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Hu R, Yang X, Gong J, Lv J, Yuan X, Shi M, Fu C, Tan B, Fan Z, Chen L, Zhang H, He J, Wu S. Patterns of alteration in boar semen quality from 9 to 37 months old and improvement by protocatechuic acid. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2024; 15:78. [PMID: 38755656 PMCID: PMC11100174 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-024-01031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comprehending the patterns of alteration in boar semen quality and identifying effective nutritional interventions are crucial for enhancing the productivity of commercial pig systems. This study aimed to examine the alteration in semen quality in boars, and assess the impact of protocatechuic acid (PCA) on semen quality during the phase of declining semen quality. METHODS In Exp. 1, a total of 38 Pig Improvement Company (PIC) boars were selected and their semen quality data were recorded from the age of 9 to 37 months. In Exp. 2, 18 PIC boars (28 months old) were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 6) and fed a basal diet, a basal diet containing 500 or 1,000 mg/kg PCA, respectively. The experiment lasted for 12 weeks. RESULTS The semen volume, concentration, and total number of spermatozoa in boars exhibited an increase from 9 to 19 months old and showed a significant linear decreased trend in 28, 24, and 22 months old. Sperm motility displayed an upward trajectory, reaching its peak at 20 months of age, and showed a significant linear decreased trend at 20 months old. Dietary supplementation of PCA demonstrated an effect to mitigate the decrease in semen volume, concentration of spermatozoa, total number of spermatozoa (P > 0.05), and significantly increased the sperm motility (P < 0.05). Moreover, supplementation of 1,000 mg/kg PCA significantly increased the sperm viability (P < 0.05). Analysis on cellular signaling pathways revealed that PCA restored serum testosterone levels and alleviated oxidative damage by upregulating the expression of HO-1, SOD2, and NQO1 in testicular stromal cells. Notably, PCA can enhance phosphorylation by selectively binding to AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) protein, thereby improving sperm mitochondrial function and augmenting sperm motility via PGC-1/Nrf1. CONCLUSIONS These data elucidated the pattern of semen quality variation in boars within the age range of 9 to 37 months old, and PCA has the potential to be a natural antioxidant to enhance sperm quality through modulation of the AMPK/PGC-1/Nrf1 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruizhi Hu
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xizi Yang
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Jiatai Gong
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Jing Lv
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Xupeng Yuan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Biological and Electromechanical Polytechnic, Changsha, 410127, China
| | - Mingkun Shi
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Chenxing Fu
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Bie Tan
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Zhiyong Fan
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Liang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Jianhua He
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Shusong Wu
- Hunan Collaborative Innovation Center for Utilization of Botanical Functional Ingredients, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China.
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Lapenna D. Glutathione and glutathione-dependent enzymes: From biochemistry to gerontology and successful aging. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102066. [PMID: 37683986 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The tripeptide glutathione (GSH), namely γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine, is an ubiquitous low-molecular weight thiol nucleophile and reductant of utmost importance, representing the central redox agent of most aerobic organisms. GSH has vital functions involving also antioxidant protection, detoxification, redox homeostasis, cell signaling, iron metabolism/homeostasis, DNA synthesis, gene expression, cysteine/protein metabolism, and cell proliferation/differentiation or death including apoptosis and ferroptosis. Various functions of GSH are exerted in concert with GSH-dependent enzymes. Indeed, although GSH has direct scavenging antioxidant effects, its antioxidant function is substantially accomplished by glutathione peroxidase-catalyzed reactions with reductive removal of H2O2, organic peroxides such as lipid hydroperoxides, and peroxynitrite; to this antioxidant activity also contribute peroxiredoxins, enzymes further involved in redox signaling and chaperone activity. Moreover, the detoxifying function of GSH is basically exerted in conjunction with glutathione transferases, which have also antioxidant properties. GSH is synthesized in the cytosol by the ATP-dependent enzymes glutamate cysteine ligase (GCL), which catalyzes ligation of cysteine and glutamate forming γ-glutamylcysteine (γ-GC), and glutathione synthase, which adds glycine to γ-GC resulting in GSH formation; GCL is rate-limiting for GSH synthesis, as is the precursor amino acid cysteine, which may be supplemented as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a therapeutically available compound. After its cell export, GSH is degraded extracellularly by the membrane-anchored ectoenzyme γ-glutamyl transferase, a process occurring, as GSH synthesis and export, in the γ-glutamyl cycle. GSH degradation occurs also intracellularly by the cytoplasmic enzymatic ChaC family of γ-glutamyl cyclotransferase. Synthesis and degradation of GSH, together with its export, translocation to cell organelles, utilization for multiple essential functions, and regeneration from glutathione disulfide by glutathione reductase, are relevant to GSH homeostasis and metabolism. Notably, GSH levels decline during aging, an alteration generally related to impaired GSH biosynthesis and leading to cell dysfunction. However, there is evidence of enhanced GSH levels in elderly subjects with excellent physical and mental health status, suggesting that heightened GSH may be a marker and even a causative factor of increased healthspan and lifespan. Such aspects, and much more including GSH-boosting substances administrable to humans, are considered in this state-of-the-art review, which deals with GSH and GSH-dependent enzymes from biochemistry to gerontology, focusing attention also on lifespan/healthspan extension and successful aging; the significance of GSH levels in aging is considered also in relation to therapeutic possibilities and supplementation strategies, based on the use of various compounds including NAC-glycine, aimed at increasing GSH and related defenses to improve health status and counteract aging processes in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Lapenna
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Scienze dell'Invecchiamento, and Laboratorio di Fisiopatologia dello Stress Ossidativo, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST, former CeSI-MeT, Center of Excellence on Aging), Università degli Studi "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti Pescara, U.O.C. Medicina Generale 2, Ospedale Clinicizzato "Santissima Annunziata", Via dei Vestini, 66100 Chieti, Italy.
