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Lo JO, Hedges JC, Chou WH, Tager KR, Bachli ID, Hagen OL, Murphy SK, Hanna CB, Easley CA. Influence of substance use on male reproductive health and offspring outcomes. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:534-564. [PMID: 38664544 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00868-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of substance use globally is rising and is highest among men of reproductive age. In Africa, and South and Central America, cannabis use disorder is most prevalent and in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, Central America, Canada and the USA, opioid use disorder predominates. Substance use might be contributing to the ongoing global decline in male fertility, and emerging evidence has linked paternal substance use with short-term and long-term adverse effects on offspring development and outcomes. This trend is concerning given that substance use is increasing, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. Preclinical studies have shown that male preconception substance use can influence offspring brain development and neurobehaviour through epigenetic mechanisms. Additionally, human studies investigating paternal health behaviours during the prenatal period suggest that paternal tobacco, opioid, cannabis and alcohol use is associated with reduced offspring mental health, in particular hyperactivity and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The potential effects of paternal substance use are areas in which to focus public health efforts and health-care provider counselling of couples or individuals interested in conceiving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie O Lo
- Department of Urology, Oregon Heath & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Jason C Hedges
- Department of Urology, Oregon Heath & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Wesley H Chou
- Department of Urology, Oregon Heath & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kylie R Tager
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Ian D Bachli
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Olivia L Hagen
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Susan K Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Carol B Hanna
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Charles A Easley
- Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia College of Public Health, Athens, GA, USA
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2
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Methorst C, Perrin J, Faix A, Huyghe E. [Male infertility, environment and lifestyle]. Prog Urol 2023; 33:613-623. [PMID: 38012907 DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2023.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the 1970s, there has been a quantitative and qualitative decline in sperm parameters. The main hypothesis to explain such a rapid evolution is the involvement of environmental and behavioral phenomena. METHODS A bibliographic search limited to English and French literature in men published before 7/2023 was carried out on the links between fertility and pollution, xenobiotics, tobacco, narcotics, cannabis, alcohol, weight, sport, sedentary lifestyle, sleep and anabolics. RESULTS Profound changes in lifestyle have occurred over the past 50 years: reduced sleep time, sedentary lifestyle, dietary changes, tobacco consumption, use of narcotics and anabolics. These changes have a proven impact on spermogram parameters, and should be corrected in an effort to optimize reproductive health. Other environmental parameters: pollution, exposure to heavy metals, exposure to xenobiotics, phthalates and pesticides… will be more difficult to exclude from patients' daily lives, but deserve to be taken more into account. CONCLUSION This review should help the urologist to assess and counsel patients in order to improve their reproductive health. These factors should be routinely investigated in infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Methorst
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital des 4 villes, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - J Perrin
- Biologie et médecine de la reproduction et du développement, CHU de Marseille, UMR 7263 IMBE, Marseille, France
| | - A Faix
- Clinique Saint-Roch, 560, avenue du Colonel-Pavelet-dit-Villars, 34000 Montpellier, France
| | - E Huyghe
- Département d'urologie, hôpital de Rangueil, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; UMR DEFE, Inserm 1203, université de Toulouse, université de Montpellier, Toulouse, France.
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3
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Rodak K, Kratz EM. PUFAs and Their Derivatives as Emerging Players in Diagnostics and Treatment of Male Fertility Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050723. [PMID: 37242506 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
About 15% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility, with the male factor responsible for approximately 50% of reproductive failures. Male fertility can be influenced by various factors, including an unhealthy lifestyle and diet, often associated with oxidative stress. These changes are frequently the reason for spermatozoan dysfunction, malformations, and lowered count. However, sometimes even with proper semen parameters, fertilization does not occur, and this is referred to as idiopathic infertility. Of particular importance may be molecules contained in the spermatozoan membrane or seminal plasma, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3 (docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids) and omega-6 (arachidonic acid) fatty acids and their derivatives (prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxanes, endocannabinoids, isoprostanes), which are vulnerable to the effects of oxidative stress. In the present review, we discuss the influence of these molecules on human male reproductive health and its possible causes, including disrupted oxidative-antioxidative balance. The review also discusses the potential use of these molecules in the diagnostics and treatment of male infertility, with a particular focus on the innovative approach to isoprostanes as biomarkers for male infertility. Given the high occurrence of idiopathic male infertility, there is a need to explore new solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Rodak
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Division of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Maria Kratz
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Division of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska Street 211A, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland
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Swain N, Samanta L, Goswami C, Kar S, Majhi RK, Kumar S, Dixit A. TRPV1 channel in spermatozoa is a molecular target for ROS-mediated sperm dysfunction and differentially expressed in both natural and ART pregnancy failure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:867057. [PMID: 36211461 PMCID: PMC9538505 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.867057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bi-directional crosstalk between Ca2+ signaling and ROS modulates physiological processes as a part of a regulatory circuit including sperm function. The role of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in this regard cannot be undermined. This is the first report demonstrating the Ca2+-sensitive TRPV1 channel to be under-expressed in spermatozoa of subfertile men, idiopathic infertile men, and normozoospermic infertile males with high ROS (idiopathic infertility and unilateral varicocele). To study the effect of TRPV1 in determining the fertility outcome, we compared the expression profile of TRPV1 in spermatozoa of male partners who achieved pregnancy by natural conception (NC+, n = 10), IVF (IVF+, n = 23), or ICSI (ICSI +, n = 9) and their respective counterparts with failed pregnancy NC (n = 7), IVF (n = 23), or ICSI (n = 10), by both immunocytochemistry and flow-cytometry. Reduced expression of TRPV1 in sperm of IVF ± and ICSI ± men with respect to that NC+ men imply its role in mediating successful fertilization. Unsuccessful pregnancy outcome with an underexpression of TRPV1 in sperm of NC-/IVF-/ICSI-men suggests its role in conception and maintenance of pregnancy. Since ROS is regarded as one of the major contributors to sperm dysfunction, the effect of H2O2 +/- TRPV1 modulators (RTX/iRTX) on acrosomal reaction and calcium influx was evaluated to confirm TRPV1 as a redox sensor in human sperm. A significant increment in the percentage of acrosome reacted spermatozoa along with augmented Ca2+-influx was observed after H2O2 treatment, both in the presence or absence of TRPV1 agonist resiniferatoxin (RTX). The effect was attenuated by the TRPV1 antagonist iodoresiniferatoxin (iRTX), indicating the involvement of TRPV1 in mediating H2O2 response. Enhancement of motility and triggering of acrosomal reaction post TRPV1 activation suggested that disruption of these signaling cascades in vivo, possibly due to down-regulation of TRPV1 in these subfertile males. Bioinformatic analysis of the crosstalk between TRPV1 with fertility candidate proteins (reported to influence IVF outcome) revealed cell death and survival, cellular compromise, and embryonic development to be the primary networks affected by anomalous TRPV1 expression. We therefore postulate that TRPV1 can act as a redox sensor, and its expression in spermatozoa may serve as a fertility marker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirlipta Swain
- Redox Biology & Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research, HBNI, Khordha, Odisha, India
| | - Luna Samanta
- Redox Biology & Proteomics Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
- Centre for Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
- *Correspondence: Luna Samanta, ; Chandan Goswami,
| | - Chandan Goswami
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research, HBNI, Khordha, Odisha, India
- *Correspondence: Luna Samanta, ; Chandan Goswami,
| | - Sujata Kar
- Kar Clinic and Hospital Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Majhi
- School of Biological Sciences, National Institute of Science Education and Research, HBNI, Khordha, Odisha, India
| | - Sugandh Kumar
- Computational Biology and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Anshuman Dixit
- Computational Biology and Bioinformatics Laboratory, Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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5
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van Losenoord W, Levendal RA, Frost CL. Cannabis and metformin on diabetic male Wistar rat sperm and reproductive organ parameters. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2022. [PMID: 36404868 PMCID: PMC9672239 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-022-01079-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Cannabis use has reportedly increased in type 2 diabetic users as a possible co-treatment for associated pain and inflammation. Both cannabis and metformin (an anti-diabetic drug) have a limited number of studies completed on their effect on male reproductive parameters in a diabetic model. This study determined if cannabis and metformin administration alter various reproductive parameters in diabetic male rats. Methods Male Wistar rats (n = 35) were fed on a high fat diet and injected with streptozotocin (30 mg/kg rat) to induce a type-2 diabetic model. Treatment groups received cannabis based on Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentrations of 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg per rat and metformin (50 mg/kg) every alternate day for 10 weeks. Organ weight; serum testosterone levels and sperm count, motility, lipid peroxidation, citrate synthase and lactate dehydrogenase activities were measured. Results Cannabis treatment induced a significant concentration dependent decrease in sperm motility at 5 mg/kg rat THC (P = 0.009) administration. Metformin significantly (P = 0.035) increased sperm counts and lactate dehydrogenase activity (P = 0.002). Both cannabis and metformin negatively affected testosterone concentrations. Conclusions Cannabis needs to be used cautiously as an alternative treatment in diabetic males based on the negative effects observed for the various reproductive parameters in this diabetic rat model.
