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Olejnik B, Ferens-Sieczkowska M. Seminal Plasma Glycoproteins as Potential Ligands of Lectins Engaged in Immunity Regulation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10489. [PMID: 36078205 PMCID: PMC9518496 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution, chronic stress, and unhealthy lifestyle are factors that negatively affect reproductive potential. Currently, 15-20% of couples in industrialized countries face the problem of infertility. This growing health and social problem prompts researchers to explore the regulatory mechanisms that may be important for successful fertilization. In recent years, more attention has been paid to male infertility factors, including the impact of seminal plasma components on regulation of the female immune response to allogenic sperm, embryo and fetal antigens. Directing this response to the tolerogenic pathway is crucial to achieve a healthy pregnancy. According to the fetoembryonic defense hypothesis, the regulatory mechanism may be associated with the interaction of lectins and immunomodulatory glycoepitopes. Such interactions may involve lectins of dendritic cells and macrophages, recruited to the cervical region immediately after intercourse. Carbohydrate binding receptors include C type lectins, such as DC-SIGN and MGL, as well as galectins and siglecs among others. In this article we discuss the expression of the possible lectin ligands, highly fucosylated and high mannose structures, which may be recognized by DC-SIGN, glycans of varying degrees of sialylation, which may differ in their interaction with siglecs, as well as T and Tn antigens in O-glycans.
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Comparison of sperm preparation methods to improve the recovery of mature spermatozoa in sub-fertile males. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:664-673. [PMID: 35799417 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The integrity of chromatin in the spermatozoon is essential for reproductive outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the most effective and cost-effective method to reduce the percentage of spermatozoa with defects in chromatin decondensation for use in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) procedures. Sperm samples from 15 sub-fertile males were examined at CFA Naples to determine the sperm decondensation index (SDI), using the aniline blue test, before and after preparation, comparing density gradients with two different swim-up approaches. All three techniques led to a reduction in decondensed spermatozoa with no statistical difference (P > 0.05) between the control and the treated sperm. In contrast, we found a highly significant decrease in SDI (P < 0.01) after the two swim-up methods in all the samples, confirming the efficacy of these methods in lowering the percentage of chromatin compaction damage. There was no statistical difference between the two swim-up methods, however swim-up from the pellet led to improved count, motility and the percentage of normal condensed spermatozoa. We suggest that swim-up from the pellet be used in ART on sub-fertile males, both to reduce cell stress by multiple centrifugation and improve the recovery rate of mature spermatozoa.
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Barratt CLR, Wang C, Baldi E, Toskin I, Kiarie J, Lamb DJ. What advances may the future bring to the diagnosis, treatment, and care of male sexual and reproductive health? Fertil Steril 2022; 117:258-267. [PMID: 35125173 PMCID: PMC8877074 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past 40 years, since the publication of the original WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, the laboratory methods used to evaluate semen markedly changed and benefited from improved precision and accuracy, as well as the development of new tests and improved, standardized methodologies. Herein, we present the impact of the changes put forth in the sixth edition together with our views of evolving technologies that may change the methods used for the routine semen analysis, up-and-coming areas for the development of new procedures, and diagnostic approaches that will help to extend the often-descriptive interpretations of several commonly performed semen tests that promise to provide etiologies for the abnormal semen parameters observed. As we look toward the publication of the seventh edition of the manual in approximately 10 years, we describe potential advances that could markedly impact the field of andrology in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, University of Dundee Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Scotland.
| | - Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Igor Toskin
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - James Kiarie
- Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dolores J Lamb
- The James Buchanan Brady Foundation Department of Urology, Center for Reproductive Genomics and Englander Institute for Personalized Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
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Ribeiro JC, Braga PC, Martins AD, Silva BM, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. Antioxidants Present in Reproductive Tract Fluids and Their Relevance for Fertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10091441. [PMID: 34573073 PMCID: PMC8466935 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, infertility is classified as a disease of the reproductive system. Although it does not compromise the life of the individual, it can have detrimental effects on the physiological and psychological health of the couple. Male fertility evaluation is mainly focused on the analysis of sperm parameters. However, the ejaculated fluid is also composed of seminal plasma, and the study of this fluid can provide crucial information to help in the assessment of male fertility status. Total antioxidant capacity of the seminal plasma has been positively correlated with the fertility of men. Moreover, evidence highlights to a similar importance as that of female reproductive tract fluid antioxidant capabilities and female fertility. Herein, we describe the functions of seminal plasma and female reproductive tract fluids, as well as their main antioxidant components and their relationships with fertility outcomes. Additionally, this review contains the most up to date information regarding the mechanisms of the interaction between the male and the female reproductive fluids and the importance of proper antioxidant capacity for fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C. Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Patrícia C. Braga
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Ana D. Martins
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Branca M. Silva
- CICS, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Anatomy, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (P.C.B.); (M.G.A.)
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-234370718
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Dutta S, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Comparative analysis of tests used to assess sperm chromatin integrity and DNA fragmentation. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13718. [PMID: 32628294 DOI: 10.1111/and.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility has a complex etiology, and many times, the cause is unknown. While routine semen analysis provides an overview of basic semen parameters, such as sperm concentration, motility, viability and morphology, a significant overlap of these parameters has been reported in fertile and infertile men. Moreover, conventional semen parameters do not reveal the cellular or molecular mechanisms of sperm dysfunctions leading to infertility. Therefore, sperm functional parameters, including sperm chromatin integrity, are evaluated to provide information on subtle sperm defects that are not routinely identified. Incomplete or defective sperm chromatin condensation increases the susceptibility of the sperm DNA to oxidative damage or other factors. To evaluate sperm chromatin integrity, different methods with varying degrees of diagnostic and prognostic capabilities are available. Among these assays, SCSA, TUNEL and SCD assays are most commonly used. While these assays rather evaluate the DNA directly for damages, the aniline blue and chromomycin A3 stains test for the quality of chromatin condensation. Thus, this review discusses and compares different methods used to evaluate sperm chromatin integrity and condensation, and their inclusion in the routine evaluation of the male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Murgia F, Corda V, Serrenti M, Usai V, Santoru ML, Hurt KJ, Passaretti M, Monni MC, Atzori L, Monni G. Seminal Fluid Metabolomic Markers of Oligozoospermic Infertility in Humans. Metabolites 2020; 10:metabo10020064. [PMID: 32053951 PMCID: PMC7074256 DOI: 10.3390/metabo10020064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects 12–15% of couples worldwide, and male factors are the cause of nearly half of all cases. Studying seminal fluid composition could lead to additional diagnostic accuracy and a better understanding of the pathophysiology of male factor infertility. Metabolomics offers a new opportunity to evaluate biomarkers and better understand pathological mechanisms. The aim of the study was to identify new markers or therapeutic targets to improve outcomes in male factor or idiopathic infertility patients. Semen samples were obtained from 29 men with a normal spermogram test, and from 18 oligozoospermic men. Samples were processed and analyzed by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy and, subsequently, multivariate and univariate statistical analyses. Receiving Operator Curves (ROC) and Spearman correlations were also performed. An Orthogonal Partial Least Square Discriminant Analysis supervised multivariate model was devised to compare the groups. The levels of fructose, myo-inositol, aspartate and choline were altered. Moreover, Spearman Correlation associated fructose, aspartate and myo-inositol with the total amount of spermatozoa, total motile spermatozoa, % of immotility and % of “in situ” spermatozoic motility respectively. NMR-based metabolomics allowed the identification of a specific metabolic fingerprint of the seminal fluids of patients affected by oligozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Murgia
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (F.M.); (M.L.S.); (M.P.); (L.A.)
