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Zhankina R, Zhanbyrbekuly U, Askarov M, Zare A, Jafari N, Saipiyeva D, Sherkhanov R, Akhmetov D, Hashemi A, Farjam M, Tanideh N, Aflatoonian B, Mussin NM, Kaliyev AA, Sultangereyev Y, Baneshi H, Shirazi R, Mahdipour M, Bakhshalizadeh S, Rahmanifar F, Tamadon A. Improving Fertility in Non-obstructive Azoospermia: Results from an Autologous Bone Mar-row-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cell Phase I Clinical Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2024; 18:60-70. [PMID: 39033372 PMCID: PMC11263852 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.2005045.1480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this phase I clinical trial, our primary objective was to develop an innovative therapeutic approach utilizing autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (BM-MSCs) for the treatment of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Additionally, we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of this approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited 80 participants in this non-randomized, open-label clinical trial, including patients undergoing NOA treatment using autologous BM-MSCs (n=40) and those receiving hormone therapy as a control group (n=40). Detailed participant characteristics, such as age, baseline hormonal profiles, etiology of NOA, and medical history, were thoroughly documented. Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network was achieved using microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (microTESE). Semen analysis and hormonal assessments were performed both before and six months after treatment. Additionally, we conducted an in-silico analysis to explore potential protein-protein interactions between exosomes secreted from BM-MSCs and receptors present in human seminiferous tubule cells. RESULTS Our results revealed significant improvements following treatment, including increased testosterone and inhibin B levels, elevated sperm concentration, and reduced levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin. Notably, in nine patients (22.5%) previously diagnosed with secondary infertility and exhibiting azoospermia before treatment, the proposed approach yielded successful outcomes, as indicated by hormonal profile changes over six months. Importantly, these improvements were achieved without complications. Additionally, our in-silico analysis identified potential binding interactions between the protein content of BM-MSC-derived exosomes and receptors integral to spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network using microTESE in NOA patients led to the regeneration of seminiferous tubules and the regulation of hormonal profiles governing spermatogenesis. Our findings support the safety and effectiveness of autologous BM-MSCs as a promising treatment modality for NOA, with a particular focus on the achieved outcomes in patients with secondary infertility (registration number: IRCT20190519043634N1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rano Zhankina
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | | | | | - Afshin Zare
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nazanin Jafari
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Dana Saipiyeva
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Ravil Sherkhanov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Daniyar Akhmetov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Alireza Hashemi
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Farjam
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Nader Tanideh
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
- Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Behrouz Aflatoonian
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Nadiar Maratovich Mussin
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Asset Askerovich Kaliyev
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Yerlan Sultangereyev
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Aktobe Medical Center, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Hanieh Baneshi
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Shirazi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shabnam Bakhshalizadeh
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Farhad Rahmanifar
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amin Tamadon
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Natural Sciences, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan.
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Khanmohammadi N, Malek F, Takzaree N, Malekzadeh M, Khanehzad M, Akanji OD, Rastegar T. Sertoli Cell-Conditioned Medium Induces Differentiation of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Male Germ-Like Cells in Busulfan-Induced Azoospermic Mouse Model. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:375-392. [PMID: 37737972 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01332-7] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia is a severe form of male infertility, with limited effective treatments. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can differentiate to different cell lines; therefore, transplantation of these cells is used for treatment of several diseases. Since these cells require induction factors to differentiate into germ cells, we co-transplanted bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) with Sertoli cell-conditioned medium (SCCM) into the testis of azoospermic mice. This study was carried out in two sections, in vitro and in vivo. For in vitro study, differentiating factors (c-kit and ID4) were examined after 15 days of co-culture of bone marrow cells with Sertoli cell-conditioned medium, while for in vivo study, the azoospermia model was first created by intraperitoneal administration of a single-dose busulfan (40 mg/kg) followed by single-dose CdCl2 (2 mg/kg) after 4 weeks. Mice were divided into 4 groups including control (azoospermia), BMSC, SCCM, and BMSC + SCCM. Eight weeks after transplantation, samples were assessed for proliferation and differentiation via the expression level of MVH, ID4, SCP3, Tp1, Tp2, and Prm1 differentiation markers. The results showed that BMSC co-cultured with SCCM in vitro differentiated BMSC to germ-like cells. Similarly, in vivo studies revealed a higher level of BMSC differentiation into germ-like cells with significant higher expression of differentiation markers in transplanted groups compared to the control. This study confirmed the role of SCCM as an inductive factor for BMSC differentiation to germ cells both in vivo and in vitro conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Khanmohammadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Malek
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Takzaree
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrnoush Malekzadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Tayebeh Rastegar
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bashghareh A, Rastegar T, Modarresi P, Kazemzadeh S, Salem M, Hedayatpour A. Recovering Spermatogenesis By Protected Cryopreservation Using Metformin and Transplanting Spermatogonial Stem Cells Into Testis in an Azoospermia Mouse Model. Biopreserv Biobank 2024; 22:68-81. [PMID: 37582284 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2022.0178] [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: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation and transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) may serve as a new method to restore male fertility in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy. However, SSCs may be damaged during cryopreservation due to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, different antioxidants have been used as protective agents. Studies have shown that metformin (MET) has antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to assess the antioxidant and antiapoptotic effects of MET in frozen-thawed SSCs. In addition, the effect of MET on the proliferation and differentiation of SSCs was evaluated. To this end, SSCs were isolated from mouse pups aged 3-6 days old, cultured, identified by flow cytometry (ID4, INTEGRIN β1+), and finally evaluated for survival and ROS rate. SSCs were transplanted after busulfan and cadmium treatment. Cryopreserved SSCs with and without MET were transplanted after 1 month of cryopreservation. Eight weeks after transplantation, the recipient testes were evaluated for the expression of apoptosis (BAX, BCL2), proliferation (PLZF), and differentiation (SCP3, TP1, TP2, PRM1) markers using immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The findings revealed that the survival rate of SSCs was higher in the 500 μm/mL MET group compared to the other groups (50 and 5000 μm/mL). MET significantly decreased the intracellular ROS production. Transplantation of SSCs increased the expression level of proliferation (PLZF) and differentiation (SCP3, TP1, TP2, PRM1) markers compared to azoospermia group, and their levels were significantly higher in the MET group compared to the cryopreservation group containing basic freezing medium (p < 0.05). MET increased the survival rate of SSCs, proliferation, and differentiation and decreased the ROS production and the apoptosis rate. Cryopreservation by MET seems to be effective in treating infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alieh Bashghareh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Rastegar
