1
|
Mararajah S, Giribabu N, Salleh N. Chlorophytum borivilianum aqueous root extract prevents deterioration of testicular function in mice and preserves human sperm function in hydrogen peroxide (H 2O 2)-induced oxidative stress. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:117026. [PMID: 37572930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Chlorophytum borivilianum (C. borivilianum) (CB) has traditionally been used to treat male sexual dysfunctions and has been claimed to possess aphrodisiac properties. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the ability of CB to ameliorate H2O2-induced oxidative stress in testes and sperm in mice and prevent H2O2-induced oxidative in human sperm. MATERIALS AND METHODS Oxidative stress was induced in male mice by pre-exposure to 2% H2O2 orally for seven consecutive days, followed by 100 and 200 mg/kg b. w. administration. CB for another seven days. At the end of treatment, mice were sacrificed and testes and epididymal sperm were harvested. Serum FSH, LH and testosterone levels were measured and sperm parameters were obtained. Meanwhile, oxidative stress levels in mice testes and sperm, steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis markers in mice testes were assessed by molecular biological techniques. In another experiment, sperm from thirty-two healthy fertile men were incubated with 200 μM H2O2 and CB (100 and 200 μg/ml) simultaneously and were then evaluated for sperm parameter changes. RESULTS In mice, CB administration ameliorates persistent increases in oxidative stress and decreases in anti-oxidative enzyme levels in testes and sperm following H2O2 pre-exposure. Additionally, CB also helps to ameliorate deterioration in sperm parameters and testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis and restores the serum FSH, LH and testosterone levels near normal in mice. In humans, CB helps to prevent deterioration in sperm parameters following H2O2 exposure. CONCLUSION CB is potentially useful to preserve the male reproductive capability and subsequently male fertility in high oxidative stress conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selvakumar Mararajah
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nelli Giribabu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre for Natural Products and Drug Discovery (CENAR), Faculty of Science, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Centre for Natural Products and Drug Discovery (CENAR), Faculty of Science, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kumar GG, Kilari EK, Nelli G, Salleh N. Oral administration of Turnera diffusa willd. ex Schult. extract ameliorates steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis impairment in the testes of rats with type-2 diabetes mellitus. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 314:116638. [PMID: 37187362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. (T. diffusa) has traditionally been used to treat male reproductive dysfunction and have aphrodisiac properties. AIMS OF THE STUDY This study aims to investigate the ability of T. diffusa to ameliorate the impairment in testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in DM that might help to improve testicular function, and subsequently restore male fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS DM-induced adult male rats were given 100 mg/kg/day and 200 mg/kg/day T. diffusa leaf extract orally for 28 consecutive days. Rats were then sacrificed; sperm and testes were harvested and sperm parameter analysis were performed. Histo-morphological changes in the testes were observed. Biochemical assays were performed to measure testosterone and testicular oxidative stress levels. Immunohistochemistry and double immunofluorescence were used to monitor oxidative stress and inflammation levels in testes as well as Sertoli and steroidogenic marker proteins' expression. RESULTS Treatment with T. diffusa restores sperm count, motility, and viability near normal and reduces sperm morphological abnormalities and sperm DNA fragmentation in diabetic rats. T. diffusa treatment also reduces testicular NOX-2 and lipid peroxidation levels, increases testicular antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx) activities, ameliorates testicular inflammation via downregulating NF-ΚB, p-Ikkβ and TNF-α and upregulating IκBα expression. In diabetic rats, T. diffusa treatment increases testicular steroidogenic proteins (StAR, CYP11A1, SHBG, and ARA54, 3 and 17β-HSD) and plasma testosterone levels. Furthermore, in diabetic rats treated with T. diffusa, Sertoli cell marker proteins including Connexin 43, N-cadherin, and occludin levels in the testes were elevated. CONCLUSION T. diffusa treatment could help to ameliorate the detrimental effects of DM on the testes, thus this plant has potential to be used to restore male fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gowri Gopa Kumar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eswar Kumar Kilari
- Pharmacology Division, A.U. College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530 003, India
| | - Giribabu Nelli