| | - Valentina Corda
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico “A.Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (M.S.); (V.U.); (M.C.M.)
| | - Marianna Serrenti
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico “A.Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (M.S.); (V.U.); (M.C.M.)
| | - Valeria Usai
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico “A.Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (M.S.); (V.U.); (M.C.M.)
| | - Maria Laura Santoru
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (F.M.); (M.L.S.); (M.P.); (L.A.)
| | - K. Joseph Hurt
- Divisions of Maternal Fetal Medicine and Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA;
| | - Mauro Passaretti
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (F.M.); (M.L.S.); (M.P.); (L.A.)
| | - Maria Carla Monni
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico “A.Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (M.S.); (V.U.); (M.C.M.)
| | - Luigi Atzori
- Clinical Metabolomics Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (F.M.); (M.L.S.); (M.P.); (L.A.)
| | - Giovanni Monni
- Department of Prenatal and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy, Ospedale Pediatrico Microcitemico “A.Cao”, 09121 Cagliari, Italy; (V.C.); (M.S.); (V.U.); (M.C.M.)
- Correspondence:
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8
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The Potential Role of Seminal Plasma in the Fertilization Outcomes. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5397804. [PMID: 31531356 PMCID: PMC6720062 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5397804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
For human infertility both male and female factors may be equally important. Searching for molecular biomarkers of male infertility, neglected for decades, and the attempts to explain regulatory mechanisms of fertilization become thus extremely important. Apart from examination of the structure and function of male gametes, also the possible importance of seminal plasma components should be considered. In this article we discuss data that indicate for the substantial significance of active seminal plasma components for conception and achievement of healthy pregnancy. Seminal plasma impact on the storage and cryopreservation of human and animal sperm and regulatory role of glycodelin on human sperm capacitation as well as hypothesized course of female immune response to allogenic sperm and conceptus has been discussed. The possible involvement of carbohydrates in molecular mechanism of fetoembryonic defense has been also mentioned.
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9
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Kızılay F, Altay B. Sperm function tests in clinical practice. Turk J Urol 2017; 43:393-400. [PMID: 29201498 DOI: 10.5152/tud.2017.96646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Conventional semen analysis solely is not completely adequate to predict pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, advanced sperm function tests have been developed and introduced to clinical practice. These tests use different methods and techniques to evaluate different stages of fertilization steps. In this review, we reported some commonly used sperm function tests: sperm penetration assay, sperm-zona pellucida binding test (hemizona assay), acrosomal reaction test, hyaluronan binding test, hypo-osmotic swelling test, magnetic-activated cell sorting and zeta sperm selection. We discussed the literature concerning these tests, the utilization techniques and also purpose and mechanism of each test. We emphasized the importance of sperm function tests in predicting in vitro fertilization and pregnancy outcomes and in the management of infertile couples and also the limitations of these tests. Along with improvements in molecular biology techniques, we believe that more applicative and beneficial tests will be developed in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuat Kızılay
- Department of Urology, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Barış Altay
- Department of Urology, Ege University School of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
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10
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Tomlinson MJ. Uncertainty of measurement and clinical value of semen analysis: has standardisation through professional guidelines helped or hindered progress? Andrology 2017; 4:763-70. [PMID: 27529487 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This article suggests that diagnostic semen analysis has no more clinical value today than it had 25-30 years ago, and both the confusion surrounding its evidence base (in terms of relationship with conception) and the low level of confidence in the clinical setting is attributable to an associated high level of 'uncertainty'. Consideration of the concept of measurement uncertainty is mandatory for medical laboratories applying for the ISO15189 standard. It is evident that the entire semen analysis process is prone to error every step from specimen collection to the reporting of results and serves to compound uncertainty associated with diagnosis or prognosis. Perceived adherence to published guidelines for the assessment of sperm concentration, motility and morphology does not guarantee a reliable and reproducible test result. Moreover, the high level of uncertainty associated with manual sperm motility and morphology can be attributed to subjectivity and lack a traceable standard. This article describes where and why uncertainty exists and suggests that semen analysis will continue to be of limited value until it is more adequately considered and addressed. Although professional guidelines for good practice have provided the foundations for testing procedures for many years, the risk in following rather prescriptive guidance to the letter is that unless they are based on an overwhelmingly firm evidence base, the quality of semen analysis will remain poor and the progress towards the development of more innovative methods for investigating male infertility will be slow.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Tomlinson
- Fertility Unit, Nottingham University Hospital, Nottingham, UK
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11
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Lewis SEM, Kumar K. The paternal genome and the health of the assisted reproductive technology child. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:616-22. [PMID: 25926606 PMCID: PMC4492053 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.153301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As a number of children born by assisted reproductive technology (ART) are increasing each year across the developed world, the health of such offspring is a matter of public concern. Does the integrity of the paternal genome impact on offspring health? In societal terms, as birth rates fall, and the Western population become unsustainable, do the benefits outweigh the costs of creating and providing for this ART conceived subpopulation? There are little data to date to answer these questions. The long-term health of such children has largely been ignored, and success measured only by early (prebirth) outcomes such as embryo quality or pregnancy. However, there are powerful paradigms such as ageing and smoking that give vital clues as to the potential impact of unhealthy spermatozoa on disease risk, mental and physical health, fertility and mortality of these offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, BT12 6BJ,NI, UK
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12
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Fortunato A, Boni R, Leo R, Nacchia G, Liguori F, Casale S, Bonassisa P, Tosti E. Vacuoles in sperm head are not associated with head morphology, DNA damage and reproductive success. Reprod Biomed Online 2016; 32:154-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Rocha DR, Martins JAM, van Tilburg MF, Oliveira RV, Moreno FB, Monteiro-Moreira ACO, Moreira RA, Araújo AA, Moura AA. Effect of increased testicular temperature on seminal plasma proteome of the ram. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1291-305. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Rodríguez-Villamil P, Hoyos-Marulanda V, Martins JAM, Oliveira AN, Aguiar LH, Moreno FB, Velho ALMCS, Monteiro-Moreira AC, Moreira RA, Vasconcelos IM, Bertolini M, Moura AA. Purification of binder of sperm protein 1 (BSP1) and its effects on bovine in vitro embryo development after fertilization with ejaculated and epididymal sperm. Theriogenology 2015; 85:540-54. [PMID: 26553567 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study evaluated functional aspects of binder of sperm 1 (BSP1) in the bovine species. In a first experiment, cumulus-oocyte complexes (n = 1274) were incubated with frozen-thawed ejaculated sperm (18 hours) in Fert-TALP medium containing: heparin, 10, 20, or 40 μg/mL BSP1. Heparin followed by gelatin affinity chromatography was used for purification of BSP1 from bovine seminal vesicle fluid. With ejaculated sperm, cleavage rates were similar when Fert-TALP medium was incubated with heparin (74.1 ± 2.7%), 10 μg/mL BSP1 (77.8 ± 3.1%), or 20 μg/mL BSP1 (74 ± 2.0%). Day-7 blastocyst rates were equivalent after incubations with heparin (40.8 ± 5.0%) and 10 μg/mL BSP1 (34.1 ± 4.4%), but reduced after 20 μg/mL BSP1 (22.4 ± 2.9%) and 40 μg/mL BSP1 (19.3 ± 4.1%; P < 0.05). In the second experiment, cumulus-oocyte complexes (n = 1213) were incubated with frozen-thawed cauda epididymal sperm (18 hours) in Fert-TALP medium containing: no heparin, heparin, 10, 20, or 40 μg/mL. Cleavage and blastocyst rates were similar after treatments with heparin (68.5 ± 1.3% and 24.7 ± 3.2%, respectively) or without heparin (65.5 ± 1.8% and 27.3 ± 1.6%, respectively). Cleavage was higher after treatment with any BSP1 concentrations (74.2 ± 2.7%-79.0 ± 1.1%) than without heparin (P < 0.05). Also, cleavage was better after Fert-TALP medium incubation with 40 μg/mL BSP1 (79.0 ± 1.1%) than with heparin (68.5 ± 1.3%; P < 0.05). Embryo development was higher (P < 0.05) after treatment with 20 μg/mL BSP1 (35.6 ± 2.5%) and 40 μg/mL (41.1 ± 2%) than after incubations with heparin (24.7 ± 3.2%) or without heparin (27.3 ± 1.6%). Interestingly, BSP1 did not cause reductions in blastocyst rates after fertilization with epididymal sperm, as observed with ejaculated sperm. On the basis of immunocytochemistry, there was BSP1 binding to frozen-thawed ejaculated but not to epididymal sperm. Also, anti-BSP1 reaction remained on ejaculated sperm (as expected) and appeared on epididymal sperm after incubation with purified BSP1. Acrosome reaction of ejaculated and epididymal sperm was induced after incubation with purified BSP1 as well, indicating an effect of BSP1 on capacitation. In conclusion, purified BSP1 from bull seminal vesicles was able to bind to and induce capacitation of ejaculated and epididymal sperm. Also, BSP1 added to fertilization media and allowed proper cleavage and embryo development, with the effects being modulated by previous exposure or not of spermatozoa to seminal plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rodríguez-Villamil
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - V Hoyos-Marulanda
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - J A M Martins
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A N Oliveira
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - L H Aguiar
- Molecular and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - F B Moreno
- School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A L M C S Velho
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | - R A Moreira
- School of Pharmacy, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - I M Vasconcelos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - M Bertolini
- Molecular and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A A Moura
- Animal Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil.
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15
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Di Caprio G, Ferrara MA, Miccio L, Merola F, Memmolo P, Ferraro P, Coppola G. Holographic imaging of unlabelled sperm cells for semen analysis: a review. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2015; 8:779-789. [PMID: 25491593 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.201400093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Male reproductive health in both humans and animals is an important research field in biological study. In order to characterize the morphology, the motility and the concentration of the sperm cells, which are the most important parameters to feature them, digital holography demonstrated to be an attractive technique. Indeed, it is a label-free, non-invasive and high-resolution method that enables the characterization of live specimen. The review is intended both for summarizing the state-of-art on the semen analysis and recent achievement obtained by means of digital holography and for exploring new possible applications of digital holography in this field. Quantitative phase maps of living swimming spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Di Caprio
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy.
- Rowland Institute at Harvard, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
| | - Maria Antonietta Ferrara
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy
| | - Lisa Miccio
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Francesco Merola
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Pasquale Memmolo
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Pietro Ferraro
- Institute "E. Caianiello" - National Research Council, Pozzuoli, 80078, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Coppola
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems, Unit of Naples - National Research Council, Naples, 80121, Italy
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16
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Sakkas D, Ramalingam M, Garrido N, Barratt CLR. Sperm selection in natural conception: what can we learn from Mother Nature to improve assisted reproduction outcomes? Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:711-26. [PMID: 26386468 PMCID: PMC4594619 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In natural conception only a few sperm cells reach the ampulla or the site of fertilization. This population is a selected group of cells since only motile cells can pass through cervical mucus and gain initial entry into the female reproductive tract. In animals, some studies indicate that the sperm selected by the reproductive tract and recovered from the uterus and the oviducts have higher fertilization rates but this is not a universal finding. Some species show less discrimination in sperm selection and abnormal sperm do arrive at the oviduct. In contrast, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) utilize a more random sperm population. In this review we contrast the journey of the spermatozoon in vivo and in vitro and discuss this in the context of developing new sperm preparation and selection techniques for ART. METHODS A review of the literature examining characteristics of the spermatozoa selected in vivo is compared with recent developments in in vitro selection and preparation methods. Contrasts and similarities are presented. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS New technologies are being developed to aid in the diagnosis, preparation and selection of spermatozoa in ART. To date progress has been frustrating and these methods have provided variable benefits in improving outcomes after ART. It is more likely that examining the mechanisms enforced by nature will provide valuable information in regard to sperm selection and preparation techniques in vitro. Identifying the properties of those spermatozoa which do reach the oviduct will also be important for the development of more effective tests of semen quality. In this review we examine the value of sperm selection to see how much guidance for ART can be gleaned from the natural selection processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denny Sakkas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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Salas-Huetos A, Blanco J, Vidal F, Godo A, Grossmann M, Pons MC, F-Fernández S, Garrido N, Anton E. Spermatozoa from patients with seminal alterations exhibit a differential micro-ribonucleic acid profile. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:591-601. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Revised: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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18
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Terminal Mannose Residues in Seminal Plasma Glycoproteins of Infertile Men Compared to Fertile Donors. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:14933-50. [PMID: 26147424 PMCID: PMC4519880 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160714933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact of seminal plasma components on the fertilization outcomes in humans is still under question. The increasing number of couples facing problems with conception raises the need for predictive biomarkers. Detailed understanding of the molecular mechanisms accompanying fertilization remains another challenge. Carbohydrate–protein recognition may be of key importance in this complex field. In this study, we analyzed the unique glycosylation pattern of seminal plasma proteins, the display of high-mannose and hybrid-type oligosaccharides, by means of their reactivity with mannose-specific Galanthus nivalis lectin. Normozoospermic infertile subjects presented decreased amounts of lectin-reactive glycoepitopes compared to fertile donors and infertile patients with abnormal semen parameters. Glycoproteins containing unveiled mannose were isolated in affinity chromatography, and 17 glycoproteins were identified in liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization. The N-glycome of the isolated glycoproteins was examined in matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry. Eleven out of 27 identified oligosaccharides expressed terminal mannose residues, responsible for lectin binding. We suggest that lowered content of high-mannose and hybrid type glycans in normozoospermic infertile patients may be associated with impaired sperm protection from preterm capacitation and should be considered in the search for new infertility markers.
