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Carlo G, Valentina M, Daniele C, Simone S, Edlira S, Giancarlo B, Benedetto GA. The environmental and occupational influence of pesticides on male fertility: a systematic review of human studies. Andrology 2022; 10:1250-1271. [PMID: 35793270 PMCID: PMC9541307 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environment plays a key role in male infertility, changing the incidence in various populations, and pesticides are one of the most studied hazards. The use of the latter has never decreased, jeopardizing the safety of workers and the general population. OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to summarize the results of studies discussing the association between pesticides and male fertility. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed through MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only human studies were considered. Semen parameters, and DNA integrity were considered to evaluate the effect of pesticides on men. RESULTS A total of 64 studies that investigated their impact in terms of semen parameters (51 studies), chromatin and DNA integrity (25 studies), were included. The most frequently affected parameters were total sperm count sperm motility and morphology, although a reduction in ejaculate volume and concentration occur in several cases. A tangible worsening of semen quality was associated with organochlorines and organophosphates. Furthermore, pesticide exposure, especially pyrethroids, was related to a higher DNA fragmentation index and chromosome aneuploidy in most articles. CONCLUSION The epidemiological evidence supports the association between pesticides and male fertility for workers and the exposed population in terms of semen quality, DNA fragmentation and chromosome aneuploidy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulioni Carlo
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maurizi Valentina
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Italy
| | - Castellani Daniele
- "Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Scarcella Simone
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Skrami Edlira
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Centre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ancona, Italy
| | - Balercia Giancarlo
- "Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Ancona, Italy
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Kleshchev M, Osadchuk A, Osadchuk L. Impaired semen quality, an increase of sperm morphological defects and DNA fragmentation associated with environmental pollution in urban population of young men from Western Siberia, Russia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258900. [PMID: 34679097 PMCID: PMC8535459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor sperm morphology and an elevated DNA fragmentation level are considered to be related to spermiogenesis malfunctions as a result of genetic mutations and effects of environmental factors, including industrial pollution. Standardized cross-sectional population studies of sperm morphology defects and sperm DNA fragmentation, especially in regions with increased environmental pollution may be helpful to investigate an influence of industrial pollution and other population-related factors on spermiogenesis process. The aim of present study was to estimate an influence industrial pollution on sperm morphogenesis and sperm DNA fragmentation in men from the general population of the Western Siberia. The Novosibirsk and Kemerovo cities are located to same climatic conditions in Western Siberia but the Kemerovo city is characterized by increased environmental pollution especially by particulate matter (PM). The male volunteers living in Novosibirsk (n = 278) and Kemerovo (n = 258) were enrolled. Percentages of sperm morphological defects are counted after staining native ejaculate smears by Diff-Quick kits. DNA fragmentation was estimated by a SCSA technique. The residents of Kemerovo were characterized by lowered sperm count and sperm motility, elevated DNA fragmentation, poor sperm morphology and increased incidence of morphological effects of head (pyriform, elongated, round, abnormal acrosome and vacuolated chromatine), asymmetrical neck insertion and excess residual cytoplasm. Moreover, elevated DNA fragmentation was associated with lowered sperm count, sperm motility and increased percentages of several sperm morphology defects, with the place of residence affecting the relationships between conventional semen parameters, sperm morphology and DNA fragmentations. Our study suggests that excessive sperm head elongation and impaired acrosome formation can contribute to sperm morphology deterioration in men from polluted areas. Regional features in the relationships between sperm morphology, sperm count and DNA fragmentation were shown, suggesting an importance of studying sperm morphology pattern in men from different regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxim Kleshchev
- Department of Human Molecular Genetic, Federal Research Center ‘Institute of Cytology and Genetics’, the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
- * E-mail:
| | - Alexander Osadchuk
- Department of Human Molecular Genetic, Federal Research Center ‘Institute of Cytology and Genetics’, the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ludmila Osadchuk
- Department of Human Molecular Genetic, Federal Research Center ‘Institute of Cytology and Genetics’, the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Fucic A, Duca RC, Galea KS, Maric T, Garcia K, Bloom MS, Andersen HR, Vena JE. Reproductive Health Risks Associated with Occupational and Environmental Exposure to Pesticides. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18126576. [PMID: 34207279 PMCID: PMC8296378 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A marked reduction in fertility and an increase in adverse reproductive outcomes during the last few decades have been associated with occupational and environmental chemical exposures. Exposure to different types of pesticides may increase the risks of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease, but also of reduced fertility and birth defects. Both occupational and environmental exposures to pesticides are important, as many are endocrine disruptors, which means that even very low-dose exposure levels may have measurable biological effects. The aim of this review was to summarize the knowledge collected between 2000 and 2020, to highlight new findings, and to further interpret the mechanisms that may associate pesticides with infertility, abnormal sexual maturation, and pregnancy complications associated with occupational, environmental and transplacental exposures. A summary of current pesticide production and usage legislation is also included in order to elucidate the potential impact on exposure profile differences between countries, which may inform prevention measures. Recommendations for the medical surveillance of occupationally exposed populations, which should be facilitated by the biomonitoring of reduced fertility, is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Fucic
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +385-15682500; Fax: +3814673303
| | - Radu C. Duca
- Unit Environmental Hygiene and Human Biological Monitoring, Department of Health Protection, National Health Laboratory, L-3555 Dudelange, Luxembourg;
- Centre for Environment and Health, KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Karen S. Galea
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh EH14 4AP, UK;
| | - Tihana Maric
- Medical School, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Kelly Garcia
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (K.G.); (M.S.B.)
| | - Michael S. Bloom
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA; (K.G.); (M.S.B.)
