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Sheibak N, Zandieh Z, Amjadi F, Aflatoonian R. How sperm protects itself: A journey in the female reproductive system. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104222. [PMID: 38489929 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Sperm must pass a complex route in the female reproductive tract (FRT) to reach the fertilization site and join the oocyte. Thus, it should employ several mechanisms to survive against the female immune system, fertilize the oocyte, and successfully transmit paternal genes to the next generation. In addition to self-protection, sperm may be involved in the immune tolerance to the developing embryo and regulating the FRT for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. Hence, this review intends to summarize the mechanisms that protect sperm in the FRT: including immunomodulatory factors that are carried by seminal plasma, cell-to-cell and molecular interaction of sperm with epithelial and immune cells of the FRT, high regulated secretions of inflammatory factors such as cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, inducing immune tolerance to paternal antigens, and specialized expression of cell receptors and binding proteins. In most of these events sperm induces the FRT to protect itself by modulating immune responses for its own benefit. However, not all sperm in the semen are able to trigger the survival mechanisms and only high-quality sperm will overcome this challenge. A clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms that maintain sperm viability and function in the FRT can lead to new knowledge about infertility etiology and a new approach in assisted reproductive technologies for the preparation and selection of the best sperm based on the criteria that physiologically happen in-vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Sheibak
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Valencia J, Bonilla-Correal S, Pinart E, Bonet S, Yeste M. Clustering of spermatozoa examined through flow cytometry provides more information than the conventional assessment: a resilience to osmotic stress example. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23132. [PMID: 38769680 DOI: 10.1071/rd23132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Context Conventional sperm quality tests may not be sufficient to predict the fertilising ability of a given ejaculate; thus, rapid, reliable and sensitive tests are necessary to measure sperm function. Aims This study sought to address whether a cluster analysis approach based on flow cytometry variables could provide more information about sperm function. Methods Spermatozoa were exposed to either isotonic (300mOsm/kg) or hypotonic (180mOsm/kg) media for 5 and 20min, and were then stained with SYBR14 and propidium iodide (PI). Based on flow cytometry dot plots, spermatozoa were classified as either viable (SYBR14+ /PI- ) or with different degrees of plasma membrane alteration (SYBR14+ /PI+ and SYBR14- /PI+ ). Moreover, individual values of electronic volume (EV), side scattering (SS), green (FL1) and red (FL3) fluorescence were recorded and used to classify sperm cells through cluster analysis. Two strategies of this approach were run. The first one was based on EV and the FL3/FL1 quotient, and the second was based on EV, SS and the FL3/FL1 quotient. Key results The two strategies led to the identification of more than three sperm populations. In the first strategy, EV did not differ between membrane-intact and membrane-damaged sperm, but it was significantly (P P P Conclusions Cluster analysis based on flow cytometry variables provides more information about sperm function than conventional assessment does. Implications Combining flow cytometry with cluster analysis is a more robust approach for sperm evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Valencia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Antonio Nariño, Popayán CO-190002, Colombia; and Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain
| | - Sebastián Bonilla-Correal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Antonio Nariño, Popayán CO-190002, Colombia; and Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Pinart
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; and Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona ES-08010, Spain
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Ganeva R, Parvanov D, Vidolova N, Handzhiyska M, Ruseva M, Vasileva M, Nikolova K, Ivanova I, Shaban M, Shabarkova J, Hristova R, Miladinova M, Stamenov G. Sperm selection by zona adhesion improves assisted reproductive treatment outcomes. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38225818 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zona pellucida is one of the main selective barriers for the spermatozoa before reaching the oocyte. Using native zona in the sperm selection prior to Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) has been proven effective but inconvenient approach in In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) laboratory. The application of autologous solubilised zonae pellucidae in the sperm selection prior to ICSI has not been studied yet. OBJECTIVES To compare the assisted reproductive treatment (ART) outcomes (implantation, pregnancy, live birth, and miscarriage rates) after ICSI performed with spermatozoa selected on their ability to adhere to immobilised solubilised zonae pellucidae and conventionally selected spermatozoa. MATERIALS AND METHODS In total, 500 couples fulfilled the inclusion criteria and 368 of them were included in the study. After random allocation, 192 couples had spermatozoa selected by sperm-zona adhesion for ICSI (study group) and 176 patients underwent standard ICSI (control group). In the study group, patients' own zonae were acid solubilised and immobilised on petri dishes. The partner's motile spermatozoa were placed in the dishes and the adhered spermatozoa were used for ICSI. For the control group, the conventional sperm selection by morphological criteria was applied prior ICSI. All women underwent frozen ET with euploid embryos. Chi square test was used to compare the data. RESULTS The sperm selection by zona adhesion resulted in significantly higher implantation rate (50.4% vs. 37.0%, p = 0.003), clinical pregnancy rate (43.8% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.018) and live birth rate (38.0% vs. 25.9%, p = 0.004) and significantly lower incidence of miscarriage (11.3% vs. 22.2%, p = 0.044) in comparison to the conventional method of the sperm selection. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The application of solubilised zonae pellucidae in the sperm selection for ICSI benefits ART outcomes in couples with unexplained infertility. Moreover, sperm-zona selection significantly reduces the risk of miscarriages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumiana Ganeva
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Parvanov
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nina Vidolova
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Handzhiyska
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Margarita Ruseva
- Research and Development Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Magdaleva Vasileva
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Kristina Nikolova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivka Ivanova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Miray Shaban
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Joanna Shabarkova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rayna Hristova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Milena Miladinova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Stamenov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
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What is the importance of sperm subpopulations? Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106844. [PMID: 34538510 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The study of sperm subpopulations spans three decades. The origin, meaning, and practical significance, however, are less clear. Current technology for assessing sperm morphology (CASA-Morph) and motility (CASA-Mot) has enabled the accurate evaluation of these features, and there are many options for data classification. Subpopulations could occur as a result of the stage of development of each spermatozoon in the subpopulation. Spermatogenesis might contribute to the production of these subpopulations. Insights from evolutionary biology and recent molecular research are indicative of the diversity among male gametes that could occur from unequal sharing of transcripts and other elements through cytoplasmic bridges between spermatids. Sperm cohorts exiting the gonads would contain different RNA and protein contents, affecting the spermatozoon physiology and associations with the surrounding environmental milieu. Subsequently, these differences could affect how spermatozoa interact with the environmental milieu (maturation, mixing with seminal plasma, and interacting with the environmental milieu, or female genital tract and female gamete). The emergence of sperm subpopulations as an outcome of evolution, related to the reproductive strategies of the species, genital tract structures, and copulatory and fertilization processes. This kind of approach in determining the importance of sperm subpopulations in fertilization capacity should have a practical impact for conducting reproductive technologies, inspiring and enabling new ways for the more efficient use of spermatozoa in the medical, animal breeding, and conservation fields. This manuscript is a contribution to the Special Issue in memory of Dr. Duane Garner.
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Fernández-López P, Garriga J, Casas I, Yeste M, Bartumeus F. Predicting fertility from sperm motility landscapes. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1027. [PMID: 36171267 PMCID: PMC9519750 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03954-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the organisational principles of sperm motility has both evolutionary and applied impact. The emergence of computer aided systems in this field came with the promise of automated quantification and classification, potentially improving our understanding of the determinants of reproductive success. Yet, nowadays the relationship between sperm variability and fertility remains unclear. Here, we characterize pig sperm motility using t-SNE, an embedding method adequate to study behavioural variability. T-SNE reveals a hierarchical organization of sperm motility across ejaculates and individuals, enabling accurate fertility predictions by means of Bayesian logistic regression. Our results show that sperm motility features, like high-speed and straight-lined motion, correlate positively with fertility and are more relevant than other sources of variability. We propose the combined use of embedding methods with Bayesian inference frameworks in order to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between fertility and sperm motility in animals, including humans. Dimension reduction methods on porcine sperm motility landscapes reveal heterogeneity and hierarchy in sperm movement behavior and show high-speed and straight-lined motion as predictive features of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Fernández-López
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Joan Garriga
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Isabel Casas
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Frederic Bartumeus
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals (CREAF), Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
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Szablicka D, Wysokińska A, Pawlak A, Roman K. Morphometry of Boar Spermatozoa in Semen Stored at 17 °C—The Influence of the Staining Technique. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151888. [PMID: 35892538 PMCID: PMC9332225 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To obtain satisfactory results in artificial insemination, it is necessary to use high-quality ejaculates for the production of insemination doses and then maintain the biological value of the sperm during storage. Boar spermatozoa, owing to the specific structure of the cell membrane, are particularly sensitive to temperature changes. For this reason, cryopreservation cannot be used in artificial insemination practice, and there may be limitations to successful storage of semen in a liquid state. The practice of using boar semen for artificial insemination does not include analyses of the effect of storage time of boar semen on sperm dimensions. Therefore, the aim of the study was to analyse the morphometry of sperm during storage of liquid boar semen. An attempt was also made to evaluate the suitability of three staining methods for assessment of boar sperm morphometry. The morphometric dimensions of boar sperm were shown to change during storage of liquid semen. These changes affected the sperm head more than the tail and were due to the staining method used. The analyses are very important as they provide more information about the morphometric dimensions of the sperm during preservation of boar semen. The applied sperm staining techniques allows for a more accurate assessment of male reproductive cells. Abstract The aim of the study was to assess the morphometry of sperm during storage of liquid boar semen at 17 °C. An attempt was also made to evaluate the suitability of three staining methods for assessment of boar sperm morphometry. The study was carried out on 20 Landrace boars. Semen was collected from the boars every 5 days by the manual method. Four ejaculates from each boar were analysed (80 ejaculates in total). Analyses were performed five times: at 1 h, 24 h, 48 h, 96 h, and 168 h after semen collection. Blisters with insemination doses were opened immediately before the analyses. From each insemination dose, smears were prepared for morphometric evaluation of sperm, which were stained by three methods (eosin-nigrosin—EN, eosin-gentian—EG, and SpermBlue—SB). Morphometric measurements of 15 randomly selected sperm with normal morphology were performed on each slide. The morphometric measurements included the following parameters: sperm head length, width, area, and perimeter; tail length; and total sperm length. The results of the morphometric measurements were used to calculate the head shape index. The morphometric dimensions of the sperm were shown to change during storage of semen at 17 °C. The extent of these changes, however, depended on the staining method used, as the three methods result in different morphometric dimensions of sperm, in the case of both the head and the tail. In the slides stained by the eosin-nigrosin method, the dimensions of the head and tail were smaller at every time of storage than in the slides stained by the SpermBlue and eosin-gentian methods.
