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Dai P, Chen C, Yu J, Ma C, Zhang X. New insights into sperm physiology regulation: Enlightenment from G-protein-coupled receptors. Andrology 2024; 12:1253-1271. [PMID: 38225815 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND G-protein-coupled receptors are critical in many physiological and pathological processes in various organs. Serving as the control panel for sensing extracellular stimuli, G-protein-coupled receptors recognise various ligands, including light, temperature, odours, pheromones, hormones, neurotransmitters, chemokines, etc. Most recently, G-protein-coupled receptors residing in spermatozoa have been found to be indispensable for sperm function. OBJECTIVE Here, we have summarised cutting-edge findings on the functional mechanisms of G-protein-coupled receptors that are known to be associated with sperm functions and the activation of their downstream effectors, providing new insights into the roles of G-protein-coupled receptors in sperm physiology. RESULTS Emerging studies hint that alterations in G-protein-coupled receptors could affect sperm function, implicating their role in fertility, but solid evidence needs to be continuing excavated with various means. Several members of the G-protein-coupled receptor superfamily, including olfactory receptors, opsins, orphan G-protein-coupled receptors, CXC chemokine receptor 4, CC chemokine receptor 5 and CC chemokine receptor 6 as well as their downstream effector β-arrestins, etc., were suggested to be essential for sperm motility, capacitation, thermotaxis, chemotaxis, Ca2+ influx through CatSper channel and fertilisation capacity. CONCLUSION The present review provides a comprehensive overview of studies describing G-protein-coupled receptors and their potential action in sperm function. We also present a critical discussion of these issues, and a possible framework for future investigations on the diverse ligands, biological functions and cell signalling of G-protein-coupled receptors in spermatozoa. Here, the G-protein-coupled receptors and their related G proteins that specifically were identified in spermatozoa were summarised, and provided references valuable for further illumination, despite the evidence that is not overwhelming in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengyuan Dai
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, PR China
| | - Chen Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, PR China
| | - Jingyan Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, PR China
| | - Chaoye Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, PR China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, PR China
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2
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Gupta P, Rani V. The Surging Mechanistic Role of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 in Human Pathologies: A Potential Approach for Herbal Therapeutics. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:1046-1054. [PMID: 37861036 DOI: 10.2174/0113894501247616231009065415] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Advancements in biological sciences revealed the significant role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a key cell surface receptor in various human pathologies. ACE2 is a metalloproteinase that not only functions in the regulation of Angiotensin II but also possesses some non-catalytic roles in the human body. There is considerable uncertainty regarding its protein expression, despite its presence in virtually all organs. The level of ACE2 expression and its subcellular localisation in humans may be a key determinant of susceptibility to various infections, symptoms, and outcomes of numerous diseases. Therefore, we summarize the distribution and expression pattern of ACE2 in different cell types related to all major human tissues and organs. Moreover, this review constitutes accumulated evidences of the important resources for further studies on ACE2 Inhibitory capacity via different natural compounds in order to understand its mechanism as the potential drug target in disease pathophysiology and to aid in the development of an effective therapeutic approach towards the various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyadarshini Gupta
- Transcriptome laboratory, Centre of Emerging Diseases, Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Sector-62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vibha Rani
- Transcriptome laboratory, Centre of Emerging Diseases, Department of Biotechnology, Jaypee Institute of Information Technology, Sector-62, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
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3
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Contreras W, Wiesehöfer C, Schreier D, Leinung N, Peche P, Wennemuth G, Gentzel M, Schröder B, Mentrup T. C11orf94/Frey is a key regulator for male fertility by controlling Izumo1 complex assembly. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabo6049. [PMID: 35960805 PMCID: PMC9374335 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abo6049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Although gamete fusion represents the central event in sexual reproduction, the required protein machinery is poorly defined. In sperm cells, Izumo1 and several Izumo1-associated proteins play an essential role for this process. However, so far, the mechanisms underlying transport and maturation of Izumo1 and its incorporation into high molecular weight complexes are incompletely defined. Here, we provide a detailed characterization of the C11orf94 protein, which we rename Frey, which provides a platform for the assembly of Izumo1 complexes. By retaining Izumo1 in the endoplasmic reticulum, Frey facilitates its incorporation into high molecular weight complexes. To fulfill its function, the unstable Frey protein is stabilized within the catalytic center of an intramembrane protease. Loss of Frey results in reduced assembly of Izumo1 complexes and male infertility due to impaired gamete fusion. Collectively, these findings provide mechanistic insights into the early biogenesis and functional relevance of Izumo1 complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whendy Contreras
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Caroline Wiesehöfer
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Dora Schreier
- CRISPR-Cas9 Facility, Experimental Center of the Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Nadja Leinung
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Petra Peche
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gunther Wennemuth
- Department of Anatomy, University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marc Gentzel
- Core Facility Molecular Analysis–Mass Spectrometry, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernd Schröder
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Torben Mentrup
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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4
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Turner AJ, Nalivaeva NN. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2): Two decades of revelations and re-evaluation. Peptides 2022; 151:170766. [PMID: 35151768 PMCID: PMC8830188 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2022.170766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2, or ACE2, is primarily a zinc-dependent peptidase and ectoenzyme expressed in numerous cell types and functioning as a counterbalance to ACE in the renin-angiotensin system. It was discovered 21 years ago more than 40 years after the discovery of ACE itself. Its primary physiological activity is believed to be in the conversion of angiotensin II to the vasodilatory angiotensin-(1-7) acting through the Mas receptor. As such it has been implicated in numerous pathological conditions, largely in a protective mode which has led to the search for ACE2 activatory mechanisms. ACE2 has a diverse substrate specificity allowing its participation in multiple peptide pathways. It also regulates aspects of amino acid transport through its homology with a membrane protein, collectrin. It also serves as a viral receptor for the SARS virus, and subsequently SARS-CoV2, driving the current COVID-19 pandemic. ACE2 therefore provides a therapeutic target for the treatment of COVID and understanding the biological events following viral binding can provide insight into the multiple pathologies caused by the virus, particularly inflammatory and vascular. In part this may relate to the ability of ACE2, like ACE, to be shed from the cell membrane. The shed form of ACE2 (sACE2) may be a factor in determining susceptibility to certain COVID pathologies. Hence, for just over 20 years, ACE2 has provided numerous surprises in the field of vasoactive peptides with, no doubt, more to come but it is its central role in COVID pathology that is producing the current intense interest in its biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Turner
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - Natalia N Nalivaeva
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; I.M. Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia; Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg, Russia
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5
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The Role of Sperm Proteins IZUMO1 and TMEM95 in Mammalian Fertilization: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073929. [PMID: 35409288 PMCID: PMC8999778 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Gamete membrane fusion is a critical cellular event in sexual reproduction. In addition, the generation of knockout models has provided a powerful tool for testing the functional relevance of proteins thought to be involved in mammalian fertilization, suggesting IZUMO1 and TMEM95 (transmembrane protein 95) as essential proteins. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the process remain largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to summarize the current knowledge about IZUMO1 and TMEM95 during mammalian fertilization. Hence, three distinct databases were consulted—PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science—using single keywords. As a result, a total of 429 articles were identified. Based on both inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final number of articles included in this study was 103. The results showed that IZUMO1 is mostly studied in rodents whereas TMEM95 is studied primarily in bovines. Despite the research, the topological localization of IZUMO1 remains controversial. IZUMO1 may be involved in organizing or stabilizing a multiprotein complex essential for the membrane fusion in which TMEM95 could act as a fusogen due to its possible interaction with IZUMO1. Overall, the expression of these two proteins is not sufficient for sperm–oocyte fusion; therefore, other molecules must be involved in the membrane fusion process.