| | - Helle R. Andersen
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, DK-5000 Odense C, Denmark;
| | - John E. Vena
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA;
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Green MP, Harvey AJ, Finger BJ, Tarulli GA. Endocrine disrupting chemicals: Impacts on human fertility and fecundity during the peri-conception period. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 194:110694. [PMID: 33385395 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
It is becoming increasingly difficult to avoid exposure to man-made endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and environmental toxicants. This escalating yet constant exposure is postulated to partially explain the concurrent decline in human fertility that has occurred over the last 50 years. Controversy however remains as to whether associations exist, with conflicting findings commonly reported for all major EDC classes. The primary aim of this extensive work was to identify and review strong peer-reviewed evidence regarding the effects of environmentally-relevant EDC concentrations on adult male and female fertility during the critical periconception period on reproductive hormone concentrations, gamete and embryo characteristics, as well as the time to pregnancy in the general population. Secondly, to ascertain whether individuals or couples diagnosed as sub-fertile exhibit higher EDC or toxicant concentrations. Lastly, to highlight where little or no data exists that prevents strong associations being identified. From the greater than 1480 known EDCs, substantial evidence supports a negative association between exposure to phthalates, PCBs, PBDEs, pyrethroids, organochloride pesticides and male fertility and fecundity. Only moderate evidence exists for a negative association between BPA, PCBs, organochloride pesticides and female fertility and fecundity. Overall fewer studies were reported in women than men, with knowledge gaps generally evident for both sexes for all the major EDC classes, as well as a paucity of female fertility studies following exposure to parabens, triclosans, dioxins, PFAS, organophosphates and pyrethroids. Generally, sub-fertile individuals or couples exhibit higher EDC concentrations, endorsing a positive association between EDC exposure and sub-fertility. This review also discusses confounding and limiting factors that hamper our understanding of EDC exposures on fertility and fecundity. Finally, it highlights future research areas, as well as government, industry and social awareness strategies required to mitigate the negative effects of EDC and environmental toxicant exposure on human fertility and fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Alexandra J Harvey
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bethany J Finger
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gerard A Tarulli
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Punjabi U, Van Mulders H, Goovaerts I, Peeters K, Clasen K, Janssens P, Zemtsova O, De Neubourg D. Sperm DNA fragmentation in the total and vital fractions before and after density gradient centrifugation: Significance in male fertility diagnosis. Clin Biochem 2018; 62:47-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2018.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Lymperi S, Giwercman A. Endocrine disruptors and testicular function. Metabolism 2018; 86:79-90. [PMID: 29605435 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2018.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite concerns of the scientific community regarding the adverse effects of human exposure to exogenous man-made chemical substances or mixtures that interfere with normal hormonal balance, the so called "endocrine disruptors (EDs)", their production has been increased during the last few decades. EDs' extensive use has been implicated in the increasing incidence of male reproductive disorders including poor semen quality, testicular malignancies and congenital developmental defects such as hypospadias and cryptorchidism. Several animal studies have demonstrated that exposure to EDs during fetal, neonatal and adult life has deleterious consequences on male reproductive system; however, the evidence on humans remains ambiguous. The complexity of their mode of action, the differential effect according to the developmental stage that exposure occurs, the latency from exposure and the influence of the genetic background in the manifestation of their toxic effects are all responsible factors for the contradictory outcomes. Furthermore, the heterogeneity in the published human studies has hampered agreement in the field. Interventional studies to establish causality would be desirable, but unfortunately the nature of the field excludes this possibility. Therefore, future studies based on standardized guidelines are necessary, in order to estimate human health risks and implement policies to limit public exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Lymperi
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Grunewald S, Fitzl G, Springsguth C. Induction of ultra-morphological features of apoptosis in mature and immature sperm. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:533-537. [PMID: 27270340 PMCID: PMC5566845 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.180974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a fundamental body of evidence suggesting that activated apoptosis signaling in ejaculated human sperm negatively influences their fertilization potential. However, it is still controversial whether this apoptotic signaling is a relic of an abortive apoptosis related to spermatogenesis or if it should be regarded as a functional preformed pathway in mature sperm leading to stereotypical morphological changes reflecting nuclear disassembly. To address this question, apoptosis was induced using betulinic acid in mature and immature ejaculated human sperm enriched by density gradient centrifugation. Execution of apoptosis was monitored by observing ultra-morphological changes via transmission electron microscopy. Typical morphological signs of apoptosis in somatic cells include plasma membrane blebbing with the formation of apoptotic bodies, impaired mitochondrial integrity, defects of the nuclear envelope, and nuclear fragmentation; these morphologies have also been observed in human sperm. In addition, these apoptotic characteristics were more frequent in immature sperm compared to mature sperm. Following betulinic acid treatment, apoptosis-related morphological changes were induced in mature sperm from healthy donors. This effect was much less pronounced in immature sperm. Moreover, in both fractions, the betulinic acid treatment increased the percentage of acrosome-reacted sperm. The results of our ultra-morphological study prove the functional competence of apoptosis in mature ejaculated human sperm. The theory of a sole abortive process may be valid only for immature sperm. The induction of the acrosome reaction by stimulating apoptosis might shed light on the biological relevance of sperm apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Grunewald
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Guenther Fitzl
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christopher Springsguth
- Department of Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Guzzardi MA, Iozzo P, Salonen MK, Kajantie E, Airaksinen R, Kiviranta H, Rantakokko P, Eriksson JG. Exposure to Persistent Organic Pollutants Predicts Telomere Length in Older Age: Results from the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study. Aging Dis 2016; 7:540-552. [PMID: 27699078 PMCID: PMC5036950 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2016.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As the population ages, the occurrence of chronic pathologies becomes more common. Leukocyte telomere shortening associates to ageing and age-related diseases. Recent studies suggest that environmental chemicals can affect telomere length. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are most relevant, since they are ingested with foods, and accumulate in the body for a long time. This longitudinal study was undertaken to test if circulating POPs predict telomere length and shortening in elderly people. We studied 1082 subjects belonging to the Helsinki Birth Cohort Study (born 1934-1944), undergoing two visits (2001-2004 and 2011-2014). POPs (oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, p, p’-DDE, PCB 153, BDE 47, BDE 153) were analysed at baseline. Relative telomere length was measured twice, ’10 years apart, by quantitative real-time PCR. Oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor and PCB-153 levels were significant predictors of telomere length and shortening. In men, we did not find a linear relationship between POPs exposure and telomere shortening. In women, a significant reduction across quartiles categories of oxychlordane and trans-nonachlor exposure was observed. Baseline characteristics of subjects in the highest POPs categories included higher levels of C-reactive protein and fasting glucose, and lower body fat percentage. This is one of few studies combining POPs and telomere length. Our results indicate that exposure to oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor and PCB 153 predicts telomere attrition. This finding is important because concentrations of POPs observed here occur in contemporary younger people, and may contribute to an accelerated ageing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patricia Iozzo
- 1Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR), Pisa, Italy
| | - Minna K Salonen
- 2National Institute for Health and Welfare, Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, Helsinki, Finland; 6Folkhälsan Research Centre, Helsinki, Helsingfors Universitet, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eero Kajantie
- 2National Institute for Health and Welfare, Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, Helsinki, Finland; 3Children's Hospital, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; 4PEDEGO Research Group, MRC Oulu, Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Riikka Airaksinen
