 kg/day) or high (1.80 kg/day) rates of weight gain. Semen samples were collected on days 0 and 112 of dietary intervention (n = 19/group) as well as postbreeding (n = 6/group) using electroejaculation, and the microbiota was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, quantitative PCR (qPCR), and culturing. The fecal microbiota was also evaluated, and its similarity with seminal microbiota was assessed. A subset of seminal bacterial isolates (n = 33) was screened for resistance against 28 antibiotics. A complex and dynamic microbiota was detected in bovine semen, and the community structure was affected by sampling time (R2 = 0.16, P < 0.001). Microbial richness increased significantly from day 0 to day 112, and diversity increased after breeding (P > 0.05). Seminal microbiota remained unaffected by the differential rates of gain, and its overall composition was distinct from fecal microbiota, with only 6% of the taxa shared between them. A total of 364 isolates from 49 different genera were recovered under aerobic and anaerobic culturing. Among these seminal isolates were pathogenic species and those resistant to several antibiotics. Overall, our results suggest that bovine semen harbors a rich and complex microbiota which changes over time and during the breeding season but appears to be resilient to differential gains achieved via a common diet. Seminal microbiota is distinct from the fecal microbiota and harbors potentially pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacterial species. IMPORTANCE Increasing evidence from human and other animal species supports the existence of a commensal microbiota in semen and that this seminal microbiota may influence not only sperm quality and fertility but also female reproduction. Seminal microbiota in bulls and its evolution and factors shaping this community, however, remain largely underexplored. In this study, we characterized the seminal microbiota of yearling beef bulls and its response to the bull age, different weight gains, and mating activity. We compared bacterial composition between seminal and fecal microbiota and evaluated the diversity of culturable seminal bacteria and their antimicrobial resistance. Our results obtained from sequencing, culturing, and antibiotic susceptibility testing provide novel information on the taxonomic composition, evolution, and factors shaping the seminal microbiota of yearling beef bulls. This information will serve as an important basis for further understanding of the seminal microbiome and its involvement in reproductive health and fertility in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily M. Webb
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Devin B. Holman
- Lacombe Research and Development Centre, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lacombe, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kaycie N. Schmidt
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Matthew S. Crouse
- USDA, Agriculture Research Service, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, Nebraska, USA
| | - Carl R. Dahlen
- Department of Animal Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Robert A. Cushman
- USDA, Agriculture Research Service, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, Nebraska, USA
| | - Alexandria P. Snider
- USDA, Agriculture Research Service, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, Nebraska, USA
| | - Kacie L. McCarthy
- Department of Animal Sciences, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Samat Amat
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
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8
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Mirzaei R, Kavyani B, Nabizadeh E, Kadkhoda H, Asghari Ozma M, Abdi M. Microbiota metabolites in the female reproductive system: Focused on the short-chain fatty acids. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14562. [PMID: 36967966 PMCID: PMC10031489 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Several disorders have been linked to modifications in the gut microbial imbalance, intestinal epithelium, and host immune system. In this regard, microbiota derived short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play a key function in the regulation of histone deacetylases (HDACs), which affect modulation of immunity and regulation of inflammatory responses in the intestine and other organs. Studies examining the metabolites produced by polymicrobial bacterial vaginosis (BV) states and Lactobacillus-dominated microbiota have noted a dramatic reduction of lactic acid and a shift toward SCFA synthesis. Along with higher levels of SCFAs, acetate is typically the main metabolite in the cervicovaginal fluid of women with symptomatic bacterial vaginosis. The fact that SCFAs made by the vaginal microbiota have been shown to exhibit antibacterial and immune-modulating properties suggests that they may have promise as indicators of disease and/or disease susceptibility. In this review, we overview and summarize the current findings on the detrimental or protective roles of microbiota metabolites especially SCFAs in the health and disease of the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasoul Mirzaei
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Batoul Kavyani
- Department of Medical Microbiology (Bacteriology & Virology), Afzalipour Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Edris Nabizadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hiva Kadkhoda
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Asghari Ozma
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Milad Abdi
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Corresponding author.