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6
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Bortoletto P, Prabhu M. Impact of Tobacco and Marijuana on Infertility and Early Reproductive Wastage. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 65:360-375. [PMID: 35125388 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Reducing exposure to tobacco and marijuana during preconception and early pregnancy is a critical area of intervention for obstetricians, gynecologists, and other reproductive health care professionals. Beyond the deleterious personal health effects, both substances have been extensively associated with short-term and long-term detrimental effects to gametogenesis, fecundity, as well as tissue level effects in the reproductive tracts. When tobacco and marijuana do not impair the ability to achieve pregnancy, an increasing body of literature suggests either may be associated with increased risk of early pregnancy loss and reproductive wastage. In this review, we will discuss what is known about how tobacco and marijuana affect the male and female reproductive systems and highlight how these consequences may impair attempts at successful conception and pregnancy continuation beyond the first trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Bortoletto
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine
| | - Malavika Prabhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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7
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Mahajan A, Sharma P, Mishra AK, Gupta S, Yadav S, Anand M, Yadav B, Madan AK, Swain DK. Interplay mechanisms between progesterone and endocannabinoid receptors in regulating bull sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:2888-2912. [PMID: 35476800 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
After ejaculation, sperm show a limited capacity for transcription and translation. In the oviduct, most of the signalling in sperm is nongenomic and is mediated through membrane receptors. Studies have shown that the cation channel of sperm (CatSper), cAMP, cGMP, protein kinases, and tyrosine phosphorylation are involved in the nongenomic signalling of progesterone (P4) in sperm. However, it is not known whether there is an interplay between P4 and cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), CatSper channels, cAMP, inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK); these potential regulators are involved in the regulation of capacitation and the acrosome reaction. In the present study, selective blockers of CB1, CB2, TRPV1, CatSper channels, cAMP, protein kinase A (PKA), IP3R, and MAPK were used to identify their involvement in P4-mediated bull sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Selective blocking of any one of the molecules caused a significant reduction in P4 signalling (p < 0.05). Interestingly, blocking these molecules in combination followed by treatment with P4 resulted in the complete absence of capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Blocking a single receptor was not able to eliminate the P4-induced capacitation and the acrosome reaction. In addition to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, there may be other signalling pathways that mediate P4 signalling. In conclusion, P4 signalling exhibited interplay with the cannabinoid receptors. The regulation of sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction also involved cAMP, PKA, l-type and T-type calcium channels, TRPV1, inositol trisphosphate, and MAPK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Mahajan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pratishtha Sharma
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhishek K Mishra
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Department of Pharmacology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Shashikant Gupta
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukul Anand
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Brijesh Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arun K Madan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip K Swain
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.,Sperm Signaling Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
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8
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Sperm Phosphoproteome: Unraveling Male Infertility. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050659. [PMID: 35625387 PMCID: PMC9137924 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples worldwide of childbearing age, and in many cases the etiology of male infertility is unknown. The current standard evaluation of semen is insufficient to establish an accurate diagnosis. Proteomics techniques, such as phosphoproteomics, applied in this field are a powerful tool to understand the mechanisms that regulate sperm functions such as motility, which is essential for successful fertilization. Among the post-translational modifications of sperm proteins, this review summarizes, from a proteomic perspective, the updated knowledge of protein phosphorylation, in human spermatozoa, as a relevant molecular mechanism involved in the regulation of sperm physiology. Specifically, the role of sperm protein phosphorylation in motility and, consequently, in sperm quality is highlighted. Additionally, through the analysis of published comparative phosphoproteomic studies, some candidate human sperm phosphoproteins associated with low sperm motility are proposed. Despite the remarkable advances in phosphoproteomics technologies, the relatively low number of studies performed in human spermatozoa suggests that phosphoproteomics has not been applied to its full potential in studying male infertility yet. Therefore, further studies will improve the application of this procedure and overcome the limitations, increasing the understanding of regulatory mechanisms underlying protein phosphorylation in sperm motility and, consequently, in male fertility.