- 8National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Health Protection, Chemicals and Health Unit, Finland
| | - Hannu Kiviranta
- 8National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Health Protection, Chemicals and Health Unit, Finland
| | - Panu Rantakokko
- 8National Institute for Health and Welfare, Department of Health Protection, Chemicals and Health Unit, Finland
| | - Johan Gunnar Eriksson
- 2National Institute for Health and Welfare, Chronic Disease Prevention Unit, Helsinki, Finland; 5Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; 6Folkhälsan Research Centre, Helsinki, Helsingfors Universitet, Helsinki, Finland; 7Unit of General Practice, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland
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Gore AC, Chappell VA, Fenton SE, Flaws JA, Nadal A, Prins GS, Toppari J, Zoeller RT. EDC-2: The Endocrine Society's Second Scientific Statement on Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals. Endocr Rev 2015; 36:E1-E150. [PMID: 26544531 PMCID: PMC4702494 DOI: 10.1210/er.2015-1010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1262] [Impact Index Per Article: 140.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Endocrine Society's first Scientific Statement in 2009 provided a wake-up call to the scientific community about how environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) affect health and disease. Five years later, a substantially larger body of literature has solidified our understanding of plausible mechanisms underlying EDC actions and how exposures in animals and humans-especially during development-may lay the foundations for disease later in life. At this point in history, we have much stronger knowledge about how EDCs alter gene-environment interactions via physiological, cellular, molecular, and epigenetic changes, thereby producing effects in exposed individuals as well as their descendants. Causal links between exposure and manifestation of disease are substantiated by experimental animal models and are consistent with correlative epidemiological data in humans. There are several caveats because differences in how experimental animal work is conducted can lead to difficulties in drawing broad conclusions, and we must continue to be cautious about inferring causality in humans. In this second Scientific Statement, we reviewed the literature on a subset of topics for which the translational evidence is strongest: 1) obesity and diabetes; 2) female reproduction; 3) male reproduction; 4) hormone-sensitive cancers in females; 5) prostate; 6) thyroid; and 7) neurodevelopment and neuroendocrine systems. Our inclusion criteria for studies were those conducted predominantly in the past 5 years deemed to be of high quality based on appropriate negative and positive control groups or populations, adequate sample size and experimental design, and mammalian animal studies with exposure levels in a range that was relevant to humans. We also focused on studies using the developmental origins of health and disease model. No report was excluded based on a positive or negative effect of the EDC exposure. The bulk of the results across the board strengthen the evidence for endocrine health-related actions of EDCs. Based on this much more complete understanding of the endocrine principles by which EDCs act, including nonmonotonic dose-responses, low-dose effects, and developmental vulnerability, these findings can be much better translated to human health. Armed with this information, researchers, physicians, and other healthcare providers can guide regulators and policymakers as they make responsible decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Gore
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - V A Chappell
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - S E Fenton
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - J A Flaws
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - A Nadal
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - G S Prins
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - J Toppari
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - R T Zoeller
- Pharmacology and Toxicology (A.C.G.), College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78734; Division of the National Toxicology Program (V.A.C., S.E.F.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; Department of Comparative Biosciences (J.A.F.), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61802; Institute of Bioengineering and CIBERDEM (A.N.), Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, 03202 Elche, Alicante, Spain; Departments of Urology, Pathology, and Physiology & Biophysics (G.S.P.), College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612; Departments of Physiology and Pediatrics (J.T.), University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, 20520 Turku, Finland; and Biology Department (R.T.Z.), University of Massachusetts at Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
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Singh K, Bjerregaard P, Chan HM. Association between environmental contaminants and health outcomes in indigenous populations of the Circumpolar North. Int J Circumpolar Health 2014; 73:25808. [PMID: 25491153 PMCID: PMC4261238 DOI: 10.3402/ijch.v73.25808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 10/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since the 1990s, research has been carried out to monitor environmental contaminants and their effects on human health in the Arctic. Although evidence shows that Arctic indigenous peoples are exposed to higher levels of contaminants and do worse on several dimensions of health compared with other populations, the contribution of such exposures on adverse outcomes is unclear. Objective The purpose of this review is to provide a synopsis of the published epidemiological literature that has examined association between environmental contaminants and health outcomes in Arctic indigenous populations. Design A literature search was conducted in OVID Medline (1946-January 2014) using search terms that combined concepts of contaminant and indigenous populations in the Arctic. No language or date restrictions were applied. The reference lists of review articles were hand-searched. Results Of 559 citations, 60 studies were relevant. The studies fell under the following categories: paediatric (n=18), reproductive health (n=18), obstetrics and gynaecology (n=9), cardiology (n=7), bone health (n=2), oncology (n=2), endocrinology (n=2) and other (n=2). All studies, except one from Arctic Finland, were either from Nunavik or Greenland. Most studies assessed polychlorinated biphenyls (n=43) and organochlorine pesticides (n=29). Fewer studies examined heavy metals, perfluorinated compounds, or polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Details of study results for each health category are provided. Conclusions It is difficult to make conclusive statements about the effects of environmental contaminants on health due to mixed results, small number of studies and studies being restricted to a small number of regions. Meta-analytical synthesis of the evidence should be considered for priority contaminants and health outcomes. The following research gaps should be addressed in future studies: association of contaminants and health in other Arctic regions (i.e. Inuvialuit Settlement Region, Nunavut, Nunatsiavut, Alaska, European North and Russian North); assessment of contaminants on chronic diseases; inclusion of clinical endpoints in assessments; and assessment of the emerging contaminants of perfluorinated compounds and polybrominated diphenyl ethers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Singh
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Bjerregaard
- Department of Health, Centre for Health Research in Greenland, Greenland Government and University of Greenland, Nuuk, Greenland
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Canada Research Chair in Toxicology and Environmental Health, Center for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada;
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Brokken L, Lundberg P, Spanò M, Manicardi G, Pedersen H, Struciński P, Góralczyk K, Zviezdai V, Jönsson B, Bonde J, Toft G, Lundberg Giwercman Y, Giwercman A. Interactions between polymorphisms in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signalling pathway and exposure to persistent organochlorine pollutants affect human semen quality. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 49:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2014.07.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Revised: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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14
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Exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers and male reproductive function in Greenland, Poland and Ukraine. Reprod Toxicol 2014; 43:1-7. [PMID: 24513925 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2013] [Revised: 09/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Animal and a few human studies suggest that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) may affect male reproductive function. The aim of the present study was to evaluate if male reproductive function was associated with serum level of PBDEs. We evaluated, in a cross-sectional study, the effects of environmental exposure to BDE-47 and BDE-153 on reproductive hormones and semen quality, including markers of DNA damage and apoptosis, in 299 spouses of pregnant women from Greenland, Poland and Ukraine. Adjusted linear regression models indicated no strong associations between BDE-47 or BDE-153 exposure and markers of male semen quality or reproductive hormones. In the largest study to date we demonstrate that BDE-47 and BDE-153 exposure was not associated with altered semen characteristics or reproductive hormones, indicating that male reproductive function is not affected by the exposure level of these compounds in fertile European or Arctic populations.
