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Ding J, Lu B, Liu L, Zhong Z, Wang N, Li B, Sheng W, He Q. Guilu-Erxian-Glue alleviates Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside-induced oligoasthenospermia in rats by resisting ferroptosis via the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2023; 61:213-227. [PMID: 36688426 PMCID: PMC9873281 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2023.2165114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Guilu-Erxian-Glue (GLEXG) is a traditional Chinese formula used to improve male reproductive dysfunction. OBJECTIVE To investigate the ferroptosis resistance of GLEXG in the improvement of semen quality in the oligoasthenospermia (OAS) rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administered Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside, a compound extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F. (Celastraceae), at a dose of 40 mg/kg/day, to establish an OAS model. Fifty-four SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham, model, low-dose GLEXG (GLEXGL, 0.25 g/kg/day), moderate-dose GLEXG (GLEXGM, 0.50 g/kg/day), high-dose GLEXG (GLEXGH, 1.00 g/kg/day) and vitamin E (0.01 g/kg/day) group. The semen quality, structure and function of sperm mitochondria, histopathology, levels of oxidative stress and iron, and mRNA levels and protein expression in the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway, were analyzed. RESULTS Compared with the model group, GLEXGH significantly improved sperm concentration (35.73 ± 15.42 vs. 17.40 ± 4.12, p < 0.05) and motility (58.59 ± 11.06 vs. 28.59 ± 9.42, p < 0.001), and mitigated testicular histopathology. Moreover, GLEXGH markedly reduced the ROS level (5684.28 ± 1345.47 vs. 15500.44 ± 2307.39, p < 0.001) and increased the GPX4 level (48.53 ± 10.78 vs. 23.14 ± 11.04, p < 0.01), decreased the ferrous iron level (36.31 ± 3.66 vs. 48.64 ± 7.74, p < 0.05), and rescued sperm mitochondrial morphology and potential via activating the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Ferroptosis resistance from GLEXG might be driven by activation of the Keap1/Nrf2/GPX4 pathway. Targeting ferroptosis is a novel approach for OAS therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ding
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Department of Andrology Clinic, Affiliated Bao’an Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Seventh Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Baowei Lu
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Lumei Liu
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zixuan Zhong
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Neng Wang
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Bonan Li
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Wen Sheng
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qinghu He
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Andrology Laboratory, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
- Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua, China
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Corsetti V, Notari T, Montano L. Effects of the low-carb organic Mediterranean diet on testosterone levels and sperm DNA fragmentation. Curr Res Food Sci 2023; 7:100636. [PMID: 38045510 PMCID: PMC10689274 DOI: 10.1016/j.crfs.2023.100636] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The causes of male infertility can vary. Lifestyles, environmental factors, stressful conditions, and socio-economic conditions are significant factors. Diet plays a crucial role in improving a man's reproductive capacity. The appropriate diet should be diverse and ensure the intake of all the necessary nutrients to enhance sperm quality. The Mediterranean diet, which includes high amounts of vegetables and fruits rich in detoxifying and antioxidant substances, as well as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and microelements, especially when consumed with organic foods and a lower carbohydrate regimen, are the key aspects addressed in this study. The objective of this research was to modify the diets of 50 subfertile men by providing them with a specific nutritional plan. This plan included consuming 80% organic foods, introducing whole grains and low glycemic load options, eliminating refined carbohydrates, consuming green leafy vegetables and red fruits daily, reducing or eliminating dairy products, consuming primarily grass-fed meat and wild caught seafood, eliminating saturated fats in favor of healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and nuts. After three months of adhering to the low-carb food plan, testosterone levels significantly increased, while sperm DNA fragmentation decreased in a subgroup of individuals who reduced their carbohydrate intake by 35%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Corsetti
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT)-CNR, Via Fosso del Cavaliere 100, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Tiziana Notari
- Check Up -Polydiagnostic and Research Laboratory, Andrology Unit, Viale Andrea De Luca 5/c, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL) Salerno, Coordination Unit of the Network for Environmental and Reproductive Health (Eco-Food Fertility Project), “S. Francesco di Assisi Hospital”, 84020, Oliveto Citra, SA, Italy
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133, Rome, Italy
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Kumbhare SD, Ukey SS, Gogle DP. Antioxidant activity of Flemingia praecox and Mucuna pruriens and their implications for male fertility improvement. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19360. [PMID: 37938242 PMCID: PMC10632466 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46705-9] [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: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, 15-24% couples are unable to conceive naturally and 50% of cases of this problem are due to infertility in males. Of this, about 50% of male infertility problems are developed due to unknown reasons called as idiopathic infertility. It is well established that, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have negative impact on male fertility and are involved in 80% of total idiopathic male infertility cases. Medicinal plants are considered as an alternative approach for mitigating the health problems. The plants with good antioxidant capacity can improve the male infertility symptoms generated by ROS. Such medicinal plants can be used to alleviate the symptoms of male infertility with their diverse phytoconstituents. Mucuna pruriens is a well-accepted herb, with its seeds being used to improve the male fertility in various ways and one of the ways is by eliminating the ROS. In our field survey, another plant, Flemingia praecox, although less known, its roots are used in all problems related to the male fertility by tribal people of the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra, India. The study was conducted to determine in vitro antioxidant potential of F. praecox and compared the results with the well-established male fertility improving plant M. pruriens with special emphasis on medicinally important roots of F. praecox and seeds of M. pruriens. The objective of the study was investigated by studying their total phenol (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content, antioxidant parameters (DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, DMPD, β-carotene bleaching and TAA) and finally DNA damage protection capacity of the plant extracts was studied. The plant parts used for the medicinal purposes have been investigated along with other major parts (leaves, stem and roots of both the plants) and compared with synthetic antioxidants, BHA, BHT and ascorbic acid. Moreover, the inhibition of two male infertility enzyme markers, PDE5 and arginase by F. praecox root and M. pruriens seed extract was also studied in vitro. The results showed that F. praecox possesses higher antioxidant activity than M. pruriens in the majority of studies as observed in TFC, DPPH, TAA, ABTS and DMPD assays. However, M. pruriens seeds showed best results in TPC, FRAP and DNA damage protection assay. F. praecox root extract also gave better PDE5 inhibition value than M. pruriens seeds. This study will help to establish the authenticity of F. praecox used by tribal people and will encourage its further use in managing the male infertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shravan D Kumbhare
- Post Graduate Teaching Department of Botany, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur, 440033, India
| | - Sanghadeep S Ukey
- Post Graduate Teaching Department of Botany, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur, 440033, India
- Department of Botany, Lokmanya Tilak College, Yavatmal, 445304, India
| | - Dayanand P Gogle
- Post Graduate Teaching Department of Botany, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur, 440033, India.