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6
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Ojaghi M, Varghese J, Kastelic JP, Thundathil JC. Characterization of the Testis-Specific Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (tACE)-Interactome during Bovine Sperm Capacitation. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:449-469. [PMID: 35723410 PMCID: PMC8928970 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive understanding of molecular and biochemical changes during sperm capacitation is critical to the success of assisted reproductive technologies. We reported involvement of the testis-specific isoform of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (tACE) in bovine sperm capacitation. The objective of this study was to characterize the tACE interactome in fresh and heparin-capacitated bovine sperm through immunoprecipitation coupled with mass spectrometry. These interactions were validated by co-localization of tACE with beta-tubulin as an identified interactome constituent. Although interactions between tACE and several proteins remained unchanged in fresh and capacitated sperm, mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2), inactive serine/threonine protein-kinase 3 (VRK3), tubulin-beta-4B chain (TUBB4B), and tubulin-alpha-8 chain (TUBA8) were recruited during capacitation, with implications for cytoskeletal and membrane reorganization, vesicle-mediated transport, GTP-binding, and redox regulation. A proposed tACE interactional network with identified interactome constituents was generated. Despite tACE function being integral to capacitation, the relevance of interactions with its binding partners during capacitation and subsequent events leading to fertilization remains to be elucidated.
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7
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COVID-19 and male reproductive system: pathogenic features and possible mechanisms. J Mol Histol 2021; 52:869-878. [PMID: 34232425 PMCID: PMC8260577 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-10003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Multiorgan dysfunction is the main characteristic of severe COVID-19 patients and the involvement of male reproductive system may occur among these patients. Although there is a limited evidence to confirm the orchitis and virus presence in the semen of patients, there are concerns about the transmission of virus through the semen. In addition, reduced fertility or infertility can be seen as consequences of severe COVID-19 in recovered subjects. In this study, we aimed to review articles related to COVID-19 and male reproductive system to find the possible underlying mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 in affecting male fertility. The following keywords of SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, testis, orchitis, semen, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis, Hypothalamus, etc., were defined to find the related publications from standard search engines, e.g., PUBMED, SCOPUS, Google Scholar. According to studies, COVID-19 occurs in severe patients as respiratory disease, along with multi-organ failure. The most important mechanisms are classified as direct and indirect pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. The presence of ACE2 on the cell surface of various cells in testis increases the risk of direct infection by this virus. SARS-CoV-2 also affects the testis through the cytokine storm. In addition, the important role of HPT axis dysregulation through impaired Leydig cells and hypothalamus should be considered. Using antiviral and immunomodulatory therapy can be harmful for testis function. Further investigations are required to investigate potential mechanisms of male infertility in survivals of COVID-19. Since involvement of testis is essential for fertility, increasing the knowledge of health system may improve the outcomes.
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Variants in ACE2; potential influences on virus infection and COVID-19 severity. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2021; 90:104773. [PMID: 33607284 PMCID: PMC7886638 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The third pandemic of coronavirus infection, called COVID-19 disease, was first detected in November 2019th. Various determinants of disease progression such as age, sex, virus mutations, comorbidity, lifestyle, host immune response, and genetic background variation have caused clinical variability of COVID-19. The causative agent of COVID-19 is an enveloped coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that invades host cells using an endocytic pathway. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is the main viral protein that contributes to the fusion of the virus particle to the host cell through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The highly conserved expression of ACE2 is found in various animals, which indicates its pivotal physiological function. The ACE2 has a crucial role in vascular, renal, and myocardial physiology. Genetic factors contributing to the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection are unknown; however, variants in the specific sites of ACE2 gene could be regarded as a main genetic risk factor for COVID-19. Given that ACE2 is the main site for virus landing on host cells, the effect of amino acid sequences of ACE2 on host susceptibility to COVID-19 seems reasonable. It would likely have a substantial role in the occurrence of a wide range of clinical symptoms. Several ACE2 variants can affect the protein stability, influencing the interaction between spike protein and ACE2 through imposing conformational changes while some other variants are known to cause a decrease or an increase in the ligand-receptor affinity. The other variations are located at the proteolytic cleavage site, which can influence virus infection; because soluble ACE2 can act as a decoy receptor for virus and decrease virus intake by cell surface ACE2. Notably, polymorphisms of regulatory and non-coding regions such as promoter in ACE2, can play crucial role in different expression levels of ACE2 among different individuals. Many studies should be performed to investigate the involvement of ACE2 polymorphism with susceptibility to COVID-19. Herein, we discuss some reported associations between variants of ACE2 and COVID-19 in details. In addition, the mode of action of ACE2 and its role in SARS-CoV-2 infection are highlighted which is followed by addressing the effects of several ACE2 variants on its protein stability, viral tropism or ligand-receptor affinity, secondary and tertiary structure or protein conformation, proteolytic cleavage site, and finally inter-individual clinical variability in COVID-19. The polymorphisms of regulatory regions of ACE2 and their effect on expression levels of ACE2 are also provided in this review. Such studies can improve the prediction of the affinity of mutant ACE2 variations with spike protein, and help the biopharmaceutical industry to design effective approaches for recombinant hACE2 therapy and vaccination of COVID-19 disease.