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Lenters V, Portengen L, Smit LAM, Jönsson BAG, Giwercman A, Rylander L, Lindh CH, Spanò M, Pedersen HS, Ludwicki JK, Chumak L, Piersma AH, Toft G, Bonde JP, Heederik D, Vermeulen R. Phthalates, perfluoroalkyl acids, metals and organochlorines and reproductive function: a multipollutant assessment in Greenlandic, Polish and Ukrainian men. Occup Environ Med 2014; 72:385-93. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2014-102264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Vested A, Giwercman A, Bonde JP, Toft G. Persistent organic pollutants and male reproductive health. Asian J Androl 2014; 16:71-80. [PMID: 24369135 PMCID: PMC3901884 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.122345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are man-made bioaccumulative compounds with long half-lives that are found throughout the world as a result of heavy use in a variety of consumer products during the twentieth century. Wildlife and animal studies have long suggested adverse effects of exposure to these compounds on human reproductive health, which, according to the endocrine disrupter hypothesis, are ascribed to the compounds’ potential to interfere with endocrine signaling, especially when exposure occurs during certain phases of fetal and childhood development. An extensive number of epidemiological studies have addressed the possible effects of exposure to POPs on male reproductive health, but the results are conflicting. Thus far, most studies have focused on investigating exposure and the different reproductive health outcomes during adulthood. Some studies have addressed the potential harmful effects of fetal exposure with respect to malformations at birth and/or reproductive development, whereas only a few studies have been able to evaluate whether intrauterine exposure to POPs has long-term consequences for male reproductive health with measurable effects on semen quality markers and reproductive hormone levels in adulthood. Humans are not exposed to a single compound at a time, but rather, to a variety of different substances with potential divergent hormonal effects. Hence, how to best analyze epidemiological data on combined exposures remains a significant challenge. This review on POPs will focus on current knowledge regarding the potential effects of exposure to POPs during fetal and childhood life and during adulthood on male reproductive health, including a critical revision of the endocrine disruption hypothesis, a comment on pubertal development as part of reproductive development and a comment on how to account for combined exposures in epidemiological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Vested
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Danish Ramazzini Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Pant N, Shukla M, Upadhyay AD, Chaturvedi PK, Saxena DK, Gupta YK. Association between environmental exposure to p, p'-DDE and lindane and semen quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:11009-11016. [PMID: 24793071 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-2965-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Scientific concern exists about the toxic effect of dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p, p'-DDE) and lindane on male infertility, and the mechanism underlying male reproductive toxicity of this pesticide remains unanswered. We investigated not only the possible association between the chlorinated pesticide levels and semen quality in nonoccupationally exposed men, but also the probable mode of action using mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA). A study in 278 men (21-40 years old) who visited Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, KGMU, Lucknow, for semen analysis was conducted. We performed semen analysis according to the WHO guidelines, while p, p'-DDE and lindane analysis was done by the GLC and LPO by the spectrophotometer, and the sperm mitochondrial status, ROS, and SCSA with the flow cytometer. The questionnaire data showed no significant difference in the demographic characteristics between the two groups, i.e., trying to conceive >1 year and proven fertility. However, a significant difference in the concentration of p, p'-DDE and lindane was observed between the groups. When the subjects were divided among four categories by quartile of exposure, the subjects in the highest quartile showed low sperm motility as compared to the subjects in the lowest quartile. Pearson's correlation showed a significant negative correlation between semen p, p'-DDE, lindane level, and sperm quality and positive association with the number of cells with depolarized mitochondria, elevation in ROS production and LPO, and DNA fragmentation index (DFI). The findings are suggestive that these toxicants might cause a decline in semen quality, and these effects might be ROS, LPO, and mitochondrial dysfunction mediated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Pant
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, (AIIMS), Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India,
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18
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Consales C, Leter G, Bonde JPE, Toft G, Eleuteri P, Moccia T, Budillon A, Jonsson BAG, Giwercman A, Pedersen HS, Ludwicki JK, Zviezdai V, Heederik D, Spano M. Indices of methylation in sperm DNA from fertile men differ between distinct geographical regions. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2065-72. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Jeng HA. Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals and male reproductive health. Front Public Health 2014; 2:55. [PMID: 24926476 PMCID: PMC4046332 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with normal hormonal balance and may exert adverse consequences on humans. The male reproductive system may be susceptible to the effects of such environmental toxicants. This review discusses the recent progress in scientific data mainly from epidemiology studies on the associations between EDCs and male reproductive health and our understanding of possible mechanisms associated with the effects of EDCs on male reproductive health. Finally, the review provides recommendations on future research to enhance our understanding of EDCs and male reproductive health. The review highlights the need for (1) well-defined longitudinal epidemiology studies, with appropriately designed exposure assessment to determine potential causal relationships; (2) chemical and biochemical approaches aimed at a better understanding of the mechanism of action of xenoestrogens with regard to low-dose effects, and assessment of identify genetic susceptibility factors associated with the risk of adverse effects following exposure to EDCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hueiwang Anna Jeng
- School of Community and Environmental Health, College of Health Sciences, Old Dominion University , Norfolk, VA , USA
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20
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Zhao XM, Ren JJ, Zhao SJ, Cui LS, Hao HS, Wang HY, Du WH, Qin T, Liu Y, Wang D, Zhu HB. Apoptosis-like events and in vitro fertilization capacity of sex-sorted bovine sperm. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:543-549. [PMID: 24894655 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study utilized three staining assays (Annexin V, mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1) and TUNEL) for flow cytometric analysis of apoptosis in sex-sorted sperm from four different bulls (A, B, C and D). Correlations between sperm quality and IVF efficiency were then assessed to determine which assay provided the best prediction of IVF efficiency. The results of the Annexin V assays, as well as measures of viable sperm, early apoptosis, necrotic sperm and mitochondrial membrane potential (∆ψm) showed that the sex-sorted sperm collected from bull A significantly differed from those of the other three bulls (p < 0.05). In addition, the levels of DNA fragmentation in sex-sorted sperm from bull A were significantly lower than those from bulls B and C (p < 0.05). The percentage of cells reaching the cleavage and blastocyst stages in sex-sorted sperm from bull A were significantly greater than those from the other bulls (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was observed between viable sperm and the percentage of cells at the cleavage or blastocyst stages (p < 0.05). In contrast, a negative correlation was found between early apoptotic sperm and the percentage of cells at the cleavage or blastocyst stages (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these results indicated that the Annexin V assay was the most reliable technique for the prediction of the IVF success of sex-sorted bovine sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- X-M Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - J-J Ren
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - S-J Zhao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - L-S Cui
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - H-S Hao