- Post Graduate Teaching Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, RTM Nagpur University, Nagpur, 440033, India.
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Najafi A, Mohammadi H, Sharifi SD. Enhancing post-thaw quality of ram epididymal sperm by supplementation of rutin in cryopreservation extender. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10873. [PMID: 37407620 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38022-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of different rutin concentrations on rams epididymal sperm. A local slaughterhouse provided 50 pair of testes from 25 rams. The testes were sent to the lab at room temperature. Spermatozoa were extracted by suspending portions of cauda epididymis in tris solution. Ram sperm was cryopreserved (in liquid nitrogen) in a tris extender containing rutin at 0, 0.5, 0.75, 1, and 1.25 mM. Rutin showed superior sperm total and progressive motility, beat cross frequency, straight line velocity, velocity average pathway and membrane integrity values at 0.75 and 1 mM. The morphology of the sperm and the superoxide dismutase levels did not significantly change with different treatments. Moreover, rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM was also shown to have the highest level of mitochondrial activity. The results showed ATP, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase levels were significantly greater in the rutin 0.75 and 1 mM groups (P < 0.05). Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM levels had the lowest reactive oxygen species concentrations. Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM substantially increased the proportion of viable sperm (P < 0.05). The lowest amount of apoptosis was observed in 0.75 and 1 mM rutin. Rutin at 0.75 and 1 mM yielded the least significant percentage of dead sperm. It may be inferred that adding 0.75 and 1 mM to the sperm extender can enhance the quality of the epididymal sperm in rams after the cryopreservation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abouzar Najafi
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hossein Mohammadi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Seyed Davood Sharifi
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Udom GJ, Ise UP, Aziakpono OM, Aturamu A, Ogbonnaya M, Umana IK, Okokon JE. Toxicological evaluation of a polyherbal formulation on testicular function and gonadal histomorphology in exposed Wistar rats. Biomedicine (Taipei) 2023; 13:40-47. [PMID: 37937303 PMCID: PMC10627203 DOI: 10.37796/2211-8039.1404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dr Iguedo Goko Cleanser® is a herbal formulation (HF) widely marketed in southern Nigeria and purported to be very efficacious for the management of various diseases including giardiasis, toilet infections, hypertension, diabetes, ulcer, impotence, low libido, low sperm count amongst others. Medicinal plants reportedly produce an array of adverse reactions capable of inducing harmful conditions, including death. Aim This study evaluated the subchronic toxicity concern of HF on testicular function and gonadal histoarchitecture in Wistar rats. Methods Thirty Wistar rats of both sexes were randomly divided into six groups (5/group) and were orally administered HF for 60 days. The control groups received 5 mL/kg of distilled water; the treatment groups were administered 476.24 and 158.75 mg/kg body weight of HF each for both male and female rats. Using standard procedures, semen analysis was done for all male rats. Animals were anaesthetised and sacrificed on the 62nd day; the gonads were eviscerated, weighed and fixed in 10% buffered formalin for histopathological examinations. Results Significant (p < 0.05) increase in sperm count relative to control as well as spermatotoxic effects were observed in male rats. Histologically, the ovary presented some degrees of pathologies: cloggy appearing ovarian cortex with a display of a tumour-like cortical area, scantily displayed primordial follicles, haemorrhagic blood vessels, atretic secondary follicle, and eroding granulosa cells amongst others. Testicular histopathology showed abnormal seminiferous tubules' histoarchitecture, degenerated spermatids, distorted spermatogenic cells' orientation, and displaced spermatids into the luminal space. Conclusion Herbal drugs are usually regarded to be completely safe due to their natural sources, however, this study discovered exposure-related toxic effects of Dr Iguedo Goko Cleanser® on testicular function and gonadal histomorphology. The findings recommend extreme caution with chronic use and avoidance whenever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Godswill James Udom
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University Oye Ekiti, PMB 373, Oye-Ekiti,
Nigeria
| | - Uduak Peter Ise
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bingham University, Karu,
Nigeria
| | - Omoirri Moses Aziakpono
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University Oye Ekiti, PMB 373, Oye-Ekiti,
Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji Aturamu
- Department of Human Physiology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti,
Nigeria
| | - Mba Ogbonnaya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Akwa,
Nigeria
| | - Israel Kevin Umana
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Madonna University, Elele,
Nigeria
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo,
Nigeria
| | - Jude Efiom Okokon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo,
Nigeria
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Gunasekaran P, Velmurugan Y, Arputharaj DS, Savaridasson JK, Hemamalini M, Venkatachalam R. In vitro contraceptive activities, molecular docking, molecular dynamics, MM-PBSA, non-covalent interaction and DFT studies of bioactive compounds from Aegle marmelos. Linn., leaves. Front Chem 2023; 11:1096177. [PMID: 36778035 PMCID: PMC9911112 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2023.1096177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Bioactive molecules from natural sources having contraceptive properties were excellent alternatives for modern hormonal contraceptives. Researchers around the world were working on identifying contraceptive leads targeting the male reproductive system rather than the usual female contraceptives. The lack of proper understanding on male contraceptive protein drug targets leads to insufficient evidence on activities of identified contraceptive compounds. The proteins specific to the male reproductive system and involved in sperm-egg fusion will be an excellent drug target to identify the male non-hormonal, reversible contraceptive leads. Inhibiting sperm hyaluronidase activity by natural non-hormonal compounds will lead to reversible and non-hormonal male contraception. The Aegle marmelos Linn. is one such important medicinal plant with valuable phytocompounds, used traditionally as a potential contraceptive measure. The in vivo experiments on leaf extracts of Aegle marmelos. Linn containing terpenes, sterols, and alkaloids shows prominent contraceptive activities. Moreover, this study explores the potential ability of the leaf extract on inhibiting the sperm hyaluronidase action with additional molecular details on the interaction between sperm hyaluronidases and three phytocompounds such as aegeline, marmin, and marminol. Material and methods: The in vitro hyaluronidase inhibition assay and Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) were used to evaluate the male contraceptive properties of the Aegle marmelos Linn. leaf extract. To identify the interaction profile of aegeline, marmin, and marmenol on sperm cell hyaluronidases the in-silico methods such as molecular docking, Non-Covalent Interaction analysis, Molecular dynamics, and Molecular Mechanics Poisson Boltzmann Surface Area were used. Results and discussion: The results of in vitro hyaluronidase inhibition assay and Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis shows the inhibition of hyaluronidase enzymatic activity and reduced sperm activities in the presence of leaf extracts. After incubation with leaf extracts for about 30 minutes time intervals show, the motility drops from progressive to non-progressive and ended up with complete immotile in 100 μg/ml concentration of leaf extract. The results of molecular docking, Non-Covalent Interaction analysis, Molecular dynamics, and Molecular mechanics Poisson Boltzmann Surface Area show that the phytocompounds marmin, and aegeline have the potential ability to inhibit sperm hyaluronidase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasanth Gunasekaran
- Centre of Advanced Study in Crystallography and Biophysics, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Yogaswaran Velmurugan
- Centre of Advanced Study in Crystallography and Biophysics, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | | | - Madhukar Hemamalini
- Department of Chemistry, Mother Teresa Women’s University, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Rajakannan Venkatachalam
- Centre of Advanced Study in Crystallography and Biophysics, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India,*Correspondence: Rajakannan Venkatachalam,
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Wang R, Qiao X, Wang X. Exploring the mechanisms of Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan on varicocele via network pharmacology and molecular docking. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14635. [PMID: 36372090 PMCID: PMC10078377 DOI: 10.1111/and.14635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele (VC) is a common urogenital disease that leads to a high risk of testicular pain or male infertility. The purpose of this research was to explore the molecular mechanism of the Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan (GFW) in the treatment of VC. The main active ingredients and targets information of GFW were screened by Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, and the targets related to VC were determined by GeneCards, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), and Disease Gene Network (DisGeNET) databases. The intersection of active ingredient targets and disease targets was selected to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network through the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database. Based on the use of CytoNCA plug-in to find the main targets, a 'component-target-disease' network was constructed by Cytoscape 3.8.2. Metascape was used for Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of drug and disease targets. Molecular docking was employed to investigate the binding interaction between the main active components and core targets. A total of 76 active components of GFW were screened out. The main targets of the active components on VC were tumour protein p53 (TP53), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit alpha (HIF1A), interleukin-6 (IL-6), caspase 3 (CASP3), catalase (CAT), prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). The PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, HIF-1 signalling pathway, and apoptosis signalling pathway were mainly involved in the regulation of VC. The results of molecular docking showed that the binding potential and activity of the main active components and the core targets of GFW were good. We found that GFW could alleviate apoptosis, participate in venous vessel morphogenesis, and reduce oxidative stress in the treatment of VC. This study can provide a reference for subsequent clinical and scientific research experiments, which can be used to design new drugs and develop new therapeutic instructions to treat VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruipeng Wang
- Department of Surgery The Third Hospital of Guangdong Medical University (Longjiang Hospital of Shunde District) Foshan China
| | - Xiaoye Qiao
- Department of Gynecology, Dongfang Hospital Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Beijing China
| | - Xiaobin Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
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Maciejewski R, Radzikowska-Büchner E, Flieger W, Kulczycka K, Baj J, Forma A, Flieger J. An Overview of Essential Microelements and Common Metallic Nanoparticles and Their Effects on Male Fertility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191711066. [PMID: 36078782 PMCID: PMC9518444 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Numerous factors affect reproduction, including stress, diet, obesity, the use of stimulants, or exposure to toxins, along with heavy elements (lead, silver, cadmium, uranium, vanadium, mercury, arsenic). Metals, like other xenotoxins, can cause infertility through, e.g., impairment of endocrine function and gametogenesis or excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The advancement of nanotechnology has created another hazard to human safety through exposure to metals in the form of nanomaterials (NMs). Nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit a specific ability to penetrate cell membranes and biological barriers in the human body. These ultra-fine particles (<100 nm) can enter the human body through the respiratory tract, food, skin, injection, or implantation. Once absorbed, NPs are transported to various organs through the blood or lymph. Absorbed NPs, thanks to ultrahigh reactivity compared to bulk materials in microscale size, disrupt the homeostasis of the body as a result of interaction with biological molecules such as DNA, lipids, and proteins; interfering with the functioning of cells, organs, and physiological systems; and leading to severe pathological dysfunctions. Over the past decades, much research has been performed on the reproductive effects of essential trace elements. The research hypothesis that disturbances in the metabolism of trace elements are one of the many causes of infertility has been unquestionably confirmed. This review examines the complex reproductive risks for men regarding the exposure to potentially harmless xenobiotics based on a series of 298 articles over the past 30 years. The research was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases searching for papers devoted to in vivo and in vitro studies related to the influence of essential elements (iron, selenium, manganese, cobalt, zinc, copper, and molybdenum) and widely used metallic NPs on male reproduction potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wojciech Flieger
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Kulczycka
- Institute of Health Sciences, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Alicja Forma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Flieger
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81448-7182