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9
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Gianzo M, Subirán N. Regulation of Male Fertility by the Renin-Angiotensin System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217943. [PMID: 33114706 PMCID: PMC7662798 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a peptidic system known mainly for its roles in the maintenance of blood pressure and electrolyte and fluid homeostasis. However, several tissues and cells have been described to possess an intrinsic RAS that acts locally through different paracrine and autocrine mechanisms. In the male reproductive system, several components of this system have been observed in various organs and tissues, such as the testes, spermatozoa and seminal fluid. Some functions attributed to this local RAS are maintenance of seminal plasma electrolytes, regulation of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, and sperm functions. However, their specific actions in these locations are not fully understood. Therefore, a deep knowledge of the functions of the RAS at both the testicular and seminal levels could clarify its roles in male infertility and sperm physiology, and the different RAS elements could be used to design tools enabling the diagnosis and/or treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gianzo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain;
| | - Nerea Subirán
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursery, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 48940 Leioa, Spain;
- Innovation in Assisted Reproduction Group, Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, 48903 Barakaldo, Spain
- Research and Development Department, MEPRO Medical Reproductive Solutions, 20009 San Sebastian, Spain
- Correspondence:
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10
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Discovery and characterization of ACE2 - a 20-year journey of surprises from vasopeptidase to COVID-19. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:2489-2501. [PMID: 32990314 DOI: 10.1042/cs20200476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a zinc membrane metallopeptidase that plays a key role in regulating vasoactive peptide levels and hence cardiovascular activity through its conversion of angiotensin I (Ang I) to Ang II and its metabolism of bradykinin. The discovery of its homologue, ACE2, 20 years ago has led to intensive comparisons of these two enzymes revealing surprising structural, catalytic and functional distinctions between them. ACE2 plays multiple roles not only as a vasopeptidase but also as a regulator of amino acid transport and serendipitously as a viral receptor, mediating the cellular entry of the coronaviruses causing severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and, very recently, COVID-19. Catalytically, ACE2 functions as a monocarboxypeptidase principally converting the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II to the vasodilatory peptide Ang-(1-7) thereby counterbalancing the action of ACE on the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and providing a cardioprotective role. Unlike ACE, ACE2 does not metabolise bradykinin nor is it inhibited by classical ACE inhibitors. However, it does convert a number of other regulatory peptides in vitro and in vivo. Interest in ACE2 biology and its potential as a possible therapeutic target has surged in recent months as the COVID-19 pandemic rages worldwide. This review highlights the surprising discoveries of ACE2 biology during the last 20 years, its distinctions from classical ACE and the therapeutic opportunities arising from its multiple biological roles.
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Ramesha KP, Mol P, Kannegundla U, Thota LN, Gopalakrishnan L, Rana E, Azharuddin N, Mangalaparthi KK, Kumar M, Dey G, Patil A, Saravanan K, Behera SK, Jeyakumar S, Kumaresan A, Kataktalware MA, Prasad TSK. Deep Proteome Profiling of Semen of Indian Indigenous Malnad Gidda (Bos indicus) Cattle. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:3364-3376. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kerekoppa P. Ramesha
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | - Praseeda Mol
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
- Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kollam, Kerala 690525, India
| | - Uday Kannegundla
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | | | - Lathika Gopalakrishnan
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Madhav Nagar, Manipal 576104, India
| | - Ekta Rana
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | - Nizamuddin Azharuddin
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | - Kiran K Mangalaparthi
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
- Amrita School of Biotechnology, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Kollam, Kerala 690525, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
| | - Gourav Dey
- Institute of Bioinformatics, International Technology Park, Bangalore 560066, India
| | - Arun Patil
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
| | - Kumar Saravanan
- Proteomics Facility, Thermo Fisher Scientific India Pvt. Ltd., Bangalore 560066, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Behera
- Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore 575018, India
| | - Sakthivel Jeyakumar
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
| | - Mukund A. Kataktalware
- Southern Regional Station, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Bangalore 560030, India
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De Mello Costa M, Ronchi F, Yoonsuh J, Ivanow A, Braga J, Ramos M, Casarini D, Slocombe R. ACE activity post-race is influenced by furosemide administration. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.3920/cep170032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH) affecting racehorses continues to raise questions regarding animal welfare and to-date no effective treatment has been identified. The mode of action of furosemide on EIPH, the only medication for the condition accepted in some racing jurisdictions, has not been completely elucidated. This research investigated the interaction between furosemide on angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) as a potential pathway for future investigation of EIPH treatment options in a prospective case-control analytical study. ACE is a potent vasoconstrictor and substances reducing its activity could potentially contribute to decreasing blood pressure and EIPH. Horses racing on 8 official race days at Gávea Racetrack, Brazil had respiratory endoscopy data and blood samples collected after the race and were grouped into furosemide medicated and non-furosemide medicated horses. ACE measurement was conducted using fluorescence in a previously validated method. Environmental, race and haematological data were also recorded. A multiple regression model was used to analyse the data collected, with further analysis including Fisher’s exact test and Pearson’s chi-squared test with Yates’ continuity correction; a Welch two sample t-test and a simple linear regression model. 73 horses were included in the study. ACE activity between horses not medicated and medicated with furosemide was significantly different. Pre-race furosemide significantly influenced ACE activity post-race, while distance raced, temperature, humidity, and haematocrit did not. Horses medicated with pre-race furosemide still demonstrated some degree of bleeding after the race and were at higher risk of presenting EIPH than non-medicated horses. Horses medicated with furosemide have lower circulating ACE activity which might indicate a protective effect of furosemide. Furosemide might reduce EIPH severity after a single bout of exercise, but it does not abolish or reduce its occurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M.F. De Mello Costa
- Waikato Institute of Technology, Centre for Science and Primary Industries, A Block, Gate 3, Tristram Street, Hamilton, New Zealand
- Universidade Severino Sombra, Veterinary Medicine School, Av. Expedicionário Oswaldo de Almeida Ramos 280 Centro, Vassouras, RJ 27700-000, Brazil
| | - F.A. Ronchi
- Escola Paulista de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina, Disciplina de Nefrologia, UNIFESP, Rua Botucatu, 591, Vila Clementino, SP, Brazil