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Modarresi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar, Iran
| | - Shokoofeh Kazemzadeh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Shoushtar University of Medical Sciences, Shoushtar, Iran
| | - Maryam Salem
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azim Hedayatpour
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Liakath Ali F, Park HS, Beckman A, Eddy AC, Alkhrait S, Ghasroldasht MM, Al-Hendy A, Raheem O. Fertility Protection, A Novel Concept: Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Protect against Chemotherapy-Induced Testicular Cytotoxicity. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:60. [PMID: 38203232 PMCID: PMC10779299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010060] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is no viable option for fertility preservation in prepubertal boys. Experimentally, controlled vitrification of testicular tissue has been evaluated and found to cause potential structural damage to the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche during cryopreservation. In this report, we leveraged the regenerative effect of human umbilical cord-derived Mesenchymal stem cell exosomes (h-UCMSC-Exo) to protect against testicular damage from the cytotoxic effects of polychemotherapy (CTX). A chemotherapy-induced testicular dysfunctional model was established by CTX treatment with cyclophosphamide and Busulfan in vitro (human Sertoli cells) and in prepubescent mice. We assessed the effects of the exosomes by analyzing cell proliferation assays, molecular analysis, immunohistochemistry, body weight change, serum hormone levels, and fertility rate. Our data indicates the protective effect of h-UCMSC-Exo by preserving the SSC niche and preventing testicular damage in mice. Interestingly, mice that received multiple injections of h-UCMSC-Exo showed significantly higher fertility rates and serum testosterone levels (p < 0.01). Our study demonstrates that h-UCMSC-Exo can potentially be a novel fertility protection approach in prepubertal boys triaged for chemotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzana Liakath Ali
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | - Hang-Soo Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | - Analea Beckman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | - Adrian C. Eddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | - Samar Alkhrait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | | | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
| | - Omer Raheem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; (F.L.A.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
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Kaushik A, Metkari SM, Ali S, Bhartiya D. Preventing/Reversing Adverse Effects of Endocrine Disruption on Mouse Testes by Normalizing Tissue Resident VSELs. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2525-2540. [PMID: 37561284 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive health of men is declining in today's world due to increased developmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). We earlier reported that neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption resulted in reduced numbers of seminiferous tubules in Stage VIII, decreased sperm count, and infertility along with testicular tumors in 65% of diethylstilbestrol (DES) treated mice. Epigenetic changes due to EDCs, pushed the VSELs out of a quiescent state to enter cell cycle and undergo excessive self-renewal while transition of c-KIT- stem cells into c-KIT + germ cells was blocked due to altered MMR axis (Np95, Pcna, Dnmts), global hypomethylation (reduced expression of 5-methylcytosine) and loss of imprinting at Igf2-H19 and Dlk1-Meg3 loci. The present study was undertaken to firstly show similar defects in FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated testis and to further explore the reversal of these testicular pathologies by (i) oral administration of XAR (a nano-formulation of resveratrol) or (ii) inter-tubular transplantation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Similar defects as reported earlier in the testes were evident, based on RNAseq data, on FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated mice. Both strategies were found effective, improved spermatogenesis, increased number of tubules in Stage VIII, normalized numbers of VSELs and c-KIT + cells, improved epigenetic status of VSELs to restore quiescent state, and reduced cancer incidence from 65% after DES to 13.33% and 20% after XAR treatment or MSCs transplantation respectively. Results provide a basis for initiating clinical studies and the study falls under the umbrella of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - S M Metkari
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Subhan Ali
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Lower Parel, Mumbai, 400 013, India.
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Kim KH, Park MJ, Park NC, Park HJ. Effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine on Testicular Tissue in Busulfan-Induced Dysfunction in the Male Reproductive System. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:882-891. [PMID: 37118950 PMCID: PMC10523131 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220100] [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: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) as an antioxidant on busulfan-induced testicular dysfunction in mice and elucidate its possible mechanism of action. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-two C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=8/group) as follows: (1) control group (oral administration of saline [0.1 mL daily] for 35 days); (2) NAC group (oral administration of NAC [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days); (3) busulfan group (double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg); and (4) busulfan+NAC group (after double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg, NAC administration [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days). The testes were removed, weighed, and subjected to sperm parameter analysis and morphology assessment. Reproductive hormone, serum/testicular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers were evaluated. The testicular expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 was examined using RT-qPCR. RESULTS Busulfan treatment significantly decreased testicular weight, sperm count, and serum testosterone levels. Atrophy and degeneration of germinal epithelium were observed in the busulfan group. NAC administration after busulfan treatment partially attenuated the deterioration of testis weight, sperm quality, serum hormones, histomorphometric changes, and oxidative and antioxidative status. NAC treatment resulted in a considerable improvement in Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA expression levels. CONCLUSIONS This study provides compelling evidence that NAC as a potent antioxidant has significant protective effects against busulfan-induced male reproductive impairment possibly through modification of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Hwan Kim
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Min Jung Park
- The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, Korea
| | - Nam Cheol Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- The Korea Institute for Public Sperm Bank, Busan, Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea.