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Bai X, Liu Z, Tang T, Yu S, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Tang Y, Liu Z. An integrative approach to uncover the components, mechanisms, and functions of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions on male infertility. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:794448. [PMID: 36034828 PMCID: PMC9403420 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.794448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major and growing health problem with an estimated global prevalence of 4.2%. The current therapy is limited by the unknown etiology of MI, emphasizing the critical requirement forward to a more efficient method or medication. Through thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been shown to be effective in treating MI effectively. However, the components, mechanisms and functions of TCM prescriptions on MI are still obscure, severely limiting its clinical application. In order to discover the molecular mechanism of TCM against MI, our study presents a comprehensive approach integrated data mining, network pharmacology, molecular docking, UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and experimental validation. Here, we begin to acquire 289 clinical TCM prescriptions for MI from a TCM hospital’s outpatient department. Then, Core Chinese Materia Medica (CCMM) was then retrieved from the TCM Inheritance Support System (TCMISS), which was utilized to discover the underlying rules and connections in clinical prescriptions. After that, 98 CCMM components and 816 MI targets were obtained from ten distinct databases. Additionally, the network pharmacology methods, including network construction, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment, PPI analysis, were utilized to reveal that kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and beta-sitosterol are the core components of CCMM in treating MI. The mechanisms and functions of CCMM against MI are hormone regulation, anti-apoptosis, anti-oxidant stress, and anti-inflammatory. Furthermore, the strong connections between four core components and six key targets were verified using a molecular docking method. Following that, the core components of the CCMM extract were identified using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis. Finally, in vivo experiments demonstrated that CCMM and four core components could improve the density, motility, viability of sperm, lecithin corpuscle density, decrease the rate of sperm malformation and testis tissue damage, and regulate the protein expressions of AKT1, MAPK3/1, EGFR, and TNF-α in a mouse model of MI. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis and in vivo experiments further validated the results of data mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking. Our study could uncover the components, mechanisms, and functions of TCM prescriptions against MI and develop a new integrative approach to demonstrate TCM’s multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach to disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- Beijing Key Laboratory of TCM Basic Research on Prevention and Treatment of Major Disease, Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhejun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shujun Yu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yibo Tang, ; Zhenquan Liu,
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yibo Tang, ; Zhenquan Liu,
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Montano L, Maugeri A, Volpe MG, Micali S, Mirone V, Mantovani A, Navarra M, Piscopo M. Mediterranean Diet as a Shield against Male Infertility and Cancer Risk Induced by Environmental Pollutants: A Focus on Flavonoids. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031568. [PMID: 35163492 PMCID: PMC8836239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of environmental factors in influencing health status is well documented. Heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins, pesticides, ultrafine particles, produced by human activities put a strain on the body’s entire defense system. Therefore, together with public health measures, evidence-based individual resilience measures are necessary to mitigate cancer risk under environmental stress and to prevent reproductive dysfunction and non-communicable diseases; this is especially relevant for workers occupationally exposed to pollutants and/or populations residing in highly polluted areas. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of fruits and vegetables rich in flavonoids, that can promote the elimination of pollutants in tissues and fluids and/or mitigate their effects through different mechanisms. In this review, we collected evidence from pre-clinical and clinical studies showing that the impairment of male fertility and gonadal development, as well as cancers of reproductive system, due to the exposure of organic and inorganic pollutants, may be counteracted by flavonoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Montano
- Andrology Unit and Service of Lifestyle Medicine in UroAndrology, Local Health Authority (ASL), 84124 Salerno, Italy;
- PhD Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Maugeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy;
| | - Maria Grazia Volpe
- Institute of Food Sciences, National Research Council, CNR, 83100 Avellino, Italy;
| | - Salvatore Micali
- Urology Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Mirone
- Department of Neurosciences, Science of Reproduction and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alberto Mantovani
- Department of Food, Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary public health, Italian National Health Institute, 00161 Roma, Italy;
| | - Michele Navarra
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, 98166 Messina, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Marina Piscopo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
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11
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Reprotoxic Impact of Environment, Diet, and Behavior. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031303. [PMID: 35162326 PMCID: PMC8834893 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive health is progressively declining due to multiples endogenous and exogenous factors, such as environmental contaminants, diet and behavior. Accumulated evidences confirm that fertility and reproductive function have been adversely affected by exposure to chemical contaminants released in the environment. Today, the impact of diet and behavior on reproductive processes is also receiving special attention from the scientific community. Indeed, a close relationship between diet and fertility has been proven. Furthermore, a combination of unhealthy behavior, such as exposure to hazardous compounds and stress factors, poses living organisms at higher risk of reprotoxic effects. In particular, it has been described that poor life behaviors are associated with reduced male and female fertility due to decreased gamete quality and function. Most of the erroneous behaviors are, furthermore, a source of oxidative stress that, leading to epigenetic alterations, results in an impaired reproductive fitness. This review reports the detrimental impact of the most common environmental chemical stressors, diet, and behavior on reproductive functionality and success. Although clear evidences are still scarce, reassuring data are provided that a healthy diet and reverting unhealthy lifestyles may be of help to recover physiological reproductive conditions.