| | - J. Yoonsuh
- University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand
- Department of Statistics, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Anam-dong, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - A. Ivanow
- Centaur Equine Research Consortium, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J.V. Braga
- Jockey Club Brasileiro, F e G, Rua Djalma Ulrich 110, Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro 22071-020, Brazil
| | - M.T. Ramos
- Universidade Severino Sombra, Veterinary Medicine School, Av. Expedicionário Oswaldo de Almeida Ramos 280 Centro, Vassouras, RJ 27700-000, Brazil
- Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, BR 465, Km 07. Seropédica, RJ 23897-97, Brazil
| | - D.E. Casarini
- Escola Paulista de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina, Disciplina de Nefrologia, UNIFESP, Rua Pedro de Toledo 669, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - R.F. Slocombe
- Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
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Shimizu T, Sato T, Tsukiyama K, Fujita H, Kato S, Hoizumi M, Shirasawa H, Narita T, Terada Y, Seino Y, Yamada Y. Food Intake Affects Sperm-Egg Fusion Through the GIP/PSG17 Axis in Mice. Endocrinology 2017; 158:2134-2144. [PMID: 28430907 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In addition to overeating, starvation also reduces fecundity in mammals. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms linking food intake to fertility, especially in males. Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), which is released from intestinal K-cells after meal ingestion, stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells through the action of incretin and has several extrapancreatic effects. Here, we identified GIP receptor (Gipr) expression in mouse spermatids. Microarray analysis revealed that pregnancy-specific glycoprotein 17 (Psg17), a potential CD9-binding partner, was significantly decreased in GIP receptor-knockout (Gipr-/-) testes. Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored PSG17 was expressed on the surface of acrosome-reacted sperm, and Gipr-/- sperm led to a lower fertilization rate in vitro, compared with that of Gipr+/+ sperm, both in the absence and presence of the zona pellucida. Plasma GIP concentrations and Psg17 messenger RNA (mRNA) were immediately increased in the testis after a single meal, whereas ingestion of a chronic high-fat diet markedly decreased Gipr and Psg17 mRNA. These results suggest that reduced GIP signaling, by decreased GIP levels or the downregulation of Gipr, is associated with the reduction of fecundity due to starvation or overeating. Thus, proper regulation of GIP signaling in the testis could be a potential unique therapeutic target for male infertility in obese and diabetic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsunori Shimizu
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Takehiro Sato
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Katsushi Tsukiyama
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Hiroki Fujita
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kato
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Manabu Hoizumi
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Shirasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Takuma Narita
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Terada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
| | - Yutaka Seino
- Kansai Electric Power Medical Research Institute, Osaka 553-0003, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Yamada
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Geriatric Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita 010-8543, Japan
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14
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Georgadaki K, Khoury N, Spandidos DA, Zoumpourlis V. The molecular basis of fertilization (Review). Int J Mol Med 2016; 38:979-86. [PMID: 27599669 PMCID: PMC5029953 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization is the fusion of the male and female gamete. The process involves the fusion of an oocyte with a sperm, creating a single diploid cell, the zygote, from which a new individual organism will develop. The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of fertilization has fascinated researchers for many years. In this review, we focus on this intriguing process at the molecular level. Several molecules have been identified to play a key role in each step of this intriguing process (the sperm attraction from the oocyte, the sperm maturation, the sperm and oocyte fusion and the two gamete pronuclei fusion leading to the zygote). Understanding the molecular mechanisms of the cell-cell interactions will provide a better understanding of the causes of fertility issues due to fertilization defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Georgadaki
- Institute of Biology, Medical Chemistry and Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens 116 35, Greece
| | - Nikolas Khoury
- Institute of Biology, Medical Chemistry and Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens 116 35, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
| | - Vasilis Zoumpourlis
- Institute of Biology, Medical Chemistry and Biotechnology, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens 116 35, Greece
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Yu CJ, Tang LL, Liang C, Chen X, Song SY, Ding XQ, Zhang KY, Song BL, Zhao D, Zhu XY, Li HL, Zhang ZR. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 3 (ACE3) Protects Against Pressure Overload-Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy. J Am Heart Assoc 2016; 5:e002680. [PMID: 26892527 PMCID: PMC4802478 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.115.002680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angiotensin-converting enzyme 3 (ACE3) is a recently defined homolog of ACE. However, the pathophysiological function of ACE3 is largely unknown. Here, we aim to explore the role of ACE3 in pathological cardiac hypertrophy. METHODS AND RESULTS Neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) with gain and loss of function of ACE3 and mice with global knockout or cardiac-specific overexpression of ACE3 were used in this study. In cultured cardiomyocytes, ACE3 conferred protection against angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertrophic growth. Cardiac hypertrophy in mice was induced by aortic banding (AB) and the extent of hypertrophy was analyzed through echocardiographic, pathological, and molecular analyses. Our data demonstrated that ACE3-deficient mice exhibited more pronounced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis and a strong decrease in cardiac contractile function, conversely, cardiac-specific ACE3-overexpressing mice displayed an attenuated hypertrophic phenotype, compared with control mice, respectively. Analyses of the underlying molecular mechanism revealed that ACE3-mediated protection against cardiac hypertrophy by suppressing the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-regulated extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK1/2) signaling, which was further evidenced by the observation that inhibition of the MEK-ERK1/2 signaling by U0126 rescued the exacerbated hypertrophic phenotype in ACE3-deficient mice. CONCLUSIONS Our comprehensive analyses suggest that ACE3 inhibits pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy by blocking the MEK-ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Jiang Yu
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Liang-Liang Tang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Chen Liang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Shu-Ying Song
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Ding
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Kun-Yu Zhang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Bin-Lin Song
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China
| | - Dan Zhao
- Key Laboratories of Education Ministry for Myocardial Ischemia Mechanism and Treatment, Harbin, China
| | - Xue-Yong Zhu
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Liang Li
- Cardiovascular Research Institute of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Ren Zhang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Harbin, China Key Laboratories of Education Ministry for Myocardial Ischemia Mechanism and Treatment, Harbin, China