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9
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Hedges JC, Hanna CB, Bash JC, Boniface ER, Burch FC, Mahalingaiah S, Roberts VH, Terrobias JJD, Mishler EC, Jensen JV, Easley CA, Lo JO. Chronic exposure to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol impacts testicular volume and male reproductive health in rhesus macaques. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:698-707. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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10
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Li Y, Jin L, Li Y, Qian J, Wang Z, Zheng X, Xie C, Zhang X, Huang H, Zhou Y. Lysophosphatidic Acid Improves Human Sperm Motility by Enhancing Glycolysis and Activating L-Type Calcium Channels. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:896558. [PMID: 35903269 PMCID: PMC9317953 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.896558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Until now, the molecular mechanisms underlining sperm motility defect causing male infertility are still poorly understood. Safe and effective compounds or drugs that can improve sperm motility are also very limited. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a naturally occurring phospholipid and a bioactive intermediate with multiple biological activities. It has been detected in various body fluids such as serum, plasma, saliva, tears, blister fluids, hen egg white, and ascites from patients with ovarian cancer. LPA is also abundant in seminal plasma and follicular fluid. It enhances follicle stimulation, improves oocyte fertilization, and promotes early embryonic development and embryo implantation. However, the physiological role of LPA in the male reproductive system remains unknown. Here, our study showed that LPA significantly improved the motility parameters of human sperm hyperactivation in a dose-dependent manner. The LPA-induced elevation of sperm motility is dependent on bovine serum albumin (BSA) but independent of the classical BSA-induced sAC/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway. The enhancement of sperm motility by LPA could not be blocked by CCCP, a respiratory inhibitor suppressing mitochondrial ATP production. Moreover, LPA improved the activity of triosephosphate isomerase in glycolysis. Meanwhile, LPA treatment significantly increased ATP and phosphoenolpyruvate levels and decreased ADP content during sperm glycolysis. Notably, none of known or identified LPA receptors was detected in human sperm. Further investigations showed that LPA promoted sperm motility through L-type calcium channels. In summary, this study revealed the involvement of LPA in the regulation for human sperm motility by enhancing glycolysis and activating L-type calcium channels. The current findings may shed new light on the understanding of causes of asthenozoospermia, and indicate that LPA could be used as a novel therapeutic agent to improve sperm function and fertilizing capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinlam Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Jin
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanquan Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengquan Wang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoguo Zheng
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong Xie
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuelian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yuchuan Zhou, ; Hefeng Huang, ; Xuelian Zhang,
| | - Hefeng Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yuchuan Zhou, ; Hefeng Huang, ; Xuelian Zhang,
| | - Yuchuan Zhou
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yuchuan Zhou, ; Hefeng Huang, ; Xuelian Zhang,
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11
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Sayed TS, Balasinor NH, Nishi K. Diverse role of endocannabinoid system in mammalian male reproduction. Life Sci 2021; 286:120035. [PMID: 34637799 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is known for its modulatory role in numerous physiological processes in the body. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous lipid molecules which function both centrally and peripherally. The ECS is best studied in the central nervous system (CNS), immune system as well as in the metabolic system. The role of ECS in male reproductive system is emerging and the presence of a complete enzymatic machinery to synthesize and metabolize eCBs has been demonstrated in male reproductive tract. Endocannabinoid concentrations and alterations in their levels have been reported to affect the functioning of spermatozoa. A dysfunctional ECS has also been linked to the development of prostate cancer, the leading cause of cancer related mortality among male population. This review is an attempt to provide an insight into the significant role of endocannabinoids in male reproduction and further summarize recent findings that demonstrate the manner in which the endocannabinoid system impacts male sexual behavior and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen S Sayed
- Department of Biotechnology, R.D. and S.H. National College and S.W.A Science College, Mumbai 400050, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Kumari Nishi
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
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Ryan KS, Bash JC, Hanna CB, Hedges JC, Lo JO. Effects of marijuana on reproductive health: preconception and gestational effects. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2021; 28:558-565. [PMID: 34709212 PMCID: PMC8580253 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recent widespread legalization changes have promoted the availability of marijuana and its increased potency and perceived safety. The limited evidence on reproductive and perinatal outcomes from marijuana exposure is enough to warrant concern and action. The objective of this review is to provide a current and relevant summary of the recent literature surrounding this topic. RECENT FINDINGS The available published studies on the effect of marijuana exposure on reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes are conflicting. Human studies are often observational or retrospective and confounded by self-report and polysubstance use. However, the current, limited evidence suggests that marijuana use adversely affects male and female reproductive health. Additionally, prenatal marijuana exposure has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and small for gestational age infants. SUMMARY With the increasing prevalence of marijuana use, there is an urgent need for evidence-driven recommendations and guidelines for couples interested in conception, affected by infertility or who are expecting. At this time, no amount of marijuana use during conception or pregnancy is known to be well tolerated and the limited available evidence suggests that the safest choice is to abstain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly S. Ryan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Jasper C. Bash
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Carol B. Hanna
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Jason C. Hedges
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
| | - Jamie O. Lo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
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13
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Islam MM, Umehara T, Tsujita N, Shimada M. Saturated fatty acids accelerate linear motility through mitochondrial ATP production in bull sperm. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:289-298. [PMID: 34262396 PMCID: PMC8254171 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study was undertaken to clarify whether bovine sperm could take up fatty acids (FAs) and produce ATP to maintain linear motility. METHODS Frozen bovine semen was thawed in media containing either lipid mixture (LM) or FAs, and sperm motility was analyzed. The kinetic changes in FA levels in sperm were detected using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The mitochondrial activity of sperm thawed in media containing LM or FAs was analyzed based on the fluorescence intensity of JC-1 staining and the oxygen consumption rate. FA transporters were observed using whole-mounted immunofluorescence. RESULTS Sperm linear motility was significantly (P < .05) increased after thawing in media with LM and FA. Moreover, saturated fatty acids were predominant in sperm thawed in media with LM. Notably, our study revealed that frozen bovine sperm possessed FA transporters in the midpiece where the fluorescence signals were detected after treatment with fluorescence-tagged FA. Treatment with FA activated electron transport in mitochondria through β-oxidation. CONCLUSIONS Sperm linear motility is facilitated by FAs in the thawing media used for frozen bovine sperm. This might provide a new approach for upgrading the artificial insemination technique used in both livestock animals and human infertility care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Mazharul Islam
- Laboratory of Reproductive EndocrinologyGraduate School of Biosphere ScienceHiroshima UniversityHiroshimaJapan
- Department of Animal Breeding and GeneticsBangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural UniversityGazipurBangladesh
| | - Takashi Umehara
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyGraduate School of Integrated Sciences for LifeHiroshima UniversityHiroshimaJapan
| | - Natsumi Tsujita
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyGraduate School of Integrated Sciences for LifeHiroshima UniversityHiroshimaJapan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Laboratory of Reproductive EndocrinologyGraduate School of Biosphere ScienceHiroshima UniversityHiroshimaJapan
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyGraduate School of Integrated Sciences for LifeHiroshima UniversityHiroshimaJapan
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Pathophysiology of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Human Spermatozoa: Focus on Energetic Metabolism, Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10050695. [PMID: 33924936 PMCID: PMC8145012 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10050695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The dogma of mitochondria as the major source of energy in supporting sperm motility should be critically reconsidered in the light of several experimental data pointing to a major role of glycolysis in mammalian spermatozoa. In this light, the reported positive correlation between the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and motility of ejaculated spermatozoa cannot be explained convincingly by an impaired mitochondrial ATP generation only. Evidence has been produced suggesting that, in human sperm, dysfunctional mitochondria represent the main site of generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, in these organelles, a complex bidirectional relationship could exist between ROS generation and apoptosis-like events that synergize with oxidative stress in impairing sperm biological integrity and functions. Despite the activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant factors, human spermatozoa are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which plays a major role in male factor infertility. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of metabolic, oxidative and apoptosis-like inter-linkages of mitochondrial dysfunction and their reflections on human sperm biology.