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12
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Tvrdá E, Benko F, Slanina T, du Plessis SS. The Role of Selected Natural Biomolecules in Sperm Production and Functionality. Molecules 2021; 26:5196. [PMID: 34500629 PMCID: PMC8434568 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26175196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence from in vivo as well as in vitro studies indicates that natural biomolecules may play important roles in the prevention or management of a wide array of chronic diseases. Furthermore, the use of natural compounds in the treatment of male sub- or infertility has been proposed as a potential alternative to conventional therapeutic options. As such, we aimed to evaluate the effects of selected natural biomolecules on the sperm production, structural integrity, and functional activity. At the same time, we reviewed their possible beneficial or adverse effects on male reproductive health. Using relevant keywords, a literature search was performed to collect currently available information regarding molecular mechanisms by which selected natural biomolecules exhibit their biological effects in the context of male reproductive dysfunction. Evidence gathered from clinical trials, in vitro experiments and in vivo studies suggest that the selected natural compounds affect key targets related to sperm mitochondrial metabolism and motion behavior, oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA integrity and cell death. The majority of reports emphasize on ameliorative, stimulating and protective effects of natural biomolecules on the sperm function. Nevertheless, possible adverse and toxic behavior of natural compounds has been indicated as well, pointing out to a possible dose-dependent impact of natural biomolecules on the sperm survival and functionality. As such, further research leading to a deeper understanding of the beneficial or adverse roles of natural compounds is necessary before these can be employed for the management of male reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Tvrdá
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (F.B.); (T.S.)
| | - Filip Benko
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (F.B.); (T.S.)
| | - Tomáš Slanina
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (F.B.); (T.S.)
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai 505055, United Arab Emirates;
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13
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Bai X, Tang Y, Li Q, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Liu Z, Yu S, Tang T, Wang S, Li L, Zhou K, Zheng Y, Liu Z. An Integrated Analysis of Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experiment Validation to Explore the New Candidate Active Component and Mechanism of Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus Coupled-Herbs in Treating Oligoasthenozoospermia. Drug Des Devel Ther 2021; 15:2059-2089. [PMID: 34040346 PMCID: PMC8139735 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s307015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE One of the most common types of male infertility is recognized as oligoasthenozoospermia (OA), characterized by low sperm count and quality in males. As a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus coupled-herbs (CSMFCH) has been known to act a curative effect on OA for thousands of years. Nevertheless, the substantial basis and molecular mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA remain elusive. METHODS Herein, an integrated approach, including network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experiment validation, was utilized to reveal the new candidate active component and mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA. RESULTS The results show that kaempferol is the most significant bioactive component of CSMFCH on OA. The mechanism and targets of CSMFCH against OA are relevant to hormone regulation, oxidant stress, and reproductive promotion. In order to validate network pharmacology results, molecular docking and experiment validation were conducted. In detail, molecular docking was employed to verify the strong binding interactions between kaempferol and the core targets. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS was used to identify kaempferol in the CSMFCH extract. In vitro and in vivo experiments further proved CSMFCH and kaempferol could enhance the mouse Leydig (TM3) and mouse Sertoli (TM4) cell viability, improve the male reproductive organ weights, sperm quality, and decrease testis tissue damage in the OA mouse model induced by CP. CONCLUSION Our results not only identify the new candidate active component of CSMFCH in treating OA but also provide new insights into the mechanisms of CSMFCH against OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhejun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shujun Yu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kailin Zhou
- School of Humanities, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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14
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Ferramosca A, Lorenzetti S, Di Giacomo M, Lunetti P, Murrieri F, Capobianco L, Dolce V, Coppola L, Zara V. Modulation of Human Sperm Mitochondrial Respiration Efficiency by Plant Polyphenols. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10020217. [PMID: 33540578 PMCID: PMC7912874 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant bioactives, such as polyphenols, can differentially affect (positively or negatively) sperm quality, depending on their concentration. These molecules have been proposed as natural scavengers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) for male infertility treatment. However, few data are available about their effects on the molecular mechanisms related to sperm quality and, in particular, to sperm mitochondrial function. We investigated the effects of quercetin, naringenin, genistein, apigenin, luteolin, and resveratrol at the concentration of 0.1-1000 nM on mitochondrial respiration efficiency. Upon chemical exposure, spermatozoa were swollen in a hypotonic solution and used for polarographic assays of mitochondrial respiration. All tested compounds, except for apigenin, caused a significant increase in the mitochondrial respiration efficiency at the concentration of 0.1 nM, and a significant decrease starting from concentrations of 10 nM. The analysis of oxygen consumption rate in the active and in the resting state of mitochondrial respiration suggested different mechanisms by which the tested compounds modulate mitochondrial function. Therefore, by virtue of their ability to stimulate the respiration active state, quercetin, genistein, and luteolin were found to improve mitochondrial function in asthenozoospermic samples. Our results are relevant to the debate on the promises and perils of natural antioxidants in nutraceutical supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Ferramosca
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, I-73100 Lecce, Italy; (M.D.G.); (P.L.); (L.C.); (V.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0832-298705; Fax: +39-0832-298626
| | - Stefano Lorenzetti
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, I-00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Mariangela Di Giacomo
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, I-73100 Lecce, Italy; (M.D.G.); (P.L.); (L.C.); (V.Z.)
| | - Paola Lunetti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, I-73100 Lecce, Italy; (M.D.G.); (P.L.); (L.C.); (V.Z.)
| | - Francesco Murrieri
- Biological Medical Center “Tecnomed”, I-73048 Nardò (LE), Italy; (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Loredana Capobianco
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, I-73100 Lecce, Italy; (M.D.G.); (P.L.); (L.C.); (V.Z.)
| | - Vincenza Dolce
- Department of Pharmacy, Health, and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (Cosenza), Italy;
| | - Lamberto Coppola
- Biological Medical Center “Tecnomed”, I-73048 Nardò (LE), Italy; (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Vincenzo Zara
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, I-73100 Lecce, Italy; (M.D.G.); (P.L.); (L.C.); (V.Z.)