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16
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Nishimura H, Tajima T, Comstra HS, Gleason EJ, L'Hernault SW. The Immunoglobulin-like Gene spe-45 Acts during Fertilization in Caenorhabditis elegans like the Mouse Izumo1 Gene. Curr Biol 2015; 25:3225-31. [PMID: 26671669 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.10.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The Caenorhabditis elegans spe-9 class genes, which show specific or predominant expression in the male germline, are indispensable for fertilization [1, 2]. However, due to the rapid evolution of genes involved in reproduction, we do not currently know if there are spe-9 class genes in mammals that play similar roles during fertilization to those found in C. elegans. In mice, the Izumo1 gene encodes a sperm-specific transmembrane (TM) protein with a single immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domain that is absolutely required for gamete fusion [3, 4]. In this study, we hypothesized that C. elegans has a new member of the spe-9 class genes coding for an IZUMO1-like protein. We screened C. elegans microarray data [5, 6] to identify male germline-enriched genes that encode membrane proteins with Ig-like domains. A deletion (tm3715) in one such gene (F28D1.8) caused hermaphrodites to show a male germline-dependent self-sterility, so we have named it spe-45. Mutant spe-45 worms seemed to normally undergo spermatogenesis (spermatid production by meiosis) and spermiogenesis (spermatid activation into actively motile spermatozoa). spe-45 mutant spermatozoa, however, could not complete gamete fusion, which is a characteristic of all spe-9 class mutants [1, 2]. Moreover, spe-45 self-sterile worms were rescued by a transgene expressing chimeric SPE-45 protein in which its Ig-like domain was replaced by the Ig-like domain from mouse IZUMO1. Hence, C. elegans SPE-45 and mouse IZUMO1 appear to have retained a common function(s) that is required during fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitoshi Nishimura
- Department of Life Science, Setsunan University, Neyagawa, Osaka 572-8508, Japan; Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
| | - Tatsuya Tajima
- Department of Life Science, Setsunan University, Neyagawa, Osaka 572-8508, Japan
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17
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Bromfield E, Aitken RJ, Nixon B. Novel characterization of the HSPA2-stabilizing protein BAG6 in human spermatozoa. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:755-69. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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18
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Chalbi M, Barraud-Lange V, Ravaux B, Howan K, Rodriguez N, Soule P, Ndzoudi A, Boucheix C, Rubinstein E, Wolf JP, Ziyyat A, Perez E, Pincet F, Gourier C. Binding of sperm protein Izumo1 and its egg receptor Juno drives Cd9 accumulation in the intercellular contact area prior to fusion during mammalian fertilization. Development 2014; 141:3732-9. [PMID: 25209248 DOI: 10.1242/dev.111534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the molecular mechanisms that induce gamete fusion during mammalian fertilization. After initial contact, adhesion between gametes only leads to fusion in the presence of three membrane proteins that are necessary, but insufficient, for fusion: Izumo1 on sperm, its receptor Juno on egg and Cd9 on egg. What happens during this adhesion phase is a crucial issue. Here, we demonstrate that the intercellular adhesion that Izumo1 creates with Juno is conserved in mouse and human eggs. We show that, along with Izumo1, egg Cd9 concomitantly accumulates in the adhesion area. Without egg Cd9, the recruitment kinetics of Izumo1 are accelerated. Our results suggest that this process is conserved across species, as the adhesion partners, Izumo1 and its receptor, are interchangeable between mouse and human. Our findings suggest that Cd9 is a partner of Juno, and these discoveries allow us to propose a new model of the molecular mechanisms leading to gamete fusion, in which the adhesion-induced membrane organization assembles all key players of the fusion machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Chalbi
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
| | - Virginie Barraud-Lange
- Université Paris Descartes, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1016, Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Service d'Histologie Embryologie Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hopital Cochin, AP-HP24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Benjamin Ravaux
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
| | - Kevin Howan
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
| | - Nicolas Rodriguez
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie Laboratoire des biomolécules, Paris 75005, France
| | - Pierre Soule
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie Laboratoire des biomolécules, Paris 75005, France
| | - Arnaud Ndzoudi
- Université Paris Descartes, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1016, Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Service d'Histologie Embryologie Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hopital Cochin, AP-HP24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Claude Boucheix
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1004, 14 avenue Paul Vaillant Couturier, Villejuif 94800, France Université Paris-Sud, Institut André Lwoff, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Eric Rubinstein
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1004, 14 avenue Paul Vaillant Couturier, Villejuif 94800, France Université Paris-Sud, Institut André Lwoff, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Jean Philippe Wolf
- Université Paris Descartes, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1016, Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Service d'Histologie Embryologie Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hopital Cochin, AP-HP24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Ahmed Ziyyat
- Université Paris Descartes, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale U1016, Génomique, Epigénétique et Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Service d'Histologie Embryologie Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hopital Cochin, AP-HP24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Jacques, Paris 75014, France
| | - Eric Perez
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
| | - Frédéric Pincet
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
| | - Christine Gourier
- Laboratoire de Physique Statistique, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris Diderot, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8550, 24 rue Lhomond, Paris 75005, France
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19
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Molecular and cellular mechanisms of sperm-oocyte interactions opinions relative to in vitro fertilization (IVF). Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:12972-97. [PMID: 25054321 PMCID: PMC4139886 DOI: 10.3390/ijms150712972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Revised: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the biggest prerequisites for pregnancy is the fertilization step, where a human haploid spermatozoon interacts and penetrates one haploid oocyte in order to produce the diploid zygote. Although fertilization is defined by the presence of two pronuclei and the extraction of the second polar body the process itself requires preparation of both gametes for fertilization to take place at a specific time. These preparations include a number of consecutive biochemical and molecular events with the help of specific molecules and with the consequential interaction between the two gametes. These events take place at three different levels and in a precise order, where the moving spermatozoon penetrates (a) the outer vestments of the oocyte, known as the cumulus cell layer; (b) the zona pellucida (ZP); where exocytosis of the acrosome contents take place and (c) direct interaction of the spermatozoon with the plasma membrane of the oocyte, which involves a firm adhesion of the head of the spermatozoon with the oocyte plasma membrane that culminates with the fusion of both sperm and oocyte membranes (Part I). After the above interactions, a cascade of molecular signal transductions is initiated which results in oocyte activation. Soon after the entry of the first spermatozoon into the oocyte and oocyte activation, the oocyte’s coat (the ZP) and the oocyte’s plasma membrane seem to change quickly in order to initiate a fast block to a second spermatozoon (Part II). Sometimes, two spermatozoa fuse with one oocyte, an incidence of 1%–2%, resulting in polyploid fetuses that account for up to 10%–20% of spontaneously aborted human conceptuses. The present review aims to focus on the first part of the human sperm and oocyte interactions, emphasizing the latest molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling this process.