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Mo P, Zhao Z, Ke X, Fan Y, Li C. Effects of clinical medications on male fertility and prospects for stem cell therapy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1258574. [PMID: 37791073 PMCID: PMC10543686 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1258574] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
An increasing number of men require long-term drug therapy for various diseases. However, the effects of long-term drug therapy on male fertility are often not well evaluated in clinical practice. Meanwhile, the development of stem cell therapy and exosomes treatment methods may provide a new sight on treating male infertility. This article reviews the influence and mechanism of small molecule medications on male fertility, as well as progress of stem cell and exosomes therapy for male infertility with the purpose on providing suggestions (recommendations) for evaluating the effect of drugs on male fertility (both positive and negative effect on male fertility) in clinical application and providing strategies for diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chaohui Li
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Roshandel E, Mehravar M, Nikoonezhad M, Alizadeh AM, Majidi M, Salimi M, Hajifathali A. Cell-Based Therapy Approaches in Treatment of Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1482-1494. [PMID: 36380137 PMCID: PMC9666961 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01115-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The rate of infertility has globally increased in recent years for a variety of reasons. One of the main causes of infertility in men is azoospermia that is defined by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate and classified into two categories: obstructive azoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia. In non-obstructive azoospermia, genital ducts are not obstructed, but the testicles do not produce sperm at all, due to various reasons. Non-obstructive azoospermia in most cases has no therapeutic options other than assisted reproductive techniques, which in most cases require sperm donors. Here we discuss cell-based therapy approaches to restore fertility in men with non-obstructive azoospermia including cell-based therapies of non-obstructive azoospermia using regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies of non-obstructive azoospermia by paracrine and anti-inflammatory pathway, technical and ethical challenges for using different cell sources and alternative options will be described, and then the more effectual approaches will be mentioned as future trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Roshandel
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Mehravar
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Nikoonezhad
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammad Alizadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Majidi
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Salimi
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Hajifathali
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
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Kazemzadeh S, Mohammadpour S, Madadi S, Babakhani A, Shabani M, Khanehzad M. Melatonin in cryopreservation media improves transplantation efficiency of frozen-thawed spermatogonial stem cells into testes of azoospermic mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:346. [PMID: 35883101 PMCID: PMC9327150 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03029-1] [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: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryostorage of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is an appropriate procedure for long-term storage of SSCs for fertility preservation. However, it causes damage to cellular structures through overproduction of ROS and oxidative stress. In this study, we examined the protective effect of melatonin as a potent antioxidant in the basic freezing medium to establish an optimal cryopreservation method for SSCs. Methods SSCs were obtained from the testes of neonatal male mice aged 3–6 days. Then, 100 μM melatonin was added to the basic freezing medium containing DMSO for cryopreservation of SSCs. Viability, apoptosis-related markers (BAX and BCL2), and intracellular ROS generation level were measured in frozen–thawed SSCs before transplantation using the MTT assay, immunocytochemistry, and flow cytometry, respectively. In addition, Western blotting and immunofluorescence were used to evaluate the expression of proliferation (PLZF and GFRα1) and differentiation (Stra8 and SCP3) proteins in frozen–thawed SSCs after transplantation into recipient testes. Results The data showed that adding melatonin to the cryopreservation medium markedly increased the viability and reduced intracellular ROS generation and apoptosis (by decreasing BAX and increasing BCL2) in the frozen–thawed SSCs (p < 0.05). The expression levels of proliferation (PLZF and GFRα1) and differentiation (Stra8 and SCP3) proteins and resumption of spermatogenesis from frozen–thawed SSCs followed the same pattern after transplantation. Conclusions The results of this study revealed that adding melatonin as an antioxidant to the cryopreservation medium containing DMSO could be a promising strategy for cryopreservation of SSCs to maintain fertility in prepubertal male children who suffer from cancer. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03029-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokoofeh Kazemzadeh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahram Mohammadpour
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.,Biotechnology and Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Soheila Madadi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Azar Babakhani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.,Biotechnology and Medicinal Plants Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Maryam Shabani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khanehzad
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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10
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Zhang W, Nie R, Cai Y, Xie W, Zou K. Progress in germline stem cell transplantation in mammals and the potential usage. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:59. [PMID: 35361229 PMCID: PMC8969385 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00930-5] [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: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline stem cells (GSCs) are germ cells with the capacities of self-renewal and differentiation into functional gametes, and are able to migrate to their niche and reconstitute the fertility of recipients after transplantation. Therefore, GSCs transplantation is a promising technique for fertility recovery in the clinic, protection of rare animals and livestock breeding. Though this novel technique faces tremendous challenges, numerous achievements have been made after several decades' endeavor. This review summarizes the current knowledge of GSCs transplantation and its utilization in mammals, and discusses the application prospect in reproductive medicine and animal science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zhang
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ruotian Nie
- College of Life Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yihui Cai
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Wenhai Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Shandong University of Technology, NO. 266 Xincun Road, Zibo, 255000, Shandong, China.
| | - Kang Zou
- Germline Stem Cells and Microenvironment Lab, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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11
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Azizi H, Niazi Tabar A, Skutella T. Successful transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells into the seminiferous tubules of busulfan-treated mice. Reprod Health 2021; 18:189. [PMID: 34556135 PMCID: PMC8461838 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in the testis are crucial for transferring genetic information to the next generation. Successful transplantation of SSCs to infertile men is an advanced therapeutic application in reproductive biology research. Methods In this experimental research, both in vitro and in vivo characterization of undifferentiated and differentiated SSCs were performed by morphology—immunocytochemistry (ICC), immunohistochemistry (IMH), Fluidigm Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry analysis. The isolated SSCs were finally microinjected into the rete testis of busulfan-treated mice. The compact undifferentiated and more loosely connected round differentiated SSCs were isolated during testicular cell expansion from their specific feeder layer. Results ICC analysis indicated high and low expression levels of Zbtb16 in undifferentiated and differentiated germ cells. Also, IMH analysis showed different expression levels of Zbtb16 in the two different germ stem cell populations of the testicular tissue. While Fluidigm RT-PCR analysis indicated overexpression of the TAF4B germ cell gene, the expression of DAZL, VASA, and Zbtb16 were down-regulated during the differentiation of SSCs (P < 0.05). Also, flow cytometry analysis confirmed the significant downregulation of Itgb1 and Itga4 during differentiation. By transplantation of SSCs into busulfan-treated NOD/SCID mice, GFP-labeled sperm cells developed. Conclusions In the current study, we performed a transplantation technique that could be useful for the future microinjection of SSCs during infertility treatment and for studying in vivo differentiation of SSCs into sperm. Spermatogonia (SSCs) in the testis transmit genetic information to the next generation. Successful SSC transplantation into infertile men is an advanced therapeutic application in reproductive biology research. In this experimental research, both in vitro and in vivo characterization of undifferentiated and differentiated SSCs were performed by morphology—immunocytochemistry (ICC), immunohistochemistry (IMH), Fluidigm Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry analysis. The isolated SSCs were finally microinjected into the rete testis of busulfan-treated mice. ICC analysis indicated high and low expression levels of Zbtb16 in undifferentiated and differentiated germ cells. IMH analysis showed different expression levels of Zbtb16 in both populations. Fluidigm RT-PCR analysis indicated overexpression of the TAF4B germ cell gene and the down-regulated expression of DAZL, VASA, and Zbtb16 during SSCs differentiation of (P < 0.05). Flow cytometry analysis confirmed the significant downregulation of Itgb1 and Itga4 during differentiation. By transplantation of SSCs into busulfan-treated NOD/SCID mice, GFP-labeled sperm cells developed. We performed a transplantation technique that could be useful for the future microinjection of SSCs during infertility treatment and for studying in vivo differentiation of SSCs into sperm. Data analysis confirmed that zbtb16 is expressed in the undifferentiated germ cells located on the basal membrane of seminiferous tubules and SSCs in vitro. Also, spermatogenesis was resumed, and fertility improved after transplantation of undifferentiated cells into busulfan-treated mice; thus, improvements in vitro SSCs transplantation, isolation and culture would be helpful in future clinical treatments to solve the reproductive problems of families influenced by infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Azizi
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, P.O. Box 46168-49767, Amol, Iran.