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Chai S, Tian R, Xu S, Ren W, Yang G. Evolution of Fertilization-Related Genes Provides Insights Into Reproductive Health in Natural Ascrotal Mammals. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.828325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism is the failure of one or both testes to descend into the bottom of the scrotum. This common congenital malformation in humans and domestic animals is the best characterized risk factor for abnormal sperm functions and infertility. However, current treatment approaches for cryptorchidism do not ensure paternity in all cases. Some lineages of mammals (such as elephants and cetaceans) have natural ascrotal testes (i.e., undescended or incompletely descended testes) and normal sperm motility and fertility, providing an opportunity to understand the genetic basis of cryptorchidism. In this study, we showed that genes associated with sperm motility and competition/fertility in ascrotal mammals experienced frequent, strong selective pressure. The fixation of specific amino acids and positive selection in ascrotal mammals could affect the physicochemical properties and functions of fertilization-related proteins. In a comparison between mammals with undescended testes and incompletely descended testes, discrepancies in genes showing evidence for adaptive evolution and in functional enrichment suggested that multiple molecular mechanisms contribute to the maintenance of fertility in the challenging testicular environment. Our findings revealed substantial heterogeneity in the divergence of fertilization-related genes between natural scrotal and ascrotal mammals and provide insight into molecular mechanisms underlying normal sperm motility and competition in natural ascrotal mammals. We provide a detailed theoretical basis for understanding the pathology of cryptorchidism from a molecular evolutionary perspective. This study may contribute to the establishment of diagnostic and therapeutic targets for sperm motility and fertility disorders due to congenital cryptorchidism in humans and domestic animals.
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Ugur MR, Guerreiro DD, Moura AA, Memili E. Identification of biomarkers for bull fertility using functional genomics. Anim Reprod 2022; 19:e20220004. [PMID: 35573862 PMCID: PMC9083437 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Prediction of bull fertility is critical for the sustainability of both dairy and beef cattle production. Even though bulls produce ample amounts of sperm with normal parameters, some bulls may still suffer from subpar fertility. This causes major economic losses in the cattle industry because using artificial insemination, semen from one single bull can be used to inseminate hundreds of thousands of cows. Although there are several traditional methods to estimate bull fertility, such methods are not sufficient to explain and accurately predict the subfertility of individual bulls. Since fertility is a complex trait influenced by a number of factors including genetics, epigenetics, and environment, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive methodological approach to clarify uncertainty in male subfertility. The present review focuses on molecular and functional signatures of bull sperm associated with fertility. Potential roles of functional genomics (proteome, small noncoding RNAs, lipidome, metabolome) on determining male fertility and its potential as a fertility biomarker are discussed. This review provides a better understanding of the molecular signatures of viable and fertile sperm cells and their potential to be used as fertility biomarkers. This information will help uncover the underlying reasons for idiopathic subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arlindo A. Moura
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Brasil; Universidade Federal do Ceará, Brasil
| | - Erdogan Memili
- Mississippi State University, USA; Prairie View A&M University, USA
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The Re-Addition of Seminal Plasma after Thawing Does Not Improve Buck Sperm Quality Parameters. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123452. [PMID: 34944229 PMCID: PMC8698182 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The Cabra Blanca de Rasquera is a native goat breed from Catalonia (Spain) facing the danger of extinction. To preserve its genetic diversity, ex situ conservation programs for semen cryopreservation and the development of a genetic sperm bank are of major importance. However, the post-thaw sperm quality in this species is still a major concern. Therefore, the aim of this research work was to establish an approach in the thawing protocol of cryopreserved sperm bank doses of this breed in order to achieve a better post-thaw sperm quality and improve reproductive outcomes through artificial insemination. Since seminal plasma has been found to provide a source of nutrients, improve sperm motility, and prevent premature activation during migration of spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract, our study proposed to assess the effect of the addition of 20% seminal plasma (SP) during a 3 h incubation period under in vitro conditions mimicking the in vivo survivability of thawed sperm, in relation to donor age, the season of collection, and melatonin implants of the males in the non-breeding season. However, the strategy of adding seminal plasma to the sperm after thawing failed to improve buck post-thawed sperm quality, thus further investigation is needed. Abstract In order to achieve a higher post-thaw buck sperm quality, an approach in the thawing protocol of cryopreserved sperm doses under in vitro capacitation conditions mimicking the in vivo female environment was studied. Therefore, functional and kinetic characteristics of buck thawed sperm from males of different ages, the season of collection, and melatonin implanted males in the non-breeding season were assessed after 3 h of incubation in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) media with 20% of buck seminal plasma (SP). Previously, fresh ejaculates were collected via artificial vagina from eight males of the Cabra Blanca de Rasquera breed during two consecutive years in breeding and non-breeding periods. Prior to semen collection in non-breeding seasons, males were split into two groups: one group was implanted with melatonin, while the other was not. In each group, semen samples were pooled, centrifuged, and diluted in an extender containing 15% powdered egg yolk and 5% glycerol before freezing. After thawing, sperm were washed and incubated in three different media: (a) control media (modified phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), (b) IVF commercial media, and (c) IVF media + 20% SP. Sperm motility was evaluated by CASA, while plasma and acrosome membrane integrity, mitochondria activity, and DNA fragmentation were analysed by flow cytometer at 0 h and after 3 h incubation. A significant reduction in motility, mitochondrial activity, plasma, and acrosome membrane integrity were observed after incubation in the presence of SP, although similar to that observed in IVF media alone. DNA integrity was not affected under in vitro capacitation conditions, regardless of SP addition. In conclusion, the addition of SP failed to improve post-thaw buck sperm quality under in vitro conditions irrespective of male age, the season of collection, and melatonin implant.
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Impact of Cryopreservation on Motile Subpopulations and Tyrosine-Phosphorylated Regions of Ram Spermatozoa during Capacitating Conditions. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10111213. [PMID: 34827206 PMCID: PMC8614982 DOI: 10.3390/biology10111213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Spermatozoa go through diverse changes to achieve their fertilizing potential (capacitation) and develop a specific motility pattern (hyperactivation). However, to ensure a greater reproductive success, not all the spermatozoa present in an ejaculate react equally or at the same time. Therefore, a comparative analysis was performed in the present study to improve our current understanding about how cryopreservation may affect the heterogeneous nature of fresh ejaculates during these two events. Among the four motile sperm subpopulations identified in fresh and frozen-thawed ram semen, one of them developed a hyperactivated-like movement and was the main group involve in those changes associated with sperm capacitation based on the marked increase and the positive correlation with mitochondrial activity and tyrosine phosphorylation, two relevant parameters that usually increase during capacitation. In addition, cryopreservation altered the distribution of the motile sperm subpopulations. Although the subpopulation with hyperactivated-like movement increased at the beginning of incubation in frozen-thawed samples, this subpopulation together with the subpopulation of rapid and progressive spermatozoa were replaced after a prolonged incubation by the subpopulation of slow spermatozoa with the lowest mitochondrial activity, which clearly indicate the reduction in sperm quality. These findings will aid to optimize the current cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization protocols. Abstract The heterogeneous nature of ejaculates highlights the relevance of studying the behavior of different sperm subpopulations. Changes in sperm motility and the increase in tyrosine phosphorylation are key events that usually occur during capacitation and can be modified by the cryopreservation process. However, the relationship between both events remains poorly defined throughout capacitation in the different sperm subpopulations. Fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa were incubated in capacitating (CAP) and non-capacitating (NC) media up to 240 min. Sperm kinematics, tyrosine phosphorylation and mitochondrial activity were measured by the CASA system and imaging flow cytometry. Four motile sperm subpopulations (SP) were identified in fresh and frozen-thawed ram semen after the cluster analysis. Incubation under CAP conditions over time led to greater changes in the percentage of spermatozoa included in each subpopulation compared to NC conditions, being different between fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa. The SP1, characterized by slow spermatozoa, progressively increased after 15 min in frozen-thawed samples incubated in both media but not in fresh ones. The SP4, characterized by fast and non-linear spermatozoa, showed a marked increase during CAP, but not under NC conditions, occurring more rapidly in frozen-thawed spermatozoa. This subpopulation (SP4) was also the only one positively and strongly correlated with mitochondrial activity and all phosphorylated sperm regions during capacitation, either in fresh or frozen-thawed samples. Our results indicated that in vitro capacitation induced significant changes in the distribution of motile sperm subpopulations, being affected by cryopreservation. Notwithstanding, the subpopulation which probably represents hyperactivated-like spermatozoa (SP4) also increased in frozen-thawed samples, occurring faster and simultaneously to the increment of mitochondrial activity and tyrosine phosphorylation of different sperm regions.
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Orsolini MF, Meyers SA, Dini P. An Update on Semen Physiology, Technologies, and Selection Techniques for the Advancement of In Vitro Equine Embryo Production: Section II. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113319. [PMID: 34828049 PMCID: PMC8614388 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In order to improve fertilization and pregnancy rates within artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization techniques in horses, producers may choose to select the best sperm within an ejaculate. In this paper, we review conventional and novel methods of sperm selection. Abstract As the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and in vitro embryo production (IVP) expand in the equine industry, it has become necessary to further our understanding of available semen selection techniques. This segment of our two-section review will focus on the selection of spermatozoa based on quality and sex for equine intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), as well as current and future developments in sperm sorting technologies. Ultimately, novel methods of semen selection will be assessed based on their efficacy in other species and their relevance and future application towards ARTs in the horse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan F. Orsolini
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Stuart A. Meyers
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Pouya Dini
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
- Correspondence:
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An Update on Semen Physiology, Technologies, and Selection Techniques for the Advancement of In Vitro Equine Embryo Production: Section I. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113248. [PMID: 34827983 PMCID: PMC8614440 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Male fertility is often estimated by simple sperm assessment, and therefore, it is crucial to establish species-specific baselines for normal sperm parameters. In this paper, sperm physiology, function, and common abnormalities in stallions will be reviewed. Abstract As the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and in vitro embryo production (IVP) expand in the equine industry, it has become necessary to further our understanding of semen physiology as it applies to overall fertility. This segment of our two-section review will focus on normal sperm parameters, beginning with development and extending through the basic morphology of mature spermatozoa, as well as common issues with male factor infertility in IVP. Ultimately, the relevance of sperm parameters to overall male factor fertility in equine IVP will be assessed.