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - H-Y Wang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - W-H Du
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - T Qin
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - Y Liu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - D Wang
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
| | - H-B Zhu
- Embryo Biotechnology and Reproduction Laboratory, Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, China
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Wright C, Milne S, Leeson H. Sperm DNA damage caused by oxidative stress: modifiable clinical, lifestyle and nutritional factors in male infertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:684-703. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Revised: 02/01/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Tavares RS, Mansell S, Barratt CLR, Wilson SM, Publicover SJ, Ramalho-Santos J. p,p'-DDE activates CatSper and compromises human sperm function at environmentally relevant concentrations. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3167-77. [PMID: 24067601 PMCID: PMC3829580 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the environmental endocrine disruptor p,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE) able to induce non-genomic changes in human sperm and consequently affect functional sperm parameters? SUMMARY ANSWER p,p′-DDE promoted Ca2+ flux into human sperm by activating CatSper channels even at doses found in human reproductive fluids, ultimately compromising sperm parameters important for fertilization. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY p,p′-DDE may promote non-genomic actions and interact directly with pre-existing signaling pathways, as already observed in other cell types. However, although often found in both male and female reproductive fluids, its effects on human spermatozoa function are not known. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Normozoospermic sperm samples from healthy individuals were included in this study. Samples were exposed to several p,p′-DDE concentrations for 3 days at 37°C and 5% CO2in vitro to mimic the putative continuous exposure to this toxicant in the female reproductive tract in vivo. Shorter p,p′-DDE incubation periods were also performed in order to monitor sperm rapid Ca2+ responses. All experiments were repeated on a minimum of five sperm samples from different individuals. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All healthy individuals were recruited at the Biosciences School, University of Birmingham, the Medical Research Institute, University of Dundee and in the Human Reproduction Service at University Hospitals of Coimbra. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was monitored by imaging single spermatozoa loaded with Oregon Green BAPTA-1AM and further whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed to validate our results. Sperm viability and acrosomal integrity were assessed using the LIVE/DEAD sperm vitality kit and the acrosomal content marker PSA-FITC, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE p,p′-DDE rapidly increased [Ca2+]i (P < 0.05) even at extremely low doses (1 pM and 1 nM), with magnitudes of response up to 200%, without affecting sperm viability, except after 3 days of continuous exposure to the highest concentration tested (P < 0.05). Furthermore, experiments performed in a low Ca2+ medium demonstrated that extracellular Ca2+ influx was responsible for this Ca2+ increase (P < 0.01). Mibefradil and NNC 55-0396, both inhibitors of the sperm-specific CatSper channel, reversed the p,p′-DDE-induced [Ca2+]i rise, suggesting the participation of CatSper in this process (P < 0.05). In fact, whole-cell patch-clamp recordings confirmed CatSper as a target of p,p′-DDE action by monitoring an increase in CatSper currents of >100% (P < 0.01). Finally, acrosomal integrity was adversely affected after 2 days of exposure to p,p′-DDE concentrations, suggesting that [Ca2+]i rise may cause premature acrosome reaction (P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study, and caution must be taken when extrapolating the results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A novel non-genomic p,p′-DDE mechanism specific to sperm is shown in this study. p,p′-DDE was able to induce [Ca2+]i rise in human sperm through the opening of CatSper consequently compromising male fertility. The promiscuous nature of CatSper activation may predispose human sperm to the action of some persistent endocrine disruptors. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by both the Portuguese National Science Foundation (FCT; PEst-C/SAU/LA0001/2011) and the UK Wellcome Trust (Grant #86470). SM was supported by the Infertility Research Trust. RST is a recipient of a PhD fellowship from FCT (SFRH/BD/46002/2008). None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata S Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3001-401, Portugal
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Lim JJ, Lee JI, Kim DH, Song SH, Kim HJ, Lee WS, Lee DR. DNA fragmentation of human sperm can be detected by ligation-mediated real-time polymerase chain reaction. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1564-71.e1-5. [PMID: 24034935 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether ligation-mediated real-time polymerase chain reaction (LM-RT-PCR), which combines LM-PCR, and RT-PCR, can detect sperm DNA fragmentation (DF) in human semen samples. DESIGN Three-way comparison of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD), and LM-RT-PCR for detecting sperm DNA fragmentation. SETTING University hospital-based research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Twenty-five men presenting at an infertility clinic. INTERVENTION(S) Basic analysis of sperm concentration, motility, vitality, and morphology, with each semen sample equally divided into three aliquots that were evaluated for fragmentation using TUNEL, SCD, and LM-RT-PCR assays. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) In TUNEL and SCD assays, counts of the number of sperm with tetramethylrhodamine (TMR) red signals or no halo; in LM-RT-PCR results, evaluation of the threshold cycles (Ct) and relative fluorescence unit (RFU) values. RESULT(S) The median percentage of sperm with positive results for fragmentation in the TUNEL and SCD assays were 20.5% and 20.7%, respectively. To compare the accuracy of the TUNEL, SCD, and LM-RT-PCR assays, we divided the semen samples into two groups according to the TUNEL results: low and high percentage of sperm fragmentation. In the LM-RT-PCR results, the values of the cycles of threshold (Ct) and relative fluorescence unit (RFU) statistically significantly differed between the low and high percentage of sperm fragmentation groups. Comparisons among the TUNEL, SCD, and LM-RT-PCR assays revealed that the correlation patterns according to DNA fragmentation were similar in both the groups with high and low percentage of DNA fragmentation. Our morphologic analysis indicated that the fragmentation of sperm DNA did not appear to influence sperm morphology. CONCLUSION(S) These results indicate that the LM-RT-PCR technique is another useful tool for detecting DNA fragmentation, a parameter of sperm quality in human semen alone or combined with TUNEL or SCD assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Jin Lim
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, College of Medicine, CHA University, Seoul, South Korea
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Brokken LJS, Rylander L, Jönsson BA, Spanò M, Pedersen HS, Ludwicki JK, Zviezdai V, Bizzaro D, Manicardi GC, Toft G, Bonde JP, Giwercman A, Lundberg Giwercman Y. Non-linear association between androgen receptor CAG and GGN repeat lengths and reproductive parameters in fertile European and Inuit men. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 370:163-71. [PMID: 23510718 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Revised: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Recently the dogma that there is an inverse linear association between androgen receptor (AR) CAG and GGN polymorphisms and receptor activity has been challenged. We analysed the pattern of association between 21 male reproductive phenotypes and AR CAG/GGN repeat lengths in 557 proven-fertile men. A linear association was only found between sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and CAG length, and between inhibin B and GGN length. Men with longer CAG then the reference (22-24), had higher oestradiol levels, whereas men with shorter CAG stretches had a higher DFI and a higher proportion of Fas-positive germ cells. Subjects with either short or long CAG had increased seminal levels of prostate-specific antigen and neutral α-glucosidase activity. Compared to men with the median GGN length of 23, those with shorter GGN repeats had higher levels of inhibin B, higher proportions of normal and progressive sperm, and a higher fraction of Fas-positive sperm, while men with longer GGN had higher oestradiol levels. These data indicate that at least for some markers of male reproductive function the association with CAG or GGN repeat length is curvilinear.