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20
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Abstract
Despite numerous studies on mammalian fertilization, the mechanisms of
fertilization—including the timing of acrosome reaction—remain largely unknown; more
accurately described, the classical theory built upon years of layered experimental data
is being challenged by recent conflicting evidence provided by gene-manipulated animals.
Although in vitro fertilization remains our central research tool, the
classical theory’s decline reminds us of the importance of in vivo
observations. Here, I describe the essential roles of gene-manipulated animals in
elucidating the mechanism of fertilization and the pitfalls of in vitro
fertilization studies trapping many researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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21
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Klinovska K, Sebkova N, Dvorakova-Hortova K. Sperm-egg fusion: a molecular enigma of mammalian reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:10652-68. [PMID: 24933635 PMCID: PMC4100174 DOI: 10.3390/ijms150610652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of gamete fusion remains largely unknown on a molecular level despite its indisputable significance. Only a few of the molecules required for membrane interaction are known, among them IZUMO1, which is present on sperm, tetraspanin CD9, which is present on the egg, and the newly found oolema protein named Juno. A concept of a large multiprotein complex on both membranes forming fusion machinery has recently emerged. The Juno and IZUMO1, up to present, is the only known extracellular receptor pair in the process of fertilization, thus, facilitating the essential binding of gametes. However, neither IZUMO1 nor Juno appears to be the fusogenic protein. At the same time, the tetraspanin is expected to play a role in organizing the egg membrane order and to interact laterally with other factors. This review summarizes, to present, the known molecules involved in the process of sperm-egg fusion. The complexity and expected redundancy of the involved factors makes the process an intricate and still poorly understood mechanism, which is difficult to comprehend in its full distinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Klinovska
- BIOCEV Group, Department of Zoology, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 44, Czech Republic.
| | - Natasa Sebkova
- BIOCEV Group, Department of Zoology, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 44, Czech Republic.
| | - Katerina Dvorakova-Hortova
- BIOCEV Group, Department of Zoology, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, Prague 2 128 44, Czech Republic.
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22
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Vicens A, Roldan ER. Coevolution of Positively Selected IZUMO1 and CD9 in Rodents: Evidence of Interaction Between Gamete Fusion Proteins?1. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:113. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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23
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Buffone MG, Hirohashi N, Gerton GL. Unresolved questions concerning mammalian sperm acrosomal exocytosis. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:112. [PMID: 24671881 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.117911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the study of mammalian acrosomal exocytosis has produced some major advances that challenge the long-held, general paradigms in the field. Principally, the idea that sperm must be acrosome-intact to bind to the zona pellucida of unfertilized eggs, based largely on in vitro fertilization studies of mouse oocytes denuded of the cumulus oophorus, has been overturned by experiments using state-of-the-art imaging of cumulus-intact oocytes and fertilization experiments where eggs were reinseminated by acrosome-reacted sperm recovered from the perivitelline space of zygotes. In light of these results, this minireview highlights a number of unresolved questions and emphasizes the fact that there is still much work to be done in this exciting field. Future experiments using recently advanced technologies should lead to a more complete and accurate understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing the fertilization process in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biologia y Medicina Experimental, National Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noritaka Hirohashi
- Oki Marine Biological Station, Education and Research Center for Biological Resources, Shimane University, Shimane, Japan
| | - George L Gerton
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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24
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Abstract
Fertilization is the process by which eggs and spermatozoa interact, achieve mutual recognition, and fuse to create a zygote, which then develops to form a new individual, thus allowing for the continuity of a species. Despite numerous studies on mammalian fertilization, the molecular mechanisms underpinning the fertilization event remain largely unknown. However, as I summarize here, recent work using both gene-manipulated animals and in vitro studies has begun to elucidate essential sperm and egg molecules and to establish predictive models of successful fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Okabe
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses Research Institute for Microbial Diseases Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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25
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru OKABE
- Center for Genetic Analysis for Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamadaoka 3-1, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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27
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Pan PP, Zhan QT, Le F, Zheng YM, Jin F. Angiotensin-converting enzymes play a dominant role in fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2013; 14:21071-86. [PMID: 24152441 PMCID: PMC3821659 DOI: 10.3390/ijms141021071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2013] [Revised: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, infertility, associated with metabolic syndrome, has become a global issue with a 10%-20% incidence worldwide. An accumulating body of evidence has shown that the renin-angiotensin system is involved in the fertility problems observed in some populations. Moreover, alterations in the expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme-1, angiotensin-converting enzyme-2, and angiotensin-converting enzyme-3 might be one of the most important mechanisms underlying both female and male infertility. However, as a pseudogene in humans, further studies are needed to explore whether the abnormal angiotensin-converting enzyme-3 gene could result in the problems of human reproduction. In this review, the relationship between angiotensin-converting enzymes and fertile ability is summarized, and a new procedure for the treatment of infertility is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Pei Pan
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, China; E-Mails: (P.-P.P.); (Q.-T.Z.); (F.L.); (Y.-M.Z.)