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yallamati MB, Sampath SK, Mary V, Khan MZ. Ameliorative effect of Vitis vinifera (Linn.) seed extract on lead acetate induced oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in Wistar rats. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 339:210-219. [PMID: 36437535 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Lead is considered one of the most prevalent environmental and biologically hazardous toxicants among metallic elements. It severely affects human health and especially the male reproductive system by causing reproductive organ dysfunction leading to infertility. Natural dietary antioxidants are studied for their ability to ameliorate the cells' miscellaneous damage. The current study was designed to explore the effect of Vitis vinifera (Linn.) (grape) seed extract (GSE) on lead acetate (LA)-induced oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in rats. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were allocated into four equal groups. Group I received distilled water; Group II received LA 50 mg/kg body weight (Bw); Group III received LA 50 mg/kg + GSE 200 mg/kg Bw; and Group IV received LA 50 mg/kg + GSE 400 mg/kg Bw (orally once a day for 28 days). After 28 days, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH) were estimated in the testicular tissue. The cauda of the epididymis was used to study the characteristics of the sperm, such as sperm count, motility, viability, tail-coiled sperm, and morphology. The hematoxylin and eosin staining method was used to study histomorphology. Results revealed that LA induction significantly increased MDA concentration and decreased the levels of SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH. It also reduced the weight of the testis and testosterone hormone levels, declined the quality of sperm, and increased morphologically abnormal sperm. Moreover, LA severely altered the histomorphology of the testis, such as atrophy of the seminiferous tubule, degeneration of germinal epithelium, and increased interstitial space, compared with the control group. In Groups III and IV, coadministration of LA with GSE reduced the MDA concentration, preserved the antioxidant enzyme system and testosterone hormonal levels, restored the sperm characteristics, reduced the abnormal sperm, and improved histomorphological alterations in the testis compared with the LA-induced group. In conclusion, GSE has a potent natural antioxidant that provides promising protection against LA-induced testicular oxidative damage on testis and sperm quality in rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Babu Yallamati
- Department of Anatomy, Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Senthil Kumar Sampath
- Department of Anatomy, Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Vasanthi Mary
- Centre for Toxicology and Development Research (CEFT), Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Muhammad Zafar Khan
- Department of Anatomy, Dr. ALM PG Institute Bio Medical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Sarkar R, Mitra D, Ghosh P, Ghosh D. Antiapoptotic and antioxidative efficacy of rhizomes of Curcuma amada on the management of diabetes-induced male infertility in albino rat: An effective fraction selection study. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14290. [PMID: 35796441 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Men with diabetes have negative effects on reproduction that causes sexual dysfunction. Medicinal plants are non-toxic and much safer than synthetic drugs because regular use of synthetic drugs shows long-term side effects. Curcuma amada (Roxb) is a medicinal plant used in Ayurveda and Unani medicinal systems in India. The goal of this study is to rummage the potential efficiency of the most potent solvent fraction of effective extract of hydro-methanol 60:40 of C. amada rhizome on male gonadal hypofunction in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat. Diabetes-induced testicular hypofunction was evaluated by glycemic, spermiological, biochemical, genomic, flow cytometric, and histology of testicular tissue. The n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl-acetate, and n-butanol solvent fractions of the said extract were administrated for 4 weeks at 10 mg dose/100 g body weight/day. Among all the used fractions, the ethyl-acetate solvent fraction-treated group showed maximum recovery in serum insulin (177.42%), sperm count (92.84%), sperm motility (97.15%), and serum testosterone (164.33%). The diabetic rats treated with ethyl-acetate solvent fraction also exhibited the maximum resettlement in flow cytometric analysis of sperm viability (55.84%) and sperm mitochondrial integrity (149.79%), gene expression patterns of key markers for androgenesis (Δ5, 3β-HSD 87.50%, and 17β-HSD 74.66%) and apoptosis (Bax 44.63%, Bcl-2 54.03%, and Caspase-3 35.77%) along with testicular histology. The ethyl-acetate fraction contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and polyphenols where all of these components are not present in other fractions, may be the most effective cause for the recovery of diabetes-linked oxidative stress-mediated testicular hypofunctions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Nowadays worldwide, the use of synthetic drugs are reduced due to their toxic effect. At present, synthetic drugs are replaced by several herbal drugs, the natural source of medicine which has many therapeutic values. C. amada has strong antioxidant activity due to the presence of bio-active compound(s) that can able to manage streptozotocin-induced diabetes linked to oxidative damage of male gonadal organs. Therefore, these bio-active compound(s)-containing said medicinal plant may use as a good source of antioxidative food in the food industry as nutraceuticals and in pharmaceutical industries for the development of the herbal drug to manage diabetes-linked male gonadal hypofunctions. At present, WHO also gives emphasis for developing one drug-multi-disease therapy. From such a viewpoint, this active fraction-containing phytomolecules may have corrective efficacy against diabetes as well as oxidative stress-linked testicular complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riya Sarkar
- Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, India
| | - Dipanwita Mitra
- Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, India
| | - Prabal Ghosh
- Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, India
| | - Debidas Ghosh
- Molecular Medicine and Nutrigenomics Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Thongphakdee A, Kiatsomboon S, Noimoon S, Kongprom U, Boonorana I, Karoon S, Thawnern J, Sakulthai A, Sombutputorn P, Sukmak M, Punkong C, Thongtip N. Semen characteristics and second successful artificial insemination of Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) in Thailand. Vet World 2022; 15:1246-1255. [PMID: 35765477 PMCID: PMC9210840 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1246-1255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: As the number of wild Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) continues to decline, maintaining healthy populations under human care is vital. Male fertility assessment is essential for understanding the reproductive status, which can help to uncover underlying problems and improve the rate of pregnancy success. The objectives of this study in Asian elephants were as follows: (1) To investigate the semen characteristics; (2) to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics; (3) to compare the semen characteristics between good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates; and (4) to investigate the pregnancy success rate after artificial insemination (AI) with combined chilled and frozen semen. Materials and Methods: In total, 153 ejaculates were collected by manual rectal stimulation from 25 bulls. The volume, pH, sperm concentration, progressive motility, viability, morphology, and membrane integrity were investigated in each ejaculate. Assessment of accessory sex glands was conducted using transrectal ultrasonography to compare the relative seminal vesicle size and semen characteristics, and the bulls were divided into two groups according to the size of the ampulla (<7 or ≥7 cm2). For the comparison of good and poor-motile ejaculates and semen characteristics, the samples were divided into two groups: Good-motile (>60% progressive motility) and poor-motile (<60% progressive motility) ejaculates. Semen ejaculates for AI were collected from three bulls. The estrous cycles of four females were monitored using an enzyme immunoassay. Seven AI attempts were conducted using frozen and/or chilled semen by endoscopic visualization. AI was repeated 1 day before the luteinizing hormone surge, on the day of the surge, and 1 day after the surge. Pregnancy was confirmed by monitoring the serum progesterone profile and the abdomen and mammary glands changes. Results: From 153 ejaculates, the mean±standard error values of progressive motility, semen volume, sperm concentration, pH, and viability were 40.18%±2.28%, 40.94±3.86 mL, 1,205.58±62.26×106 sperm/mL, 7.50±0.10, and 56.17%±1.96%, respectively. Comparing ampulla size and semen characteristics revealed that the bulls with ampullae of ≥7 cm2 yielded significantly larger volume ejaculates. However, there were no significant differences in sperm motility and concentration. The comparison of semen characteristics between good- and poor-motile ejaculates revealed that the former had significantly higher pH, viability, normal acrosomes, intact membranes, and normal head and tail morphology but often had a significantly lower volume and sperm concentration. From seven AI attempts in four females, one female had a confirmed pregnancy (14.3% pregnancy rate), and delivered a healthy live female baby weighing 128 kg at 21 months and 12 days of gestation. The baby is now 3 years old and in a healthy condition, with normally developing growth and behavior. Conclusion: The semen characteristics of Asian elephants can be used as the baseline reference for further applications. The ampullae size indicates semen quantity but not quality. Our success in producing an elephant calf from AI using frozen and chilled semen demonstrated that AI can be used as an alternative approach for the breeding management of Asian elephants. However, the semen of Asian elephants is of poor quality, especially in terms of membrane integrity; thus, the improvement in semen quality through intensive and careful management of elephant health and fertility remains a challenge for the future. Furthermore, a sperm bank should be established to develop sperm cryopreservation, which will be invaluable for improving the genetic diversity of the Asian elephant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ampika Thongphakdee
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Supalak Kiatsomboon
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Sakhon Noimoon
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Urarikha Kongprom
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Itti Boonorana
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Santhita Karoon
- Wildlife Reproductive Innovation Center, Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Jedsada Thawnern
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Apichaya Sakulthai
- Department of Farm Technology Management, Faculty of Agro-Industry, Panyapiwat Institute of Management, Nonthaburi 11120, Thailand
| | | | - Manakorn Sukmak
- Department of Farm Resources and Production Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
| | - Chainarong Punkong
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Chonburi 20110, Thailand
| | - Nikorn Thongtip