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15
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Hehemann MC, Raheem OA, Rajanahally S, Holt S, Chen T, Fustok JN, Song K, Rylander H, Chow E, Ostrowski KA, Muller CH, Walsh TJ. Evaluation of the impact of marijuana use on semen quality: a prospective analysis. Ther Adv Urol 2021; 13:17562872211032484. [PMID: 34367341 PMCID: PMC8299873 DOI: 10.1177/17562872211032484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To assess if marijuana consumption - prevalent among men of reproductive age and becoming widespread due to decriminalization - is associated with changes in semen parameters. Marijuana's active metabolite, tetrahydrocannabinol, can alter signaling pathways within spermatozoa, affecting spermatogenesis and fertility. METHODS We prospectively evaluated semen analyses (SA) from men presenting for infertility evaluation at one institution from July 2017 to April 2018. Participants completed a reproductive health questionnaire including items regarding marijuana consumption. SA was performed in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) 5th Edition criteria. SA parameters included volume (ml), concentration (million/ml), motility (%), progressive motility (%), and Tygerberg strict morphology (%). RESULTS A total of 409 patients completed the questionnaire; 174 (43%) men reported marijuana use (ever-users). Current and past users comprised 71 (17%) and 103 (25%), respectively. Compared with never-users, current and past users had a significantly higher likelihood of abnormal sperm strict morphology (33.1% versus 50.7% and 53.4%, respectively; p < 0.001). However, sperm motility was more likely to be less than WHO reference values in never-users than current and past-users (38.3% versus 21.1% and 27.2%, respectively; p = 0.01). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, current use was associated with increased odds of abnormal strict morphology [odds ratio (OR) 2.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21-3.79] and semen volume less than WHO reference value (OR 2.76, 95%CI: 1.19-6.42), while odds of less than WHO reference value sperm motility were reduced (OR 0.47, 95%CI: 0.25-0.91). CONCLUSION Marijuana use is common among men presenting for fertility evaluation, and may have a detrimental effect on semen quality, particularly morphology and volume, but may be protective against abnormal sperm motility. Large, prospective studies of both semen quality and fertility in this growing, at-risk population are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omer A. Raheem
- Department of Urology, Tulane University Medical Center, 1415 Tulane Avenue, 3rd Floor, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | | | - Sarah Holt
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Tony Chen
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Judy N. Fustok
- Department of Urology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA USA
| | - Kelly Song
- Male Fertility Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Emma Chow
- Male Fertility Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Charles H. Muller
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA Male Fertility Lab, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Thomas J. Walsh
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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16
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Maccarrone M, Rapino C, Francavilla F, Barbonetti A. Cannabinoid signalling and effects of cannabis on the male reproductive system. Nat Rev Urol 2020; 18:19-32. [PMID: 33214706 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-020-00391-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana is the most widely consumed recreational drug worldwide, which raises concerns for its potential effects on fertility. Many aspects of human male reproduction can be modulated by cannabis-derived extracts (cannabinoids) and their endogenous counterparts, known as endocannabinoids (eCBs). These latter molecules act as critical signals in a variety of physiological processes through receptors, enzymes and transporters collectively termed the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Increasing evidence suggests a role for eCBs, as well as cannabinoids, in various aspects of male sexual and reproductive health. Although preclinical studies have clearly shown that ECS is involved in negative modulation of testosterone secretion by acting both at central and testicular levels in animal models, the effect of in vivo exposure to cannabinoids on spermatogenesis remains a matter of debate. Furthermore, inconclusive clinical evidence does not seem to support the notion that plant-derived cannabinoids have harmful effects on human sexual and reproductive health. An improved understanding of the complex crosstalk between cannabinoids and eCBs is required before targeting of ECS for modulation of human fertility becomes a reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Applied Clinical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Tourmente M, Varea-Sánchez M, Roldan ERS. Faster and more efficient swimming: energy consumption of murine spermatozoa under sperm competition†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:420-428. [PMID: 30203065 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
ATP supply is essential for sperm performance and increases in ATP content coevolve with enhanced sperm swimming velocity as a response to sperm competition in rodents. ATP content is the balance between production and consumption but, although ATP production has received much attention, little is known about ATP consumption. The rate of ATP consumption is crucial for the propagation of the flagellar wave, becoming a main determinant of the time and distance sperm could move before exhausting their reserves. A high yield in distance per unit of ATP consumed (efficiency) could provide advantages in sperm competition. We characterized sperm ATP consumption rate in a group of mouse species with different sperm competition levels to understand its impact on swimming velocity, duration, and yield of sperm ATP reserves. Interspecific comparisons revealed that sperm of species with higher sperm competition levels had high ATP consumption rates and faster swimming velocity. Moreover, sperm that consumed ATP at a faster rate swam more efficiently, since they were able to cover more distance per unit of ATP consumed. Our results suggest that by coupling the advantages of higher ATP turnover rates to increased efficiency of ATP expenditure, sperm would respond to increasingly competitive environments while maintaining a positive ATP balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano Tourmente
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Madrid, Spain
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, UK
| | - María Varea-Sánchez
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Madrid, Spain
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Barchi M, Innocenzi E, Giannattasio T, Dolci S, Rossi P, Grimaldi P. Cannabinoid Receptors Signaling in the Development, Epigenetics, and Tumours of Male Germ Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010025. [PMID: 31861494 PMCID: PMC6981618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are natural lipid molecules whose levels are regulated by specific biosynthetic and degradative enzymes. They bind to and activate two main cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2), and together with their metabolizing enzymes form the “endocannabinoid system” (ECS). In the last years, the relevance of endocannabinoids (eCBs) as critical modulators in various aspects of male reproduction has been pointed out. Mammalian male germ cells, from mitotic to haploid stage, have a complete ECS which is modulated during spermatogenesis. Compelling evidence indicate that in the testis an appropriate “eCBs tone”, associated to a balanced CB receptors signaling, is critical for spermatogenesis and for the formation of mature and fertilizing spermatozoa. Any alteration of this system negatively affects male reproduction, from germ cell differentiation to sperm functions, and might have also an impact on testicular tumours. Indeed, most of testicular tumours develop during early germ-cell development in which a maturation arrest is thought to be the first key event leading to malignant transformation. Considering the ever-growing number and complexity of the data on ECS, this review focuses on the role of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 signaling in male germ cells development from gonocyte up to mature spermatozoa and in the induction of epigenetic alterations in these cells which might be transmitted to the progeny. Furthermore, we present new evidence on their relevance in testicular cancer.
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19
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Forner-Piquer I, Fakriadis I, Mylonas CC, Piscitelli F, Di Marzo V, Maradonna F, Calduch-Giner J, Pérez-Sánchez J, Carnevali O. Effects of Dietary Bisphenol A on the Reproductive Function of Gilthead Sea Bream ( Sparus aurata) Testes. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205003. [PMID: 31658598 PMCID: PMC6835794 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), was administered by diet to gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) in order to study its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and gonadal steroidogenesis. 2-year-old male gilthead sea bream were fed with two different concentrations of BPA (LOW at 4 and HIGH at 4000 µg/kg body weight for 21 days during the reproductive season. Exposure to 4000 µg BPA/kg bw/day (BPA HIGH) reduced sperm motility and altered the straight-line velocity (VSL) and linearity (LIN). Effects on steroidogenesis were evident, with testosterone (T) being up-regulated by both treatments and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) down-regulated by BPA HIGH. Plasma levels of 17β-estradiol (E2) were not affected. The Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) increased in the BPA HIGH group. Interestingly, the levels of endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like compounds were significantly reduced after both treatments. Unpredictably, a few changes were noticed in the expression of genes coding for ECS enzymes, while the receptors were up-regulated depending on the BPA dose. Reproductive markers in testis (leptin receptor (lepr), estrogen receptors (era, erb), progesterone receptors (pr) and the gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (gnrhr)) were up-regulated. BPA induced the up-regulation of the hepatic genes involved in oogenesis (vitellogenin (vtg) and zona pellucida 1 (zp1)).