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3
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Aitken RJ. Male reproductive ageing: a radical road to ruin. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1861-1871. [PMID: 37568254 PMCID: PMC10546083 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern post-transition societies, we are reproducing later and living longer. While the impact of age on female reproductive function has been well studied, much less is known about the intersection of age and male reproduction. Our current understanding is that advancing age brings forth a progressive decline in male fertility accompanied by a reduction in circulating testosterone levels and the appearance of age-dependent reproductive pathologies including benign prostatic hypertrophy and erectile dysfunction. Paternal ageing is also associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage, the appearance of multiple epigenetic changes in the germ line and an elevated mutational load in the offspring. The net result of such changes is an increase in the disease burden carried by the progeny of ageing males, including dominant genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome and achondroplasia, as well as neuropsychiatric conditions including autism and spontaneous schizophrenia. The genetic basis of these age-related effects appears to involve two fundamental mechanisms. The first is a positive selection mechanism whereby stem cells containing mutations in a mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway gain a selective advantage over their non-mutant counterparts and exhibit significant clonal expansion with the passage of time. The second is dependent on an age-dependent increase in oxidative stress which impairs the steroidogenic capacity of the Leydig cells, disrupts the ability of Sertoli cells to support the normal differentiation of germ cells, and disrupts the functional and genetic integrity of spermatozoa. Given the central importance of oxidative stress in defining the impact of chronological age on male reproduction, there may be a role for antioxidants in the clinical management of this process. While animal studies are supportive of this strategy, carefully designed clinical trials are now needed if we are to realize the therapeutic potential of this approach in a clinical context.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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Chen H, Dong Y, Li H, Chen Z, Su M, Zhu Q, Ge RS, Miao X. Trichlorfon blocks androgen synthesis and metabolism in rat immature Leydig cells. Reprod Toxicol 2023; 120:108436. [PMID: 37419161 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Trichlorfon is a widely used organophosphorus insecticide. It has been reported that it has reproductive toxicity to animal models. However, whether trichlorfon affects testosterone biosynthesis and metabolism remains unclear. In this study, we explored the effects of trichlorfon on the steroidogenesis and the expression of genes in androgen biosynthetic and metabolic cascades in immature Leydig cells isolated from pubertal male rats. Immature Leydig cells were treated with trichlorfon (0.5-50 µM) for 3 h. Trichlorfon significantly inhibited total androgen output under basal condition at 5 and 50 μM, and under LH- and cAMP-stimulated conditions at 50 μM. Trichlorfon also downregulated the expression of Star, Sod2, and Gpx1 and their proteins at 5 and 50 μM and the expression of Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Srd5a1 at 50 μM. Trichlorfon significantly inhibited total androgen output at 50 μM, which was partially reversed by 400 μg/ml vitamin E, which alone had no effects on androgen output. In conclusion, trichlorfon downregulates the expression of steroidogenesis-related genes and antioxidants, which leads to a decrease in androgen production in rat immature Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Chen
- Department of Emergency, The Dingli Clinical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Yaoyao Dong
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Huitao Li
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Zhili Chen
- Department of Emergency, The Dingli Clinical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Ming Su
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Pharmacy, the Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325027, China.
| | - Xinjun Miao
- Department of Emergency, The Dingli Clinical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.
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5
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The Effects of Glutathione on Clinically Essential Fertility Parameters in a Bleomycin Etoposide Cisplatin Chemotherapy Model. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13030815. [PMID: 36983969 PMCID: PMC10058932 DOI: 10.3390/life13030815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic agents used in the treatment of testicular cancer cause damage to healthy tissues, including the testis. We investigated the effects of glutathione on sperm DNA integrity and testicular histomorphology in bleomycin etoposide cisplatin (BEP) treated rats. Twelve-week-old male rats of reproductive age (n = 24) were randomly divided into three groups, the (i) control group, (ii) BEP group, and (iii) BEP+ glutathione group. Weight gain increase and testes indices of the control group were found to be higher than that of the BEP group and BEP+ glutathione group. While the BEP treatment increased sperm DNA fragmentation and morphological abnormalities when compared to the control group, GSH treatment resulted in a marked decrease for both parameters. Moreover, BEP treatment significantly decreased serum testosterone levels and sperm counts in comparison to the control group, yet this reduction was recovered in the BEP+ glutathione treated group. Similarly, seminiferous tubule epithelial thicknesses and Johnsen scores in testicles were higher in the control and BEP+ glutathione groups than in the BEP-treated group. In conclusion, exogenous glutathione might prevent the deterioration of male reproductive functions by alleviating the detrimental effects of BEP treatment on sperm quality and testicular histomorphology.
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Carrageta DF, Guerra-Carvalho B, Spadella MA, Yeste M, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Animal models of male reproductive ageing to study testosterone production and spermatogenesis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1341-1360. [PMID: 35604584 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is the time-dependent gradual decline of the functional characteristics in an organism. It has been shown that it results in the loss of reproductive health and fertility. The age-dependent decline of fertility is a potential issue as the parenthood age is increasing in Western countries, mostly due to socioeconomic factors. In comparison to women, for whom the consequences of ageing are well documented and general awareness of the population is extensively raised, the effects of ageing for male fertility and the consequences of advanced paternal age for the offspring have not been widely studied. Studies with humans are welcome but it is hard to implement relevant experimental approaches to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which ageing affects male reproductive potential. Animal models have thus been extensively used. These models are advantageous due to their reduced costs, general easy maintenance in laboratory facilities, rigorous manipulation tools, short lifespan, known genetic backgrounds, and reduced ethical constraints. Herein, we discuss animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing. The most well-known and studied reproductive ageing models are rodents and non-human primates. The data collected from these models, particularly studies on testicular ageing, steroidogenesis, and genetic and epigenetic changes in spermatogenesis are detailed. Notably, some species challenge the currently accepted ageing theories and the concept of senescence itself, which renders them interesting animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Carrageta
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
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Hu D, Tian L, Li X, Chen Y, Xu Z, Ge RS, Wang Y. Tetramethyl bisphenol a inhibits leydig cell function in late puberty by inducing ferroptosis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 236:113515. [PMID: 35427877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Tetramethyl bisphenol A (TMBPA) is a commonly used bisphenol analog, used as a fire retardant. However, whether it inhibits the function of Leydig cells in late puberty remains unclear. In this study, 35-day-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with 0, 10, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight TMBPA for 21 days. TMBPA significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 10 mg/kg and higher doses without altering serum luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels. TMBPA significantly increased serum iron concentraion while reducing the ratio of serum glutathione (GSH) and GSH/GSSG (oxidized glutathione disulfide). In addition, TMBPA significantly increased testicular iron amount at 10 mg/kg and higher doses and malondialdehyde level at 200 mg/kg. TMBPA down-regulated the expression of Leydig cell genes, including Nr5a1, Star, Scarb1, Insl3, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, and Hsd11b1, and their proteins. In addition, TMBPA markedly down-regulated the expression of genes in the ferroptosis pathway (Tp53, Slc7a11, Sod1, Sod2, Cat, Sqstm1, Keap1, and Hmox1). TMBPA significantly reduced the levels of ferroptosis pathway proteins (TP53, SLC7A11, GPX4, SQSTM1, KEAP1, NRF2, and HMOX1) in Leydig cells in vivo. Immature and adult Leydig cell culture in vitro also showed that TMBPA significantly reduced testosterone concentrations in the medium, which can be reversed by a ferroptosis inhibitor. After 24 h of culture in primary Leydig cells at 10 and 50 μM, TMBPA significantly induced reactive oxygen species and lowered the mitochondrial membrane potential. TMBPA also altered protein levels in the ferroptosis pathway in Leydig cells in vitro. In conclusion, TMBPA directly inhibits the activity of rat Leydig cell steroidogenic enzymes and induces the ferroptosis of Leydig cells, thereby inhibiting the testosterone synthesis of Leydig cells in the late puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dichao Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lili Tian