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Affiliation(s)
- L J S Brokken
- Department of Reproductive Molecular Medicine, Lund University, SE-20502 Malmö, Sweden.
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Long M, Bonefeld-Jørgensen EC. Dioxin-like activity in environmental and human samples from Greenland and Denmark. CHEMOSPHERE 2012; 89:919-28. [PMID: 22858370 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2012.06.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2011] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 06/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Dioxins and dioxin-like (DL) compounds are some of the most toxic chemicals being highly persistent in the environment. The toxicological effects of dioxins are mediated via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Compounds of diverse structure and lipophility can bind and activate AhR. The AhR transactivation bioassay is utilized in an array of projects to study the AhR-mediated activities of individual chemicals and mixtures and for epidemiological purposes. This review summarizes a series of studies regarding the DL-activity of single compounds and complex compound mixtures in the environment and humans. We found that some pesticides, plasticizers and phytoestrogens can activate the AhR, and the combined effect of compounds with no or weak AhR potency cannot be ignored. The significant DL-activity in the wastewater effluent indicates the treatment is not sufficient to prevent contamination of surface waters with dioxins. Our results from human studies suggest that the serum DL-activity reflect the complex mixture of persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Greenlandic Inuit had lower serum DL-activity level compared to Europeans, probably due to long distance from the dioxin sources and UV degradation of the high potent dioxin and/or the inhibitory effect of the high level of non-DL POPs. Selective bioaccumulation of PCBs in the food chain may contribute to the negative correlation between serum POPs and DL-activity observed in Greenlandic Inuit. Hence the AhR transactivation bioassay provides a cost-effective and integrated screening tool for measurement of the DL-activity in human, environmental and commercial samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manhai Long
- Cellular & Molecular Toxicology, Centre of Arctic Health, Department of public Health, Arhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
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Relationship between apoptotic markers in semen from fertile men and demographic, hormonal and seminal characteristics. Asian J Androl 2012; 14:890-6. [PMID: 23064689 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2012.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis in the testis has two putative roles during normal spermatogenesis; limitation of the germ cell population to numbers that can be supported by the Sertoli cells, and, possibly, selective depletion of meiotic and postmeiotic abnormal germ cells. We investigated the demographic and biological correlates of the pro-apoptotic marker Fas and the anti-apoptotic marker Bcl-xL in sperm cells of fertile men. Six hundred and four men from Greenland, Poland and Ukraine were consecutively enrolled during their pregnant wife's antenatal visits. Semen analysis was performed as recommended by the World Health Organization. Immunofluorescence coupled to flow cytometry was utilized for detection of apoptotic markers in the sperm cell. DNA damage was assessed by flow cytometry using both the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay. The percentage of Fas-positive sperm cells was higher in men with high total sperm count (P<0.01), more motile sperms (P=0.04) and fewer sperm head defects (P=0.05). These associations were consistent within and across study regions. Furthermore, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and sexual hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were significantly negatively correlated with Fas within and across regions as well. The data indicated no association between the anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL marker and semen or personal characteristics. The finding of Fas-positive sperm cells associated with better semen quality in a cohort of spouses of pregnant women seems different from previous data obtained in infertile men and warrants further investigation to clarify the biological significance of sperm apoptotic markers.
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Specht IO, Hougaard KS, Spanò M, Bizzaro D, Manicardi GC, Lindh CH, Toft G, Jönsson BA, Giwercman A, Bonde JPE. Sperm DNA integrity in relation to exposure to environmental perfluoroalkyl substances – A study of spouses of pregnant women in three geographical regions. Reprod Toxicol 2012; 33:577-583. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Katukam V, Kulakarni M, Syed R, Alharbi K, Naik J. Effect of benzene exposure on fertility of male workers employed in bulk drug industries. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2012; 16:592-7. [PMID: 22304538 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2011.0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Industrial workers are constantly exposed to benzene, especially at the production unit. The present investigation explores any association of the outcome of various reproductive malfunctions in terms of infertility and other related factors as a result of benzene exposure. METHODOLOGY Blood and semen samples were collected from total 160 industrial workers exposed to benzene and 200 nonoccupationally exposed control subjects. We investigated macroscopic and microscopic semen parameters in the present study population. Body fluid benzene analysis was done by Head Space chromatography. The sperm DNA integrity was determined by modified alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis or the comet assay method. RESULTS No significant changes were observed in macroscopic semen parameters. A duration-dependent decrement in total sperm count and the percentage of motility was observed among the benzene-exposed industrial workers (p<0.05). A duration-dependent increment of abnormal sperm morphology was observed among the benzene-exposed industrial workers (p<0.01). A significant increase in comet tail length was observed in the exposed groups (p<0.01) in comparison to the controls. In regression analysis, the data were observed to be significant at the level of p<0.05 for Group II industrial workers (t=2.301). CONCLUSION Sperm integrity is considered one of the major factors in male infertility. The sperm DNA damage is an important step from spermatogenesis to malfunctions such as infertility; therefore, the present study represents an important evaluation for correctly diagnosing the problem, precisely from the level of DNA itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vani Katukam
- Department of Zoology, Toxicology Lab, Osmania University College for Women, Hyderabad, India
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Charalambous A, Antoniades I, Christodoulou N, Skourides PA. Split-inteins for simultaneous, site-specific conjugation of quantum dots to multiple protein targets in vivo. J Nanobiotechnology 2011; 9:37. [PMID: 21920033 PMCID: PMC3196691 DOI: 10.1186/1477-3155-9-37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 09/15/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Proteins labelled with Quantum Dots (QDs) can be imaged over long periods of time with ultrahigh spatial and temporal resolution, yielding important information on the spatiotemporal dynamics of proteins within live cells or in vivo. However one of the major problems regarding the use of QDs for biological imaging is the difficulty of targeting QDs onto proteins. We have recently developed a DnaE split intein-based method to conjugate Quantum Dots (QDs) to the C-terminus of target proteins in vivo. In this study, we expand this approach to achieve site-specific conjugation of QDs to two or more proteins simultaneously with spectrally distinguishable QDs for multiparameter imaging of cellular functions. Results Using the DnaE split intein we target QDs to the C-terminus of paxillin and show that paxillin-QD conjugates become localized at focal adhesions allowing imaging of the formation and dissolution of these complexes. We go on to utilize a different split intein, namely Ssp DnaB mini-intein, to demonstrate N-terminal protein tagging with QDs. Combination of these two intein systems allowed us to simultaneously target two distinct proteins with spectrally distinguishable QDs, in vivo, without any cross talk between the two intein systems. Conclusions Multiple target labeling is a unique feature of the intein based methodology which sets it apart from existing tagging methodologies in that, given the large number of characterized split inteins, the number of individual targets that can be simultaneously tagged is only limited by the number of QDs that can be spectrally distinguished within the cell. Therefore, the intein-mediated approach for simultaneous, in vivo, site-specific (N- and C-terminus) conjugation of Quantum Dots to multiple protein targets opens up new possibilities for bioimaging applications and offers an effective system to target QDs and other nanostructures to intracellular compartments as well as specific molecular complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Charalambous