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Forner-Piquer
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Ioannis Fakriadis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece.
| | - Constantinos C Mylonas
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece.
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Francesca Maradonna
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Josep Calduch-Giner
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595 Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain.
| | - Jaume Pérez-Sánchez
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595 Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain.
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
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Abstract
PURPOSE With cannabis consumption on the rise and use prominent among males of reproductive age it is essential to understand the potential impact of cannabis on male fertility. We reviewed the literature regarding the effects of cannabis on male fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a literature search using PubMed®/MEDLINE® to identify relevant studies of the effects of cannabis on male fertility. Relevant studies were identified and reviewed. RESULTS The strongest evidence of cannabis induced alterations in male fertility is in the category of semen parameters. Research supports a role for cannabis in reducing sperm count and concentration, inducing abnormalities in sperm morphology, reducing sperm motility and viability, and inhibiting capacitation and fertilizing capacity. Animal models demonstrate a role for cannabis in testicular atrophy, and reduced libido and sexual function but to our knowledge these results have not yet been replicated in human studies. Studies of hormonal changes suggest inconclusive effects on testosterone levels, lowered luteinizing hormone levels and unchanged follicle-stimulating hormone levels. CONCLUSIONS Current research suggests that cannabis may negatively impact male fertility. Further studies are needed to validate that robust findings in animal models will carry over into human experience. Clinicians should be aware of these potential effects when prescribing medical marijuana therapies to men of reproductive age, and they should consider the degree of cannabis use as a possible component of a complete male infertility workup.
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Activation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) enhances energy metabolism, motility, and fertilizing ability of cryopreserved spermatozoa in domestic cat model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1401-1412. [PMID: 31079268 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01470-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Increasing intracellular energy storage by chemically activating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPKα) prior to sperm cryopreservation may improve post-thawed sperm function. Using the domestic cat as a biomedical model, the objectives were to (1) confirm the expression of AMPKα and its regulatory kinases in epididymal spermatozoa and (2) assess the influence of AMPK activator, 5'-aminoimidasole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) on epididymal sperm function before and after cryopreservation. METHODS In study I, sperm samples of different qualities were obtained from cauda epididymides of domestic cats and evaluated for AMPKα expression. In study II, epididymal spermatozoa were equilibrated for either 30 or 60 min in the presence of 0 (control), 0.5, 2.0, and 5.0 mM AICAR and sperm functions were assessed before and after cryopreservation. In study III, epididymal spermatozoa were treated as in study II and evaluated for AMPKα signaling protein expressions (phospho-AMPKα Thr172 and GLUT1) as well as ATP levels. RESULTS AMPKα protein expression was higher in high-motility vs poor-motility samples. Thirty-minute equilibration with 0.5 mM AICAR improved motion characteristics and fertilizing ability of cryopreserved sperm to the control. Increased expressions of phospho-AMPKα Thr172 and GLUT1 as well as intracellular ATP level were confirmed in sperm samples equilibrated with 0.5 or 2.0 mM AICAR for 30 min. CONCLUSIONS Presence and role of AMPKα protein in cat regulating sperm function were demonstrated before and after cryopreservation. Findings could be used to potentially enhance cryopreserved sperm function in sub-fertile men.
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Zhu Z, Umehara T, Okazaki T, Goto M, Fujita Y, Hoque SAM, Kawai T, Zeng W, Shimada M. Gene Expression and Protein Synthesis in Mitochondria Enhance the Duration of High-Speed Linear Motility in Boar Sperm. Front Physiol 2019; 10:252. [PMID: 30914972 PMCID: PMC6422996 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility patterns are continuously changed after ejaculation to fertilization in the female tract. Hyperactivated motility is induced with high glucose medium in vitro or the oviduct fluids in vivo, whereas sperm maintain linear motility in the seminal plasma or the uterine fluids containing low glucose. Therefore, it is estimated that sperm motility patterns are dependent on the energy sources, and the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is activated to produce ATP in low glucose condition. To elucidate these hypotheses, boar sperm was incubated in different energy conditions with the transcription and translation inhibitors in vitro. Sperm motility parameters, mitochondrial activity, ATP level, gene expression and protein synthesis were analyzed. Sperm progressive motility and straight-line velocity were significantly increased with decreasing glucose level in the incubation medium. Moreover, the mitochondrial protein turnover meaning transcription and translation from mitochondrial genome in sperm is activated during incubation. Incubation of sperm with mitochondrial translation inhibitor (D-chloramphenicol) suppressed mitochondrial protein synthesis, mitochondrial activity and ATP level in sperm and consequently reduced the linear motility speed, but not the motility. Thus, it is revealed that the mitochondrial central dogma is active in sperm, and the high-speed linear motility is induced in low glucose condition via activating the mitochondrial activity for ATP generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhendong Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takashi Umehara
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tetsuji Okazaki
- Livestock Research Institute, Oita Prefectural Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Research Center, Oita, Japan
| | - Masaaki Goto
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Livestock Research Institute, Oita Prefectural Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Research Center, Oita, Japan
| | | | - S. A. Masudul Hoque
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
- Department of Animal Breeding of Genetics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
| | - Tomoko Kawai
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Houston BJ, Nixon B, King BV, Aitken RJ, De Iuliis GN. Probing the Origins of 1,800 MHz Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation Induced Damage in Mouse Immortalized Germ Cells and Spermatozoa in vitro. Front Public Health 2018; 6:270. [PMID: 30298125 PMCID: PMC6160547 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As the use of mobile phone devices is now highly prevalent, many studies have sought to evaluate the effects of the radiofrequency-electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on both human health and biology. While several such studies have shown RF-EMR is capable of inducing cellular stress, the physicobiological origin of this stress remains largely unresolved. To explore the effect of RF-EMR on the male reproductive system, we exposed cultured mouse spermatogonial GC1 and spermatocyte GC2 cell lines, as well as cauda epididymal spermatozoa to a waveguide generating continuous wave RF-EMR (1.8 GHz, 0.15 and 1.5 W/kg). This study demonstrated that a 4 h exposure is capable of inducing the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) in populations of GC1 (7 vs. 18%; p < 0.001) and GC2 cells (11.5 vs. 16 %; p < 0.01), identifying Complex III of the electron transport chain (ETC) as the potential source of electrons producing ROS. Assessing the generation of ROS in the presence of an antioxidant, penicillamine, as well as measuring lipid peroxidation via 4-hydroxynonenal levels, indicated that the elevated incidence of ROS generation observed under our exposure conditions did not necessarily induce an overt cellular oxidative stress response. However, exposure to RF-EMR at 0.15 W/kg for 3 h did induce significant DNA fragmentation in spermatozoa (that was no longer significant after 4 h), assessed by the alkaline comet assay (p < 0.05). Furthermore, this fragmentation was accompanied by an induction of oxidative DNA damage in the form of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine, which was significant (p < 0.05) after spermatozoa were exposed to RF-EMR for 4 h. At this exposure time point, a decline in sperm motility (p < 0.05) was also observed. This study contributes new evidence toward elucidating a mechanism to account for the effects of RF-EMR on biological systems, proposing Complex III of the mitochondrial ETC as the key target of this radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Bruce V King
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Barbonetti A, Castellini C, Di Giammarco N, Santilli G, Francavilla S, Francavilla F. In vitro exposure of human spermatozoa to bisphenol A induces pro-oxidative/apoptotic mitochondrial dysfunction. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 66:61-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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25