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9
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Pereira NM, Martins EAC, Quintela MG, da Cunha AA, dos Santos MM, Waisberg J. Presence of HPV in prostate tissue from patients submitted to prostate biopsy. Acta Cir Bras 2023; 37:e371205. [PMID: 36651430 PMCID: PMC9839154 DOI: 10.1590/acb371205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most frequent cancer among men in the Western population. Infections, such as the one caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), have been shown to promote inflammation that can lead to the appearance of neoplasms. This study aimed to verify the presence of HPV in neoplastic and non-neoplastic prostate tissue in patients undergoing prostate biopsy and its possible relationship with PCa. METHODS Prostate tissue fragments were collected by prostate biopsy and subjected to polymerase chain reaction with primers for the HPV L1 gene to identify the presence of the virus. RESULTS Among 162 patients, 10 (6.2%) had HPV and in 152 (93.8%) HPV was not identified in prostate biopsies. HPV was detected in 7/95 (7.4%) of patients with PCa, in 2/55 (3.6%) of patients without PCa, and in no patient with an inconclusive diagnosis of PCa. There was no significant difference (p = 0.487) of HPV presence in the tissue of patients with PCa. CONCLUSIONS There were no significant levels of HPV L1 protein in prostate tissue. The findings suggest the absence of HPV oncogenic activity in the prostate tissue of patients with PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nalisson Marques Pereira
- MSc, associate professor. Universidade Federal do Amapá – Department of Medicine – Macapá (AP), Brazil.,Corresponding author:
- (55 96) 988015303
| | | | - Mateus Goes Quintela
- MSc. Universidade Federal do Amapá – Department of Medicine – Macapá (AP), Brazil
| | - Arthur Arantes da Cunha
- Graduate student. Universidade Federal do Amapá – Department of Medicine – Macapá (AP), Brazil
| | | | - Jaques Waisberg
- PhD, full professor. Faculdade de Medicina do ABC – Department of Surgery – Santo André (SP), Brazil
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Contreras MJ, Núñez-Montero K, Bruna P, Zárate A, Pezo F, García M, Leal K, Barrientos L. Mammals' sperm microbiome: current knowledge, challenges, and perspectives on metagenomics of seminal samples. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1167763. [PMID: 37138598 PMCID: PMC10149849 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1167763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial growth is highly detrimental to sperm quality and functionality. However, during the last few years, using sequencing techniques with a metagenomic approach, it has been possible to deepen the study of bacteria-sperm relationships and describe non-culturable species and synergistic and antagonistic relationships between the different species in mammalian animals. We compile the recent metagenomics studies performed on mammalian semen samples and provide updated evidence to understand the importance of the microbial communities in the results of sperm quality and sperm functionality of males, looking for future perspectives on how these technologies can collaborate in the development of andrological knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Contreras
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Kattia Núñez-Montero
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Temuco, Chile
| | - Pablo Bruna
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Ana Zárate
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Felipe Pezo
- Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Facultad de Recursos Naturales y Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Santo Tomás, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías García
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Karla Leal
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Leticia Barrientos
- Extreme Environments Biotechnology Lab, Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- *Correspondence: Leticia Barrientos,
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de Albuquerque BHDR, de Oliveira MTFC, Aderaldo JF, de Medeiros Garcia Torres M, Lanza DCF. Human seminal virome: a panel based on recent literature. Basic Clin Androl 2022; 32:16. [PMID: 36064315 PMCID: PMC9444275 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00165-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The seminal virome and its implications for fertility remain poorly understood. To date, there are no defined panels for the detection of viruses of clinical interest in seminal samples. Results In this study, we characterized the human seminal virome based on more than 1,000 studies published over the last five years. Conclusions The number of studies investigating viruses that occur in human semen has increased, and to date, these studies have been mostly prospective or related to specific clinical findings. Through the joint analysis of all these studies, we have listed the viruses related to the worsening of seminal parameters and propose a new panel with the main viruses already described that possibly affect male fertility and health. This panel can assist in evaluating semen quality and serve as a tool for investigation in cases of infertility.
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Assessing the Cervicovaginal Microbiota in the Context of hrHPV Infections: Temporal Dynamics and Therapeutic Strategies. mBio 2022; 13:e0161922. [PMID: 35980030 PMCID: PMC9600249 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01619-22] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the third leading cause of female cancers globally, resulting in more than 300,000 deaths every year. The majority of all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infections with high-risk human papillomaviruses (hrHPV) that can progress to cancer via a series of premalignant lesions. Most women, however, clear this infection within a year, concomitant with disease regression. Both hrHPV clearance and disease regression have been associated with the composition of the cervicovaginal microenvironment, which is defined by the host immune system and the cervicovaginal microbiome (CVM). A healthy microbiome is generally characterized by a high abundance of Lactobacillus species, and a change in the composition may cause bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is associated with an increased susceptibility to persistent hrHPV infections and disease. In this review, the composition of the CVM is discussed, with emphasis on the possible causes that drive changes in the cervicovaginal microbiota in relation to hrHPV infections, disease progression, and disease regression. The literature search focused on the composition of the CVM and its correlation with hrHPV infections and neoplastic lesions as well as the current efforts to adjust the microbiome against adverse viral outcomes.