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Feugang JM, Youngblood RC, Greene JM, Willard ST, Ryan PL. Self-illuminating quantum dots for non-invasive bioluminescence imaging of mammalian gametes. J Nanobiotechnology 2015; 13:38. [PMID: 26040273 PMCID: PMC4455054 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-015-0097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The fertility performance of animals is still a mystery and the full comprehension of mammalian gametes maturation and early embryonic development remains to be elucidated. The recent development in nanotechnology offers a new opportunity for real-time study of reproductive cells in their physiological environments. As a first step toward that goal, we evaluated the effectiveness of a fluorescent and luminescent nanoparticle for in vitro and ex vivo imaging of porcine gametes. Methods Freshly harvested boar sperm were labeled with red-shifted (655 nm) quantum dot nanoparticles conjugated (QD+) or not (QD−) with plasminogen antibody and evaluated. Subsets of labeled spermatozoa were loaded into straws and placed within the lumen of gilt reproductive tracts for ex vivo intra-uterine imaging. Porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in the presence of QD− or QD+. Ovarian follicles were microinjected with QD− or QD+ and placed in culture for up to 4 days. After labeling, all samples were supplemented with coelenterazine, the luciferase substrate, and immediately submitted to bioluminescence analysis, followed by fluorescence and hyperspectral imaging. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and P < 0.05 indicated significant differences. Results All labeled-samples revealed bioluminescence emission that was confirmed by fluorescence and hyperspectral imaging of the QD localization within the cells and tissues. Over 76% of spermatozoa and both immature and mature COCs were successfully labeled with QD− or QD+. The QD− fluorescence appeared homogenously distributed in the oocytes, while found in the entire sperm length with a higher accumulation within the mid-piece. Labeled-follicles exhibited a progressive migration of QD nanoparticles within the follicle wall during culture. In contrast, QD+ fluorescence signals appeared condensed and stronger in the follicle cells, sperm head, and sub-plasma membrane area of mature oocytes. Weaker QD+ signals were detected in the cumulus cells. Fluorescence and hyperspectral microscope imaging showed comparable intracellular QD localization. Ex-vivo intra-uterine bioluminescence imaging of labeled spermatozoa revealed stronger signals captured over the oviducts, with uterine body allowing the lowest signal detection. Conclusion Findings indicate that conjugated and non-conjugated fluorescent nanoparticles can be used for effective labeling of mammalian gametes for in vitro monitoring and potential in vivo targeted-imaging. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12951-015-0097-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Feugang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Facility for Organismal and Cellular Imaging (FOCI), Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Ramey C Youngblood
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Facility for Organismal and Cellular Imaging (FOCI), Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Jonathan M Greene
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Facility for Organismal and Cellular Imaging (FOCI), Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA. .,Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Scott T Willard
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Facility for Organismal and Cellular Imaging (FOCI), Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Peter L Ryan
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Facility for Organismal and Cellular Imaging (FOCI), Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA. .,Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
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Lewis SEM. Should sperm DNA fragmentation testing be included in the male infertility work-up? Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 31:134-7. [PMID: 26096033 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A response to the editorial 'Are we ready to incorporate sperm DNA fragmentation testing into our male infertility work-up? A plea for more robust studies' by Erma Drobnis and Martin Johnson.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University, Belfast BT12 6 BJ, Northern Ireland, UK.
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21
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The analysis of sialylation, N-glycan branching, and expression of O-glycans in seminal plasma of infertile men. DISEASE MARKERS 2015; 2015:941871. [PMID: 25892842 PMCID: PMC4393897 DOI: 10.1155/2015/941871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Carbohydrates are known to mediate some events involved in successful fertilization. Although some studies on the glycosylation of seminal plasma proteins are available, the total glycan profile was rarely analyzed as a feature influencing fertilization potential. In this work we aimed to compare some glycosylation traits in seminal plasma glycoproteins of fertile and infertile men. The following findings emerge from our studies: (1) in human seminal plasma the presence and alterations of O-linked glycans were observed; (2) the expression of SNA-reactive sialic acid significantly differs between asthenozoospermia and both normozoospermic (fertile and infertile) groups; (3) the expression of PHA-L-reactive highly branched N-glycans was significantly lower in oligozoospermic patients than in both normozoospermic groups. Indication of the appropriate lectins that would enable the possibly precise determination of the glycan profile seems to be a good supplement to mass spectrum analysis. Extension of the lectin panel is useful for the further research.
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de Boer P, de Vries M, Ramos L. A mutation study of sperm head shape and motility in the mouse: lessons for the clinic. Andrology 2014; 3:174-202. [PMID: 25511638 DOI: 10.1111/andr.300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 09/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Mouse mutants that show effects on sperm head shape, the sperm tail (flagellum), and motility were analysed in a systematic way. This was achieved by grouping mutations in the following classes: manchette, acrosome, Sertoli cell contact, chromatin remodelling, and mutations involved in complex regulations such as protein (de)phosphorylation and RNA stability, and flagellum/motility mutations. For all mutant phenotypes, flagellum function (motility) was affected. Head shape, including the nucleus, was also affected in spermatozoa of most mouse models, though with considerable variation. For the mutants that were categorized in the flagellum/motility group, generally normal head shapes were found, even when the flagellum did not develop or only poorly so. Most mutants are sterile, an occasional one semi-sterile. For completeness, the influence of the sex chromosomes on sperm phenotype is included. Functionally, the genes involved can be categorized as regulators of spermiogenesis. When extrapolating these data to human sperm samples, in vivo selection for motility would be the tool for weeding out the products of suboptimal spermiogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation. The striking dependency of motility on proper sperm head development is not easy to understand, but likely is of evolutionary benefit. Also, sperm competition after mating can never act against the long-term multi-generation interest of genetic integrity. Hence, it is plausible to suggest that short-term haplophase fitness i.e., motility, is developmentally integrated with proper nucleus maturation, including genetic integrity to protect multi-generation fitness. We hypothesize that, when the prime defect is in flagellum formation, apparently a feedback loop was not necessary as head morphogenesis in these mutants is mostly normal. Extrapolating to human-assisted reproductive techniques practice, this analysis would supply the arguments for the development of tools to select for motility as a continuous (non-discrete) parameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- P de Boer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Tardif S, Madamidola OA, Brown SG, Frame L, Lefièvre L, Wyatt PG, Barratt CLR, Martins Da Silva SJ. Clinically relevant enhancement of human sperm motility using compounds with reported phosphodiesterase inhibitor activity. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2123-35. [PMID: 25124668 PMCID: PMC4481575 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can we identify compound(s) with reported phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDEI) activity that could be added to human spermatozoa in vitro to enhance their motility without compromising other sperm functions? SUMMARY ANSWER We have identified several compounds that produce robust and effective stimulation of sperm motility and, importantly, have a positive response on patient samples. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY For >20 years, the use of non-selective PDEIs, such as pentoxifylline, has been known to influence the motility of human spermatozoa; however, conflicting results have been obtained. It is now clear that human sperm express several different phosphodiesterases and these are compartmentalized at different regions of the cells. By using type-specific PDEIs, differential modulation of sperm motility may be achieved without adversely affecting other functions such as the acrosome reaction (AR). STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a basic medical research study examining sperm samples from normozoospermic donors and subfertile patients attending the Assisted Conception Unit (ACU), Ninewells Hospital Dundee for diagnostic semen analysis, IVF and ICSI. Phase 1 screened 43 commercially available compounds with reported PDEI activity to identify lead compounds that stimulate sperm motility. Samples were exposed (20 min) to three concentrations (1, 10 and 100 µM) of compound, and selected candidates (n = 6) progressed to Phase 2, which provided a more comprehensive assessment using a battery of in vitro sperm function tests. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All healthy donors and subfertile patients were recruited at the Medical Research Institute, University of Dundee and ACU, Ninewells Hospital Dundee (ethical approval 08/S1402/6). In Phase 1, poor motility cells recovered from the 40% interface of the discontinuous density gradient were used as surrogates for patient samples. Pooled samples from three to four different donors were utilized in order to reduce variability and increase the number of cells available for simultaneous examination of multiple compounds. During Phase 2 testing, semen samples from 23 patients attending for either routine diagnostic andrology assessment or IVF/ICSI were prepared and exposed to selected compounds. Additionally, 48 aliquots of prepared samples, surplus to clinical use, were examined from IVF (n = 32) and ICSI (n = 16) patients to further determine the effects of selected compounds under clinical conditions of treatment. Effects of compounds on sperm motility were assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis. A modified Kremer test using methyl cellulose was used to assess sperm functional ability to penetrate into viscous media. Sperm acrosome integrity and induction of apoptosis were assessed using the acrosomal content marker PSA-FITC and annexin V kit, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In Phase 1, six compounds were found to have a strong effect on poor motility samples with a magnitude of response of ≥60% increase in percentage total motility. Under capacitating and non-capacitating conditions, these compounds significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased the percentage of total and progressive motility. Furthermore, these compounds enhanced penetration into a cervical mucus substitute (P ≤ 0.05). Finally, the AR was not significantly induced and these compounds did not significantly increase the externalization of phosphatidylserine (P = 0.6, respectively). In general, the six compounds maintained the stimulation of motility over long periods of time (180 min) and their effects were still observed after their removal. In examinations of clinical samples, there was a general observation of a more significant stimulation of sperm motility in samples with lower baseline motility. In ICSI samples, compounds #26, #37 and #38 were the most effective at significantly increasing total motility (88, 81 and 79% of samples, respectively) and progressive motility (94, 93 and 81% of samples, respectively). In conclusion, using a two-phased drug discovery screening approach including the examination of clinical samples, 3/43 compounds were identified as promising candidates for further study. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study and caution must be taken when extrapolating the results. Data for patients were from one assessment and thus the robustness of responses needs to be established. The n values for ICSI samples were relatively small. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We have systematically screened and identified several compounds that have robust and effective stimulation (i.e. functional significance with longevity and no toxicity) of total and progressive motility under clinical conditions of treatment. These compounds could be clinical candidates with possibilities in terms of assisted reproductive technology options for current or future patients affected by asthenozoospermia or oligoasthenozoospermia. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded primarily by the MRC (DPFS) but with additional funding from the Wellcome Trust, Tenovus (Scotland), University of Dundee, NHS Tayside and Scottish Enterprise. The authors have no competing interests. A patent (#WO2013054111A1) has been published containing some of the information presented in this manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Tardif
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK Present address: International Center for Biotechnology, MOFA Global, Mount Horeb, WI 53572, USA
| | - Oladipo A Madamidola
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK Assisted Conception Unit, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK University of Abertay, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | | | - Lorna Frame
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Linda Lefièvre
- Medical School, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B152TG, UK
| | - Paul G Wyatt
- Drug Discovery Unit, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK Assisted Conception Unit, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
| | - Sarah J Martins Da Silva
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK Assisted Conception Unit, NHS Tayside, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK
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Zhang J, Huang Z, Chen M, Xia Y, Martin FL, Hang W, Shen H. Urinary metabolome identifies signatures of oligozoospermic infertile men. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:44-53.e12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Revised: 02/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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25
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Buck Louis GM. Male fecundity and its implications for health and disease across the lifespan. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1351-2. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Tomlinson M, Lewis S, Morroll D. Sperm quality and its relationship to natural and assisted conception: British Fertility Society Guidelines for practice. HUM FERTIL 2013; 16:175-93. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2013.807522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Lewis SEM. Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Base Oxidation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2013; 791:103-16. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-7783-9_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
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Lewis SEM, John Aitken R, Conner SJ, Iuliis GD, Evenson DP, Henkel R, Giwercman A, Gharagozloo P. The impact of sperm DNA damage in assisted conception and beyond: recent advances in diagnosis and treatment. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:325-37. [PMID: 23948450 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Revised: 04/09/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Sperm DNA damage is a useful biomarker for male infertility diagnosis and prediction of assisted reproduction outcomes. It is associated with reduced fertilization rates, embryo quality and pregnancy rates, and higher rates of spontaneous miscarriage and childhood diseases. This review provides a synopsis of the most recent studies from each of the authors, all of whom have major track records in the field of sperm DNA damage in the clinical setting. It explores current laboratory tests and the accumulating body of knowledge concerning the relationship between sperm DNA damage and clinical outcomes. The paper proceeds to discuss the strengths, weaknesses and clinical applicability of current sperm DNA tests. Next, the biological significance of DNA damage in the male germ line is considered. Finally, as sperm DNA damage is often the result of oxidative stress in the male reproductive tract, the potential contribution of antioxidant therapy in the clinical management of this condition is discussed. DNA damage in human spermatozoa is an important attribute of semen quality. It should be part of the clinical work up and properly controlled trials addressing the effectiveness of antioxidant therapy should be undertaken as a matter of urgency. Sperm DNA damage is a useful biomarker for male infertility diagnosis and prediction of assisted reproduction outcomes. It is associated with reduced fertilization rates, embryo quality and pregnancy rates, and higher rates of spontaneous miscarriage and childhood diseases. With all of these fertility check points, it shows more promise than conventional semen parameters from a diagnostic perspective. Despite this, few infertility clinics use it routinely. This review provides a synopsis of the most recent studies from each of the authors, all of whom have major track records in the field of sperm DNA damage in the clinical setting. It explores current laboratory tests and the accumulating body of knowledge concerning the relationship between sperm DNA damage and clinical outcomes. The paper proceeds to discuss the strengths and weaknesses and clinical applicability of current sperm DNA fragmentation tests. Next, the biological significance of DNA damage in the male germ line is considered. Finally, as sperm DNA damage is often the result of increased oxidative stress in the male reproductive tract, the potential contribution of antioxidant therapy in the clinical management of this condition is discussed. As those working in this field of clinical research, we conclude that DNA damage in human spermatozoa is an important attribute of semen quality which should be carefully assessed in the clinical work up of infertile couples and that properly controlled trials addressing the effectiveness of antioxidant therapy should be undertaken as a matter of urgency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- Centre for Public Health, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Grosvenor Road, Belfast BT12 6BJ, Northern Ireland, UK.