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Barbonetti A, Bisogno T, Battista N, Piscitelli F, Micillo A, Francavilla S, Maccarrone M, Francavilla F. 2-arachidonoylglycerol levels are increased in leukocytospermia and correlate with seminal macrophages. Andrology 2016; 5:87-94. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Barbonetti
- San Raffaele Sulmona Institute; Sulmona Italy
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - T. Bisogno
- Endocannabinoid Research Group; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry; National Research Council; Pozzuoli Italy
- Department of Medicine; Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - N. Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
| | - F. Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group; Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry; National Research Council; Pozzuoli Italy
| | - A. Micillo
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - S. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - M. Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine; Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - F. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
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Serum From Patients With Erectile Dysfunction and Vascular Risk Factors Triggered an Oxidative Stress-Dependent Mitochondrial Apoptotic Pathway in Ex Vivo Expanded Circulating Angiogenic Cells of Healthy Men. J Sex Med 2016; 13:1063-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.04.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Uribe P, Treulen F, Boguen R, Sánchez R, Villegas JV. Nitrosative stress by peroxynitrite impairs ATP production in human spermatozoa. Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 27135897 DOI: 10.1111/and.12615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The most toxic species in live systems include reactive nitrogen species such as peroxynitrite, which at high levels induces nitrosative stress. In human spermatozoa, the negative effect of peroxynitrite on motility and mitochondrial membrane potential was recently demonstrated, and the hypothesis of this work is that impairment of ATP production could be one cause of the effect on motility. Therefore, the aim here was to evaluate ATP production by both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in spermatozoa exposed to peroxynitrite in vitro. Human spermatozoa were incubated with SIN-1, a molecule which generates peroxynitrite, and the ATP level was evaluated. Then, to inactivate glycolysis or OXPHOS, spermatozoa were incubated with pharmacological inhibitors of these pathways. Spermatozoa treated for inactivating one or the other pathway were exposed to SIN-1, and the ATP level was compared to the control without SIN-1 in each condition. The ATP level fell after peroxynitrite exposure. The ATP in spermatozoa treated for inactivating one or the other metabolic pathway and subsequently exposed to peroxynitrite was reduced compared with the control. These results show for the first time that an important mechanism by which peroxynitrite reduces sperm function is the inhibition of ATP production, affecting both glycolysis and OXPHOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Uribe
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - F Treulen
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - R Boguen
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - R Sánchez
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - J V Villegas
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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Marijuana, phytocannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system, and male fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1575-88. [PMID: 26277482 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Marijuana has the highest consumption rate among all of the illicit drugs used in the USA, and its popularity as both a recreational and medicinal drug is increasing especially among men of reproductive age. Male factor infertility is on the increase, and the exposure to the cannabinoid compounds released by marijuana could be a contributing cause. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is deeply involved in the complex regulation of male reproduction through the endogenous release of endocannabinoids and binding to cannabinoid receptors. Disturbing the delicate balance of the ECS due to marijuana use can negatively impact reproductive potential. Various in vivo and in vitro studies have reported on the empirical role that marijuana plays in disrupting the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis, spermatogenesis, and sperm function such as motility, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. In this review, we highlight the latest evidence regarding the effect of marijuana use on male fertility and also provide a detailed insight into the ECS and its significance in the male reproductive system.
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Abstract
The lasting research on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) has now provided solid and convincing evidence that proves the detrimental effects of recreational drug abuse (a growing habit among teenagers) on fertility. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) affect reproductive events from gametogenesis to fertilization, from embryo implantation to the final outcome of pregnancy and, thus, they have been proposed as suitable biomarkers to predict the reproductive potential of male and female gametes in clinical practice. Novel tools for reproductive medicine are highly sought after, and here we report the latest findings on the impact of the ECS on fertility, demonstrating how basic research can be translated into new medical strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
- School of Medicine and Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128, Rome, Italy.
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Barbonetti A, Vassallo MRC, Costanzo M, Battista N, Maccarrone M, Francavilla S, Francavilla F. Involvement of cannabinoid receptor-1 activation in mitochondrial depolarizing effect of lipopolysaccharide in human spermatozoa. Andrology 2014; 2:502-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
- San Raffaele Sulmona Institute; Sulmona Italy
| | - M. R. C. Vassallo
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - M. Costanzo
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - N. Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment; University of Teramo; Teramo Italy
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation; Rome Italy
| | - M. Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation; Rome Italy
- Center of Integrated Research; Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - S. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
| | - F. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila Italy
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Rapino C, Battista N, Bari M, Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoids as biomarkers of human reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:501-16. [PMID: 24516083 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a condition of the reproductive system that affects ∼10-15% of couples attempting to conceive a baby. More than half of all cases of infertility are a result of female conditions, while the remaining cases can be attributed to male factors, or to a combination of both. The search for suitable biomarkers of pregnancy outcome is a challenging issue in human reproduction, aimed at identifying molecules with predictive significance of the reproductive potential of male and female gametes. Among the various candidates, endocannabinoids (eCBs), and in particular anandamide (AEA), represent potential biomarkers of human fertility disturbances. Any perturbation of the balance between synthesis and degradation of eCBs will result in local changes of their tone in human female and male reproductive tracts, which in turn regulates various pathophysiological processes, oocyte and sperm maturation included. METHODS PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched for papers using relevant keywords like 'biomarker', 'endocannabinoid', 'infertility', 'pregnancy' and 'reproduction'. RESULTS In this review, we discuss different studies on the measurements of AEA and related eCBs in human reproductive cells, tissues and fluids, where the local contribution of these bioactive lipids could be critical in ensuring normal sperm fertilizing ability and pregnancy. CONCLUSION Based on the available data, we suggest that the AEA tone has the potential to be exploited as a novel diagnostic biomarker of infertility, to be used in association with assays of conventional hormones (e.g. progesterone, β-chorionic gonadotrophin) and semen analysis. However further quantitative research of its predictive capacity is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy StemTeCh Group, Chieti, Italy
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Bari