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15
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Comparative efficacy of Gum Arabic ( Acacia senegal) and Tribulus terrestris on male fertility. Saudi Pharm J 2021; 28:1791-1796. [PMID: 33424268 PMCID: PMC7783220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study the effect of Gum arabic (Acacia Senegal) was systemically targeted at male fertility with two experiments, the first comparing the effectiveness of Gum arabic (GA) and Tribulus terrestris (TT). For the first experiment, 27 adult mice Balb / c (18 females, 9 males) were divided into 3 in each group, one male and two females, group one had the usual tap water as power, group two had 5% (w / v) GA and group three had 5% (w / v) of TT for 21 days. The results showed, the number of offspring was more with GA treated when compared to TT treated. Blood measurements of testosterone showed significant increase in the GA group as compared to other groups, also Histopathological analysis showed the dose dependent 5% GA had normal seminiferous tubules with increase spermatogenesis. In this study the enhanced fertility in GA-treated mice Balb/c was observed and the experimental studies also show that GA fertility was increased.
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16
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Chen WQ, Ding CF, Yu J, Wang CY, Wan LY, Hu HM, Ma JX. Wuzi Yanzong Pill-Based on Network Pharmacology and In Vivo Evidence-Protects Against Spermatogenesis Disorder via the Regulation of the Apoptosis Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:592827. [PMID: 33390971 PMCID: PMC7775606 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.592827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The crisis of male infertility is an issue of human reproductive health worldwide. The Wuzi Yanzong pill (WZYZP) is a traditional Chinese medicine prescription that shows efficacy in kidney reinforcement and essence benefit to ameliorate male reproductive dysfunctions. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of the WZYZP on male infertility have not been investigated and clarified clearly. This study was designed to investigate the effects of the WZYZP on spermatogenesis disorder and explore its underlying pharmacological mechanisms. First, based on a network pharmacology study, 39 bioactive compounds and 40 targets of the WZYZP associated with spermatogenesis disorder were obtained, forming a tight compound-target network. Molecular docking tests showed tight docking of these compounds with predicted targeted proteins. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network identified TP53, TNF, AKT1, Bcl-XL, Bcl-2, and IκBA as hub targets. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway network and pathway-target-compound network revealed that the apoptosis pathway was enriched by multiple signaling pathways and multiple targets, including the hub targets. Subsequently, the chemical characterization of WZYZP was analyzed using liquid chromatography to quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry, and 40 compounds in positive ion mode and 41 compounds in negative ion mode in the WZYZP were identified. Furthermore, based on the prediction of a network pharmacology study, a rat model of spermatogenesis disorder was established to evaluate the curative role and underlying mechanisms of the WZYZP. The results showed that WZYZP treatment improved rat sperm quality and attenuated serum hormone levels, reversed histopathological damage of the testis, reduced cell apoptosis in testis tissues, and ameliorated the expression of the predicted hub targets (TP53, TNF-α, AKT1, NFκB, and IκBA) and the apoptosis related proteins (Bcl-XL, Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9). These results indicated that the WZYZP has a protective effect on spermatogenesis disorder, suggesting that it could be an alternative choice for male infertility therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-qiang Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cai-fei Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen-ye Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ling-yi Wan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hui-min Hu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian-xiong Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Hospital, Hangzhou, China,The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China,Department of Andrology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Jian-xiong Ma,
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17
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Anachuna KK, Moke GE, Iyare C, Katchy N, Ben-Azu B, Adeniyi B, Nwogueze BC, Iyare E. Prenatal and early postnatal food restrictions cause changes in brain oxidative status and orexigenic/anorexigenic hormones in the offspring of rats: prevention by quercetin and kaempferol. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2020; 1:39-52. [PMID: 34909641 PMCID: PMC8663934 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2020.100005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain oxidative signaling pathways have been identified as important targets for alleviating food deprivation-induced changes in metabolic gate-ways. Previous studies have shown that prenatal and early postnatal malnutrition alters leptin and ghrelin signaling via oxidative pathways. Thus, it has been hypothesized that agents with antioxidant properties might be beneficial for the mitigation of prenatal and early postnatal food scarcity-induced oxidative damage. Quercetin and kaempferol are natural bioflavonoids with proven antioxidant properties. In this study, we evaluated their effects on prenatal maternal food consumption, maternal and pup weights, biomarkers of orexigenic and anorexigenic hormones and oxidative stress in rats. Rats were allotted into different treatment groups (n = 6) in three different experiments (prenatal, postnatal food-deprivations or both). Prenatal-food restriction (PrNFR) was induced by 50% of ad libitum accessible diet during pregnancy till parturition and postnatal-food restriction (PsNFR) was simulated by litter-enlargement to 16 pups per mother from postnatal day (PND) 2. Rats in each experiment were concurrently treated with vehicle (10 mL/kg), quercetin (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) or kaempferol (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) respectively. A third experimental group consisted of both protocols. Quercetin and kaempferol dose-dependently increased the body weights of pups exposed to PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR at PNDs 1–22 respectively. Both compounds increased maternal body weights but attenuated maternal food-intake at prenatal days 7 and 14 due by PrNFR. Quercetin and kaempferol reduced brain malondialdehyde concentrations and increased glutathione levels in PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR-exposed offspring of rats. Importantly, quercetin and kaempferol significantly (p < 0.05) prevented PrNFR-, PsNFR- or PrNFR-PsNFR-induced alterations in leptin and ghrelin levels. Cumulatively, quercetin and kaempferol increased pup and maternal weights and attenuated maternal food-intake of rats submitted to PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR respectively, likely via nutrigenomic modulations of orexigenic/anorexigenic hormones and inhibition of brain oxidative stress. PrNFR and PsNFR reduce maternal and fetal weights. Quercetine and kaempferol increase PrNFR and PsNFR-induced weight loss. Quercetine and kaempferol attenuate PrNFR and PsNFR-induced ghrelin alteration. Quercetine and kaempferol attenuate PrNFR and PsNFR-induced leptin alteration. Quercetine and kaempferol reduced PrNFR and PsNFR-induced brain oxidative stress.