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus
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Disruption of spermatogenesis and differential regulation of testicular estrogen receptor expression in mice after polychlorinated biphenyl exposure. Toxicology 2011; 287:21-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2011.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Lange-Consiglio A, Antonucci N, Manes S, Corradetti B, Cremonesi F, Bizzaro D. Morphometric characteristics and chromatin integrity of spermatozoa in three Italian dog breeds. J Small Anim Pract 2011; 51:624-7. [PMID: 21121916 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2010.01001.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Studies in many species indicate that variation of spermatozoan head morphology is a sensitive biomarker for abnormal chromatin structure and resultant clinical fertility. This preliminary study evaluated spermatozoan head morphometry in different dog breeds and assessed whether morphometric parameters could reflect spermatozoan DNA fragmentation in dogs. METHODS Spermatozoan morphometry and DNA quality (measured by TUNEL flow cytometry) were assessed in semen from 11 dogs of three Italian breeds (Cirneco dell'Etna, Piccolo Levriero Italiano and Segugio Maremmano). RESULTS Morphometric data showed that Segugio dogs had significantly larger (33·67%) spermatozoa and that Piccolo Levrieros had a higher incidence of long (46·75%) and elliptical spermatozoan heads (11·5%) when compared with the samples from other breeds. Moreover, the predominance of elliptical spermatozoa in one dog (23%) was significantly related to the percentage of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA (12·6%), whereas in another dog, where no more than 1% of spermatozoa was elliptical, only 0·36% of spermatozoa had damaged DNA. It is noteworthy that the breeding record of the former dog in the previous 12 months showed poor fertility and fecundity. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These data suggest that spermatozoan head morphometry could be breed related and that there is a significant correlation between DNA fragmentation and elliptical spermatozoa in individual animals. This finding, albeit limited in our study to a single case, is possibly related to clinical infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lange-Consiglio
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Reproduction Unit, Large Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
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Ravoori S, Srinivasan C, Pereg D, Robertson LW, Ayotte P, Gupta RC. Protective effects of selenium against DNA adduct formation in Inuit environmentally exposed to PCBs. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2010; 36:980-6. [PMID: 19735942 PMCID: PMC3354714 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2009.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2009] [Accepted: 08/05/2009] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Dietary habits that expose populations to potential toxicants as well as protective agents simultaneously are a realistic scenario where a meaningful assessment of the interactions and net benefit or damage can be made. A group of Inuit from Salluit, Northern Canada are exposed to high levels of PCBs and selenium, both present in the Inuit traditional foods such as blubber from sea mammals and fatty fish. Blood samples were collected from 83 Inuit, 22-70 years old. Blood selenium and PCB levels were determined previously and ranged from 227 to 2069µg/L and 1.7 to 143µg/L, respectively. DNA isolated from white blood cells were analyzed by modified (32)P-postlabeling adductomics technology that detects a multitude of highly polar to lipophilic adducts. The levels of 8-oxodG adducts ranged from 470 to 7400 adducts/10(9) nucleotides. Other as yet unidentified polar adducts showed a 30 to 800-fold inter-individual variability. Adduct levels were negatively associated with PCB and selenium levels. The subjects were classified into high and low ratio groups, with respect to selenium/PCB. In the high ratio group, the coefficient of selenium is significantly negatively correlated with 8-oxodG (r = -0.38, p = 0.014) and total adducts (r = -0.41, p = 0.009) while there was no correlation within the low selenium/PCB group. This study suggests that increasing selenium has mitigating effect in reducing DNA adducts and therefore, possible negative effects of PCB were not seen. A protective effect of selenium is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srivani Ravoori
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
| | - Cidambi Srinivasan
- Department of Statistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
| | - Daria Pereg
- Laval University Medical Research Center, Quebec, QC, G1V 5B3, Canada
| | | | - Pierre Ayotte
- Laval University Medical Research Center, Quebec, QC, G1V 5B3, Canada
| | - Ramesh C Gupta
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202 USA
- To whom correspondence should be sent at 304E Baxter II Research Building, 580 S. Preston St., Louisville, KY 40202, USA. Phone: 502-852-3682; Fax: 502-852-3662;
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Muratori M, Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Guido C, Forti G, Baldi E. Critical Aspects of Detection of Sperm DNA Fragmentation by Tunel/Flow Cytometry. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2010; 56:277-85. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2010.489660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Abstract
The integrity of the paternal genome is essential as the spermatozoon can bring genetic damage into the oocyte at fertilization and contribute to the development of abnormal pregnancy outcome. During the past two decades, many assays have been developed to measure sperm DNA strand breaks, chromatin structure and compaction and assess the proteins associated with the DNA, as well as epigenetic modifications. Using these assays, it has been shown that exposure to physical agents or chemicals, including therapeutic drugs and environmental toxicants, can affect the integrity of sperm chromatin, inducing structural, genetic and/or epigenetic abnormalities. The mechanisms by which such damage is triggered are still largely unresolved and the susceptibility of each individual will depend on their genetic background, lifestyle and exposure to various insults. Depending on the nature of the chemicals, they may directly target the DNA, induce an oxidative stress, or modify the epigenetic elements. The significance of measuring the sperm chromatin integrity comes from the fact that this end-point correlates well with the low IVF and ICSI outcomes, and idiopathic infertility. Nevertheless, it is hard to establish a direct link between the paternal sperm chromatin integrity and the health of the future generations. Thus, it seems essential to undertake studies that will resolve the impact of chemical and environmental factors on chromatin structure and epigenetic components of human spermatozoa and to elucidate what sperm nuclear end-points are predictors of the quality of progeny outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Delbès