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Barratt CL, Mansell SA. Andrology is desperate for a new assay – Let us make sure we get it right this time…. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2013.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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30
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Feugang JM, Youngblood RC, Greene JM, Fahad AS, Monroe WA, Willard ST, Ryan PL. Application of quantum dot nanoparticles for potential non-invasive bio-imaging of mammalian spermatozoa. J Nanobiotechnology 2012; 10:45. [PMID: 23241497 PMCID: PMC3553073 DOI: 10.1186/1477-3155-10-45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Various obstacles are encountered by mammalian spermatozoa during their journey through the female genital tract, and only few or none will reach the site of fertilization. Currently, there are limited technical approaches for non-invasive investigation of spermatozoa migration after insemination. As the knowledge surrounding sperm behavior throughout the female genital tract still remains elusive, the recent development of self-illuminating quantum dot nanoparticles may present a potential means for real-time in vitro and in vivo monitoring of spermatozoa. Results Here, we show the ability of boar spermatozoa to harmlessly interact and incorporate bioluminescent resonance energy transfer-conjugated quantum dot (BRET-QD) nanoparticles. The confocal microscope revealed in situ fluorescence of BRET-QD in the entire spermatozoon, while the ultra-structural analysis using the transmission electron microscope indicated BRET-QD localization on the sperm plasma membrane and intracellular compartment. In controlled-in vitro assays, bioluminescent imaging demonstrated that spermatozoa incubated with BRET-QD and luciferase substrate (coelenterazine) emit light (photons/sec) above the background, which confirmed the in situ fluorescence imaging. Most importantly, sperm motility, viability, and fertilizing potential were not affected by the BRET-QD incorporation when used at an appropriated ratio. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that pig spermatozoa can incorporate BRET-QD nanoparticles without affecting their motility and capacity to interact with the oocyte when used at an appropriated balance. We anticipate that our study will enable in-depth exploration of the male components of in vivo migration, fertilization, and embryonic development at the molecular level using this novel approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Feugang
- Facility for Cellular Imaging and Organismal Imaging, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.
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31
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Byrne K, Leahy T, McCulloch R, Colgrave ML, Holland MK. Comprehensive mapping of the bull sperm surface proteome. Proteomics 2012; 12:3559-79. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201200133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 09/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Russell McCulloch
- CSIRO Food Futures National Research Flagship; Division of Livestock Industries; Queensland Biosciences Precinct; St. Lucia; Queensland; Australia
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Lewis SEM, Rapino C, Di Tommaso M, Pucci M, Battista N, Paro R, Simon L, Lutton D, Maccarrone M. Differences in the endocannabinoid system of sperm from fertile and infertile men. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47704. [PMID: 23082196 PMCID: PMC3474715 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major cause of problems for many couples in conceiving a child. Recently, lifestyle pastimes such as alcohol, tobacco and marijuana have been shown to have further negative effects on male reproduction. The endocannabinoid system (ECS), mainly through the action of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) at cannabinoid (CB1, CB2) and vanilloid (TRPV1) receptors, plays a crucial role in controlling functionality of sperm, with a clear impact on male reproductive potential. Here, sperm from fertile and infertile men were used to investigate content (through LC-ESI-MS), mRNA (through quantitative RT-PCR), protein (through Western Blotting and ELISA) expression, and functionality (through activity and binding assays) of the main metabolic enzymes of AEA and 2-AG (NAPE-PLD and FAAH, for AEA; DAGL and MAGL for 2-AG), as well as of their binding receptors CB1, CB2 and TRPV1. Our findings show a marked reduction of AEA and 2-AG content in infertile seminal plasma, paralleled by increased degradation: biosynthesis ratios of both substances in sperm from infertile versus fertile men. In addition, TRPV1 binding was detected in fertile sperm but was undetectable in infertile sperm, whereas that of CB1 and CB2 receptors was not statistically different in the two groups. In conclusion, this study identified unprecedented alterations of the ECS in infertile sperm, that might impact on capacitation and acrosome reaction, and hence fertilization outcomes. These alterations might also point to new biomarkers to determine male reproductive defects, and identify distinct ECS elements as novel targets for therapeutic exploitation of ECS-oriented drugs to treat male fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- School of Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Institute of Clinical Science, Belfast, United Kingdom
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Ferens-Sieczkowska M, Kowalska B, Kratz EM. Seminal plasma glycoproteins in male infertility and prostate diseases: is there a chance for glyco-biomarkers? Biomarkers 2012; 18:10-22. [DOI: 10.3109/1354750x.2012.719035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Brown R, Harper J. The clinical benefit and safety of current and future assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 25:108-17. [PMID: 22683151 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2012] [Revised: 03/11/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the first birth by IVF was achieved in 1978, the techniques involved in assisted reproductive technology have grown at an enormous rate. However, new technology has rarely been robustly validated before clinical use and developing scientific understanding of the available techniques has done little to alter their use. Furthermore, there are inconsistencies in the available clinical studies and endpoints. The benefits of some technologies already established for routine use are currently dubious and there are clear ethical concerns with providing them to patients when their scientific basis is not clear. As the uptake of assisted reproductive technology increases and newer technologies continue to push the boundaries of science, it is important to consider the clinical benefits and safety of all assisted reproductive technologies. This review will discuss aspects of some of the more recent techniques, including sperm DNA-damage tests, intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection, amino acid and metabolomics profiling, preimplantation genetic screening and time-lapse imaging, and those that may have substantial impacts on the field of reproductive medicine in the future including artificial gametes, ovarian transplantation and gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Brown
- Division of Medicine, University College London, Gower Street, UK.