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Key Words
- ANOVA, one-way analysis of variance
- BMI, body mass index
- BPS, balano-preputal separation
- DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide
- Food restriction
- Ghrelin
- KFAM, Kaempferol
- Kaempferol
- Leptin
- Oxidative stress
- PND, postnatal day
- PrNFR, Prenatal-food restriction
- PsNFR, postnatal-food restriction
- QCET, Quercetin
- Quercetin
- VO, vaginal opening
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Kelechi Anachuna
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.,Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Goodies Emuesiri Moke
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Cordilia Iyare
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
| | - Nkiru Katchy
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
| | - Benneth Ben-Azu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
| | - Boluwatife Adeniyi
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
| | - Bartholomew Chukwuebuka Nwogueze
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Eghosa Iyare
- Reproductive and Developmental Programming Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria
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18
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Anachuna KK, Ekhoye EI, Iyare C, Katchy N, Ben-Azu B, Adeniyi DB, Daubry TME, Iyare E. Altered gestational outcomes and delayed pubertal onset in prenatally and early postnatally food restricted male and female rats: mitigation by quercetin and kaempferol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY, PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2020; 12:115-127. [PMID: 32934767 PMCID: PMC7486555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Nutrigenomic malnutrition during pregnancy and early postnatal life has serious consequences on original organ-programing, growth pattern, puberty and quality of life. The aim of this was to investigate the effect of two notable flavonoids, quercetin and kaempferol, with nutrigenomic potentials on prenatal and early postnatal food restrictions or both on gestational outcomes and the onset of puberty in male and females Wister rats. In three sets of experiments consisting of prenatal, postnatal food deprivations or both, rats were distributed into various treatment groups (n = 6). Prenatal food restriction (PrNFR) was initiated by 50% of ad libitum available diet in pregnancy (days 1-22) simultaneously with quercetin (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o./day) or kaempferol (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o./day) until delivery. However, postnatal food restriction (PsNFR) was simulated by litter-increment to 16 pups per mother from postnatal day 2 together with quercetin (50-200 mg/kg, p.o.) or kaempferol (50-200 mg/kg, p.o.) treatments until weaning (day 24) respectively. The last experiment encompasses both protocols with similar treatment protocols. Kaempferol attenuated PrNFR-induced alterations in gestational length compared to PrNFR-control. Quercetin and kaempferol significantly (P < 0.05) normalized nose-length of pups of rats exposed to PrNFR. Quercetin and kaempferol reduced the number of stillbirths due to PrNFR. Both also reduced the delay in pubertal onset as evidenced by normal onset of balanopreputial-separation and vaginal-opening in the PrNFR, PsNFR and PrNFR-PsNFR male and female rats respectively. Together, quercetin and kaempferol prevents prenatal and postnatal malnutrition-induced altered gestational outcomes and pubertal delays in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Kelechi Anachuna
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Ehitare Ikehuamen Ekhoye
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Cordilia Iyare
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Nkiru Katchy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Benneth Ben-Azu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Deborah Boluwatife Adeniyi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Tarela Melish Elias Daubry
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
| | - Eghosa Iyare
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University Abraka, Delta State, Nigeria
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19
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Najafi D, Taheri RA, Najafi A, Shamsollahi M, Alvarez-Rodriguez M. Effect of astaxanthin nanoparticles in protecting the post-thawing quality of rooster sperm challenged by cadmium administration. Poult Sci 2020; 99:1678-1686. [PMID: 32111332 PMCID: PMC7587804 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The protective role of astaxanthin nanoparticles (Ast NPs, 25 mg/kg p.o) against cadmium (Cd, 1 mg/100 g b.w. SC), a known inductor of lipid peroxidation and changes in the antioxidant defense system in the Ross 308 breeder roosters sperm, was examined. Sperm motility (computer-assisted sperm motility analysis), membrane integrity (hypoosmotic swelling test), viability, total abnormality, and enzymatic parameters were assessed after thawing. The testis/body weight (mg/kg) ratio and HE staining results of testis were also performed. The obtained results showed that Cd induced detrimental effects on testis and sperm, while Cd treated by Ast NPs (Cd Ast) diminished this change compared to the Cd group. Cd-treated group resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lowest total (37.29 ± 2.46) and progressive (5.84 ± 0.47) motility and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity (CAT, TAC, and GPx), as well as producing a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in testis weight (mg) compared to the control group. Treatment with Ast NPs (Ast NPs + Cd) had reversed Cd-induced changes in the antioxidant defense system and significantly prevented Cd-induced testis damage. In conclusion, the results of our work suggest that Ast NPs at 25 mg/kg act as a potent antioxidant in protecting rooster testes against oxidative stress induced by Cd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davood Najafi
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, 17166 Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramezan Ali Taheri
- Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, 17166 Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abouzar Najafi
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, 51666 Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Shamsollahi