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13
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Lavanya M, Selvaraju S, Krishnappa B, Krishnaswamy N, Nagarajan G, Kumar H. Microenvironment of the male and female reproductive tracts regulate sperm fertility: Impact of viscosity, pH, and osmolality. Andrology 2021; 10:92-104. [PMID: 34420258 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Terminally differentiated mammalian sperm are exposed to gradients of viscosity, pH, and osmolality both in the male and female reproductive tract during their perilous journey to quest the ovum. The complex physicochemical factors play an integral role in preparing sperm for the fertilization process. OBJECTIVES To elucidate the influence of the reproductive tract microenvironment especially viscosity, pH, and osmolality in regulating sperm functional and fertilization competence. MATERIALS AND METHODS The data used in this review were collected from the research papers and online databases focusing on the influence of viscosity, pH, and osmolality on sperm function. DISCUSSION The gradients of viscosity, pH, and osmolality exist across various segments of the male and female reproductive tract. The changes in the viscosity create a physical barrier, pH aid in capacitation and hyperactivation, and the osmotic stress selects a progressive sperm subpopulation for accomplishing fertilization. The sperm function tests are developed based on the concept that the male genotype is the major contributor to the reproductive outcome. However, recent studies demonstrate the significance of sperm genotype-environment interactions that are essentially contributing to reproductive success. Hence, it is imperative to assess the impact of physicochemical stresses and the adaptive ability of the terminally differentiated sperm, which in turn would improve the outcome of the assisted reproductive technologies and male fertility assessment. CONCLUSION Elucidating the influence of the reproductive tract microenvironment on sperm function provides newer insights into the procedures that need to be adopted for selecting fertile males for breeding, and ejaculates for the assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maharajan Lavanya
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India.,Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, 243122, India
| | - Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | - Balaganur Krishnappa
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Govindasamy Nagarajan
- Southern Regional Research Centre under ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute (ICAR-CSWRI), Kodaikanal, India
| | - Harendra Kumar
- Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, 243122, India
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Hidalgo MMT, Almeida ABMD, Moraes FLZD, Marubayashi RYP, Souza FFD, Barreiros TRR, Martins MIM. Sperm subpopulations influence the pregnancy rates in cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 56:1117-1127. [PMID: 34013640 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to study the characteristics and subpopulations of spermatozoa from bulls with low and high reproductive performance based on pregnancy rates. Based on historical records of pregnancy rate from four farms, 24 bulls were selected. Two groups were established, with low pregnancy rates (n = 12; LOW), including bulls that presented pregnancy rates <52.27% (33.33% to 51.81%); and a group with high pregnancy rates (n = 12; HIGH), with pregnancy rates >52.27% (52.27% to 69.64%), after fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). The thawed sperm straws were analysed to sperm kinetics, morphology, plasma membrane integrity and sperm subpopulations. The LOW group exhibited a higher proportion of static cells (p < .05). In contrast, the HIGH group showed greater percentages for membrane integrity and total and progressive motility, and cells with fast and medium velocity (p < .05). In the cluster procedures, four sperm subpopulations were established. The low-fertility bulls presented the highest percentage of subpopulation 2 (41.46%), characterized by slow and progressive spermatozoa. The high-fertility bulls exhibited the highest percentage of subpopulation 3 (37.17%), characterized by fast and nonlinear spermatozoa. Results from this study indicated that bulls with greater percentages of fast and nonlinear spermatozoa seem to have greater fertilization capacity and the subpopulations analysis can be considered a tool to identify ejaculates with high fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Beatriz Marques de Almeida
- Laboratório de Andrologia e Reprodução Animal Assistida (LARAA), Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fabiana Ferreira de Souza
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Thales Ricardo Rigo Barreiros
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia da Reprodução Animal, Universidade Estadual do Norte do Paraná (UENP), Bandeirantes, Brazil
| | - Maria Isabel Mello Martins
- Laboratório de Andrologia e Reprodução Animal Assistida (LARAA), Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), Londrina, Brazil
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Izadi M, Khalili MA, Salehi-Abargouei A, Rezvani ME, Aflatoonian B. Use of zona pellucida-bound spermatozoa as a natural selection in improvement of ICSI outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14022. [PMID: 33942906 DOI: 10.1111/and.14022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Zona pellucida (ZP)-bound spermatozoa have normal morphology and motility and can enhance the ICSI outcomes. Selection of zona pellucida-bound spermatozoa is recently considered to find functional spermatozoa for ICSI. This study reviewed the efficacy of ZP-bound sperm selection on the ICSI outcomes includes fertilisation rate, embryo quality, embryo transfer rate and clinical pregnancy rate. The databases searched include PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane databases up to January 2019. All research reports with full text and in English language that addressing the relation between ZP-sperm selection and ICSI outcomes were included. Fifty studies were suitable after screening of the 845 identified articles. After exclusions, five of these studies were included. Meta-analytic pooling of data indicated no association between the ICSI outcomes and ZP-bound sperm selection except a marginal effect on implantation rate. Eliminating one study indicated that ZP-bound sperm selection technique improves embryo quality, implantation rate and clinical pregnancy rate. This study revealed that ZP-bound sperm selection produces only a slight improvement in implantation rate. However, further studies with a large number of couples must be done to clarify the potential beneficial effect of ZP-bound spermatozoa on ICSI outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Izadi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Amin Salehi-Abargouei
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ebrahim Rezvani
- Department of physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Behrouz Aflatoonian
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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16
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Crean AJ, Immler S. Evolutionary consequences of environmental effects on gamete performance. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2021; 376:20200122. [PMID: 33866815 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2020.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Variation in pre- and post-release gamete environments can influence evolutionary processes by altering fertilization outcomes and offspring traits. It is now widely accepted that offspring inherit epigenetic information from both their mothers and fathers. Genetic and epigenetic alterations to eggs and sperm-acquired post-release may also persist post-fertilization with consequences for offspring developmental success and later-life fitness. In externally fertilizing species, gametes are directly exposed to anthropogenically induced environmental impacts including pollution, ocean acidification and climate change. When fertilization occurs within the female reproductive tract, although gametes are at least partially protected from external environmental variation, the selective environment is likely to vary among females. In both scenarios, gamete traits and selection on gametes can be influenced by environmental conditions such as temperature and pollution as well as intrinsic factors such as male and female reproductive fluids, which may be altered by changes in male and female health and physiology. Here, we highlight some of the pathways through which changes in gamete environments can affect fertilization dynamics, gamete interactions and ultimately offspring fitness. We hope that by drawing attention to this important yet often overlooked source of variation, we will inspire future research into the evolutionary implications of anthropogenic interference of gamete environments including the use of assisted reproductive technologies. This article is part of the theme issue 'How does epigenetics influence the course of evolution?'
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela J Crean
- Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Simone Immler
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
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17
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Sáez-Espinosa P, López-Huedo A, Robles-Gómez L, Huerta-Retamal N, Aizpurua J, Gómez-Torres MJ. Characterization of Human Spermatic Subpopulations by ConA-Binding Sites and Tyrosine Phosphorylation during in vitro Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction. Cells Tissues Organs 2021; 210:1-9. [PMID: 33873194 DOI: 10.1159/000513275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa capacitation is a time-dependent physiological process essential for acquiring the fertilizing capacity. In this context, reorganization of spermatozoa surface sugars and tyrosine phosphorylation are some of the most important biochemical changes involved in capacitation. However, the relationship between these 2 biomarkers remains poorly defined. By cytofluorescence we simultaneously characterized the head concanavalin A (ConA)-binding sites and the flagellar tyrosine phosphorylation before capacitation, during different capacitation times (1 and 4 h), and after acrosome reaction induction in human spermatozoa. The results showed a strong connection between ConA-label patterns and tyrosine phosphorylation according to the spermatozoa capacitation time and acrosomal status. Specifically, the spermatozoa subpopulation with phosphotyrosine presented proper sugar location (label in acrosomal and postacrosomal region) just after 1 h of capacitation, while cells without phosphotyrosine needed 4 h to do it. Moreover, after induction of spermatozoa acrosome reaction, phosphorylation was significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with the relocation of ConA-binding residues to the equatorial region, regardless of capacitation time. Overall, these observations provide novel insights regarding spermatozoa subpopulations based on essential physiological events like capacitation and acrosome reaction, which could have potential implications in the improvement of spermatozoa selection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Alba López-Huedo
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Natalia Huerta-Retamal
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, Alicante, Spain.,Human Fertility Cathedra, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain.,Human Fertility Cathedra, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain
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18
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Predictive Capacity of Boar Sperm Morphometry and Morphometric Sub-Populations on Reproductive Success after Artificial Insemination. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040920. [PMID: 33805060 PMCID: PMC8064074 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The efficiency of swine production measured as litter size influences the profitability of the pig industry. Furthermore, sow fertility potential depends in part on the boar semen quality and reproductive efficiency. The objective of this study is to compare boar sperm head size and morphometric features of shape to evaluate their relationships with reproductive success after artificial insemination (AI). A morphometric analysis of boar ejaculate reveals morphometrically separate sub-populations. The differences between sub-populations are displayed for sperm head size. In addition, sperm clustering into sub-populations did not have a predictive capacity on litter size variables. Nevertheless, the morphometric variables of the sperm may have a predictive, albeit reduced, capacity regarding litter size variables. The results of this study therefore open up possibilities for future assessments of fertility. Abstract The aim of the study was to compare the morphometric features of sperm head size and shape from the Pietrain line and the Duroc × Pietrain boar crossbred terminal lines, and to evaluate their relationship with reproductive success after artificial insemination of sows produced from crossbreeding the York, Landrace and Pietrain breeds. Semen samples were collected from 11 sexually mature boars. Only ejaculates with greater than 70% motility rate and <15% of abnormal sperm were used for artificial inseminations (AI) and included in the study. Samples were analyzed using an ISAS®v1 computer-assisted sperm analysis system for eight morphometric parameters of head shape and size (CASA-Morph). Sub-populations of morphometric ejaculates were characterized using multivariate procedures, such as principal component (PC) analysis and clustering methods (k-means model). Four different ejaculate sub-populations were identified from two PCs that involved the head shape and size of the spermatozoa. The discriminant ability of the different morphometric sperm variables to predict sow litter size was analyzed using a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis. Sperm head length, ellipticity, elongation, and regularity showed significant predictive capacity on litter size (0.59, 0.59, 0.60, and 0.56 area under curve (AUC), respectively). The morphometric sperm sub-populations were not related to sow litter size.