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy Department of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Tor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- European Center for Brain Research/IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Barbonetti A, Vassallo MRC, Cinque B, Filipponi S, Mastromarino P, Cifone MG, Francavilla S, Francavilla F. Soluble products of Escherichia coli induce mitochondrial dysfunction-related sperm membrane lipid peroxidation which is prevented by lactobacilli. PLoS One 2013; 8:e83136. [PMID: 24358256 PMCID: PMC3865092 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Unidentified soluble factors secreted by E. coli, a frequently isolated microorganism in genitourinary infections, have been reported to inhibit mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), motility and vitality of human spermatozoa. Here we explore the mechanisms involved in the adverse impact of E. coli on sperm motility, focusing mainly on sperm mitochondrial function and possible membrane damage induced by mitochondrial-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, as lactobacilli, which dominate the vaginal ecosystem of healthy women, have been shown to exert anti-oxidant protective effects on spermatozoa, we also evaluated whether soluble products from these microorganisms could protect spermatozoa against the effects of E. coli. We assessed motility (by computer-aided semen analysis), ΔΨm (with JC-1 dye by flow cytometry), mitochondrial ROS generation (with MitoSOX red dye by flow cytometry) and membrane lipid-peroxidation (with the fluorophore BODIPY C11 by flow cytometry) of sperm suspensions exposed to E. coli in the presence and in the absence of a combination of 3 selected strains of lactobacilli (L. brevis, L. salivarius, L. plantarum). A Transwell system was used to avoid direct contact between spermatozoa and microorganisms. Soluble products of E. coli induced ΔΨm loss, mitochondrial generation of ROS and membrane lipid-peroxidation, resulting in motility loss. Soluble factors of lactobacilli prevented membrane lipid-peroxidation of E. coli-exposed spermatozoa, thus preserving their motility. In conclusion, sperm motility loss by soluble products of E. coli reflects a mitochondrial dysfunction-related membrane lipid-peroxidation. Lactobacilli could protect spermatozoa in the presence of vaginal disorders, by preventing ROS-induced membrane damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
- San Raffaele Sulmona Institute, Sulmona, Italy
| | | | - Benedetta Cinque
- Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Silvia Filipponi
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Maria Grazia Cifone
- Immunopathology Laboratory, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandro Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences, University of L’Aquila, L’Aquila, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Cacciola G, Chioccarelli T, Altucci L, Viggiano A, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Nuclear size as estrogen-responsive chromatin quality parameter of mouse spermatozoa. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 193:201-9. [PMID: 23973938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recently, we have investigated the endocannabinoid involvement in chromatin remodeling events occurring in male spermatids. Indeed, we have demonstrated that genetic inactivation of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (Cnr1) negatively influences chromatin remodeling mechanisms, by reducing histone displacement and indices of sperm chromatin quality (chromatin condensation and DNA integrity). Conversely, Cnr1 knock-out (Cnr1(-/-)) male mice, treated with estrogens, replaced histones and rescued chromatin condensation as well as DNA integrity. In the present study, by exploiting Cnr1(+/+), Cnr(+/-) and Cnr1(-/-) epididymal sperm samples, we show that histone retention directly correlates with low values of sperm chromatin quality indices determining sperm nuclear size elongation. Moreover, we demonstrate that estrogens, by promoting histone displacement and chromatin condensation rescue, are able to efficiently reduce the greater nuclear length observed in Cnr1(-/-) sperm. As a consequence of our results, we suggest that nucleus length may be used as a morphological parameter useful to screen out spermatozoa with low chromatin quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cacciola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
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Sepúlveda L, Bussalleu E, Yeste M, Torner E, Bonet S. How do different concentrations of Clostridium perfringens affect the quality of extended boar spermatozoa? Anim Reprod Sci 2013; 140:83-91. [PMID: 23755936 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2013.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Revised: 04/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bacteriospermia in boar fresh and extended semen is a frequent finding that produces alterations on sperm quality and, consequently, causes economic losses in artificial insemination (AI) centres. The present study sought to evaluate the effect of different infective concentrations of Clostridium perfringens on boar sperm quality, assessed as sperm motility (CASA), morphology and viability, through 11 days of storage at 15°C (experiment 1), and after 96h of incubation at 37°C (experiment 2). With this purpose, different seminal doses were artificially inoculated with different infective concentrations of C. perfringens, ranging from 10(2) to 10(8)cfumL(-1). The negative controls were non-inoculated doses. Sperm quality was checked after 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 days of storage at 15°C in experiment 1, and after 0, 24, 48, 72 and 96h at 37°C in the second experiment. Moreover, the presence/absence of bacteria was detected by PCR analyses during both experiments at different time points. In both experiments, sperm morphology of inoculated samples did not differ from the negative control. Conversely, detrimental effects on sperm viability and motility were observed after 24h of incubation/storage at the highest infective concentrations in both experiments. The deleterious effects observed because of the presence of C. perfringens in semen emphasise the relevance of detecting bacteria in extended doses destined to AI. So, this study suggests that the evaluation of bacterial contamination in semen is a procedure that should be routinely applied while assessing sperm quality in AI centres to avoid the use of doses with low sperm quality and the possible spread of bacterial contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Sepúlveda
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction TechnoSperm, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17071 Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
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35
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Barbonetti A, Vassallo MRC, Di Rosa A, Leombruni Y, Felzani G, Gandini L, Lenzi A, Necozione S, Francavilla S, Francavilla F. Involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction in the adverse effect exerted by seminal plasma from men with spinal cord injury on sperm motility. Andrology 2013; 1:456-63. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2013.00077.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 01/05/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - M. R. C. Vassallo
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
| | - A. Di Rosa
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
| | - Y. Leombruni
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
| | - G. Felzani
- Centre for Clinical Research; San Raffaele Sulmona; Sulmona; Italy
| | - L. Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology and Immunology of Human Reproduction; Department of Medical Pathophysiology; University of Rome, ‘La Sapienza’; Rome; Italy
| | - A. Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology and Immunology of Human Reproduction; Department of Medical Pathophysiology; University of Rome, ‘La Sapienza’; Rome; Italy
| | - S. Necozione
- Epidemiology; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
| | - S. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
| | - F. Francavilla
- Andrology Unit; Department of Life, Health and Environment Sciences; University of L'Aquila; L'Aquila; Italy
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36
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Cacciola G, Chioccarelli T, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Estrogens and spermiogenesis: new insights from type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout mice. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:501350. [PMID: 24324492 PMCID: PMC3845505 DOI: 10.1155/2013/501350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex mechanism which allows the production of male gametes; it consists of mitotic, meiotic, and differentiation phases. Spermiogenesis is the terminal differentiation process during which haploid round spermatids undergo several biochemical and morphological changes, including extensive remodelling of chromatin and nuclear shape. Spermiogenesis is under control of endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors, like gonadotropins and testosterone. More recently, emerging pieces of evidence are suggesting that, among these factors, estrogens may have a role. To date, this is a matter of debate and concern because of the agonistic and antagonistic estrogenic effects that environmental chemicals may have on animal and human with damaging outcome on fertility. In this review, we summarize data which fuel this debate, with a particular attention to our recent results, obtained using type 1 cannabinoid receptor knockout male mice as animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Cacciola
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- *Riccardo Pierantoni:
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Bottazzi, Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
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37
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Maccarrone M. Endocannabinoids as markers of sperm quality: hot spots. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:169. [PMID: 24265627 PMCID: PMC3820970 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Maccarrone