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Eskenazi B, Chevrier J, Rosas LG, Anderson HA, Bornman MS, Bouwman H, Chen A, Cohn BA, de Jager C, Henshel DS, Leipzig F, Leipzig JS, Lorenz EC, Snedeker SM, Stapleton D. The Pine River statement: human health consequences of DDT use. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2009; 117:1359-67. [PMID: 19750098 PMCID: PMC2737010 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.11748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) was used worldwide until the 1970s, when concerns about its toxic effects, its environmental persistence, and its concentration in the food supply led to use restrictions and prohibitions. In 2001, more than 100 countries signed the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), committing to eliminate the use of 12 POPs of greatest concern. However, DDT use was allowed for disease vector control. In 2006, the World Health Organization and the U.S. Agency for International Development endorsed indoor DDT spraying to control malaria. To better inform current policy, we reviewed epidemiologic studies published from 2003 to 2008 that investigated the human health consequences of DDT and/or DDE (dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene) exposure. DATA SOURCES AND EXTRACTION We conducted a PubMed search in October 2008 and retrieved 494 studies. DATA SYNTHESIS Use restrictions have been successful in lowering human exposure to DDT, but blood concentrations of DDT and DDE are high in countries where DDT is currently being used or was more recently restricted. The recent literature shows a growing body of evidence that exposure to DDT and its breakdown product DDE may be associated with adverse health outcomes such as breast cancer, diabetes, decreased semen quality, spontaneous abortion, and impaired neurodevelopment in children. CONCLUSIONS Although we provide evidence to suggest that DDT and DDE may pose a risk to human health, we also highlight the lack of knowledge about human exposure and health effects in communities where DDT is currently being sprayed for malaria control. We recommend research to address this gap and to develop safe and effective alternatives to DDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Eskenazi
- School of Public Health, University of California-Berkeley, 2150 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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de Jager C, Aneck-Hahn N, Bornman M, Farias P, Leter G, Eleuteri P, Rescia M, Spano M. Sperm chromatin integrity in DDT-exposed young men living in a malaria area in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:2429-38. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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Mahfouz RZ, Sharma RK, Said TM, Erenpreiss J, Agarwal A. Association of sperm apoptosis and DNA ploidy with sperm chromatin quality in human spermatozoa. Fertil Steril 2009; 91:1110-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.01.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Sousa APM, Tavares RS, Velez de la Calle JF, Figueiredo H, Almeida V, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J. Dual use of Diff-Quik-like stains for the simultaneous evaluation of human sperm morphology and chromatin status. Hum Reprod 2008; 24:28-36. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Bonde JP, Toft G, Rylander L, Rignell-Hydbom A, Giwercman A, Spano M, Manicardi GC, Bizzaro D, Ludwicki JK, Zvyezday V, Bonefeld-Jørgensen EC, Pedersen HS, Jönsson BAG, Thulstrup AM. Fertility and markers of male reproductive function in Inuit and European populations spanning large contrasts in blood levels of persistent organochlorines. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2008; 116:269-77. [PMID: 18335090 PMCID: PMC2265036 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.10700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2007] [Accepted: 11/23/2007] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We synthesized the main findings from an international epidemiologic study on the impact of biopersistent organic pollutants (POPs) on human reproductive function. DATA SOURCES AND EXTRACTION We used a database with interview and biological data from 2,269 women and their spouses, and 18 published core papers. DATA SYNTHESIS The study did not provide direct evidence of hormone-like activity of the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener CB-153 and the main dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) metabolite, 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene (p,p'-DDE), as serum concentrations of these compounds were not consistently related to either endogenous or exogenous hormone activity in serum. Nevertheless several links bewteen POP exposure and biomarkers of male reproductive function were identified. First, an association between high CB-153 serum levels and low sperm counts was detected within a subgroup of men with short androgen receptor CAG repeat length. Second, a relationship between increased CB-153 serum concentrations and decreased sperm motility was seen in all four studied regions, and indications of reduced neutral alpha-glucosidase activity in seminal plasma point to a post-testicular effect. Third, damage of sperm chromatin integrity was considerably less frequent in Greenlandic Inuits compared with that in European groups, and only in the latter was impairment of sperm chromatin integrity related to POPs. Despite these effects, fertility in terms of time taken to conceive was not related to POPs except in Inuits. A likely explanation of the latter was not identified. CONCLUSIONS POPs may interfere with male reproductive function without major impact on fertility. The data do not provide direct evidence for endocrine disruption, hence other mechanisms should also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Arhus, Denmark.
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Krüger T, Spanò M, Long M, Eleuteri P, Rescia M, Hjelmborg PS, Manicardi GC, Bizzaro D, Giwercman A, Toft G, Bonde JP, Bonefeld-Jorgensen EC. Xenobiotic activity in serum and sperm chromatin integrity in European and inuit populations. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:669-80. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Exposure to environmental toxins in males seeking infertility treatment: a case-controlled study. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:842-50. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60151-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Long M, Stronati A, Bizzaro D, Krüger T, Manicardi GC, Hjelmborg PS, Spanò M, Giwercman A, Toft G, Bonde JP, Bonefeld-Jorgensen EC. Relation between serum xenobiotic-induced receptor activities and sperm DNA damage and sperm apoptotic markers in European and Inuit populations. Reproduction 2007; 133:517-30. [PMID: 17307920 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can interfere with hormone activities and are suspected as endocrine disrupters involved in disorders, e.g. reproductive disorders. We investigated the possible relation between the actual integrated serum xenoestrogenic, xenoandrogenic and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activities, and the sperm DNA damage and sperm apoptotic markers of 262 adult males (54 Inuits from Greenland, 69 from Warsaw (Poland), 81 from Sweden, and 58 from Kharkiv (Ukraine)) exposed to different levels of POPs. Xenobiotic-induced receptor activities were determined by receptor-mediated luciferase reporter gene expression. Sperm DNA damage was measured using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-driven dUTP nick labeling assay (TUNEL) and pro- (Fas) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-xL) markers were determined by immune methods. Different features of xenobiotic-induced receptor activity in serum and sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptotic markers existed between the Inuits and the European Caucasians. Negative correlations between xenobiotic-induced receptor activities and DNA damage were found for Inuits having relatively lower xenoestrogenic, lower dioxin-like activity, and lower sperm DNA damage, but higher xenoandrogenic activity. In contrast, in the European groups, xenobiotic-induced receptor activities were found to be positively correlated with the DNA damage. Further research must elucidate whether altered receptor activities in concerted action with genetic and/or nutrient factors may have protecting effect on sperm DNA damage of the Inuit population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manhai Long
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Toxicology (CMT), Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Aarhus, Vennelyst Boulevard 6, Build 1260, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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