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Lammers J, Chtourou S, Reignier A, Loubersac S, Barrière P, Fréour T. Comparison of two automated sperm analyzers using 2 different detection methods versus manual semen assessment. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102084. [PMID: 33545411 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The exploration of male infertility is mainly based on semen analysis, but its evaluation might be affected by the operator's competence and subjectivity. This led to the development of automated semen analyzing systems. Despite continuous improvement, the precision and correlation of these automated systems with manual sperm assessment performed strictly according to WHO guidelines remains variable in the literature, and their role in daily practice is debated. METHODS In this double blind prospective study, we compared the results provided by 2 automated systems based on different concepts (CASA and electro-optical signal) with manual sperm assessment. Sperm concentration, motility and morphology were performed simultaneously and independently by different operators, blinded to each other. RESULTS A total of 102 unselected men attending the andrology department for routine sperm analysis were included in the study. We found no significant difference between each automated method and manual assessment for all sperm parameters, except for sperm morphology assessment where the electro-optical system gave higher results and performed slightly poorer than CASA. Correlation was moderate to high between manual assessment and each automated methods for all sperm parameters, with randomly distributed differences. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these results show that both types of automated systems can be implemented in andrology laboratory for routine sperm analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Lammers
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Sana Chtourou
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Laboratoire de biologie de la reproduction et de cytogénétique, Hôpital Aziza Othmana, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Arnaud Reignier
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Sophie Loubersac
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Paul Barrière
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France
| | - Thomas Fréour
- CHU Nantes, Nantes Université, Service de biologie et médecine de la reproduction, Nantes, France; Nantes Université, Inserm, Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie, UMR 1064, ITUN, Nantes, France.
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20
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Abd Elrahman MM, El Makawy AI, Hassanane MS, Alam SS, Hassan NHA, Amer MK. Assessment of correlation between asthenozoospermia and mitochondrial DNA mutations in Egyptian infertile men. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2021; 19:11. [PMID: 33459881 PMCID: PMC7813956 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-020-00111-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthenozoospermia is a chief reason for male seminal pathologies with an impression of around 19% of infertile patients. Spermatozoa mitochondrial DNA variations seem to link with low sperm motility. The objective of the study was to assess the relation between mitochondrial mutations and male sterility, especially in asthenozoospermia. The patient semen samples were investigated by studying the sperm physical characters; motility, viability, and morphological parameters were then classified into normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. In addition, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as a bio-indicator of lipid peroxidation, seminal fructose, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were estimated. For molecular analysis, DNA from the semen samples was extracted using a DNA extraction kit. ND1, ND2, and ATPase6 genes were amplified by using a specific primer. After the purification procedure, each PCR product was sequenced to identify the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in selected genes. RESULTS A significant negative correlation between seminal plasma malondialdehyde levels and sperm motility was detected. Meanwhile, TAC analysis revealed significantly lower activity (p ≤ 0.05) in the sample of asthenozoospermic than in normozoospermic men. As regards the seminal plasma fructose, there was no significant difference in the fructose level of normozoospermia and asthenozoospermia cases. At the molecular level, 31 diverse nucleotide substitutions were recognized in mitochondrial DNA. Only ten (10) mutations led to amino acid transformation: four have deleterious effects, four are benign, and the other two have conflicting effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first in Egypt that is concerned with studying the relationship between the mitochondrial DNA mutations in human spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic patients and fertility. The results displayed scientific indications evidenced that there is an association between mitochondrial mutations and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M Abd Elrahman
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Aida I El Makawy
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed S Hassanane
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sally S Alam
- Cell Biology Dept. , Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouth St., Dokki, P.O.12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nagwa H A Hassan
- Zoology Dept., Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Medhat K Amer
- Surgery Andrology and infertility Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Luther I, Maree L, Kotze A, Hildebrandt T, Göritz F, Hermes R, van der Horst G. Sperm motility, kinematics, morphometry and morphology over two seasons in free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:425-438. [PMID: 31972123 DOI: 10.1071/rd19182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to address the lack of information on quantitative semen and sperm characteristics of free-ranging African elephants. Nineteen ejaculates were collected from 12 elephant bulls by means of electroejaculation in spring (Season 1, end of dry season, n=7) and in autumn (Season 2, end of rainy season, n=12). While most elephant cows are in oestrus in the rainy season, it is not evident whether sperm quality also improves during this period. Semen samples were assessed using computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA), brightfield microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Seasonal differences and individual variation in sperm quality of bulls were apparent, with ejaculates collected during Season 2 revealing higher percentages for total motility, progressive motility, rapid-swimming spermatozoa and kinematic parameters compared with Season 1 (P<0.05). Although normal sperm morphology percentage was similar over the two seasons, more sperm tail defects were found in Season 2 (P<0.05). The baseline reference data and multivariate sperm parameter associations reported in this study can be used to predict elephant bull sperm quality and potential to fertilise. It is clear that CASA can detect subtle differences in sperm quality of African elephant ejaculates and should be the approach for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse Luther
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa; and National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, PO Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; and GEOsperm, Wildlife Reproduction and Biotechnology, PO Box 3300, Brits, 0250, South Africa
| | - Liana Maree
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa; and National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, PO Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Antoinette Kotze
- National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, PO Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; and Department of Genetics, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300, South Africa
| | - Thomas Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gerhard van der Horst
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa; and National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, PO Box 754, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; and Corresponding author.
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22
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Ogata K, Nagata MPB, Nishizono H, Yamanouchi T, Matsuda H, Ogata Y, Takeda K, Hashiyada Y, Yamashita K. In vitro survival kinetics of microfluidic-sorted bovine spermatozoa. Andrology 2020; 9:977-988. [PMID: 33305455 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The isolation and characterization of sperm subpopulations that can achieve fertilization is a major challenge of assisted reproduction methods. We focused on the microfluidic sperm sorter as a novel tool for collecting highly motile spermatozoa from heterogeneous semen samples. OBJECTIVES This study primarily aims to obtain baseline information on sorted spermatozoa according to its characteristics and in vitro life span. MATERIALS AND METHODS Frozen-thawed bull semen was subjected to microfluidic sperm sorting using diffuser-type microfluidic sperm sorter (DMSS). After sorting, samples were collected as the sorted spermatozoa and unsorted residual spermatozoa and incubated at 37°C for subsequent evaluation. The samples were assessed at different time points (0 or 1, 6, and 24 h) in terms of motility, which was measured by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), membrane integrity, mitochondrial function, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production after sorting (0 h). To determine the characteristics and efficiency of DMSS sorting, the sorted spermatozoa were compared with samples collected using the swim-up method, a conventional method in motile sperm selection. RESULTS A comparison between the sorted and residual spermatozoa demonstrated significantly higher motility parameters, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial function of the sorted spermatozoa until 6 h after incubation. The time course decrement of membrane and mitochondrial status were subjected to curve fitting and theoretically supported. Sperm ATP production measured immediately after sorting showed higher ATP generation of the sorted spermatozoa compared with the unsorted, frozen-thawed spermatozoa. The motility parameters and mitochondrial activity of DMSS-sorted spermatozoa were higher than the swim-up-collected spermatozoa (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION These results indicate that DMSS sorting can strictly select highly motile spermatozoa with the ability to maintain its membrane integrity and mitochondrial function related to ATP production. We speculate that the device that is able to sort high-quality spermatozoa can have great potential in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuko Ogata
- National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Fukushima, Japan.,National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Maria Portia B Nagata
- Advanced Manufacturing Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Saga, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Nishizono
- Life Science Research Center, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.,Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | | | - Hideo Matsuda
- National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Fukushima, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogata
- National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kumiko Takeda
- National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yutaka Hashiyada
- National Livestock Breeding Center (NLBC), Fukushima, Japan.,Ishikawa Prefectural University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Kenichi Yamashita
- Sensing System Research Center, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Saga, Japan
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Martinez G, Garcia C. Sexual selection and sperm diversity in primates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110974. [PMID: 32926966 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Many aspects of primate sperm physiology and reproductive behavior have been influenced by sexual selection, especially in taxa exposed to sperm competition where females mate with multiple partners. Primate sperm diversity reflects therefore the evolutionary divergences of the different primate species and the impact of a combination of variables exerting selection pressures on sperm form, function, and competition. Thereby, mating systems, life cycle or ecological variables are some of the important factors driving sperm diversity and explaining variation in terms of sperm morphology, parameters or male sexual characters. Here, we address primate sperm diversity through a compilation of all data available in the literature concerning primate sperm parameters and relationships between them. We also review the factors that can influence primate sperm diversity (e.g. mating systems, trade-off between investments in precopulatory and postcopulatory sexual traits, male and female sexual behaviors, seasonality, social constraints, testosterone levels), and discuss also their relevance to our understanding of human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Martinez
- Hôpital Couple-Enfant, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, UM de Génétique Chromosomique, F-38000, Grenoble, France; Genetic Epigenetic and Therapies of Infertility, Institute for Advanced Biosciences INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, F-38000, Grenoble, France.
| | - Cécile Garcia
- UMR 7206 Eco-anthropologie, CNRS - MNHN - Université de Paris, Musée de l'Homme, 75016, Paris, France.