| | - Amirreza Niazi Tabar
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Amol University of Special Modern Technologies, P.O. Box 46168-49767, Amol, Iran
| | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 307, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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12
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Xi HM, Ren YJ, Ren F, Li Y, Feng TY, Wang Z, Du YQ, Zhang LK, Hu JH. Recent advances in isolation, identification, and culture of mammalian spermatogonial stem cells. Asian J Androl 2021; 24:5-14. [PMID: 34135169 PMCID: PMC8788607 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_41_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Continuous spermatogenesis depends on the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs, the only male reproductive stem cells that transmit genetic material to subsequent generations, possess an inherent self-renewal ability, which allows the maintenance of a steady stem cell pool. SSCs eventually differentiate to produce sperm. However, in an in vitro culture system, SSCs can be induced to differentiate into various types of germ cells. Rodent SSCs are well defined, and a culture system has been successfully established for them. In contrast, available information on the biomolecular markers and a culture system for livestock SSCs is limited. This review summarizes the existing knowledge and research progress regarding mammalian SSCs to determine the mammalian spermatogenic process, the biology and niche of SSCs, the isolation and culture systems of SSCs, and the biomolecular markers and identification of SSCs. This information can be used for the effective utilization of SSCs in reproductive technologies for large livestock animals, enhancement of human male fertility, reproductive medicine, and protection of endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Ming Xi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yi-Jie Ren
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Fa Ren
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Tian-Yu Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Ye-Qing Du
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Li-Kun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jian-Hong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, China
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13
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David P, Hansen FJ, Bhat A, Weber GF. An overview of proteomic methods for the study of 'cytokine storms'. Expert Rev Proteomics 2021; 18:83-91. [PMID: 33849358 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2021.1911652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The cytokine storm is a form of excessive systemic inflammatory reaction triggered by a myriad of factors that may lead to multi-organ failure, and finally to death. The cytokine storm can occur in a number of infectious and noninfectious diseases including COVID-19, sepsis, ebola, avian influenza, and graft versus host disease, or during the severe inflammatory response syndrome.Area covered: This review mainly focuses on the most common and well-known methods of protein studies (PAGE, SDS-PAGE, and high- performance liquid chromatography). It also discusses other modern technologies in proteomics like mass spectrometry, soft ionization techniques, cytometric bead assays, and the next generation of microarrays that have been used to get an in-depth understanding of the pathomechanisms involved during the cytokine storm.Expert opinion: Overactivation of leukocytes drives the production and secretion of inflammatory cytokines fueling the cytokine storm. These events lead to a systemic hyper-inflammation, circulatory collapse and shock, and finally to multiorgan failure. Therefore, monitoring the patient's systemic cytokine levels with proteomic technologies that are redundant, economical, and require minimal sample volume for real-time assessment might help in a better clinical evaluation and management of critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul David
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Frederik J Hansen
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Adil Bhat
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Georg F Weber
- Department of Surgery, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
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14
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Zhankina R, Baghban N, Askarov M, Saipiyeva D, Ibragimov A, Kadirova B, Khoradmehr A, Nabipour I, Shirazi R, Zhanbyrbekuly U, Tamadon A. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and their exosomes for restoration of spermatogenesis in non-obstructive azoospermia: a systemic review. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:229. [PMID: 33823925 PMCID: PMC8025392 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02295-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cells have been introduced as new promising therapeutic agents in treatment of degenerative diseases because of having high differentiation potential while maintaining the ability to self-replicate and retaining features of their source cells. Among different type of cell therapies, mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy is being increasingly developed as a new way to treat structural defects that need to be repaired and regenerated. Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a reproductive disease in men that causes infertility in 10% of infertile men. Based on in vitro studies, MSCs from different tissue sources have been differentiated into germ cells or gamete progenitor cells by simple methods in both male and female. On the other hand, the therapeutic effects of MSCs have been evaluated for the treatment of NOA animal models created by chemical or surgical compounds. The results of these studies confirmed successful allotransplantation or xenotransplantation of MSCs in the seminiferous tubules. As well, it has been reported that exosomes secreted by MSCs are able to induce the process of spermatogenesis in the testes of infertile animal models. Despite numerous advances in the treatment of reproductive diseases in men and women with the help of MSCs or their exosomes, no clinical trial has been terminated on the treatment of NOA. This systematic review attempts to investigate the possibility of MSC therapy for NOA in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rano Zhankina
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Neda Baghban
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, 7514633196 Iran
| | - Manarbek Askarov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Dana Saipiyeva
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Almaz Ibragimov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Bakhyt Kadirova
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, 7514633196 Iran
| | - Iraj Nabipour
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, 7514633196 Iran
| | - Reza Shirazi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Medicine, UNSW Sydney, PO Box 2052, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ulanbek Zhanbyrbekuly
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan 010000
| | - Amin Tamadon
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, 7514633196 Iran
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15
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Wyns C, Kanbar M. Reply: Fertility restoration in azoospermic cancer survivors from testicular VSELs that survive oncotherapy upon transplanting MSCs. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:621-622. [PMID: 33615363 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wyns
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Mashiach J, Zohni K, Lopez L, Filice M, Garcia M, Wyse B, Glass K, Dviri M, Baram S, Gauthier-Fisher A, Librach CL. Human umbilical cord perivascular cells prevent chemotherapeutic drug-induced male infertility in a mouse model. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:24-32. [PMID: 35559762 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether intratesticular (IT) administration of 2 sources of human umbilical cord perivascular cells (HUCPVC), rich and potent sources of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), before chemotherapy can prevent infertility in a mouse model. DESIGN Two control groups of CD1 male mice without busulfan (BUS) administration (untreated and IT media injection groups) were included. Experimental groups included IT administration of media, first trimester (FTM) HUCPVCs or term HUCPVCs (n = 5 each) injected 3 days before BUS treatment (20 mg/kg). All groups were included in a mating time course study over 6 months. SETTING Preclinical study in a fertility center research laboratory. PATIENTS Not applicable. INTERVENTION IT delivery of FTM or term HUCPVC before BUS treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pregnancies, litter sizes, and gross morphology of offspring were monitored. Caudal epididymal sperm concentration, motility, and progressive motility were assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis. Spermatogenesis was also assessed histologically in testicular tissue sections. RESULTS FTM and term HUCPVC displayed an MSC-associated immunophenotype and expressed transcripts encoding paracrine factors known to regulate the testicular cell niche. IT administration of FTM and term HUCPVC before chemotherapy promoted the recovery of spermatogenesis and fertility compared with BUS-treated animals that received a media injection. Although the total number of pups sired over 6 months by males treated with FTM or term HUCPVC was reduced compared with untreated or media-injected controls, litter size and sperm parameters in fertile animals did not differ between control and cell-treated groups. CONCLUSION HUCPVC represent a promising source of MSC-based therapy to prevent gonadotoxic chemotherapeutic drug-induced infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Khaled Zohni