- Center of Integrated Research, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research/Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence:
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38
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Chianese R, Ciaramella V, Scarpa D, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Endocannabinoids and endovanilloids: a possible balance in the regulation of the testicular GnRH signalling. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:904748. [PMID: 24072997 PMCID: PMC3773452 DOI: 10.1155/2013/904748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproductive functions are regulated both at central (brain) and gonadal levels. In this respect, the endocannabinoid system (eCS) has a very influential role. Interestingly, the characterization of eCS has taken many advantages from the usage of animal models different from mammals. Therefore, this review is oriented to summarize the main pieces of evidence regarding eCS coming from the anuran amphibian Rana esculenta, with particular interest to the morphofunctional relationship between eCS and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). Furthermore, a novel role for endovanilloids in the regulation of a testicular GnRH system will be also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Vincenza Ciaramella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Donatella Scarpa
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale Sezione “F. Bottazzi,” Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy
- *Riccardo Pierantoni:
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy
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39
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Cappellano G, Uberti F, Caimmi PP, Pietronave S, Mary DASG, Dianzani C, Micalizzi E, Melensi M, Boldorini R, Nicosia G, Crosio E, Chiocchetti A, Aina F, Prat M, Dianzani U, Vacca G, Ariatti C, Grossini E. Different expression and function of the endocannabinoid system in human epicardial adipose tissue in relation to heart disease. Can J Cardiol 2012; 29:499-509. [PMID: 22926037 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2012.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The endocannabinoid system reportedly plays a role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. This system is expressed also in adipose tissue, which could thus be involved in cardiac disorders through modulation of metabolically triggered inflammation. The current study aims to determine the relevance of the endocannabinoid system in epicardial adipose tissue in heart disease. METHODS Expression of the endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, and of the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme, fatty acid amidohydrolase, and activation of protein kinase A (PKA), phospholipase C (PLC), protein kinase C (PKC), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and inducible (i)NOS, and extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) (a member of the reperfusion-injury salvage kinase pathway), were analyzed by Western blot in patients after coronary artery bypass surgery (ischemics; N = 18) or valve surgery (nonischemics; N = 15) and in preadipocytes isolated from epicardial adipose tissue. RESULTS In ischemics, the CB1-to-CB2 expression ratio shifted toward CB1 and was accompanied by higher PKA activation. In contrast, in nonischemics, CB2, fatty acid amidohydrolase, PLC and PKC, and ERK1/2 were upregulated. Moreover, NO production and iNOS-to-eNOS ratios were higher in preadipocytes from ischemics. CONCLUSIONS These results show a different modulation and functioning of the endocannabinoid system in ischemics compared with nonischemics. Hence, while CB2, PLC and PKC, ERK1/2, and eNOS are more strongly expressed in patients without ischemic heart disease, high CB1 and PKA expression is associated with low survival intracellular pathway activation and high iNOS activation in ischemic heart disease patients. The changes in the endocannabinoid system in ischemics may contribute to cardiac dysfunction and therefore represents a potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Cappellano
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.
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Morgan DJ, Muller CH, Murataeva NA, Davis BJ, Mackie K. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) attenuates mouse sperm motility and male fecundity. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 165:2575-83. [PMID: 21615727 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01506.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Numerous studies have shown that N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) can inhibit sperm motility and function but the ability of cannabinoids to inhibit sperm motility is not well understood. We investigated the effects of WIN 55,212-2, a CB(1) cannabinoid receptor agonist, and Δ(9) -tetrahydracannabinol (Δ(9) -THC) on the ATP levels and motility of murine sperm in vitro. In addition, the effects of acute administration of Δ(9) -THC on male fecundity were determined. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Effects of Δ(9) -THC on basal sperm kinematics were determined using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Stop-motion imaging was performed to measure sperm beat frequency. The effect of Δ(9) -THC on sperm ATP was determined using a luciferase assay. Male fertility was determined by evaluating the size of litters sired by Δ(9) -THC-treated males. KEY RESULTS Pretreatment of sperm for 15 min with 1 µM Δ(9) -THC reduced their basal motility and attenuated the ability of bicarbonate to stimulate flagellar beat frequency. Treatment with 5 µM WIN 55,212-2 or 10 µM Δ(9) -THC for 30 min reduced sperm ATP levels. In sperm lacking CB(1) receptors this inhibitory effect of WIN 55,212-2 on ATP was attenuated whereas that of Δ(9) -THC persisted. Administration of 50 mg·kg(-1) Δ(9) -THC to male mice just before mating caused a 20% decrease in embryonic litter size. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Δ(9) -THC inhibits both basal and bicarbonate-stimulated sperm motility in vitro and reduces male fertility in vivo. High concentrations of WIN 55,212-2 or Δ(9) -THC inhibit ATP production in sperm; this effect of WIN 55,212-2 is CB(1) receptor-dependent whereas that of Δ(9) -THC is not. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2012.165.issue-8. To view Part I of Cannabinoids in Biology and Medicine visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2011.163.issue-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Morgan
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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Hereng TH, Elgstøen KBP, Cederkvist FH, Eide L, Jahnsen T, Skålhegg BS, Rosendal KR. Exogenous pyruvate accelerates glycolysis and promotes capacitation in human spermatozoa. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:3249-63. [PMID: 21946930 PMCID: PMC3212877 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been an ongoing debate in the reproductive field about whether mammalian spermatozoa rely on glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation or both for their energy production. Recent studies have proposed that human spermatozoa depend mainly on glucose for motility and fertilization but the mechanism behind an efficient glycolysis in human spermatozoa is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate how human spermatozoa utilize exogenous pyruvate to enhance glycolytic ATP production, motility, hyperactivation and capacitation, events that are crucial for male fertility. METHODS Purified human spermatozoa from healthy donors were incubated under capacitating conditions (including albumin, bicarbonate and glucose) and tested for changes in ATP levels, motility, hyperactivation and tyrosine phosphorylation after treatment with pyruvate. The experiments were repeated in the presence of sodium cyanide in order to assess the contribution from mitochondrial respiration. The metabolism of 13C labeled glucose and pyruvate was traced by a combination of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. RESULTS The treatment of human spermatozoa with exogenous pyruvate increased intracellular ATP levels, progressive motility and hyperactivation by 56, 21 and 130%, respectively. In addition, added pyruvate induced a significant increase in tyrosine phosphorylation levels. Blocking of the electron transport chain did not markedly affect the results, indicating that the mechanism is independent of oxidative phosphorylation. However, the observed effects could be counteracted by oxamate, an inhibitor of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Metabolic tracing experiments revealed that the observed rise in ATP concentration resulted from an enhanced glycolytic flux, which was increased by more than 50% in the presence of exogenous pyruvate. Moreover, all consumed 13C labeled pyruvate added was converted to lactate rather than oxidized in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. CONCLUSIONS Human spermatozoa seem to rely mainly, if not entirely, on glycolysis as the source of ATP fueling the energy-demanding processes of motility and capacitation. The efficient glycolysis is dependent on exogenous pyruvate, which indirectly feeds the accelerated glycolysis with NAD+ through the LDH-mediated conversion of pyruvate to lactate. Pyruvate is present in the human female reproductive tract at concentrations in accordance with our results. As seen in other mammals, the motility and fertility of human spermatozoa seem to be dictated by the available energy substrates present in the conspecific female.
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Affiliation(s)
- T H Hereng
- Spermatech AS, Forskningsveien 2A, 0373 Oslo, Norway
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