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueyun Li
- Department of pathology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yirui Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zheqing Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Li S, Wang Y, Zou C, Zhu Q, Wang Y, Chen H, Yang W, Tu Y, Yan H, Li X, Ge RS. Cypermethrin inhibits Leydig cell development and function in pubertal rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 37:1160-1172. [PMID: 35102696 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23473] [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: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cypermethrin is a broad-spectrum pyrethroid insecticide that is widely used. It may induce adverse endocrine-disrupting effects on the male reproductive system. Whether cypermethrin can disrupt Leydig cell development and function in the late puberty remains elusive. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of cypermethrin exposure to male rats on the development and function of Leydig cells in late puberty and explore the underlying mechanism. Thirty-six male Sprague-Dawley rats (age of 35 days) were gavaged with cypermethrin (0, 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg/day) from postnatal day 35-49. Cypermethrin significantly lowered serum testosterone level while elevating serum luteinizing hormone level at a dose of 50 mg/kg, without altering serum follicle-stimulating hormone level. Cypermethrin markedly decreased CYP11A1-positive Leydig cell number at 50 mg/kg without affecting SOX9-positive Sertoli cell number. It significantly down-regulated the expression of Leydig cell genes, Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a1, and Cyp17a1 and their proteins, while up-regulating the expression of Sertoli cell genes, Dhh and Amh, and their proteins, at doses of 12.5-50 mg/kg. In addition, cypermethrin significantly increased malondialdehyde level while lowering the expression of Sod1 and Sod2 and their proteins at 50 mg/kg. Cypermethrin markedly induced reactive oxidative species at a concentration of 200 μM and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential at 25 μM and higher concentrations after 24 h of treatment to primary Leydig cells in vitro. In conclusion, cypermethrin inhibits the development and function of Leydig cells in male rats in late puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijun Li
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Cheng Zou
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qiqi Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haiqiong Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Yang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yuhan Tu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Haoni Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoheng Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ren-Shan Ge
- Institute of Life Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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9
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El-Sayed K, Ali DA, Maher SA, Ghareeb D, Selim S, Albogami S, Fayad E, Kolieb E. Prophylactic and Ameliorative Effects of PPAR-γ Agonist Pioglitazone in Improving Oxidative Stress, Germ Cell Apoptosis and Inflammation in Gentamycin-Induced Testicular Damage in Adult Male Albino Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020191. [PMID: 35204074 PMCID: PMC8868260 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) is ubiquitously expressed in testicular tissue and plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes. Pioglitazone (PIO) is one of the PPAR-γ agonists, having anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Patients on gentamycin treatment may undergo serious side effects such as testicular damage. To the best of our knowledge, this was the first study to investigate the possible protective anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects of PIO on gentamycin-induced testicular damage. Fifty adult male Wistar albino rats included in the study as the control group (CTL) received normal saline; a gentamycin-induced testicular damage group (GM) received gentamycin (100 mg/kg); PIO5, PIO10, PIO20 groups received PIO at a dose of 5, 10, and 20 mg/ kg, respectively, for 21 days, and gentamycin was started at day 15 of the experiment for 6 days. The parameters of spermatozoa and histopathological alterations in the testes were significantly improved in the PIO20 group. Moreover, MDA levels, inflammatory mediators, and apoptotic Bax expression were decreased. The activity of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, total antioxidant capacity, and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 genes expression were increased. It was concluded that PIO20 could protect against gentamycin-induced testicular damage in Wistar rats through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karima El-Sayed
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Dina A. Ali
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Shymaa Ahmed Maher
- Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
- Center of Excellence in Molecular and Cellular Medicine (CEMCM), Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
| | - Dalia Ghareeb
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez University, Suez 41522, Egypt;
| | - Samy Selim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Sakaka 72341, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sarah Albogami
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (E.F.)
| | - Eman Fayad
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (E.F.)
| | - Eman Kolieb
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +20-1006738513
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Leisegang K, Roychoudhury S, Slama P, Finelli R. The Mechanisms and Management of Age-Related Oxidative Stress in Male Hypogonadism Associated with Non-communicable Chronic Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1834. [PMID: 34829704 PMCID: PMC8615233 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10111834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens have diverse functions in muscle physiology, lean body mass, the regulation of adipose tissue, bone density, neurocognitive regulation, and spermatogenesis, the male reproductive and sexual function. Male hypogonadism, characterized by reduced testosterone, is commonly seen in ageing males, and has a complex relationship as a risk factor and a comorbidity in age-related noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCDs), such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and malignancy. Oxidative stress, as a significant contributor to the ageing process, is a common feature between ageing and NCDs, and the related comorbidities, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and chronic inflammation. Oxidative stress may also be a mediator of hypogonadism in males. Consequently, the management of oxidative stress may represent a novel therapeutic approach in this context. Therefore, this narrative review aims to discuss the mechanisms of age-related oxidative stress in male hypogonadism associated with NCDs and discusses current and potential approaches for the clinical management of these patients, which may include conventional hormone replacement therapy, nutrition and lifestyle changes, adherence to the optimal body mass index, and dietary antioxidant supplementation and/or phytomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Leisegang
- School of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | | | - Petr Slama
- Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, 61300 Brno, Czech Republic
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11
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Chung JY, Chen H, Zirkin B. Sirt1 and Nrf2: regulation of Leydig cell oxidant/antioxidant intracellular environment and steroid formation†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:1307-1316. [PMID: 34363387 PMCID: PMC8598996 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies reported that, with aging, Leydig cell intracellular antioxidants are reduced in concentration and intracellular ROS levels increase, suggesting that oxidant/antioxidant imbalance may contribute to the reduced testosterone production that characterizes the aging cells. As yet, little is known about how the Leydig cell oxidant/antioxidant environment is regulated. Sirt1, an enzyme that deacetylates transcription factors, and the transcription factor Nrf2, have been shown to be associated with cellular response to oxidative stress. We hypothesized that Sirt1 and/or Nrf2 might be involved in regulating the oxidant/antioxidant environment of Leydig cells, and therefore, the testosterone production. We found that Sirt1 and Nrf2 are present in the Leydig cells of Brown Norway rats, though reduced in aged cells. In MA-10 cells in which Sirt1 or Nrf2 were suppressed by nicotinamide (NAM) or ML385, respectively, or in which siRNAs were used for knockdown of Sirt1 or Nrf2, increased ROS levels and decreased progesterone production occurred. In rat Leydig cells, inhibition of Sirt1 by culturing the cells with NAM resulted in increased ROS and reduced testosterone production, and subsequent removal of NAM from the culture medium resulted in increased testosterone production. Activation of rat Leydig cells Sirt1 with honokiol or of Nrf2 with sulforaphane resulted in the maintenance of testosterone production despite the exposure of the cells to oxidizing agent. These results, taken together, suggest that Sirt1 and Nrf2 are involved in maintaining the Leydig cell oxidant/antioxidant environment, and thus in maintaining steroid production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Yong Chung