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Heartland Fertility and Gynecology clinic, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Karen Glass
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michal Dviri
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Shira Baram
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | | | - Clifford L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Physiology University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Canada
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17
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Medrano JV, Acimovic I, Navarro-Gomezlechon A, Noguera I, Pellicer A, Andrés MM, Novella-Maestre E. Timing of spermatogonial stem cell transplantation affects the spermatogenic recovery outcome in mice. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2021; 57:21-29. [PMID: 33420579 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00531-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell transplantation (SSCT) is a strategy that has demonstrated to be feasible to restore spermatogenesis in animal models when it is performed shortly after the gonadotoxic onset to destroy their endogenous germ cells. However, in the case of boys subjected to fertility preservation, future transplantations will be performed with a delay of many years. In order to study how timing of SSCT affects donor-derived spermatogenic recovery in mice, we compared the percentage of spermatogenic tubule cross-sections within testes of 59 C57BL/6NCrl mice distributed in 6 groups: group 1, untreated mice controls (n = 9); group 2, mice that received a single dose of busulfan 40 mg/kg (n = 10); group 3, mice that received two additional doses of busulfan 10 mg/kg every 5 weeks (n = 10); group 4 (SSCT-A), mice subjected to a standard SSCT performed 5 weeks after a single injection of busulfan 40 mg/kg (n = 10); group 5 (SSCT-B), mice subjected to a delayed SSCT performed 15 weeks after a single injection of busulfan 40 mg/kg (n = 10); and group 6 (SSCT-C), mice subjected to a delayed SSCT with two additional doses of busulfan 10 mg/kg every 5 weeks (n = 10). Spermatogenic recovery in standard SSCT-A and SSCT-C groups ranged between 22.29 and 22.65%, compared with a lower recovery rate of 11.54% showed in the SSCT-B group. However, donor contribution resulted higher in standard SSCT-A, representing a 69.71% of cross-sections, compared with the rest of conditions ranging from 34.69 to 35.42%. Overall, we concluded that a delay in the SSCT from the gonadotoxic onset decreases the efficiency of donor-derived spermatogenic recovery in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- J V Medrano
- Unidad de Medicina Reproductiva, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106. Torre A, Lab. 6.22, 46026, Valencia, Spain.
| | - I Acimovic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - A Navarro-Gomezlechon
- Unidad de Medicina Reproductiva, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106. Torre A, Lab. 6.22, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - I Noguera
- Animal Facility, Faculty of Pharmacy, Valencia University, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Pellicer
- Unidad de Medicina Reproductiva, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106. Torre A, Lab. 6.22, 46026, Valencia, Spain
- Fundación IVI, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - M M Andrés
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - E Novella-Maestre
- Unidad de Medicina Reproductiva, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106. Torre A, Lab. 6.22, 46026, Valencia, Spain
- Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026, Valencia, Spain
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18
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Wyns C, Kanbar M, Giudice MG, Poels J. Fertility preservation for prepubertal boys: lessons learned from the past and update on remaining challenges towards clinical translation. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:433-459. [PMID: 33326572 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood cancer incidence and survivorship are both on the rise. However, many lifesaving treatments threaten the prepubertal testis. Cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT), containing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), as a fertility preservation (FP) option for this population is increasingly proposed worldwide. Recent achievements notably the birth of non-human primate (NHP) progeny using sperm developed in frozen-thawed ITT autografts has given proof of principle of the reproductive potential of banked ITT. Outlining the current state of the art on FP for prepubertal boys is crucial as some of the boys who have cryopreserved ITT since the early 2000s are now in their reproductive age and are already seeking answers with regards to their fertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE In the light of past decade achievements and observations, this review aims to provide insight into relevant questions for clinicians involved in FP programmes. Have the indications for FP for prepubertal boys changed over time? What is key for patient counselling and ITT sampling based on the latest achievements in animals and research performed with human ITT? How far are we from clinical application of methods to restore reproductive capacity with cryostored ITT? SEARCH METHODS An extensive search for articles published in English or French since January 2010 to June 2020 using keywords relevant to the topic of FP for prepubertal boys was made in the MEDLINE database through PubMed. Original articles on fertility preservation with emphasis on those involving prepubertal testicular tissue, as well as comprehensive and systematic reviews were included. Papers with redundancy of information or with an absence of a relevant link for future clinical application were excluded. Papers on alternative sources of stem cells besides SSCs were excluded. OUTCOMES Preliminary follow-up data indicate that around 27% of boys who have undergone testicular sampling as an FP measure have proved azoospermic and must therefore solely rely on their cryostored ITT to ensure biologic parenthood. Auto-transplantation of ITT appears to be the first technique that could enter pilot clinical trials but should be restricted to tissue free of malignant cells. While in vitro spermatogenesis circumvents the risk linked to cancer cell contamination and has led to offspring in mice, complete spermatogenesis has not been achieved with human ITT. However, generation of haploid germ cells paves the way to further studies aimed at completing the final maturation of germ cells and increasing the efficiency of the processes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite all the research done to date, FP for prepubertal boys remains a relatively young field and is often challenging to healthcare providers, patients and parents. As cryopreservation of ITT is now likely to expand further, it is important not only to acknowledge some of the research questions raised on the topic, e.g. the epigenetic and genetic integrity of gametes derived from strategies to restore fertility with banked ITT but also to provide healthcare professionals worldwide with updated knowledge to launch proper multicollaborative care pathways in the field and address clinical issues that will come-up when aiming for the child's best interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Wyns
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Grazia Giudice
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Poels
- Andrology lab, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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19