| | - Qi-Tao Zhan
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, China; E-Mails: (P.-P.P.); (Q.-T.Z.); (F.L.); (Y.-M.Z.)
| | - Fang Le
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, China; E-Mails: (P.-P.P.); (Q.-T.Z.); (F.L.); (Y.-M.Z.)
| | - Ying-Ming Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, China; E-Mails: (P.-P.P.); (Q.-T.Z.); (F.L.); (Y.-M.Z.)
| | - Fan Jin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, China; E-Mails: (P.-P.P.); (Q.-T.Z.); (F.L.); (Y.-M.Z.)
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28
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Perlot T, Penninger JM. ACE2 - from the renin-angiotensin system to gut microbiota and malnutrition. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:866-73. [PMID: 23962453 PMCID: PMC7110844 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a complex network that regulates blood pressure, electrolyte and fluid homeostasis, as well as the function of several organs. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) was identified as an enzyme that negatively regulates the RAS by converting Ang II, the main bioactive molecule of the RAS, to Ang 1-7. Thus, ACE2 counteracts the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) which generates Ang II from Ang I. ACE and ACE2 have been implicated in several pathologies such as cardiovascular and renal disease or acute lung injury. In addition, ACE2 has functions independent of the RAS: ACE2 is the receptor for the SARS coronavirus and ACE2 is essential for expression of neutral amino acid transporters in the gut. In this context, ACE2 modulates innate immunity and influences the composition of the gut microbiota, which can explain diarrhea and intestinal inflammation observed in Hartnup disorder, Pellagra, or under conditions of severe malnutrition. Here we review and discuss the diverse functions of ACE2 and its relevance to human pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Perlot
- IMBA, Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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Critical role of exosomes in sperm-egg fusion and virus-induced cell-cell fusion. Reprod Med Biol 2013; 12:117-126. [PMID: 29699139 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-013-0152-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, two integral membrane proteins, sperm IZUMO1 and egg CD9, regulate sperm-egg fusion, and their roles are critical, but yet unclear. Recent studies, however, indicate interesting connections between the sperm-egg fusion and virus-induced cell-cell fusion. First, CD9-containing exosome-like vesicles, which are released from wild-type eggs, can induce the fusion between sperm and CD9-deficient egg, even though CD9-deficient eggs are highly refractory to the fusion with sperm. This finding provides strong evidence for the involvement of CD9-containing, fusion-facilitating vesicles in the sperm-egg fusion. Secondly, there are similarities between the generation of retroviruses in the host cells and the formation of small cellular vesicles, termed exosomes, in mammalian cells. The exosomes are involved in intercellular communication through transfer of proteins and ribonucleic acids (RNAs) including mRNAs and microRNAs. These collective studies provide an insight into the molecular mechanism of membrane fusion events.
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Xia D, Parvizi N, Zhou Y, Xu K, Jiang H, Li R, Hang Y, Lu Y. Paternal fenvalerate exposure influences reproductive functions in the offspring. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:1308-15. [PMID: 23548413 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113483015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Fenvalerate (Fen), a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide, has been shown to have adverse effects on male reproductive system. Thus, the aim of the present study was to elucidate whether these adverse effects are passed from exposed male mice to their offspring. Adult male mice received Fen (10 mg/kg) daily for 30 days and mated with untreated females to produce offspring. Fenvalerate significantly changed the methylation status of angiotensin I-converting enzyme (Ace), forkhead box O3 (Foxo3a), huntingtin-associated protein 1 (Hap1), nuclear receptor subfamily 3 (Nr3c2), promyelocytic leukemia (Pml), and Prostaglandin F2 receptor negative regulator (Ptgfrn) genes in paternal mice sperm genomic DNA. Further, Fen significantly increased sperm abnormalities; serum testosterone and estradiol-17ß level in adult male (F0) and their male offspring (F1). Further, paternal Fen treatment significantly increased the length of estrous cycle, serum estradiol-17ß concentration in estrus, and progesterone levels in diestrus in female offspring (F1). These findings suggest that adverse effects of paternal Fen exposure on reproductive functions can be seen not only in treated males (F0) but also in their offsprings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Xia
- 1Institute of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Sciences, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
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Positive Selection and the Evolution of izumo Genes in Mammals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY 2012; 2012:958164. [PMID: 22957301 PMCID: PMC3432370 DOI: 10.1155/2012/958164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most genes linked to male reproductive function have been known to evolve rapidly among species and to show signatures of positive selection. Different male species-specific reproductive strategies have been proposed to underlie positive selection, such as sperm competitive advantage and control over females postmating physiology. However, an underexplored aspect potentially affecting male reproductive gene evolution in mammals is the effect of gene duplications. Here we analyze the molecular evolution of members of the izumo gene family in mammals, a family of four genes mostly expressed in the sperm with known and potential roles in sperm-egg fusion. We confirm a previously reported bout of selection for izumo1 and establish that the bout of selection is restricted to the diversification of species of the superorder Laurasiatheria. None of the izumo genes showed evidence of positive selection in Glires (Rodentia and Lagomorpha), and in the case of the non-testes-specific izumo4, rapid evolution was driven by relaxed selection. We detected evidence of positive selection for izumo3 among Primates. Interestingly, positively selected sites include several serine residues suggesting modifications in protein function and/or localization among Primates. Our results suggest that positive selection is driven by aspects related to species-specific adaptations to fertilization rather than sexual selection.