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Pérez-Soto E, Medel-Flores MO, Fernández-Martínez E, Oros-Pantoja R, Miranda-Covarrubias JC, Sánchez-Monroy V. High-Risk HPV with Multiple Infections Promotes CYP2E1, Lipoperoxidation and Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in Semen of Asymptomatic Infertile Men. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061051. [PMID: 35739948 PMCID: PMC9219901 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection, followed by chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, is a major risk factor of male infertility. In this study, we explored the potential impact of high-risk (HR) HPV genotypes in single infection (SI) and multiple infections (MI) that promote CYP2E1 expression, oxidative damage and pro-inflammatory cytokines, possibly contributing to sperm damage and male infertility. Semen samples from 101 infertile military men were studied. We analyzed seminal parameters, namely, HPV genotyping, cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), oxidative stress biomarkers (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)), lipid peroxidation (LPO), 8-hydroxiguanosine (8-OHdG) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6 and IL-8). Eighty-one men (80.2%, 81/101) were positive for HPV infection, and MI-HR-HPV was higher than SI-HR-HPV (63% vs. 37%). HPV-52 was the most frequently detected type (18.5%), followed by HPV-33 (11.1%), and the most frequent combination of genotypes detected was HPV-33,52 (11.1%), followed by HPV-18,31 (6.2%). The group with infected samples presented lower normal morphology and antioxidant levels compared to non-infected samples. In concordance, the infected group showed high levels of LPO, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-6 and downregulation of CAT and SOD enzymes. Interestingly, changes in motility B, low levels of TAC, overexpression of CYP2E1, LPO and IL-8 levels were higher in MI-HR-HPV than SI-HR-HPV, suggesting that HPV infection promotes a chronic inflammatory process and a toxic and oxidative microenvironment, which increases with MI-HPV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvia Pérez-Soto
- Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07320, Mexico; (E.P.-S.); (M.O.M.-F.)
| | - María Olivia Medel-Flores
- Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City 07320, Mexico; (E.P.-S.); (M.O.M.-F.)
| | - Eduardo Fernández-Martínez
- Centro de Investigación en Biología de la Reproducción, Área Académica de Medicina del Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca 42090, Mexico;
| | - Rigoberto Oros-Pantoja
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Toluca de Lerdo 50180, Mexico;
| | - José Cruz Miranda-Covarrubias
- Hospital Militar de Especialidades de la Mujer y Neonatología de la Secretaría de la Defensa Nacional, Mexico City 11200, Mexico;
| | - Virginia Sánchez-Monroy
- Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Salvador Díaz Mirón esq. Plan de San Luis S/N, Miguel Hidalgo, Casco de Santo Tomas, Mexico City 11340, Mexico
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-57296000
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El-Sayed A, Aleya L, Kamel M. Microbiota and epigenetics: promising therapeutic approaches? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:49343-49361. [PMID: 34319520 PMCID: PMC8316543 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15623-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The direct/indirect responsibility of the gut microbiome in disease induction in and outside the digestive tract is well studied. These results are usually from the overpopulation of certain species on the cost of others, interaction with beneficial microflora, interference with normal epigenetic control mechanisms, or suppression of the immune system. Consequently, it is theoretically possible to cure such disorders by rebalancing the microbiome inside our bodies. This can be achieved by changing the lifestyle pattern and diet or by supplementation with beneficial bacteria or their metabolites. Various approaches have been explored to manipulate the normal microbial inhabitants, including nutraceutical, supplementations with prebiotics, probiotics, postbiotics, synbiotics, and antibiotics, or through microbiome transplantation (fecal, skin, or vaginal microbiome transplantation). In the present review, the interaction between the microbiome and epigenetics and their role in disease induction is discussed. Possible future therapeutic approaches via the reestablishment of equilibrium in our internal micro-ecosystem are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr El-Sayed
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France
| | - Mohamed Kamel
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
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