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Gul M, Hildorf S, Dong L, Thorup J, Hoffmann ER, Jensen CFS, Sønksen J, Cortes D, Fedder J, Andersen CY, Goossens E. Review of injection techniques for spermatogonial stem cell transplantation. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:368-391. [PMID: 32163572 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the prognosis of childhood cancer survivors has increased dramatically during recent years, chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer and other conditions may lead to permanent infertility in prepubertal boys. Recent developments have shown that spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) transplantation may be a hope for restoring fertility in adult survivors of childhood cancers. For this reason, several centres around the world are collecting and cryopreserving testicular tissue or cells anticipating that, in the near future, some patients will return for SSC transplantation. This review summarizes the current knowledge and utility of SSC transplantation techniques. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of the currently used experimental injection techniques for SSC transplantation in animal and human testes. This is crucial in understanding and determining the role of the different techniques necessary for successful transplantation. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed publications on this topic was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. The search was limited to English language work and studies between 1994 (from the first study on SSC transplantation) and April 2019. Key search terms included mouse, rat, boar, ram, dog, sheep, goat, cattle, monkey, human, cadaver, testes, SSC transplantation, injection and technique. OUTCOMES This review provides an extensive clinical overview of the current research in the field of human SSC transplantation. Rete testis injection with ultrasonography guidance currently seems the most promising injection technique thus far; however, the ability to draw clear conclusions is limited due to long ischemia time of cadaver testis, the relatively decreased volume of the testis, the diminishing size of seminiferous tubules, a lack of intratesticular pressure and leakage into the interstitium during the injection on human cadaver testis. Current evidence does not support improved outcomes from multiple infusions through the rete testes. Overall, further optimization is required to increase the efficiency and safety of the infusion method. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Identifying a favourable injection method for SSC transplantation will provide insight into the mechanisms of successful assisted human reproduction. Future research could focus on reducing leakage and establishing the optimal infusion cell concentrations and pressure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gul
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, 42250 Konya, Turkey
| | - Simone Hildorf
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lihua Dong
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jens Sønksen
- Department of Urology, Herlev and Gentofte University Hospital, 2930 Herlev, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dina Cortes
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Pediatrics, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology & Fertility Clinic, Department D, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark.,Research Unit of Human Reproduction, Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Liu HC, Xie Y, Deng CH, Liu GH. Stem cell-based therapies for fertility preservation in males: Current status and future prospects. World J Stem Cells 2020; 12:1097-1112. [PMID: 33178394 PMCID: PMC7596443 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v12.i10.1097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the decline in male fertility in recent years, strategies for male fertility preservation have received increasing attention. In this study, by reviewing current treatments and recent publications, we describe research progress in and the future directions of stem cell-based therapies for male fertility preservation, focusing on the use of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), SSC niches, SSC-based testicular organoids, other stem cell types such as mesenchymal stem cells, and stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles. In conclusion, a more comprehensive understanding of the germ cell microenvironment, stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles, and testicular organoids will play an important role in achieving male fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han-Chao Liu
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Chun-Hua Deng
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Gui-Hua Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, Guangdong Province, China
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21
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Shetty G, Mitchell JM, Meyer JM, Wu Z, Lam TN, Phan TT, Zhang J, Hill L, Tailor RC, Peters KA, Penedo MC, Hanna C, Orwig KE, Meistrich ML. Restoration of functional sperm production in irradiated pubertal rhesus monkeys by spermatogonial stem cell transplantation. Andrology 2020; 8:1428-1441. [PMID: 32351003 PMCID: PMC7521830 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In male pre-pubertal cancer patients, radiation and chemotherapy impact future fertility by eradication of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). In macaques, spermatogenesis could be regenerated by intratesticular transplantation of SSCs, but only a small percentage of spermatozoa produced were of donor origin. Transient hormone suppression with a GnRH antagonist (GnRH-ant) enhanced spermatogenic recovery from transplanted SSCs. OBJECTIVES To evaluate donor-derived and endogenous spermatogenic recovery after SSC transplantation into irradiated monkeys and to test whether hormone suppression around the time of transplantation facilitates spermatogenic recovery. MATERIALS AND METHODS Testes of 15 adult rhesus monkeys were irradiated with 7 Gy and 4 months later transplanted, to one of the testes, with cryopreserved testicular cells containing SSCs from unrelated monkeys. Monkeys were either treated with GnRH-ant for 8 weeks before transplantation, GnRH-ant from 4 weeks before to 4 weeks after transplantation, or with no GnRH-ant. Tissues were harvested 10 months after transplantation. RESULTS Two of the 15 monkeys, a control and a pre-transplantation GnRH-ant-treated, showed substantially higher levels of testicular spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm output in the transplanted side as compared to the untransplanted. Over 84% of epididymal spermatozoa on the transplanted side had the donor genotype and were capable of fertilizing eggs after intracytoplasmic sperm injection forming morulae of the donor paternal origin. Low levels of donor spermatozoa (~1%) were also identified in the epididymis of three additional monkeys. Transplantation also appeared to enhance endogenous spermatogenesis. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION We confirmed that SSC transplantation can be used for restoration of fertility in male cancer survivors exposed to irradiation as a therapeutic agent. The success rate of this procedure, however, is low. The success of filling the tubules with the cell suspension, but not the GnRH-ant treatment, was related to the level of colonization by transplanted cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunapala Shetty
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer M. Mitchell
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jennifer M. Meyer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Zhuang Wu
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Truong N.A. Lam
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Thien T. Phan
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Lorraine Hill
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ramesh C. Tailor
- Department of Radiation Physics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Karen A. Peters
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Maria C. Penedo
- Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Carol Hanna
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Kyle E. Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Marvin L. Meistrich
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Khamis T, Abdelalim AF, Abdallah SH, Saeed AA, Edress NM, Arisha AH. Early intervention with breast milk mesenchymal stem cells attenuates the development of diabetic-induced testicular dysfunction via hypothalamic Kisspeptin/Kiss1r-GnRH/GnIH system in male rats. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165577. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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23