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Barry Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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12
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Luo P, Feng X, Deng R, Wang F, Zhang Y, Li X, Zhang M, Wan Z, Xiang AP, Xia K, Gao Y, Deng C. An autofluorescence-based isolation of Leydig cells for testosterone deficiency treatment. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 535:111389. [PMID: 34229003 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Effective procedures for the purification of Leydig cells (LCs) can facilitate functional studies and transplantation therapies. However, current methods to purify LCs from testes are still far from satisfactory. Here, we found that testicular autofluorescence existed in the interstitium along with the gradual maturation of LCs from birth to adulthood. These autofluorescent cells were further isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) and determined to be composed of LCs and macrophages. To further purify LCs, we combined two fluorescence channels of FACS and successfully separated LCs and macrophages. Of note, we confirmed that the obtained LCs not only possessed high purity, viability and quantity but also had intact steroidogenic activity and excellent responsiveness to luteinizing hormone. Moreover, subcutaneous transplantation of isolated LCs could alleviate the symptoms of testosterone deficiency in castrated mice. In summary, we established an effective autofluorescence-based method for isolating LCs. This method will aid in the future success of using LCs for basic and translational applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Luo
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Feng
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ronghai Deng
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fulin Wang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yadong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiangping Li
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zi Wan
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Andy Peng Xiang
- Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Department of Biochemistry, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai Xia
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Center for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yong Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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13
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Xylene delays the development of Leydig cells in pubertal rats by inducing reactive oxidative species. Toxicology 2021; 454:152740. [PMID: 33662507 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Xylene is a cyclic hydrocarbon, which is commonly used as a solvent in dyes, paints, polishes, and industrial solutions. It is a potential environmental pollutant. Here, we report the effect of xylene exposure on Leydig cell development in male rats during puberty. Xylene (0, 150, 750, and 1500 mg/kg) was gavaged to 35-day-old male Sprague Dawley rats for 21 days. Xylene significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 750 and 1500 mg/kg without affecting serum luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels. Xylene reduced the number of HSD11B1-positive Leydig cells at the advanced stage at 1500 mg/kg. At 750 and 1500 mg/kg, xylene also reduced the cell size and cytoplasm size. It down-regulated the expression of Leydig cell-specific genes (Lhcgr, Scarb1, Star, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1, and Hsd11b1) and proteins. In addition, xylene significantly reduced the ratio of phosphorus-GSK-3β (pGSK-3β/GSK-3β), phosphorus-ERK1/2 (pERK)/ERK1/2, and phosphorus-AKT1 (pAKT1)/AKT1, and SIRT1 levels in the testes. In vitro Leydig cell culture showed that xylene induced oxidative stress by increasing the production of reactive oxygen species and lowing antioxidant (Sod2), and inhibited the production of testosterone, and down-regulated the expression of genes related to steroidogenesis, while vitamin E reversed the xylene-mediated effect as an antioxidant. In conclusion, xylene exposure may disrupt the development of pubertal Leydig cells by increasing reactive oxygen species production and reducing the expression of GSK-3β, ERK1/2, AKT1, and SIRT1.
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A A Aly H, G Eid B. Cisplatin induced testicular damage through mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress in rats: impact of resveratrol. Endocr J 2020; 67:969-980. [PMID: 32507773 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej20-0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The target of this study was to explore the role of mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage and to evaluate the ameliorative effect of resveratrol. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to 4 groups. Group I (Control) received normal saline, Group II (Resveratrol) received resveratrol (50 mg/kg/day), Group III (Cisplatin) received cisplatin (7.5 mg/kg/week, i.p.) and Group IV (Resveratrol + Cisplatin) received resveratrol and cisplatin in the same regimen of treatment. Treatment with resveratrol in Groups II and IV started 48h before cisplatin injection and continued for further 4 successive weeks. Cisplatin-treated rats showed reduced body weight, absolute testes weight and sperm count, motility and viability. On the other hand, cisplatin treatment increased the percentage of sperm abnormalities. It also decreased serum testosterone level, mitochondrial membrane potential while, increased cytochrome C liberation from the mitochondria into the cytosol. The activities of caspase-3 & -9 were increased. The level of TNF-α, IL-6 and Bax were increased whereas Bcl-2 was decreased. Oxidative stress markers were found to increase with a concomitant reduction in the antioxidant enzymes and GSH levels. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemical and histopathological analysis. Contrary to all these results, there were improvements in cisplatin induced testicular damage through attenuation of mitochondria mediated apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress owing to resveratrol pretreatment. Thus, resveratrol, as a potential therapeutic agent, may hold promise in preventing mitochondria mediated apoptosis and inflammation in cisplatin-induced testicular damage in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamdy A A Aly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Basma G Eid
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Baskaran S, Finelli R, Agarwal A, Henkel R. Reactive oxygen species in male reproduction: A boon or a bane? Andrologia 2020; 53:e13577. [PMID: 32271474 DOI: 10.1111/and.13577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are free radicals derived from oxygen during normal cellular metabolism. ROS play a crucial role in the physiological processes and signalling pathways associated with male fertility. At physiological concentrations, ROS act as molecular mediators of signal transduction pathways involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. They also trigger the morphological changes required for sperm maturation, such as DNA compaction and flagellar modification. Furthermore, ROS modulate crucial processes involved in the attainment of sperm fertilising ability such as capacitation, hyperactivation, acrosome reaction and sperm-oocyte fusion. Conversely, oxidative stress prevails when the concentration of ROS overwhelms the body's antioxidant defence. Various endogenous and exogenous factors enhance the synthesis of ROS resulting in the disruption of structural and functional integrity of spermatozoa through the induction of apoptotic pathway and oxidation of molecules, such as lipids, proteins and DNA. Therefore, maintenance of a balanced redox state is critical for normal male reproductive functions. This article discusses the dual role of ROS in male reproduction, highlighting the physiological role as well as their pathological implications on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Wang Y, Shan Y, Wang Y, Fang Y, Huang T, Wang S, Zhu Q, Li X, Ge RS. Aconitine inhibits androgen synthesis enzymes by rat immature Leydig cells via down-regulating androgen synthetic enzyme expression in vitro. Chem Biol Interact 2019; 312:108817. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2019.108817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 08/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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17
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Aly H. Testicular toxicity of gentamicin in adult rats: Ameliorative effect of lycopene. Hum Exp Toxicol 2019; 38:1302-1313. [PMID: 31319718 DOI: 10.1177/0960327119864160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The current study was aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of lycopene against gentamicin-induced testicular toxicity in adult rat testes. Pretreatment with lycopene (4 mg/kg/day) significantly prevented the decrease in the absolute testes weight and relative testes weight and the reduction in sperm count, motility, viability, and daily sperm production in gentamicin (100 mg/kg/day)-treated rats. Gentamicin significantly decreased the level of serum testosterone and testicular lactate dehydrogenase-X and G6PDH activities but a marked increase was observed upon pretreatment with lycopene. Testicular caspase-3 and -9 activities were significantly increased but lycopene showed significant protection from gentamicin-induced apoptosis. Oxidative stress was induced by gentamicin treatment as evidenced by increased hydrogen peroxide level and lipid peroxidation and decreased the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase activities and glutathione content. These alterations were effectively prevented by lycopene pretreatment. Histopathological examination showed loss of spermatogenesis and morphological abnormalities of the testis after treatment with gentamycin. These abnormalities were effectively normalized by pretreatment with lycopene. In conclusion, gentamicin decreases rat testes weight and inhibits spermatogenesis. It induces oxidative stress and apoptosis by possible mitochondrial dysfunction. These data provide insight into the mode of action of gentamicin-induced testicular toxicity and the beneficial role provided by lycopene to restore the suppressed spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haa Aly