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24
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Peres Campanholi S, Garcia Neto S, Basso AC, de Agostini Losano JD, Perez Siqueira AF, Nichi M, Ortiz D'Avila Assumpção ME, Afonso de Freitas L, Paro de Paz CC, Ferraudo AS, Morato Monteiro F, Unno Gimenes L. Estimate of in vitro embryo production based on sperm subpopulations in Senepol bulls. Theriogenology 2020; 161:98-107. [PMID: 33302167 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In cattle, in vitro embryo production (IVEP) is an important reproductive biotechnology responsible for the rapid expansion of the Senepol breed in our country. This breed has shown important results when used in crossbreeding and estimate IVEP in Senepol based on seminal analysis would be valuable for the semen cryopreservation industry, research institutes and breeders. Combining the evaluation of sperm subpopulations with analysis of other sperm attributes may help to improve fertility predictions in cattle. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to: 1) identify and characterize motile sperm subpopulations in cryopreserved Senepol semen following the washing process carried out before in vitro fertilization, and 2) to determine an model for estimate IVEP based on sperm subpopulations in conjunction with other sperm quality analyzes. Samples of 38 cryopreserved semen from 28 Senepol bulls, chosen based on retrospective data from 386 IVEP routines, underwent the semen washing and were evaluated by the computer-assisted sperm analysis system. Sperm morphology was evaluated by wet preparation technique, and plasma and acrosomal membranes integrity, mitochondrial potential, oxidative status and chromatin resistance were analyzed by flow cytometry. After multivariate analysis of principal components and grouping, three sperm subpopulations were identified: SBP1 (fast and progressive motility), SBP2 (hyperactivated motility) and SBP3 (slow non-progressive motility). After categorization of IVEP in high, medium and low embryo yield, logistic regression analysis was applied to associate the results of subpopulations and other sperm quality variables with IVEP. The SBP1 and SBP2 variables affected embryo production, and an IVEP estimation model was generated for Senepol bulls based on these two subpopulations: embryo yield = 0.1563 + 0.0328 (SBP1) + 0.0173 (SBP2). SBP1 and SBP2 represents the absolute value of the percentage of subpopulations in semen. If the calculated value (by this equation) is close to 1, the embryo yield will be low; if is close to 2, will be medium; if is close to 3, will be high. In conclusion, three subpopulations were found for Senepol semen and, despite all analyzed variables, only SBP1 and SBP2 were included in the model to estimate IVEP in this breed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Marcílio Nichi
- Universidade de São Paulo, FMVZ/USP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Fabio Morato Monteiro
- Centro Avançado de Pesquisa de Bovinos de Corte, APTA/IZ, Sertãozinho, São Paulo, Brazil
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25
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Abstract
Sperm competition was defined by Geoff Parker 50 years ago as the competition between sperm from two or more males over the fertilization of a set of eggs. Since the publication of his seminal paper, sperm competition has developed into a large field of research, and many aspects are still being discovered. One of the relatively poorly understood aspects is the importance of selection and competition among sperm within the ejaculate of a male. The sheer number of sperm present in a male's ejaculate suggests that the competition among sibling sperm produced by the same male may be intense. In this review, we summarize Parker's theoretical models generating predictions about the evolution of sperm traits under the control of the haploid gamete as opposed to the diploid male. We review the existing evidence of within-ejaculate competition from a wide range of fields and taxa. We also discuss the conceptual and practical hurdles we have been facing to study within-ejaculate sperm competition, and how novel technologies may help in addressing some of the currently open questions. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Fifty years of sperm competition’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Sutter
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Simone Immler
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
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26
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Luongo C, González-Brusi L, Cots-Rodríguez P, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Avilés M, García-Vázquez FA. Sperm Proteome after Interaction with Reproductive Fluids in Porcine: From the Ejaculation to the Fertilization Site. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176060. [PMID: 32842715 PMCID: PMC7570189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ejaculated sperm are exposed to different environments before encountering the oocyte. However, how the sperm proteome changes during this transit remains unsolved. This study aimed to identify proteomic changes in boar sperm after incubation with male (seminal plasma, SP) and/or female (uterine fluid, UF; and oviductal fluid, OF) reproductive fluids. The following experimental groups were analyzed: (1) SP: sperm + 20% SP; (2) UF: sperm + 20% UF; (3) OF: sperm + 20% OF; (4) SP + UF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% UF; and (5) SP+OF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% OF. The proteome analysis, performed by HPLC-MS/MS, allowed the identification of 265 proteins. A total of 69 proteins were detected in the UF, SP, and SP + UF groups, and 102 proteins in the OF, SP, and SP + OF groups. Our results showed a higher number of proteins when sperm were incubated with only one fluid than when they were co-incubated with two fluids. Additionally, the number of sperm-interacting proteins from the UF group was lower than the OF group. In conclusion, the interaction of sperm with reproductive fluids alters its proteome. The description of sperm-interacting proteins in porcine species after co-incubation with male and/or female reproductive fluids may be useful to understand sperm transport, selection, capacitation, or fertilization phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Luongo
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Leopoldo González-Brusi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Paula Cots-Rodríguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Mª José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
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27
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Umezu K, Kurata S, Takamori H, Numabe T, Hiradate Y, Hara K, Tanemura K. Characteristics and Possible Role of Bovine Sperm Head-to-Head Agglutination. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081865. [PMID: 32784858 PMCID: PMC7463926 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although sperm head-to-head agglutination has been reported in many mammalian species, the biological significance of this unique sperm–sperm interaction remains largely unknown. Here, we aimed to examine the functional characteristics of agglutinated bovine sperm to determine the possible role of sperm agglutination in the fertilization process. We initially examined temporal changes to the degree of head-to-head agglutination in culture, and found that bovine sperm agglutinated despite the lack of sperm agglutination inducers in medium. Sperm viability and motility were evaluated by SYBR14/PI and JC-1 staining, respectively, to identify the relationship between sperm agglutination and fertilizing ability. Agglutinated sperm had increased motility, viability, and intact mitochondrial function compared with unagglutinated sperm. Furthermore, we found that heparin significantly increased the percentage of unagglutinated sperm, but did not affect viability of both agglutinated and unagglutinated sperm, suggesting that sperm agglutination dictated the viability. In conclusion, agglutinated bovine sperm maintained viability and motility for a longer time than unagglutinated sperm. Thus, we propose that the head-to-head agglutination is a crucial sperm–sperm interaction to ensure the fertilizing ability of sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Umezu
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.H.); (K.H.)
- Correspondence: (K.U.); (K.T.); Tel.: +81-22-757-4307 (K.U.); +81-22-757-4305 (K.T.)
| | - Shouhei Kurata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.H.); (K.H.)
| | - Hironori Takamori
- Miyagi Prefectural Livestock Experimental Station, Osaki, Miyagi 989-6445, Japan;
| | - Takashi Numabe
- Miyagi Agricultural Development Corporation, Sendai, Miyagi 981-0914, Japan;
| | - Yuuki Hiradate
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.H.); (K.H.)
| | - Kenshiro Hara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.H.); (K.H.)
| | - Kentaro Tanemura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-0845, Japan; (S.K.); (Y.H.); (K.H.)
- Correspondence: (K.U.); (K.T.); Tel.: +81-22-757-4307 (K.U.); +81-22-757-4305 (K.T.)
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28
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Schoeller SF, Holt WV, Keaveny EE. Collective dynamics of sperm cells. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 375:20190384. [PMID: 32713305 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
While only a single sperm may fertilize the egg, getting to the egg can be facilitated, and possibly enhanced, by sperm group dynamics. Examples range from the trains formed by wood mouse sperm to the bundles exhibited by echidna sperm. In addition, observations of wave-like patterns exhibited by ram semen are used to score prospective sample fertility for artificial insemination in agriculture. In this review, we discuss these experimental observations of collective dynamics, as well as describe recent mechanistic models that link the motion of individual sperm cells and their flagella to observed collective dynamics. Establishing this link in models involves negotiating the disparate time- and length scales involved, typically separated by a factor of 1000, to capture the dynamics at the greatest length scales affected by mechanisms at the shortest time scales. Finally, we provide some outlook on the subject, in particular, the open questions regarding how collective dynamics impacts fertility. This article is part of the theme issue 'Multi-scale analysis and modelling of collective migration in biological systems'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon F Schoeller
- Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - William V Holt
- Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW14RY, UK
| | - Eric E Keaveny
- Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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29
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Hunter RHF, López-Gatius F. Temperature gradients in the mammalian ovary and genital tract: A clinical perspective. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:382-386. [PMID: 32682213 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Temperature within mammalian reproductive tissues is noted to be a key component of fertility, and significant gradients in temperature can be demonstrated deep within the abdomen shortly before ovulation. Indeed, in the absence of such gradients in the ovary and genital tract, the processes of ovulation and fertilisation are severely compromised. This review aims to assess literature produced during the last five decades regarding temperature gradients in the mammalian ovary and genital tract. A large body of observations derived from rabbits, women, pigs and cattle is summarised in tabular form, ovarian follicular values being as much as 2.5 °C or more cooler than neighbouring ovarian tissues or deep rectal temperature. We highlight recent works demonstrating a positive correlation between pre-ovulatory follicular cooling and pregnancy. Understanding the significance of follicular cooling should help us (a) explain why so many potential pregnancies fail in vivo as in vitro and (b) inspire ways for improving the processes of fertilisation and establishment of a full-term pregnancy. Based on our findings in domestic animals, and most recently in cows whose Graafian follicles are comparable in size and timing of response to the LH peak with human follicles, we wish to encourage IVF and fertility preservation clinics to take advantage of this work. By so doing, the incidence of full-term pregnancies in women should be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald H F Hunter
- Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge, UK; Ladfield, Oxnam, Jedburgh, UK
| | - Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Center Lleida, Spain; Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, Barbastro, Spain.