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Sagaradze G, Basalova N, Kirpatovsky V, Ohobotov D, Nimiritsky P, Grigorieva O, Popov V, Kamalov A, Tkachuk V, Efimenko A. A magic kick for regeneration: role of mesenchymal stromal cell secretome in spermatogonial stem cell niche recovery. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:342. [PMID: 31753023 PMCID: PMC6873442 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1479-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Injury of stem cell niches may disturb tissue homeostasis and regeneration coordinated by specific niche components. Yet, the mechanisms of stem cell niche restoration remain poorly understood. Herein, we examined the role of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) as pivotal regulators of stem cell niche recovery focusing on the effects of their secretome. Methods The spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche was selected as a model. SSC niches were injured by inducing abdominal cryptorchidism in rats. Briefly, testes of anesthetized rats were elevated into the abdominal cavity through the inguinal canal for 14 days. After descent of testes, MSC or MSC secretome treatment was applied to the animals by local subtunical injections. Results Local administration of MSC or MSC secretome was sufficient to recover spermatogenesis and production of functional germ cells. The effects of MSC and their secreted components were comparable, leading to restoration of Sertoli cell pools and recovery of Leydig cell secretory functions. Conclusion Our data suggest that MSCs mimic the functions of lost supportive cells within the stem cell niche, transiently providing paracrine stimuli for target cells and triggering tissue regenerative processes after damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgy Sagaradze
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Nataliya Basalova
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir Kirpatovsky
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Research Institute of Urology and Interventional Radiology named N.A. Lopatkin - branch FSBI National Medical Research Radiological Center of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Dmitry Ohobotov
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Peter Nimiritsky
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Olga Grigorieva
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vladimir Popov
- Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Armais Kamalov
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Vsevolod Tkachuk
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.,Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Anastasia Efimenko
- Medical Research and Education Center, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation. .,Faculty of Medicine, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation.
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Gauthier-Fisher A, Kauffman A, Librach CL. Potential use of stem cells for fertility preservation. Andrology 2019; 8:862-878. [PMID: 31560823 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility and gonadal dysfunction can result from gonadotoxic therapies, environmental exposures, aging, or genetic conditions. In men, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) results from defects in the spermatogenic process that can be attributed to spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) or their niche, or both. While assisted reproductive technologies and sperm banking can enable fertility preservation (FP) in men of reproductive age who are at risk for infertility, FP for pre-pubertal patients remains experimental. Therapeutic options for NOA are limited. The rapid advance of stem cell research and of gene editing technologies could enable new FP options for these patients. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), SSC, and testicular niche cells, as well as mesenchymal stromal cells (aka medicinal signaling cells, MSCs), have been investigated for their potential use in male FP strategies. OBJECTIVE Here, we review the benefits and challenges for three types of stem cell-based approaches under investigation for male FP, focusing on the role that promising sources of MSC derived from human umbilical cord, specifically human umbilical cord perivascular cells (HUCPVC), could fulfill. These approaches are as follows: 1. isolation and ex vivo expansion of autologous SSC for in vivo transplantation or in vitro spermatogenesis; 2. in vitro differentiation toward germ cell and testicular somatic cell lineages using autologous SSC, or stem cells such iPSC or MSC; and 3. protection or regeneration of the spermatogenic niche after gonadotoxic insults in vivo. CONCLUSION Our studies suggest that HUCPVC are promising sources of cells that could be utilized in multiple aspects of male FP strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A Kauffman
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - C L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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25
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Kadam P, Ntemou E, Onofre J, Van Saen D, Goossens E. Does co-transplantation of mesenchymal and spermatogonial stem cells improve reproductive efficiency and safety in mice? Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:310. [PMID: 31640769 PMCID: PMC6805426 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1420-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogonial stem cell transplantation (SSCT) is a promising therapy in restoring the fertility of childhood cancer survivors. However, the low efficiency of SSCT is a significant concern. SSCT could be improved by co-transplanting transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ1)-induced mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). In this study, we investigated the reproductive efficiency and safety of co-transplanting spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and TGFβ1-induced MSCs. Methods A mouse model for long-term infertility was used to transplant SSCs (SSCT, n = 10) and a combination of SSCs and TGFβ1-treated MSCs (MSi-SSCT, n = 10). Both transplanted groups and a fertile control group (n = 7) were allowed to mate naturally to check the reproductive efficiency after transplantation. Furthermore, the testes from transplanted males and donor-derived male offspring were analyzed for the epigenetic markers DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) and histone 4 lysine 5 acetylation (H4K5ac). Results The overall tubular fertility index (TFI) after SSCT (76 ± 12) was similar to that after MSi-SSCT (73 ± 14). However, the donor-derived TFI after MSi-SSCT (26 ± 14) was higher compared to the one after SSCT (9 ± 5; P = 0.002), even after injecting half of the number of SSCs in MSi-SSCT. The litter sizes after SSCT (3.7 ± 3.7) and MSi-SSCT (3.7 ± 3.6) were similar but differed significantly with the control group (7.6 ± 1.0; P < 0.001). The number of GFP+ offspring per litter obtained after SSCT (1.6 ± 0.5) and MSi-SSCT (2.0 ± 1.0) was also similar. The expression of DNMT3A and H4K5ac in germ cells of transplanted males was found to be significantly reduced compared to the control group. However, in donor-derived offspring, DNMT3A and H4K5ac followed the normal pattern. Conclusion Co-transplanting SSCs and TGFβ1-treated MSCs results in reproductive efficiency as good as SSCT, even after transplanting half the number of SSCs. Although transplanted males showed lower expression of DNMT3A and H4K5ac in donor-derived germ cells, the expression was restored to normal levels in germ cells of donor-derived offspring. This procedure could become an efficient method to restore fertility in a clinical setup, but more studies are needed to ensure safety in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashant Kadam
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elissavet Ntemou
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jaime Onofre
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dorien Van Saen
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis (BITE) Laboratory, Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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26
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Oncofertility: Pharmacological Protection and Immature Testicular Tissue (ITT)-Based Strategies for Prepubertal and Adolescent Male Cancer Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205223. [PMID: 31640294 PMCID: PMC6834329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
While the incidence of cancer in children and adolescents has significantly increased over the last decades, improvements made in the field of cancer therapy have led to an increased life expectancy for childhood cancer survivors. However, the gonadotoxic effect of the treatments may lead to infertility. Although semen cryopreservation represents the most efficient and safe fertility preservation method for males producing sperm, it is not feasible for prepubertal boys. The development of an effective strategy based on the pharmacological protection of the germ cells and testicular function during gonadotoxic exposure is a non-invasive preventive approach that prepubertal boys could benefit from. However, the progress in this field is slow. Currently, cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) containing spermatogonial stem cells is offered to prepubertal boys as an experimental fertility preservation strategy by a number of medical centers. Several in vitro and in vivo fertility restoration approaches based on the use of ITT have been developed so far with autotransplantation of ITT appearing more promising. In this review, we discuss the pharmacological approaches for fertility protection in prepubertal and adolescent boys and the fertility restoration approaches developed on the utilization of ITT.