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, 51666 Tabriz, Iran
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), Division of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, 58113 Linköping, Sweden; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Epicatechin Provides Antioxidant Protection to Bovine Spermatozoa Subjected to Induced Oxidative Stress. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24183226. [PMID: 31491847 PMCID: PMC6767247 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24183226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epicatechin (EPI) is a natural flavonoid with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Furthermore, the molecule exhibits powerful reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and metal-chelating properties. In this study, we assessed the efficiency of EPI to reverse ROS-mediated alterations to the motility, viability, DNA integrity and oxidative profile of bovine spermatozoa. For the first experiment, spermatozoa were washed out of fresh semen and exposed to 12.5 μmol/L EPI, 25 μmol/L EPI, 50 μmol/L EPI and 100 μmol/L EPI in the presence of ferrous ascorbate (FeAA) during a 6 h in vitro culture. For the second experiment, the ejaculates were split into aliquots and cryopreserved with a commercial semen extender supplemented with 12.5 μmol/L EPI, 25 μmol/L EPI, 50 μmol/L EPI, 100 μmol/L EPI or containing no supplement. Sperm motility was assessed using the computer-aided sperm analysis and the cell viability was studied with the metabolic activity test. ROS production was quantified using luminometry, and DNA fragmentation was evaluated using the chromatin dispersion test. Cell lysates were prepared at the end of the culture in order to assess the concentration of protein carbonyls and malondialdehyde. Exposure to FeAA led to a significantly reduced sperm motility (p < 0.001), mitochondrial activity (p < 0.001), but increased the generation of ROS (p < 0.001), as well as oxidative damage to proteins (p < 0.001), DNA (p < 0.001) and lipids (p < 0.001). EPI supplementation, particularly at a concentration range of 50–100 μmol/L, resulted in higher preservation of the spermatozoa vitality (p < 0.001). Furthermore, 50–100 μmol/L EPI were significantly effective in the prevention of oxidative damage to sperm proteins (p < 0.001), lipids (p < 0.001) and DNA (p < 0.01 in relation to 50 μmol/L EPI; p < 0.001 with respect to 100 μmol/L EPI). In the case of the cryopreserved spermatozoa, the administration of 50–100 μmol/L EPI resulted in higher sperm motility (p < 0.001) and mitochondrial activity (p < 0.001). ROS production, the number of protein carbonyls, lipid peroxidation as well as oxidative DNA damage were found to be significantly decreased particularly in samples cryopreserved in the presence of 100 μmol/L EPI (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that EPI could behave as an effective antioxidant which may prevent oxidative insults to spermatozoa, and thus, preserve their vitality and functionality. Nevertheless, its potential to achieve higher fertilization rates in reproductive technologies needs to be validated.
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21
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Liu X, Ahmad N, Yang L, Fu T, Kong J, Yao N, Dong Y, Wang N, Li X, Wang F, Liu X, Liu W, Li H. Molecular cloning and functional characterization of chalcone isomerase from Carthamus tinctorius. AMB Express 2019; 9:132. [PMID: 31435742 PMCID: PMC6704227 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-019-0854-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Flavonoid is one of the widespread groups of plant secondary metabolites that provide several health benefits. However, the explicit mechanism of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants largely remains unclear. Chalcone isomerase an important class of enzyme presents crucial role during flavonoid metabolism in many plants. Here, we isolated the full-length cDNA (1161 bp) of a novel Chalcone Isomerase from safflower encoding 217 amino acid polypeptide using oligos from 5′ and 3′ ends. The result of Sanger sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that CtCHI is highly homologous to other plants, including typical polyadenylation signals AATAA and Poly A tail. The transient expression in tobacco mesophyll cells using Green Fluorescent Protein tagging determined the subcellular localization of CtCHI in cell membrane and nucleus. The CtCHI ectopic expression in different safflower varieties at different flowering stages showed that CtCHI were found in abundance at the bud stage of Jihong No. 1. Further correlation analysis between CtCHI expression and flavonoid accumulation at various flowering phases suggested that CtCHI might play a potential role during flavonoid biosynthesis in safflower. In addition, the overexpression of pBASTA-CtCHI in transgenic Arabidopsis infiltrated with floral dip transformation showed relatively higher expression level and increased flavonoid accumulation than wild type. Moreover, the in vitro enzymatic activity and HPLC analysis of transgenic Arabidopsis confirmed the de novo biosynthesis of Rutin. Taken together, our findings laid the foundation of identifying an important gene that might influence flavonoid metabolism in safflower.
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Agarwal A, Majzoub A, Parekh N, Henkel R. A Schematic Overview of the Current Status of Male Infertility Practice. World J Mens Health 2019; 38:308-322. [PMID: 31385475 PMCID: PMC7308239 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The practice of male infertility has dramatically evolved over the past few decades. This has been achieved after the realization of the important contribution the male counterpart holds in the couple's infertility. It is also supported by a number of breakthroughs in the diagnosis and treatment of this medical condition. Several tests to investigate sperm quality and function were introduced along with refinements and/or institution of novel surgical techniques that can correct several causes of infertility. This manuscript is aimed at highlighting the current state of male infertility practice in a robust, schematic method addressing a broader audience involved in the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation and Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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