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30
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Víquez L, Barquero V, Soler C, Roldan ER, Valverde A. Kinematic Sub-Populations in Bull Spermatozoa: A Comparison of Classical and Bayesian Approaches. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:E138. [PMID: 32604716 PMCID: PMC7345988 DOI: 10.3390/biology9060138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The ejaculate is heterogenous and sperm sub-populations with different kinematic patterns can be identified in various species. Nevertheless, although these sub-populations are statistically well defined, the statistical differences are not always relevant. The aim of the present study was to characterize kinematic sub-populations in sperm from two bovine species, and diluted with different commercial extenders, and to determine the statistical relevance of sub-populations through Bayesian analysis. Semen from 10 bulls was evaluated after thawing. An ISAS®v1 computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA)-Mot system was employed with an image acquisition rate of 50 Hz and ISAS®D4C20 counting chambers. Sub-populations of motile spermatozoa were characterized using multivariate procedures such as principal components (PCs) analysis and clustering methods (k-means model). Four different sperm sub-populations were identified from three PCs that involved progressiveness, velocity, and cell undulatory movement. The proportions of the different sperm sub-populations varied with the extender used and in the two species. Despite a statistical difference (p < 0.05) between extenders, the Bayesian analysis confirmed that only one of them (Triladyl®) presented relevant differences in kinematic patterns when compared with Tris-EY and OptiXcell®. Extenders differed in the proportion of sperm cells in each of the kinematic sub-populations. Similar patterns were identified in Bos taurus and Bos indicus. Bayesian results indicate that sub-populations SP1, SP2, and SP3 were different for PC criteria and these differences were relevant. For velocity, linearity, and progressiveness, the SP4 did not show a relevant difference regarding the other sperm sub-populations. The classical approach of clustering or sperm subpopulation thus may not have a direct biological meaning. Therefore, the biological relevance of sperm sub-populations needs to be reevaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Víquez
- Costa Rica Institute of Technology, School of Agronomy, San Carlos Campus, 223-21002 Alajuela, Costa Rica; (L.V.); (V.B.)
| | - Vinicio Barquero
- Costa Rica Institute of Technology, School of Agronomy, San Carlos Campus, 223-21002 Alajuela, Costa Rica; (L.V.); (V.B.)
| | - Carles Soler
- Department of Cellular Biology, Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, Campus Burjassot, C/Dr Moliner, 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain;
- Proiser R+D, Av. Catedrático Agustín Escardino, 9, Building 3 (CUE), Floor 1, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Eduardo R.S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Anthony Valverde
- Costa Rica Institute of Technology, School of Agronomy, San Carlos Campus, 223-21002 Alajuela, Costa Rica; (L.V.); (V.B.)
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31
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Ibanescu I, Siuda M, Bollwein H. Motile sperm subpopulations in bull semen using different clustering approaches - Associations with flow cytometric sperm characteristics and fertility. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 215:106329. [PMID: 32216932 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
There are sperm subpopulations (SPs) with different kinematic characteristics in various species, however, biological relevance of these SPs is still uncertain. The objective of the present study was to investigate associations of motile sperm SPs with sperm characteristics determined by evaluations with flow cytometry and assessment of bull fertility, using multiple approaches for sperm clustering. Semen from 24 bulls was evaluated concomitantly using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and flow cytometry before freezing and after thawing. Motile SPs were determined utilizing two acknowledged clustering methods (TwoStep and K-Means) and one customized method. With the customized method, there was utilization of mean values of sperm velocity and linearity as thresholds for direct assignment of motile spermatozoa into four SPs. Regardless of approach for identifying SPs, sperm quality, as determined using flow cytometry, was correlated particularly with the subpopulation (SP) of fast and linear spermatozoa immediately after thawing and with the SP of fast and nonlinear spermatozoa before freezing and 3 h after thawing. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between proportion of spermatozoa with fast and nonlinear movements before freezing and bull non-return to estrous rates. These results indicate that with different sperm SPs, there are different biological implications which can be evaluated to gain useful information concerning semen quality as determined using flow cytometry and fertility. Furthermore, determining SPs by assigning motile spermatozoa into clusters based on a combination of "below and "above" threshold values for sperm velocity and linearity might be considered a practical alternative to otherwise intricate clustering procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulian Ibanescu
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland; Besamungsverein Neustadt a. d. Aisch e.V., Karl-Eibl-Strasse 23, 91413, Neustadt an der Aisch, Germany.
| | - Mathias Siuda
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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32
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Abstract
Evolutionary rates and strength of selection differ markedly between haploid and diploid genomes. Any genes expressed in a haploid state will be directly exposed to selection, whereas alleles in a diploid state may be partially or fully masked by a homologous allele. This difference may shape key evolutionary processes, including rates of adaptation and inbreeding depression, but also the evolution of sex chromosomes, heterochiasmy, and stable sex ratio biases. All diploid organisms carry haploid genomes, most notably the haploid genomes in gametes produced by every sexually reproducing eukaryote. Furthermore, haploid expression occurs in genes with monoallelic expression, in sex chromosomes, and in organelles, such as mitochondria and plastids. A comparison of evolutionary rates among these haploid genomes reveals striking parallels. Evidence suggests that haploid selection has the potential to shape evolution in predominantly diploid organisms, and taking advantage of the rapidly developing technologies, we are now in the position to quantify the importance of such selection on haploid genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Immler
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom
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33
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Ondřej Š, Jiří Š, Jan B, Pavla MP, Lucie T, Doležalová M, Petra F, Luděk S, Radko R. Low Density Lipoprotein - important player in increasing cryoprotective efficiency of soybean lecithin-based bull semen extenders. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:267-276. [PMID: 33224286 PMCID: PMC7673600 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, considering cryopreservation of bull semen, there is no clear consensus over the comparability of cryoprotective efficacy of extenders with soybean lecithin and those based on egg yolk. The objective of this study was to prove the use of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) extracted from hen-egg yolk as an enhancing factor for soybean lecithin-based extenders. In total, 35 ejaculates of (seven bulls x five ejaculates per bull) were collected and cryopreserved at a commercial insemination centre. The effect of the LDL addition to the extenders AndroMed® and Bioxcell® was tested in a 6% (v/v) concentration on spermatozoa after thawing. Modified extender composition effects were assessed on sperm functional parameters motility, plasma membrane, mitochondrial membrane potential and acrosomal integrity after thawing by CASA, flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy, respectively. Based on kinematic parameters determined from CASA, k-means cluster analysis was used to classify individual spermatozoon into specific subpopulations (fast, medium fast and slow). A subpopulation of fast spermatozoa was increased in the presence of LDL in both selected extenders (P < 0.05). Moreover, the positive effect of LDL on sperm motility was confirmed by decreasing the percentage of sperm in slow subpopulation (P < 0.05). The effect of LDL addition on the incidence of spermatozoa with intact plasma membrane was not demonstrated in any case of extender used (P > 0.05). The percentage of sperm with intact acrosome was improved when LDL was added to Bioxcell® extender (P < 0.05). On the other hand, addition of LDL to AndroMed® extender improved mitochondrial intactness after thawing (P < 0.05). In conclusion, our results showed that adding LDL to selected soybean lecithin-based extenders considerably ameliorated the functional parameters of spermatozoa after thawing and thus this lipoprotein could represent an improving agent for soybean lecithin-based extender for bull semen cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Šimoník Ondřej
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, v.v.i., Biocev, Průmyslová, Czech Republic
| | - Šichtař Jiří
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Beran Jan
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Zootechnical Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Maňásková-Postlerová Pavla
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic.,Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, v.v.i., Biocev, Průmyslová, Czech Republic
| | - Tůmová Lucie
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Doležalová
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Folková Petra
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Stádník Luděk
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Rajmon Radko
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
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34
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Roldan ERS. Sperm competition and the evolution of sperm form and function in mammals. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54 Suppl 4:14-21. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology; Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC); Madrid Spain
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35
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Seminal plasma mitigates the adverse effect of uterine fluid on boar spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2019; 136:28-35. [PMID: 31234054 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
After natural or artificial insemination, spermatozoa start their journey within the uterus to reach the site of fertilization, but only few of them attain this goal. Part of this spermatozoa loss happens in the uterus, in which uterine fluid (UF) seems to be involved. It is known from other species that UF provokes damage to spermatozoa, which is avoided when seminal plasma (SP) is present. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of UF on the quality of ejaculated (previously contacted with SP) and epididymal (without previous contact with SP) boar spermatozoa analyzing motility, kinetic parameters, viability and acrosome integrity in the presence or absence of SP over time. Three experimental groups were evaluated in each source of spermatozoa (ejaculated and epididymal): 1) Control: spermatozoa with 20% of SP; 2) UF: spermatozoa with 20% of UF; and 3) UF-SP: spermatozoa with 20% of SP and 20% of UF. Total and progressive motility, kinetic parameters (VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, STR, WOB, and BCF), viability and acrosome damage were analyzed at 15, 60, 120 and 180 min after incubation. Total and progressive motility decreased when ejaculated spermatozoa were incubated in UF in contrast to control and UF-SP groups (p < 0.0007), with no differences between control and UF-SP. The VCL decreased in the UF group compared to the control and UF-SP groups in ejaculated spermatozoa (p = 0.0002). The VSL, VAP, LIN and STR kinetic parameters were greater when ejaculated spermatozoa were incubated in the UF-SP group than in the UF group (all: p ≤ 0.02). Acrosome damage increased in ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa incubated in the UF group compared to the control and UF-SP groups (both: p < 0.0001). Also, the viability of epididymal spermatozoa decreased in the UF group, while it did not change in the control and UF-SP groups (p = 0.0004). The rest of the parameters in either ejaculated or epididymal spermatozoa did not differ between experimental groups, except for WOB when epididymal spermatozoa were used (UF-SP higher than the control group, with UF being similar for both; p = 0.03). In conclusion, both ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa are affected by UF, suggesting a negative effect on their quality. This negative effect is reduced by the presence of SP, improving the spermatozoa functionality, preserving motility, viability and acrosome integrity.