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Dorus S, Skerget S, Karr TL. Proteomic discovery of diverse immunity molecules in mammalian spermatozoa. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2012; 58:218-28. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2012.700442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Tetraspanin-interacting protein IGSF8 is dispensable for mouse fertility. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:465-70. [PMID: 22609062 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the physiological role of IGSF8 for fertility. DESIGN Experimental prospective study. SETTING Academic basic research laboratory. ANIMAL(S) C57BL/6J and hybrid B6D2F1 mice, as well as Cd9 and Igsf8 knockout mice (C57BL/6J and 129/SvJ mix background), were used for this study. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) In vitro and in vivo fertility tests of Igsf8 knockout mice. RESULT(S) Tetraspanin family member CD9 plays an important role in sperm-egg fusion. Recently, some researchers have reported that CD9 tightly associates with the immunoglobulin superfamily member IGSF8 on the egg surface and that IGSF8 is undetectable on the surface of Cd9-deficient eggs. This led us to hypothesize that IGSF8 participates in sperm-egg fusion together with CD9. To examine the physiological role of IGSF8 in vivo, we generated Igsf8-deficient mice by homologous recombination and examined the fertility of the females. CONCLUSION(S) The Igsf8-deficient female mice showed no fertilization defect in vitro or in vivo. We observed that Igsf8-deficient eggs retained the normal level and localization of CD9, resulting in normal microvilli formation, which indicates that IGSF8 is dispensable in fertility.
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Fournier D, Luft FC, Bader M, Ganten D, Andrade-Navarro MA. Emergence and evolution of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. J Mol Med (Berl) 2012; 90:495-508. [PMID: 22527880 PMCID: PMC3354321 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-012-0894-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is not the sole, but perhaps the most important volume regulator in vertebrates. To gain insights into the function and evolution of its components, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis of its main related genes. We found that important parts of the system began to appear with primitive chordates and tunicates and that all major components were present at the divergence of bony fish, with the exception of the Mas receptor. The Mas receptor first appears after the bony-fish/tetrapod divergence. This phase of evolutionary innovation happened about 400 million years ago. We found solid evidence that angiotensinogen made its appearance in cartilage fish. The presence of several RAAS genes in organisms that lack all the components shows that these genes have had other ancestral functions outside of their current role. Our analysis underscores the utility of sequence comparisons in the study of evolution. Such analyses may provide new hypotheses as to how and why in today's population an increased activity of the RAAS frequently leads to faulty salt and volume regulation, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, opening up new and clinically important research areas for evolutionary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Fournier
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine Berlin-Buch, Robert-Rössle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany
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Abstract
A crucial step of fertilization is the sperm-egg interaction that allows the two gametes to fuse and create the zygote. In the mouse, CD9 on the egg and IZUMO1 on the sperm stand out as critical players, as Cd9(-/-) and Izumo1(-/-) mice are healthy but infertile or severely subfertile due to defective sperm-egg interaction. Moreover, work on several nonmammalian organisms has identified some of the most intriguing candidates implicated in sperm-egg interaction. Understanding of gamete membrane interactions is advancing through characterization of in vivo and in vitro fertilization phenotypes, including insights from less robust phenotypes that highlight potential supporting (albeit not absolutely essential) players. An emerging theme is that there are varied roles for gamete molecules that participate in sperm-egg interactions. Such roles include not only functioning as fusogens, or as adhesion molecules for the opposite gamete, but also functioning through interactions in cis with other proteins to regulate membrane order and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice P Evans
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
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Toshimori K. Dynamics of the mammalian sperm membrane modification leading to fertilization: a cytological study. Microscopy (Oxf) 2011; 60 Suppl 1:S31-S42. [PMID: 21844599 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfr036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization occurs when the sperm penetrates the egg, resulting in the combination of paternal and maternal genomes for the propagation of generations. To perform the task, the mammalian sperm membrane system, constructed during spermatogenesis, undergoes biochemical and cytological modifications. In this review, the following three points are discussed: (i) the nature of the acrosomal membrane disclosed by various types of microscopy, including transmission electron microscopy and the recently developed high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, (ii) the nascent acrosomal membrane dysfunction during acrosome biogenesis and (iii) the modification of the sperm membrane during sperm-egg interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiyotaka Toshimori
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chiba 260-8670, Japan.
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Gadella BM, Evans JP. Membrane Fusions During Mammalian Fertilization. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2011; 713:65-80. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-0763-4_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Inoue N, Ikawa M, Okabe M. The mechanism of sperm-egg interaction and the involvement of IZUMO1 in fusion. Asian J Androl 2010; 13:81-7. [PMID: 21057513 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
An average human ejaculate contains over 100 million sperm, but only a few succeed in accomplishing the journey to an egg by migration through the female reproductive tract. Among these few sperm, only one participates in fertilization. There might be an ingenious molecular mechanism to ensure that the very best sperm fertilize an egg. However, recent gene disruption experiments in mice have revealed that many factors previously described as important for fertilization are largely dispensable. One could argue that the fertilization mechanism is made robust against gene disruptions. However, this is not likely, as there are already six different gene-disrupted mouse lines (Calmegin, Adam1a, Adam2, Adam3, Ace and Pgap1), all of which result in male sterility. The sperm from these animals are known to have defective zona-binding ability and at the same time lose oviduct-migrating ability. Concerning sperm-zona binding, the widely accepted involvement of sugar moiety on zona pellucida 3 (ZP3) is indicated to be dispensable by gene disruption experiments. Thus, the landscape of the mechanism of fertilization is revolving considerably. In the sperm-egg fusion process, CD9 on egg and IZUMO1 on sperm have emerged as essential factors. This review focuses on the mechanism of fertilization elucidated by gene-manipulated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naokazu Inoue
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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