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
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18
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Differential effect of Taraxacum officinale L. (dandelion) root extract on hepatic and testicular tissues of rats exposed to ionizing radiation. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4893-4907. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04939-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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19
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Rezaei N, Mardanshahi T, Shafaroudi MM, Abedian S, Mohammadi H, Zare Z. Effects of l-Carnitine on the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, Luteinizing Hormone, Testosterone, and Testicular Tissue Oxidative Stress Levels in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. J Evid Based Integr Med 2018; 23:2515690X18796053. [PMID: 30168346 PMCID: PMC6120171 DOI: 10.1177/2515690x18796053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the antioxidant property of l-carnitine (LC) on serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (TH) and testis oxidative stress in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. The rats were divided into the following groups: group I, control; group II, LC 100 mg/kg/d; group III, diabetic; and groups IV to VI, diabetic rats treated with 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/d of LC, respectively. Daily injections were given intraperitoneally for 7 weeks. At the end of experimental period, after sacrificing the rats, FSH, LH, TH, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), mitochondrial function (MTT), protein carbonyl (PC), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured. STZ caused an elevation of MDA, ROS, and PC (P < .001) with reduction of GSH, CAT, TAC, and MTT (P < .001) in the serum levels. Group VI had significantly increased FSH, LH, and TH levels versus the untreated diabetic group (P < .001). Although groups V and VI significantly decreased MDA (P < .001), PC (P < .01), and ROS (P < .01) compared with the untreated diabetic group; only in group VI, the activity of GSH (P < .001), CAT (P < .01), TAC (P < .001), and MTT (P < .001) significantly increased. The results of the present study suggest that LC decreased diabetes-induced oxidative stress complications and also improved serum level of FSH, LH, and TH by reducing levels of lipid peroxidation and increasing antioxidant enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Saeed Abedian
- 1 Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Zohre Zare
- 1 Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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20
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Bai H, Sun F, Yang G, Wang L, Zhang Q, Zhang Q, Zhan Y, Chen J, Yu M, Li C, Yin R, Yang X, Ge C. CBLB502, a Toll-like receptor 5 agonist, offers protection against radiation-induced male reproductive system damage in mice†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:281-291. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Bai
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Sun
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ganggang Yang
- College of Life Science, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering Medicine, Xinxiang, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Quanyi Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering Medicine, Xinxiang, China
| | - Quanhai Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering Medicine, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yiqun Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaojiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Changyan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Ronghua Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoming Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Beijing Proteome Research Center, National Center for Protein Sciences (Beijing), Beijing Institute of Lifeomics, Beijing, China
| | - Changhui Ge
- Department of Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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21
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Aly HA, Hassan MH. Potential testicular toxicity of gentamicin in adult rats. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 497:362-367. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.02.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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22
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Wang Y, Chen F, Ye L, Zirkin B, Chen H. Steroidogenesis in Leydig cells: effects of aging and environmental factors. Reproduction 2017; 154:R111-R122. [PMID: 28747539 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Serum testosterone (TS) levels decrease with aging in both humans and rodents. Using the rat as a model system, it was found that age-related reductions in serum TS were not due to loss of Leydig cells, but rather to the reduced ability of the Leydig cells to produce TS in response to luteinizing hormone (LH). Detailed analyses of the steroidogenic pathway have suggested that two defects along the pathway, LH-stimulated cAMP production and cholesterol transport to and into the mitochondria, are of particular importance in age-related reductions in TS production. Although the mechanisms involved in these defects are far from certain, increasing oxidative stress appears to play a particularly important role. Interestingly, increased oxidative stress also appears to be involved in the suppressive effects of endocrine disruptors on Leydig cell TS production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyan Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Fenfen Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Leping Ye
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Barry Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Haolin Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, Zhejiang, China .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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23
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Label-free based quantitative proteomics analysis of primary neonatal porcine Leydig cells exposed to the persistent contaminant 3-methylsulfonyl-DDE. J Proteomics 2016; 137:68-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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24
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Schang G, Robaire B, Hales BF. Organophosphate Flame Retardants Act as Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in MA-10 Mouse Tumor Leydig Cells. Toxicol Sci 2016; 150:499-509. [PMID: 26794138 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have emerged as alternatives to banned brominated flame retardants but little is known about their possible activity as endocrine disruptors. Our goal was to compare the effects of 7 commonly used OPFRsin vitroon MA-10 mouse Leydig tumor cells to those of a major brominated flame retardant, 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47). The effects of OPFRs and BDE-47 on mitochondrial activity, cell counts, oxidative stress, steroid secretion and gene expression were investigated. BDE-47 and all 7 OPFRs tested significantly reduced MA-10 cell mitochondrial activity (concentrations ≥50 μM) and cell number (concentrations ≥10 μM). All of the OPFRs significantly increased (10 μM, 1.7-4.4-fold) superoxide production whereas BDE-47 had no significant effect. Basal progesterone production was significantly increased (10 μM, 1.5 to 3-fold) by 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate, isodecyl diphenyl phosphate, isopropylated triphenyl phosphate, tert-butylphenyl diphenyl phosphate, and tricresyl phosphate, while BDE-47, triphenyl phosphate and tri-o-cresyl phosphate had no effect. Interestingly, isopropylated triphenyl phosphate enhanced dbcAMP-stimulated steroid production (∼2-fold), while tri-o-cresyl phosphate decreased (∼2/3) LH-stimulated steroid production. Several OPFRs affected the expression of genes involved in the biosynthesis of progesterone. In conclusion, all the OPFRs tested affected mitochondrial activity, cell survival, and superoxide production. Basal or stimulated steroid secretion was affected by all of the OPFRs except triphenyl phosphate; BDE-47 had no effect. Hence, the OPFRs currently used as alternatives affect Leydig cells to a greater extent than the brominated flame retardants that they have replaced.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernard Robaire
- *Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 1Y6, Canada
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25