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Blomberg Jensen M, Jørgensen A, Nielsen JE, Bjerrum PJ, Skalkam M, Petersen JH, Egeberg DL, Bangsbøll S, Andersen AN, Skakkebaek NE, Juul A, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Dissing S, Leffers H, Jørgensen N. Expression of the vitamin D metabolizing enzyme CYP24A1 at the annulus of human spermatozoa may serve as a novel marker of semen quality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 35:499-510. [PMID: 22404291 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2012.01256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D (VD) is important for male reproduction in mammals and the VD receptor (VDR) and VD-metabolizing enzymes are expressed in human spermatozoa. The VD-inactivating enzyme CYP24A1 titrates the cellular responsiveness to VD, is transcriptionally regulated by VD, and has a distinct expression at the sperm annulus. Here, we investigated if CYP24A1 expression serves as a marker for VD metabolism in spermatozoa, and whether CYP24A1 expression was associated with semen quality. We included 130 men (53 healthy young volunteers and 77 subfertile men) for semen analysis and immunocytochemical (ICC) detection of CYP24A1. Another 40 men (22 young, 18 subfertile) were tested for in vitro effects of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) on intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and sperm motility. Double ICC staining showed that CYP24A1 and VDR were either concomitantly expressed or absent in 80% of the spermatozoa from young men. The median number of CYP24A1-expressing spermatozoa was 1% in subfertile men and thus significantly (p < 0.0005) lower than 25% in spermatozoa from young men. Moreover, CYP24A1 expression correlated positively with total sperm count, -concentration, -motility and -morphology (all p < 0.004), and the percentage of CYP24A1-positive spermatozoa increased (15 vs. 41%, p < 0.0005) after percoll-gradient-centrifugation. We noticed that the presence of >3% CYP24A1-positive spermatozoa distinguished young men from subfertile men with a sensitivity of 66.0%, a specificity of 77.9% and a positive predictive value of 98.3%. Functional studies revealed that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) increased [Ca(2+)](i) and sperm motility in young healthy men, while 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) was unable to increase motility in subfertile patients. In conclusion, we suggest that CYP24A1 expression at the annulus may serve as a novel marker of semen quality and an objective proxy for sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Blomberg Jensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Abstract
The integrity of sperm chromatin structure has proven to be of great importance for human fertility. In this study, we investigated whether sperm cryopreservation has an effect on nuclear DNA tertiary structure, (i.e. condensation), measured by aniline blue staining, in 103 male patients who required consultation for hypo-fertility. Sperm DNA damage was significantly higher in patients showing oligospermia and severe morphological abnormalities than in native sperm populations. Furthermore we observed that chromatin decondensation was related to the cryostorage technique and to the duration of storage. This increase in decondensation was highly significant (P < 0.01) immediately after cryopreservation and from 90 days of cryostorage onwards. The possible mechanisms involved in sperm chromatin cryoinjury and the need to incorporate new methods for testing sperm nuclear structure alteration into the routine spermiogram are discussed.
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de Vries M, Vosters S, Merkx G, D'Hauwers K, Wansink DG, Ramos L, de Boer P. Human male meiotic sex chromosome inactivation. PLoS One 2012; 7:e31485. [PMID: 22355370 PMCID: PMC3280304 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0031485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian male gametogenesis the sex chromosomes are distinctive in both gene activity and epigenetic strategy. At first meiotic prophase the heteromorphic X and Y chromosomes are placed in a separate chromatin domain called the XY body. In this process, X,Y chromatin becomes highly phosphorylated at S139 of H2AX leading to the repression of gonosomal genes, a process known as meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI), which has been studied best in mice. Post-meiotically this repression is largely maintained. Disturbance of MSCI in mice leads to harmful X,Y gene expression, eventuating in spermatocyte death and sperm heterogeneity. Sperm heterogeneity is a characteristic of the human male. For this reason we were interested in the efficiency of MSCI in human primary spermatocytes. We investigated MSCI in pachytene spermatocytes of seven probands: four infertile men and three fertile controls, using direct and indirect in situ methods. A considerable degree of variation in the degree of MSCI was detected, both between and within probands. Moreover, in post-meiotic stages this variation was observed as well, indicating survival of spermatocytes with incompletely inactivated sex chromosomes. Furthermore, we investigated the presence of H3K9me3 posttranslational modifications on the X and Y chromatin. Contrary to constitutive centromeric heterochromatin, this heterochromatin marker did not specifically accumulate on the XY body, with the exception of the heterochromatic part of the Y chromosome. This may reflect the lower degree of MSCI in man compared to mouse. These results point at relaxation of MSCI, which can be explained by genetic changes in sex chromosome composition during evolution and candidates as a mechanism behind human sperm heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke de Vries
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne Vosters
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Merkx
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kathleen D'Hauwers
- Department of Urology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Derick G. Wansink
- Department of Cell Biology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Liliana Ramos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter de Boer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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Anton E, Krawetz SA. Spermatozoa as biomarkers for the assessment of human male infertility and genotoxicity. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2012; 58:41-50. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2011.637152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Crha I, Zakova J, Huser M, Ventruba P, Lousova E, Pohanka M. Digital holographic microscopy in human sperm imaging. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:725-9. [PMID: 21667103 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9584-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to use digital holographic microscopy (DHM) in human sperm imaging and compare quantitative phase contrast of sperm heads in normozoospermia (NZ) and oligoasthenozoospermia (OAT). METHODS DHM spermatozoa imaging and repeated quantitative phase shift evaluation were used. Five NZ and 5 OAT samples were examined. Semen samples were examined by semen analysis and processed for DHM. Main outcome measures were maximum phase shift value of the sperm heads. Differences of the phase shift and in NZ and OAT samples were statistically tested. RESULTS In NZ samples median phase shifts were in the range 2.72-3.21 rad and 2.00-2.15 in OAT samples. Differences among individual samples were statistically significant (p < 0.001) in both groups. Median phase shift according to sperm count was 2.90 rad in NZ samples and 2.00 rad in OAT samples. This difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Quantitative evaluation of the phase shift by DHM could provide new information on the exact structure and composition of the sperm head. At present, this technique is not established for clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Crha
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, and Faculty Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.
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At home testing: optimizing management for the infertility physician. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1867-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Barratt CLR, Mansell S, Beaton C, Tardif S, Oxenham SK. Diagnostic tools in male infertility-the question of sperm dysfunction. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:53-8. [PMID: 21102478 PMCID: PMC3739390 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2010] [Revised: 10/24/2010] [Accepted: 10/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm dysfunction is the single most common cause of infertility, yet what is remarkable is that, there is no drug a man can take or add to his spermatozoa in vitro to improve fertility. One reason for the lack of progress in this area is that our understanding of the cellular and molecular workings of the mature spermatazoon is limited. However, over the last few years there has been considerable progress in our knowledge base and in addressing new methods to diagnose sperm dysfunction. We review the current state of the field and provide insights for further development. We conclude that: (i) there is little to be gained from more studies identifying/categorizing various populations of men using a basic semen assessment, where an effort is required in making sure the analysis is performed in an appropriate high quality way; (ii) technological development is likely to bring the reality of sperm function testing closer to implementation into the clinical pathways. In doing this, these assays must be robust, cheap (or more appropriately termed cost effective), easy to use and clinically useful; and (iii) clinical necessity, e.g., the need to identify the highest quality spermatozoon for injection is driving basic research forward. This is an exciting time to be an andrologist and, likely, a fruitful one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Maternal and Child Health Science Laboratories, Centre for Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK.