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D'Amours O, Calvo É, Bourassa S, Vincent P, Blondin P, Sullivan R. Proteomic markers of low and high fertility bovine spermatozoa separated by Percoll gradient. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:999-1012. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier D'Amours
- Département d'obstétrique, Gynécologie et ReproductionCentre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval Québec Québec Canada
| | - Ézéquiel Calvo
- Proteomic Core FacilityCentre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval, Axe Reproduction, Santé de la mère et de l'enfant Québec Québec Canada
| | - Sylvie Bourassa
- Proteomic Core FacilityCentre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval, Axe Reproduction, Santé de la mère et de l'enfant Québec Québec Canada
| | - Patrick Vincent
- Department of Research and DevelopmentSemex Alliance, L'Alliance Boviteq Inc Saint‐Hyacinthe Québec Canada
| | - Patrick Blondin
- Department of Research and DevelopmentSemex Alliance, L'Alliance Boviteq Inc Saint‐Hyacinthe Québec Canada
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Département d'obstétrique, Gynécologie et ReproductionCentre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval Québec Québec Canada
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Amaral S, Da Costa R, Wübbeling F, Redmann K, Schlatt S. Raman micro-spectroscopy analysis of different sperm regions: a species comparison. Mol Hum Reprod 2019. [PMID: 29528451 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is Raman micro-spectroscopy a valid approach to assess the biochemical hallmarks of sperm regions (head, midpiece and tail) in four different species? SUMMARY ANSWER Non-invasive Raman micro-spectroscopy provides spectral patterns enabling the biochemical characterization of the three sperm regions in the four species, revealing however high similarities for each region among species. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Raman micro-spectroscopy has been described as an innovative method to assess sperm features having the potential to be used as a non-invasive selection tool. However, except for nuclear DNA, the identification and assignment of spectral bands in Raman-profiles to the different sperm regions is scarce and controversial. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION Raman spectra from head, midpiece and tail of four different species were obtained. Sperm samples were collected and smeared on microscope slides. Air dried samples were subjected to Raman analysis using previously standardized procedures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Sperm samples from (i) two donors attending the infertility clinic at the Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology; (ii) two C57BL/6 -TgN (ACTbEGFP) 1Osb adult mice; (iii) two adult Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) and (iv) two sea urchins (Arbacia punctulata) were used to characterize and compare their spectral profiles. Differences and similarities were confirmed by principal component analysis (PCA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Several novel region-specific peaks were identified. The three regions could be differentiated by distinctive Raman patterns irrespective of the species. However, regardless of the specie, their main spectral pattern remains mostly unchanged. These results were corroborated by the PCA analysis and suggest that the basic constituents of spermatozoa are biochemically similar among species. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Further research should be performed in live sperm to validate the detected spectral bands and their use as markers of distinctive regions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Raman peaks that have never been described in the sperm cell were detected. Particularly important are those that are unique to the midpiece as they might be a reference to the identification of sperm mitochondria, whose function is highly correlated with that of sperm. In the future, Raman micro-spectroscopy has the potential to be applied in assessment of male fertility. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by BMBF project 'Sperm Ident' (FKZ:13N13024) and the DAAD-CRUP bilateral exchange program (AI A06/16-57213087). S.A. is a recipient of a fellowship from the Portuguese foundation for science and technology (FCT-SFRH/BPD/110160/2015) and R.DC. is a recipient of a DAAD PhD stipend (91590556). There is no competing interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amaral
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão, Pólo II, Rua Dom Francisco Lemos, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - R Da Costa
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - F Wübbeling
- Institute for Applied Math: Analysis and Numerics Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Münster, Einsteinstraße 62, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - K Redmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Alavioon G, Cabrera Garcia A, LeChatelier M, Maklakov AA, Immler S. Selection for longer lived sperm within ejaculate reduces reproductive ageing in offspring. Evol Lett 2019; 3:198-206. [PMID: 31289692 PMCID: PMC6591544 DOI: 10.1002/evl3.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Males produce numerous sperm in a single ejaculate that greatly outnumber their potential egg targets. Recent studies found that phenotypic and genotypic variation among sperm in a single ejaculate of a male affects the fitness and performance of the resulting offspring. Specifically, within-ejaculate sperm selection for sperm longevity increased the performance of the resulting offspring in several key life-history traits in early life. Because increased early-life reproductive performance often correlates with rapid ageing, it is possible that within-ejaculate sperm selection increases early-life fitness at the cost of accelerated senescence. Alternatively, within-ejaculate sperm selection could improve offspring quality throughout the life cycle, including reduced age-specific deterioration. We tested the two alternative hypotheses in an experimental setup using zebrafish Danio rerio. We found that within-ejaculate sperm selection for sperm longevity reduced age-specific deterioration of fecundity and offspring survival but had no effect on fertilization success in males. Remarkably, we found an opposing effect of within-ejaculate sperm selection on female fecundity, where selection for sperm longevity resulted in increased early-life performance followed by a slow decline, while females sired by unselected sperm started low but increased their fecundity with age. Intriguingly, within-ejaculate sperm selection also reduced the age-specific decline in fertilization success in females, suggesting that selection for sperm longevity improves at least some aspects of female reproductive ageing. These results demonstrate that within-ejaculate variation in sperm phenotype contributes to individual variation in animal life histories in the two sexes and may have important implications for assisted fertilization programs in livestock and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazal Alavioon
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D 75 236 Uppsala Sweden
| | - Andrea Cabrera Garcia
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D 75 236 Uppsala Sweden
| | - Magali LeChatelier
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D 75 236 Uppsala Sweden
| | - Alexei A Maklakov
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D 75 236 Uppsala Sweden.,School of Biological Sciences University of East Anglia Norwich Research Park Norwich NR4 7TJ United Kingdom
| | - Simone Immler
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Evolutionary Biology Centre Uppsala University Norbyvägen 18D 75 236 Uppsala Sweden.,School of Biological Sciences University of East Anglia Norwich Research Park Norwich NR4 7TJ United Kingdom
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Peña AI, Adán S, Quintela LA, Becerra JJ, Herradón PG. Relationship between motile sperm subpopulations identified in frozen-thawed dog semen samples and their ability to bind to the zona pellucida of canine oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53 Suppl 3:14-22. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana I. Peña
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Animal Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | - Sheila Adán
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Animal Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | - Luis A. Quintela
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Animal Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | - Juan J. Becerra
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Animal Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
| | - Pedro G. Herradón
- Unit of Reproduction and Obstetrics; Department of Animal Pathology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Santiago de Compostela; Lugo Spain
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40
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Dai C, Zhang Z, Huang J, Wang X, Ru C, Pu H, Xie S, Zhang J, Moskovtsev S, Librach C, Jarvi K, Sun Y. Automated Non-Invasive Measurement of Single Sperm's Motility and Morphology. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MEDICAL IMAGING 2018; 37:2257-2265. [PMID: 29993571 DOI: 10.1109/tmi.2018.2840827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Measuring cell motility and morphology is important for revealing their functional characteristics. This paper presents automation techniques that enable automated, non-invasive measurement of motility and morphology parameters of single sperm. Compared to the status quo of qualitative estimation of single sperm's motility and morphology manually, the automation techniques provide quantitative data for embryologists to select a single sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. An adapted joint probabilistic data association filter was used for multi-sperm tracking and tackled challenges of identifying sperms that intersect or have small spatial distances. Since the standard differential interference contrast (DIC) imaging method has side illumination effect which causes inherent inhomogeneous image intensity and poses difficulties for accurate sperm morphology measurement, we integrated total variation norm into the quadratic cost function method, which together effectively removed inhomogeneous image intensity and retained sperm's subcellular structures after DIC image reconstruction. In order to relocate the same sperm of interest identified under low magnification after switching to high magnification, coordinate transformation was conducted to handle the changes in the field of view caused by magnification switch. The sperm's position after magnification switch was accurately predicted by accounting for the sperm's swimming motion during magnification switch. Experimental results demonstrated an accuracy of 95.6% in sperm motility measurement and an error <10% in morphology measurement.
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41
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Dzyuba V, Ninhaus-Silveira A, Kahanec M, Veríssimo-Silveira R, Rodina M, Holt WV, Dzyuba B. Sperm motility in ocellate river stingrays: evidence for post-testicular sperm maturation and capacitation in Chondrichthyes. J Zool (1987) 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters; Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology; University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice; Vodnany Czech Republic
| | - A. Ninhaus-Silveira
- Neotropical Ichthyology Laboratory - LINEO; Department of Biology and Zootechnics; Ilha Solteira School of Engineering; São Paulo State University; Ilha Solteira SP Brazil
| | - M. Kahanec
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters; Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology; University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice; Vodnany Czech Republic
| | - R. Veríssimo-Silveira
- Neotropical Ichthyology Laboratory - LINEO; Department of Biology and Zootechnics; Ilha Solteira School of Engineering; São Paulo State University; Ilha Solteira SP Brazil
| | - M. Rodina
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters; Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology; University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice; Vodnany Czech Republic
| | - W. V. Holt
- Department of Human Metabolism; Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine; The University of Sheffield; Sheffield UK
| | - B. Dzyuba
- Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters; Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology; University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice; Vodnany Czech Republic
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42
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Farooq U, Malecki IA, Mahmood M, Martin GB. Correlation between objective semen analysis and fertility in Japanese quail. Theriogenology 2018; 115:23-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Revised: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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43
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Pérez-Cerezales S, Laguna-Barraza R, de Castro AC, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Cano-Oliva E, de Castro-Pita FJ, Montoro-Buils L, Pericuesta E, Fernández-González R, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Sperm selection by thermotaxis improves ICSI outcome in mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2902. [PMID: 29440764 PMCID: PMC5811574 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21335-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The ejaculate is a heterogeneous pool of spermatozoa containing only a small physiologically adequate subpopulation for fertilization. As there is no method to isolate this subpopulation, its specific characteristics are unknown. This is one of the main reasons why we lack effective tools to identify male infertility and for the low efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies. The aim of this study was to improve ICSI outcome by sperm selection through thermotaxis. Here we show that a specific subpopulation of mouse and human spermatozoa can be selected in vitro by thermotaxis and that this subpopulation is the one that enters the fallopian tube in mice. Further, we confirm that these selected spermatozoa in mice and humans show a much higher DNA integrity and lower chromatin compaction than unselected sperm, and in mice, they give rise to more and better embryos through intracytoplasmic sperm injection, doubling the number of successful pregnancies. Collectively, our results indicate that a high quality sperm subpopulation is selected in vitro by thermotaxis and that this subpopulation is also selected in vivo within the fallopian tube possibly by thermotaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Esther Cano-Oliva
- Unit of Reproduction, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | | | - Luis Montoro-Buils
- Unit of Reproduction, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Spain
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44
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Influence of cooling temperature in sperm subpopulations of domestic cats. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 189:1-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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45
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Soler C, Picazo-Bueno JÁ, Micó V, Valverde A, Bompart D, Blasco FJ, Álvarez JG, García-Molina A. Effect of counting chamber depth on the accuracy of lensless microscopy for the assessment of boar sperm motility. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:924-934. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility is one of the most significant parameters in the prediction of male fertility. Until now, both motility analysis using an optical microscope and computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA-Mot) entailed the use of counting chambers with a depth to 20 µm. Chamber depth significantly affects the intrinsic sperm movement, leading to an artificial motility pattern. For the first time, laser microscopy offers the possibility of avoiding this interference with sperm movement. The aims of the present study were to determine the different motility patterns observed in chambers with depths of 10, 20 and 100 µm using a new holographic approach and to compare the results obtained in the 20-µm chamber with those of the laser and optical CASA-Mot systems. The ISAS®3D-Track results showed that values for curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight line velocity, wobble and beat cross frequency were higher for the 100-µm chambers than for the 10- and 20-µm chambers. Only VCL showed a positive correlation between chambers. In addition, Bayesian analysis confirmed that the kinematic parameters observed with the 100-µm chamber were significantly different to those obtained using chambers with depths of 10 and 20 µm. When an optical analyser CASA-Mot system was used, all kinematic parameters, except VCL, were higher with ISAS®3D-Track, but were not relevant after Bayesian analysis. Finally, almost three different three-dimensional motility patterns were recognised. In conclusion, the use of the ISAS®3D-Track allows for the analysis of the natural three-dimensional pattern of sperm movement.