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Chen H, Guo J, Ge R, Lian Q, Papadopoulos V, Zirkin BR. Steroidogenic fate of the Leydig cells that repopulate the testes of young and aged Brown Norway rats after elimination of the preexisting Leydig cells. Exp Gerontol 2015; 72:8-15. [PMID: 26335619 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2015.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The capacity of Brown Norway rat Leydig cells to produce testosterone (T) decreases with aging. In a previous study, we reported that a new generation of Leydig cells can be restored in both young and old rat testes after a single injection of ethane dimethanesulfonate (EDS), and that the abilities of the new Leydig cells in young and old rats to produce T were equivalent. Our objective herein was to compare the steroidogenic fate of the new Leydig cells over time. Young (3 month-old) and old (18 month-old) rats were injected with EDS to eliminate the existing Leydig cells. Ten weeks after EDS, Leydig cells had been restored and T production by the new Leydig cells isolated from young and old rat testes was equivalent. Thirty weeks after EDS treatment of young rats, the ability of the new Leydig cells to produce T had not diminished from 10 weeks post-EDS. In contrast, at 30 weeks post-EDS, T production by new cells in old rat testes was reduced significantly from the 10-week level. Serum T levels at 10 and 30 weeks were consistent with Leydig cell T production. Serum LH levels did not differ in any group. Thus, although the Leydig cells restored to both young and old rats after EDS initially produced T at high, equivalent levels, the cells in the old testes did not maintain this ability. These results suggest that: 1) the cells from which new populations of Leydig cells are derived may differ depending upon the age of the rat; and/or 2) factors extrinsic to the new Leydig cells in young and old testes differ, and it is these differences that are responsible for reductions in T by the newly formed Leydig cells in the testes of old rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Jingjing Guo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingquan Lian
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Chen H, Jin S, Guo J, Kombairaju P, Biswal S, Zirkin BR. Knockout of the transcription factor Nrf2: Effects on testosterone production by aging mouse Leydig cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 409:113-20. [PMID: 25818884 PMCID: PMC4465452 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Aging in rodents and men is associated with reduced serum levels of testosterone and Leydig cell testosterone productions. To further investigate the mechanism by which Leydig cell testosterone production declines, the effect of knocking out Nrf2, a master regulator of phase 2 antioxidant genes, was examined. In wild-type mice, testosterone production and serum testosterone levels remained unchanged through middle age (8 months), but then were reduced significantly by old age (21-24 months). In contrast, serum testosterone levels and Leydig cell testosterone production were reduced significantly in the Nrf2-/- mice as early as middle age, and were reduced further in the aged mice. Reduced steroidogenesis in the knockout mice was associated with reduced antioxidant capacity, and increased expression of protein nitrotyrosine residues, a marker of ROS. These results support the hypothesis that, over time, increases in oxidative stress contribute to or cause the reduced testosterone production that characterizes Leydig cell aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205; The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Jingjing Guo
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ponvijay Kombairaju
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Shyam Biswal
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205
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Glade MJ, Smith K, Meguid MM. A glance at…nutritional antioxidants and testosterone secretion. Nutrition 2015; 31:1295-8. [PMID: 26254688 DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2015.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyl Smith
- Progressive Laboratories Inc., Irving, Texas, USA
| | - Michael M Meguid
- Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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Beattie MC, Adekola L, Papadopoulos V, Chen H, Zirkin BR. Leydig cell aging and hypogonadism. Exp Gerontol 2015; 68:87-91. [PMID: 25700847 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2015.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Leydig cell testosterone (T) production is reduced with age, resulting in reduced serum T levels (hypogonadism). A number of cellular changes have been identified in the steroidogenic pathway of aged Leydig cells that are associated with reduced T formation, including reductions in luteinizing hormone (LH)-stimulated cAMP production, the cholesterol transport proteins steroidogenic acute regulatory (STAR) protein and translocator protein (TSPO), and downstream steroidogenic enzymes of the mitochondria and smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Many of the changes in steroid formation that characterize aged Leydig cells can be elicited by the experimental alteration of the redox environment of young cells, suggesting that changes in the intracellular redox balance may cause reduced T production. Hypogonadism is estimated to affect about 5 million American men, including both aged and young. This condition has been linked to mood changes, worsening cognition, fatigue, depression, decreased lean body mass, reduced bone mineral density, increased visceral fat, metabolic syndrome, decreased libido, and sexual dysfunction. Exogenous T administration is now used widely to elevate serum T levels in hypogonadal men and thus to treat symptoms of hypogonadism. However, recent evidence suggests that men who take exogenous T may face increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and prostate tumorigenesis. Moreover, it is well established that administered T can have suppressive effects on LH, resulting in lower Leydig cell T production, reduced intratesticular T concentration, and reduced spermatogenesis. This makes exogenous T administration inappropriate for men who wish to father children. There are promising new approaches to increase serum T by directly stimulating Leydig cell T production rather than by exogenous T therapy, thus potentially avoiding some of its negative consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Beattie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - L Adekola
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - V Papadopoulos
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - H Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - B R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Yuan XH, Yang BQ, Hu Y, Fan YY, Zhang LX, Zhou JC, Wang YQ, Lu CL, Ma X. Dexamethasone altered steroidogenesis and changed redox status of granulosa cells. Endocrine 2014; 47:639-47. [PMID: 24723257 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-014-0250-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids have been widely used in clinical application for anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive function. Previous study reported that glucocorticoids adversely affect the reproductive system and can directly act on ovary. Here, we found that progesterone production induced by dexamethasone requiring activation of caspase-3 which may mediate differentiation and apoptosis of granulosa cells. Further study displayed that cellular glutathione level was increased and reactive oxygen species was decreased accompanied with unchanged mitochondrial membrane potential which may contribute to the maintenance of steroidogenesis in granulosa cells treated with dexamethasone. Dexamethasone also augmented the level of anti-Müllerian hormone secreted by preovulatory granulosa cells which indicated that dexamethasone may promote preantral follicles development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hua Yuan
- Maternity Department, Shaanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Xi'an, 710068, China
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30
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Zaidi SK, Shen WJ, Bittner S, Bittner A, McLean MP, Han J, Davis RJ, Kraemer FB, Azhar S. p38 MAPK regulates steroidogenesis through transcriptional repression of STAR gene. J Mol Endocrinol 2014; 53:1-16. [PMID: 24780837 PMCID: PMC4077990 DOI: 10.1530/jme-13-0287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
STAR/StarD1, part of a protein complex, mediates the transport of cholesterol from the outer to inner mitochondrial membrane, which is the rate-limiting step for steroidogenesis, and where steroid hormone synthesis begins. Herein, we examined the role of oxidant-sensitive p38 MAPKs in the regulation of STAR gene transcription, using model steroidogenic cell lines. Our data indicate that oxidant activation of p38 MAPK exhibits a negative regulatory role in the induction of functional expression of STAR, as evidenced by enhanced induction of STAR (mRNA/protein) expression and increased steroidogenesis during pharmacological inhibition of p38 MAPK or in cells with increased transient overexpression of a dominant-negative (dn) form of p38 MAPKα or p38 MAPKβ. Studies with rat Star-promoter demonstrated that overexpression of p38 MAPKα-wt, -β, or -γ significantly reduced both basal and cAMP-sensitive promoter activity. In contrast, overexpression of p38 MAPKα-dn, -β, or -γ enhanced the Star promoter activity under basal conditions and in response to cAMP stimulation. Use of various constitutively active and dn constructs and designer knock-out cell lines demonstrated that MKK3 and MKK6, the upstream activators of p38 MAPKs, play a role in p38 MAPKα-mediated inhibition of Star promoter activity. In addition, our studies raised the possibility of CREB being a potential target of the p38 MAPK inhibitory effect on Star promoter activity. Collectively, these data provide novel mechanistic information about how oxidant-sensitive p38 MAPKs, particularly p38 MAPKα, contribute to the negative regulation of Star gene expression and inhibit steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Kashif Zaidi