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Johnson GD, Lalancette C, Linnemann AK, Leduc F, Boissonneault G, Krawetz SA. The sperm nucleus: chromatin, RNA, and the nuclear matrix. Reproduction 2011; 141:21-36. [PMID: 20876223 PMCID: PMC5358669 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Within the sperm nucleus, the paternal genome remains functionally inert and protected following protamination. This is marked by a structural morphogenesis that is heralded by a striking reduction in nuclear volume. Despite these changes, both human and mouse spermatozoa maintain low levels of nucleosomes that appear non-randomly distributed throughout the genome. These regions may be necessary for organizing higher order genomic structure through interactions with the nuclear matrix. The promoters of this transcriptionally quiescent genome are differentially marked by modified histones that may poise downstream epigenetic effects. This notion is supported by increasing evidence that the embryo inherits these differing levels of chromatin organization. In concert with the suite of RNAs retained in the mature sperm, they may synergistically interact to direct early embryonic gene expression. Irrespective, these features reflect the transcriptional history of spermatogenic differentiation. As such, they may soon be utilized as clinical markers of male fertility. In this review, we explore and discuss how this may be orchestrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham D. Johnson
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Amelia K. Linnemann
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
| | - Frédéric Leduc
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Guylain Boissonneault
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- The Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
- Institute for Scientific Computing, Wayne State University of Medicine, C.S. Mott Center, 275 E. Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201
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García-Herrero S, Garrido N, Martínez-Conejero JA, Remohí J, Pellicer A, Meseguer M. Differential transcriptomic profile in spermatozoa achieving pregnancy or not via ICSI. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 22:25-36. [PMID: 21123116 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2010] [Revised: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Basic sperm analysis is limited as a method of estimating pregnancy. This study’s objective was use of microarray technology to differentiate the gene expressions of spermatozoa that achieved pregnancy in an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)cycle in an oocyte donation programme with those that did not achieve pregnancy. A study of nested cases and controls was designed to evaluate fresh and frozen spermatozoa from infertile males undergoing ICSI with donor oocytes. The global genome expression of pooled samples from each group (achieving pregnancy versus those that didn’t, from fresh or frozen spermatozoa)was compared using microarray analysis. The level of expression of some of the transcripts from fresh spermatozoa was shown to differ for those that achieved pregnancy versus those that didn’t. Additionally, exclusively expressed transcripts were identified for both outcome groups. Analysis of frozen spermatozoa didn’t reveal differential expression, but exclusively expressed transcripts were detected. Lists of the transcripts were systematically analysed using different databases in order to provide information about them and their relationship with male fertility. The results revealed profound differences between the expression profiles of spermatozoa that resulted in pregnancy versus those that didn’t. These differences may explain ICSI failure associated with male factor infertility.
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44
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Clinical relevance of sperm DNA assessment: an update. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:1958-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.07.1050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Revised: 06/18/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Comments on the release of the 5th edition of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:59-63. [PMID: 20111082 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2008.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The authors of the World Health Organization Semen Analysis Manual are to be congratulated on producing a new edition; it is an essential tool to disseminate good practice in andrology. However, the tests described have poor prognostic power to predict a man's fertility and show little about the underlying causes of sub-fertility. This commentary urges a revival of research into the diagnosis of male fertility. It suggests that fertility should be regarded as a continuum and that the artificial binary division between fertile and infertile should be abandoned. Models to predict a sub-fertile couple's chance of conception in a year should be developed on the basis of prospective data. These models would allow for sophisticated decision making about management. The future lies in the identification of tests to detect underlying pathologies open to specific treatment. Leads such as oxidative stress, defects in the intracellular regulation and the developing field of proteomics should be explored.
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Barratt CLR, Aitken RJ, Björndahl L, Carrell DT, de Boer P, Kvist U, Lewis SEM, Perreault SD, Perry MJ, Ramos L, Robaire B, Ward S, Zini A. Sperm DNA: organization, protection and vulnerability: from basic science to clinical applications--a position report. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:824-38. [PMID: 20139429 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reports the results of the most recent in a series of EHSRE workshops designed to synthesize the current state of the field in Andrology and provide recommendations for future work (for details see Appendix). Its focus is on methods for detecting sperm DNA damage and potential application of new knowledge about sperm chromatin organization, vulnerability and repair to improve the diagnosis and treatment of clinical infertility associated with that damage. Equally important is the use and reliability of these tests to identify the extent to which environmental contaminants or pharmaceutical agents may contribute to the incidence of sperm DNA damage and male fertility problems. A working group (for workshop details, see Appendix) under the auspices of ESHRE met in May 2009 to assess the current knowledgebase and suggest future basic and clinical research directions. This document presents a synthesis of the working group's understanding of the recent literature and collective discussions on the current state of knowledge of sperm chromatin structure and function during fertilization. It highlights the biological, assay and clinical uncertainties that require further research and ends with a series of 5 key recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Maternal and Child Health Science Laboratories, Centre for Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
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47
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Sperm chromatin structure assay and classical semen parameters: systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 20:114-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2009] [Revised: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 09/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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48
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Barratt CL. Male infertility joins the translational medicine revolution. Sperm DNA: from basic science to clinical reality. Mol Hum Reprod 2009; 16:1-2. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gap094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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49
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Oliva R, Martínez-Heredia J, Estanyol JM. Proteomics in the Study of the Sperm Cell Composition, Differentiation and Function. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2009; 54:23-36. [DOI: 10.1080/19396360701879595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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50
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Devroey P, Fauser BCJM, Diedrich K. Approaches to improve the diagnosis and management of infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2009; 15:391-408. [PMID: 19380415 PMCID: PMC2691653 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmp012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2008] [Revised: 02/19/2009] [Accepted: 03/18/2009] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent advances in our understanding of the causes of infertility and of assisted reproductive technology (ART) have led to the development of complex diagnostic tools, prognostic models and treatment options. The Third Evian Annual Reproduction (EVAR) Workshop Meeting was held on 26-27 April 2008 to evaluate evidence supporting current approaches to the diagnosis and management of infertility and to identify areas for future research efforts. METHODS Specialist reproductive medicine clinicians and scientists delivered presentations based on published literature and ongoing research on patient work-up, ovarian stimulation and embryo quality assessment during ART. This report is based on the expert presentations and subsequent group discussions and was supplemented with publications from literature searches and the authors' knowledge. RESULTS It was agreed that single embryo transfer (SET) should be used with increasing frequency in cycles of ART. Continued improvements in cryopreservation techniques, which improve pregnancy rates using supernumerary frozen embryos, are expected to augment the global uptake of SET. Adaptation and personalization of fertility therapy may help to optimize efficacy and safety outcomes for individual patients. Prognostic modelling and personalized management strategies based on individual patient characteristics may prove to represent real progress towards improved treatment. However, at present, there is limited good-quality evidence to support the use of these individualized approaches. CONCLUSIONS Greater quality control and standardization of clinical and laboratory evaluations are required to optimize ART practices and improve individual patient outcomes. Well-designed, good-quality studies are required to drive improvements to the diagnosis and management of ART processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Devroey
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Free University Brussels, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium.
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