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46
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Pérez-Cerezales S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Acuña OS, Avilés M, Coy P, Rizos D, Gutiérrez-Adán A. The oviduct: from sperm selection to the epigenetic landscape of the embryo†. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:262-276. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, College of Life Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Salvador Acuña
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Culiacán, Mexico
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
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47
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Štiavnická M, Abril-Parreño L, Nevoral J, Králíčková M, García-Álvarez O. Non-Invasive Approaches to Epigenetic-Based Sperm Selection. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:4677-4683. [PMID: 28961228 PMCID: PMC5633068 DOI: 10.12659/msm.904098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since sperm size and form do not necessarily provide information on internal sperm structures, novel sperm markers need to be found in order to conduct assisted reproductive therapies (ART) successfully. Currently, the priority of andrologists is not only to select those sperm able to fertilize the oocyte, but also a high quality of sperm that will guarantee a healthy embryo. Evidence of this shows us the importance of studying sperm intensively on genetic and epigenetic levels, because these could probably be the cause of a percentage of infertility diagnosed as idiopathic. Thus, more attention is being paid to posttranslational modifications as the key for better understanding of the fertilization process and its impact on embryo and offspring. Advances in the discovery of new sperm markers should go hand in hand with finding appropriate techniques for selecting the healthiest sperm, guaranteeing its non-invasiveness. To date, most sperm selection techniques can be harmful to sperm due to centrifugation or staining procedures. Some methods, such as microfluidic techniques, sperm nanopurifications, and Raman spectroscopy, have the potential to make selection gentle to sperm, tracking small abnormalities undetected by methods currently used. The fact that live cells could be analyzed without harmful effects creates the expectation of using them routinely in ART. In this review, we focus on the combination of sperm epigenetic status (modifications) as quality markers, with non-invasive sperm selection methods as novel approaches to improve ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriama Štiavnická
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Nevoral
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Milena Králíčková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Olga García-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
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48
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Haploid selection within a single ejaculate increases offspring fitness. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:8053-8058. [PMID: 28698378 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1705601114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
An inescapable consequence of sex in eukaryotes is the evolution of a biphasic life cycle with alternating diploid and haploid phases. The occurrence of selection during the haploid phase can have far-reaching consequences for fundamental evolutionary processes including the rate of adaptation, the extent of inbreeding depression, and the load of deleterious mutations, as well as for applied research into fertilization technology. Although haploid selection is well established in plants, current dogma assumes that in animals, intact fertile sperm within a single ejaculate are equivalent at siring viable offspring. Using the zebrafish Danio rerio, we show that selection on phenotypic variation among intact fertile sperm within an ejaculate affects offspring fitness. Longer-lived sperm sired embryos with increased survival and a reduced number of apoptotic cells, and adult male offspring exhibited higher fitness. The effect on embryo viability was carried over into the second generation without further selection and was equally strong in both sexes. Sperm pools selected by motile phenotypes differed genetically at numerous sites throughout the genome. Our findings clearly link within-ejaculate variation in sperm phenotype to offspring fitness and sperm genotype in a vertebrate and have major implications for adaptive evolution.
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49
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Yániz JL, Vicente-Fiel S, Soler C, Recreo P, Carretero T, Bono A, Berné JM, Santolaria P. Comparison of different statistical approaches to evaluate morphometric sperm subpopulations in men. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:819-823. [PMID: 27624984 PMCID: PMC5109869 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.186872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to characterize morphometric sperm subpopulations in normozoospermic men by using different statistical methods and examining their suitability to classify correctly different sperm nuclear morphologies present in human ejaculates. Ejaculates from 21 normozoospermic men were collected for the study. After semen collection and analysis, samples were prepared for morphometric determination. At least 200 spermatozoa per sample were assessed for sperm morphometry by computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis (CASA-Morph) using fluorescence. Clustering and discriminant procedures were performed to identify sperm subpopulations from the morphometric data obtained. Clustering procedures resulted in the classification of spermatozoa into three morphometric subpopulations (large-round 30.4%, small-round 46.6%, and large-elongated 22.9%). In the second analysis, using discriminant methods, the classification was made independently of size and shape. Three morphological categories according to nuclear size (small <10.90 μm2, intermediate 10.91–13.07 μm2, and large >13.07 μm2) and four categories were defined on 400 canonical cells (100 × 4) from 10 men according to sperm nuclear shape (oval, pyriform, round, and elongated). Thereafter, the resulting classification functions were used to categorize 4200 spermatozoa from 21 men. Differences in the class distribution were observed among men from both clustering and discriminant procedures. It was concluded that the combination of CASA-Morph fluorescence-based technology with multivariate cluster or discriminant analyses provides new information on the description of different morphometric sperm subpopulations in normal individuals, and that important variations in the distribution of morphometric sperm subpopulations may exist between men, with possible functional implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús L Yániz
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Department of Animal Production and Food Sciences, Higher Polytechnic School, University of Zaragoza, Ctra. Cuarte S/N 22071 Huesca, Spain
| | - Sandra Vicente-Fiel
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Department of Animal Production and Food Sciences, Higher Polytechnic School, University of Zaragoza, Ctra. Cuarte S/N 22071 Huesca, Spain
| | - Carles Soler
- Department of Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.,R+D Department, Proiser R+D, Scientific Park, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Recreo
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Departament of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences of Huesca, Plaza Universidad 3, 22002, Huesca, Spain
| | - Teresa Carretero
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Departament of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences of Huesca, Plaza Universidad 3, 22002, Huesca, Spain
| | - Araceli Bono
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Hospital General San Jorge de Huesca, Area de Urología, Av. Martínez de Velasco, 36, 22004, Huesca, Spain
| | - José M Berné
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Hospital General San Jorge de Huesca, Area de Urología, Av. Martínez de Velasco, 36, 22004, Huesca, Spain
| | - Pilar Santolaria
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Department of Animal Production and Food Sciences, Higher Polytechnic School, University of Zaragoza, Ctra. Cuarte S/N 22071 Huesca, Spain
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Santolaria P, Soler C, Recreo P, Carretero T, Bono A, Berné JM, Yániz JL. Morphometric and kinematic sperm subpopulations in split ejaculates of normozoospermic men. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:831-834. [PMID: 27624985 PMCID: PMC5109871 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.186874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to analyze the sperm kinematic and morphometric subpopulations in the different fractions of the ejaculate in normozoospermic men. Ejaculates from eight normozoospermic men were collected by masturbation in three fractions after 3–5 days of sexual abstinence. Analyses of sperm motility by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA-Mot), and of sperm morphometry by computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis (CASA-Morph) using fluorescence were performed. Clustering and discriminant procedures were performed to identify sperm subpopulations in the kinematic and morphometric data obtained. Clustering procedures resulted in the classification of spermatozoa into three kinematic subpopulations (slow with low ALH [35.6% of all motile spermatozoa], with circular trajectories [32.0%], and rapid with high ALH [32.4%]), and three morphometric subpopulations (large-round [33.9% of all spermatozoa], elongated [32.0%], and small [34.10%]). The distribution of kinematic sperm subpopulations was different among ejaculate fractions (P < 0.001), with higher percentages of spermatozoa exhibiting slow movements with low ALH in the second and third portions, and with a more homogeneous distribution of kinematic sperm subpopulations in the first portion. The distribution of morphometric sperm subpopulations was also different among ejaculate fractions (P < 0.001), with more elongated spermatozoa in the first, and of small spermatozoa in the third, portion. It is concluded that important variations in the distribution of kinematic and morphometric sperm subpopulations exist between ejaculate fractions, with possible functional implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Santolaria
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Department of Animal Production and Food Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Huesca, Spain
| | - Carles Soler
- Department of Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology, University of Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Valencia, Spain.,R+D Department, Proiser R+D, Scientific Park, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Recreo
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Departament of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences of Huesca, Plaza Universidad 3, 22002, Huesca, Spain
| | - Teresa Carretero
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Departament of Human Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences of Huesca, Plaza Universidad 3, 22002, Huesca, Spain
| | - Araceli Bono
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Hospital General San Jorge de Huesca, Area de Urología, Av. Martínez de Velasco, 36, 22004, Huesca, Spain
| | - José M Berné
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Hospital General San Jorge de Huesca, Area de Urología, Av. Martínez de Velasco, 36, 22004, Huesca, Spain
| | - Jesús L Yániz
- TECNOGAM research group, Environmental Sciences Institute (IUCA), Department of Animal Production and Food Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Huesca, Spain
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