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USAGeriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Wen-Jun Shen
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USAGeriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Stefanie Bittner
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Alex Bittner
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Mark P McLean
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Jiahuai Han
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Roger J Davis
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Fredric B Kraemer
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USAGeriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Salman Azhar
- Geriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USAGeriatric ResearchEducation and Clinical Center (GRECC-182B), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94304, USADivision of EndocrinologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyStanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USADepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa, Florida 33612, USAState Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress BiologySchool of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, ChinaProgram in Molecular MedicineUniversity of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
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Sahadevan S, Gunawan A, Tholen E, Große-Brinkhaus C, Tesfaye D, Schellander K, Hofmann-Apitius M, Cinar MU, Uddin MJ. Pathway based analysis of genes and interactions influencing porcine testis samples from boars with divergent androstenone content in back fat. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91077. [PMID: 24614349 PMCID: PMC3948775 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the primary factors contributing to boar taint is the level of androstenone in porcine adipose tissues. A majority of the studies performed to identify candidate biomarkers for the synthesis of androstenone in testis tissues follow a reductionist approach, identifying and studying the effect of biomarkers individually. Although these studies provide detailed information on individual biomarkers, a global picture of changes in metabolic pathways that lead to the difference in androstenone synthesis is still missing. The aim of this work was to identify major pathways and interactions influencing steroid hormone synthesis and androstenone biosynthesis using an integrative approach to provide a bird's eye view of the factors causing difference in steroidogenesis and androstenone biosynthesis. For this purpose, we followed an analysis procedure merging together gene expression data from boars with divergent levels of androstenone and pathway mapping and interaction network retrieved from KEGG database. The interaction networks were weighted with Pearson correlation coefficients calculated from gene expression data and significant interactions and enriched pathways were identified based on these networks. The results show that 1,023 interactions were significant for high and low androstenone animals and that a total of 92 pathways were enriched for significant interactions. Although published articles show that a number of these enriched pathways were activated as a result of downstream signaling of steroid hormones, we speculate that the significant interactions in pathways such as glutathione metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, fatty acid metabolism and significant interactions in cAMP-PKA/PKC signaling might be the key factors determining the difference in steroidogenesis and androstenone biosynthesis between boars with divergent androstenone levels in our study. The results and assumptions presented in this study are from an in-silico analysis done at the gene expression level and further laboratory experiments at genomic, proteomic or metabolomic level are necessary to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudeep Sahadevan
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing (SCAI), Schloss Birlinghoven, Sankt Augustin, Germany
| | - Asep Gunawan
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Department of Animal Production and Technology, Faculty of Animal Science, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Ernst Tholen
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Martin Hofmann-Apitius
- Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing (SCAI), Schloss Birlinghoven, Sankt Augustin, Germany
- Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology (B-IT), Bonn, Germany
| | - Mehmet Ulas Cinar
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
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Aly HA, Khafagy RM. Taurine reverses endosulfan-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in adult rat testis. Food Chem Toxicol 2014; 64:1-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Revised: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Zhao X, Bian Y, Sun Y, Li L, Wang L, Zhao C, Shen Y, Song Q, Qu Y, Niu S, Wu W, Gao F. Effects of moderate exercise over different phases on age-related physiological dysfunction in testes of SAMP8 mice. Exp Gerontol 2013; 48:869-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2013.05.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2012] [Revised: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Beattie MC, Chen H, Fan J, Papadopoulos V, Miller P, Zirkin BR. Aging and luteinizing hormone effects on reactive oxygen species production and DNA damage in rat Leydig cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:100. [PMID: 23486914 PMCID: PMC4013884 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.107052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 01/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We observed previously that after long-term suppression of luteinizing hormone (LH) and thus of Leydig cell steroidogenesis, restimulation of the Leydig cells by LH resulted in significantly higher testosterone production than by age-matched cells from control rats. These studies suggest that stimulation over time may elicit harmful effects on the steroidogenic machinery, perhaps through alteration of the intracellular oxidant-to-antioxidant balance. Herein we compared the effects of LH stimulation on stress response genes, formation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and ROS-induced damage to ROS-susceptible macromolecules (DNA) in young and in aged cells. Microarray analysis indicated that LH stimulation resulted in significant increases in expression of genes associated with stress response and antiapoptotic pathways. Short-term LH treatment of primary Leydig cells isolated from young rats resulted in transiently increased ROS levels compared to controls. Aged Leydig cells also showed increased ROS soon after LH stimulation. However, in contrast to the young cells, ROS production peaked later and the time to recovery was increased. In both young and aged cells, treatment with LH resulted in increased levels of DNA damage but significantly more so in the aged cells. DNA damage levels in response to LH and the levels of intracellular ROS were highly correlated. Taken together, these results indicate that LH stimulation causes increased ROS production by young and aged Leydig cells and that while DNA damage occurs in cells of both ages, there is greater damage in the aged cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C. Beattie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jinjiang Fan
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre and Departments of Medicine, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vassilios Papadopoulos
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre and Departments of Medicine, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paul Miller
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Barry R. Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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Korytowski W, Pilat A, Schmitt JC, Girotti AW. Deleterious cholesterol hydroperoxide trafficking in steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein-expressing MA-10 Leydig cells: implications for oxidative stress-impaired steroidogenesis. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:11509-19. [PMID: 23467407 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.452151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) proteins in steroidogenic cells are implicated in the delivery of cholesterol (Ch) from internal or external sources to mitochondria (Mito) for initiation of steroid hormone synthesis. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that under oxidative stress, StAR-mediated trafficking of redox-active cholesterol hydroperoxides (ChOOHs) can result in site-specific Mito damage and dysfunction. Steroidogenic stimulation of mouse MA-10 Leydig cells with dibutyryl-cAMP (Bt2cAMP) resulted in strong expression of StarD1 and StarD4 proteins over insignificant levels in nonstimulated controls. During incubation with the ChOOH 3β-hydroxycholest-5-ene-7α-hydroperoxide (7α-OOH) in liposomes, stimulated cells took up substantially more hydroperoxide in Mito than controls, with a resulting loss of membrane potential (ΔΨm) and ability to drive progesterone synthesis. 7α-OOH uptake and ΔΨm loss were greatly reduced by StarD1 knockdown, thus establishing the role of this protein in 7α-OOH delivery. Moreover, 7α-OOH was substantially more toxic to stimulated than nonstimulated cells, the former dying mainly by apoptosis and the latter dying by necrosis. Importantly, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, which is not a StAR protein ligand, was equally toxic to stimulated and nonstimulated cells. These findings support the notion that like Ch itself, 7α-OOH can be transported to/into Mito of steroidogenic cells by StAR proteins and therein induce free radical damage, which compromises steroid hormone synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Witold Korytowski
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, USA.