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27
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Vermeulen M, Giudice MG, Del Vento F, Wyns C. Role of stem cells in fertility preservation: current insights. STEM CELLS AND CLONING-ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS 2019; 12:27-48. [PMID: 31496751 PMCID: PMC6689135 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s178490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While improvements made in the field of cancer therapy allow high survival rates, gonadotoxicity of chemo- and radiotherapy can lead to infertility in male and female pre- and postpubertal patients. Clinical options to preserve fertility before starting gonadotoxic therapies by cryopreserving sperm or oocytes for future use with assisted reproductive technology (ART) are now applied worldwide. Cryopreservation of pre- and postpubertal ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles, though still considered experimental, has already led to the birth of healthy babies after autotransplantation and is performed in an increasing number of centers. For prepubertal boys who do not produce gametes ready for fertilization, cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) containing spermatogonial stem cells may be proposed as an experimental strategy with the aim of restoring fertility. Based on achievements in nonhuman primates, autotransplantation of ITT or testicular cell suspensions appears promising to restore fertility of young cancer survivors. So far, whether in two- or three-dimensional culture systems, in vitro maturation of immature male and female gonadal cells or tissue has not demonstrated a capacity to produce safe gametes for ART. Recently, primordial germ cells have been generated from embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, but further investigations regarding efficiency and safety are needed. Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells to improve the vascularization of gonadal tissue grafts, increase the colonization of transplanted cells, and restore the damaged somatic compartment could overcome the current limitations encountered with transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Vermeulen
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Maria-Grazia Giudice
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Federico Del Vento
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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Darvish M, Payandeh Z, Soleimanifar F, Taheri B, Soleimani M, Islami M. Umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells application in hematopoietic stem cells expansion on nanofiber three-dimensional scaffold. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:12018-12026. [PMID: 30805977 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.28487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Umbilical cord blood (UCB) hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) transplantation (HSCTs) is considered as a therapeutic strategy for malignant and nonmalignant hematologic disorders. Nevertheless, the low number of HSCs obtained from each unit of UCB can be a major challenge for using these cells in adults. In addition, UCB is a rich source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) creating hopes for nonaggressive and painless treatment in tissue engineering compared with bone marrow MSCs. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of UCB-MSCs application in UCB-HSCs expansion on the nanoscaffold that mimics the cell's natural niche. To achieve this goal, after flow cytometry confirmation of isolated HSCs from UCB, they were expanded on three-dimensional (3D) poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) scaffolds fabricated by electrospinning and two-dimensional (2D)-culture systems, such as (1) HSCs-MSCs culturing on the scaffold, (2) HSCs culturing on the scaffold, (3) HSCs-MSCs culturing on 2D, and (4) HSCs culturing on 2D. After 7 days, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to evaluate the CXCR4 gene expression in the mentioned groups. Moreover, for the next validation, the number of total HSCs, 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay, scanning electron microscopy imaging, and colony-forming unit assay were evaluated as well. The results of the study indicated that UCB-MSCs interaction with HSCs in 3D-culture systems led to the highest expansion of UCB-HSCs on day 7. Flow cytometry results showed the highest purity of HSCs cocultured with MSCs. Real-time PCR showed a significant increase in gene expression of CXCR4 in the mentioned group. The highest viability and clonogenicity were detected in the mentioned group too. Considered together, our results suggest that UCB-HSCs and MSCs coculturing on PLLA scaffold could provide a proper microenvironment that efficiently promotes UCB-HSCs expansion and UCB-MSCs can also be considered as a promising candidate for UCB-HSCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Darvish
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Science, Arāk, Iran
| | - Zahra Payandeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Soleimanifar
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Behnaz Taheri
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Islami
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
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29
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Savvulidi F, Ptacek M, Savvulidi Vargova K, Stadnik L. Manipulation of spermatogonial stem cells in livestock species. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2019; 10:46. [PMID: 31205688 PMCID: PMC6560896 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-019-0355-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We are entering an exciting epoch in livestock biotechnology during which the fundamental approaches (such as transgenesis, spermatozoa cryopreservation and artificial insemination) will be enhanced based on the modern understanding of the biology of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) combined with the outstanding recent advances in genomic editing technologies and in vitro cell culture systems. The general aim of this review is to outline comprehensively the promising applications of SSC manipulation that could in the nearest future find practical application in livestock breeding. Here, we will focus on 1) the basics of mammalian SSC biology; 2) the approaches for SSC isolation and purification; 3) the available in vitro systems for the stable expansion of isolated SSCs; 4) a discussion of how the manipulation of SSCs can accelerate livestock transgenesis; 5) a thorough overview of the techniques of SSC transplantation in livestock species (including the preparation of recipients for SSC transplantation, the ultrasonographic-guided SSC transplantation technique in large farm animals, and the perspectives to improve further the SSC transplantation efficiency), and finally, 6) why SSC transplantation is valuable to extend the techniques of spermatozoa cryopreservation and/or artificial insemination. For situations where no reliable data have yet been obtained for a particular livestock species, we will rely on the data obtained from studies conducted in rodents because the knowledge gained from rodent research is translatable to livestock species to a great extent. On the other hand, we will draw special attention to situations where such translation is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipp Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Ptacek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
| | - Karina Savvulidi Vargova
- Institute of Pathological Physiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, U Nemocnice 5, 128 53 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ludek Stadnik
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Suchdol Czech Republic
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