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36
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Rezvanfar MA, Rezvanfar MA, Shahverdi AR, Ahmadi A, Baeeri M, Mohammadirad A, Abdollahi M. Protection of cisplatin-induced spermatotoxicity, DNA damage and chromatin abnormality by selenium nano-particles. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2012; 266:356-65. [PMID: 23260366 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2012.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Cisplatin (CIS), an anticancer alkylating agent, induces DNA adducts and effectively cross links the DNA strands and so affects spermatozoa as a male reproductive toxicant. The present study investigated the cellular/biochemical mechanisms underlying possible protective effect of selenium nano-particles (Nano-Se) as an established strong antioxidant with more bioavailability and less toxicity, on reproductive toxicity of CIS by assessment of sperm characteristics, sperm DNA integrity, chromatin quality and spermatogenic disorders. To determine the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of CIS gonadotoxicity, the level of lipid peroxidation (LPO), antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and peroxynitrite (ONOO) as a marker of nitrosative stress (NS) and testosterone (T) concentration as a biomarker of testicular function were measured in the blood and testes. Thirty-two male Wistar rats were equally divided into four groups. A single IP dose of CIS (7 mg/kg) and protective dose of Nano-Se (2 mg/kg/day) were administered alone or in combination. The CIS-exposed rats showed a significant increase in testicular and serum LPO and ONOO level, along with a significant decrease in enzymatic antioxidants levels, diminished serum T concentration and abnormal histologic findings with impaired sperm quality associated with increased DNA damage and decreased chromatin quality. Coadministration of Nano-Se significantly improved the serum T, sperm quality, and spermatogenesis and reduced CIS-induced free radical toxic stress and spermatic DNA damage. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that Nano-Se may be useful to prevent CIS-induced gonadotoxicity through its antioxidant potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Rezvanfar
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Zirkin BR, Tenover JL. Aging and declining testosterone: past, present, and hopes for the future. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 33:1111-8. [PMID: 22879528 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.112.017160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As men age, serum testosterone (T) levels decline, whereas serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increase somewhat or remain unchanged. Age-related reductions in T levels may be associated with alterations in body composition; energy level; muscle strength; physical, sexual, and cognitive functions; and mood. The predominant contributor to the decline in serum T levels is the decreased ability of the aging testes to make T. As in humans, the Brown Norway rat demonstrates age-related reductions in serum T levels in the setting of unchanged or modestly increased serum LH levels. In this rat model, the ability of aged Leydig cells, the terminally differentiated T-producing cells of the testis, to produce T in response to LH stimulation is significantly diminished. This review begins with a discussion of what is known of the molecular mechanisms by which T synthesis declines with Leydig cell aging. It concludes with a brief history of T replacement therapy, current guidelines, controversies related to T replacement therapy in older men, and proposed future clinical directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Yuan XH, Lu CL, Yao N, An LS, Yang BQ, Zhang CL, Ma X. Arsenic induced progesterone production in a caspase-3-dependent manner and changed redox status in preovulatory granulosa cells. J Cell Physiol 2011; 227:194-203. [PMID: 21391215 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Arsenic contamination is a principal environmental health threat throughout the world. However, little is known about the effect of arsenic on steroidogenesis in granulosa cells (GCs). We found that the treatment of preovulatory GCs with arsenite stimulated progesterone production. A significant increase in serum level of progesterone was observed in female Sprague-Dawley rats following arsenite treatment at a dose of 10 mg/L/rat/day for 7 days. Further experiments demonstrated that arsenite treatment did not change the level of intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) or phosphorylated ERK1/2 in preovulatory GCs; however, progesterone production was significantly decreased when cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) or ERK1/2 pathway was inhibited. This implied that the effect of arsenite on progesterone production may require cAMP/PKA and ERK1/2 signaling but not depend on them. Furthermore, we found that arsenite decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) but increased the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) levels and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) in parallel to the changes in progesterone production. Progesterone antagonist blocked the arsenic-stimulated increase of GSH levels. Arsenite treatment induced caspase-3 activation, although no apoptosis was observed. Inhibition of caspase-3 activity significantly decreased progesterone production stimulated by arsenite or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). GSH depletion with buthionine sulfoximine led to cell apoptosis in response to arsenite treatment. Collectively, this study demonstrated for the first time that arsenite stimulates progesterone production through cleaved/active caspase-3-dependent pathway, and the increase of GSH level promoted by progesterone production may protect GCs against apoptosis and maintain the steroidogenesis of GCs in response to arsenite treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hua Yuan
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Fan J, Traore K, Li W, Amri H, Huang H, Wu C, Chen H, Zirkin B, Papadopoulos V. Molecular mechanisms mediating the effect of mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on hormone-stimulated steroidogenesis in MA-10 mouse tumor Leydig cells. Endocrinology 2010; 151:3348-62. [PMID: 20463053 PMCID: PMC2903930 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a widely used plasticizer, and its active metabolite, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), have been shown to exert adverse effects on the reproductive tract in developing and adult animals. As yet, however, the molecular mechanisms by which they act are uncertain. In the present study, we address the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the effects of MEHP on basal and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-stimulated steroid production by MA-10 Leydig cells, using a systems biology approach. MEHP induced dose-dependent decreases in hCG-stimulated steroid formation. Changes in mRNA and protein expression in cells treated with increasing concentrations of MEHP in the presence or absence of hCG were measured by gene microarray and protein high-throughput immunoblotting analyses, respectively. Expression profiling indicated that low concentrations of MEHP induced the expression of a number of genes that also were expressed after hCG stimulation. Cross-comparisons between the hCG and MEHP treatments revealed two genes, Anxa1 and AR1. We suggest that these genes may be involved in a new self-regulatory mechanism of steroidogenesis. The MEHP-induced decreases in hCG-stimulated steroid formation were paralleled by increases in reactive oxygen species generation, with the latter mediated by the Cyp1a1 gene and its network. A model for the mechanism of MEHP action on MA-10 Leydig cell steroidogenesis is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjiang Fan
- The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal General Hospital, 1650 Cedar Avenue, Room C10-148, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1A4
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Chen H, Ge RS, Zirkin BR. Leydig cells: From stem cells to aging. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2009; 306:9-16. [PMID: 19481681 PMCID: PMC2749461 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2009.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2008] [Revised: 01/22/2009] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Leydig cells are the testosterone-producing cells of the testis. The adult Leydig cell population ultimately develops from undifferentiated mesenchymal-like stem cells present in the interstitial compartment of the neonatal testis. Four distinct stages of adult Leydig cell development have been identified and characterized: stem Leydig cells, progenitor Leydig cells, immature Leydig cells and adult Leydig cells. The stem Leydig cells are undifferentiated cells that are capable of indefinite self-renewal, differentiation, and replenishment of the Leydig cell niche. Progenitor Leydig cells are derived from the stem Leydig cells. These spindle-shaped cells are luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor positive, have high mitotic activity, and produce little testosterone but rather testosterone metabolites. The progenitor Leydig cells give rise to immature Leydig cells which are round, contain large amounts of smooth endoplasmic reticulum, and produce some testosterone but also very high levels of testosterone metabolites. A single division of these cells produces adult Leydig cells, which are terminally differentiated cells that produce high levels of testosterone. As men age, serum testosterone levels decline, and this is associated with alterations in body composition, energy level, muscle strength, physical, sexual and cognitive functions, and mood. In the Brown Norway rat, used extensively as a model for male reproductive aging, age-related reductions in serum testosterone result from significant decline in the ability of aged Leydig cells to produce testosterone in response to LH stimulation. This review describes Leydig cell development and aging. Additionally, the molecular mechanisms by which testosterone synthesis declines with aging are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haolin Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Division of Reproductive Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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