- Center for Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand; Center of Excellence on Agricultural Biotechnology, Science and Technology Postgraduate Education and Research Department Commission on Higher Education, Ministry of Education (AG-BIO/PERDO-CHE), Bangkok 10903, Thailand; Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Babaei A, Asadpour R, Mansouri K, Sabrivand A, Kazemi‐Darabadi S. Lycopene improves testicular damage and sperm quality in experimentally induced varicocele: Relationship with apoptosis, hypoxia, and hyperthermia. Food Sci Nutr 2022; 10:1469-1480. [PMID: 35592276 PMCID: PMC9094497 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2762] [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: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is considered the main reason for male infertility. Antioxidants are common drugs used to reduce the complications of varicocele in these patients. So, we investigated the effects of lycopene on sperm quality, testicular histology, and the expression of some genes in experimentally induced varicocele. Fifty adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 12), sham (n = 5), and varicocele (n = 33) groups. After 2 months of induced varicocele, five rats were randomly sacrificed and induced varicocele was investigated in each group. Finally, 35 rats were divided into five groups: the control, varicocele, varicocele reserving solvent, and varicocele reserving lycopene (4 and 10 mg/kg) for 2 months. At the end of the experiment, sperm viability, membrane integrity, the expression of Bax, Bcl2, hypoxia (hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α [HIF1‐α]), heat‐shock protein (heat‐shock protein A2 [HSPA2]) genes, and the histology of testes were measured. The results showed a significant decrease in the sperm viability, membrane integrity, Johnson's score, and the expression of the Bcl2 gene in the varicocele group compared to the control group. Also, there was a significant increase in Bax, HSPA2, and HIF1‐α expressions in the varicocele group compared to the control group. Although the administration of lycopene (10 mg/kg) in rats with varicocele improved sperm viability and membrane integrity, Johnson's score, and Bax expression compared to the varicocele group. Our findings indicated that the administration of lycopene in the varicocele group improved sperm quality and testicular injury induced by varicocele via decreasing apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Babaei
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Reza Asadpour
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Kamran Mansouri
- Medical Biology Research CenterHealth Technology InstituteKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Adel Sabrivand
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Siamak Kazemi‐Darabadi
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kahalerras L, Otmani I, Abdennour C. Wild Garlic Allium triquetrum L. Alleviates Lead Acetate-Induced Testicular Injuries in Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:2205-2222. [PMID: 34309801 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02818-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigates the potential alleviating activity of bulbs (B) and leaves (L) of Allium triquetrum aqueous extract (ATE) on repro-toxicity induced by lead acetate (Pb) in male Wistar rats administrated orally for 3 consecutive weeks. Eighteen groups of rats were divided into the control, Pb (500 mg/kg body weight/day), positive controls of B and L (2 g, 3 g, 4 g, 6 g/kg body weight/day), in addition to four mixtures of each of Pb-B (Pb-B1, Pb-B2, Pb-B3, Pb-B4) and Pb-L (Pb-L1, Pb-L2, Pb-L3, Pb-L4). The two extracts were subjected to phytochemical screening and HPLC analysis. Sperm characteristics were evaluated by CASA system, as well as the serum testosterone, testicular and epididymal levels of glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA). The phytochemical screening proved that bulbs' and leaves' extracts were rich in various compounds and the HPLC showed that leaves contain more tannins. Results revealed a significant decrease in the testicular and in the epididymal weights, sperm concentration, motility, testosterone, velocity, vitality, round cells, GSH, and GPx levels in the Pb-intoxicated rats compared to the control, with the exception of MDA concentration that was significantly increased. However, the co-administration of garlic extracts (Pb-B and Pb-L) exhibited a significant increase in all mentioned markers, except for the MDA level which was reduced. Likewise, Pb caused histological injuries in the testicular seminiferous of rats, while the co-administration of wild garlic has reduced such effect, especially in the higher doses. Both extracts of Pb-B and Pb-L have attenuated Pb toxicity in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, aqueous extracts of A. triquetrum have the potential to reduce Pb testicular injuries by boosting sperm characteristics and ameliorating oxidative stress markers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Labiba Kahalerras
- Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Badji Mokhtar-Annaba, 23000, Annaba, Algeria.
| | - Ines Otmani
- Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Badji Mokhtar-Annaba, 23000, Annaba, Algeria
| | - Cherif Abdennour
- Laboratory of Animal Ecophysiology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Badji Mokhtar-Annaba, 23000, Annaba, Algeria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hypo-Osmotic Swelling Test (HOST) for Feline Spermatozoa: The Simplified Procedure and the Aspect of Sperm Morphology. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070903. [PMID: 35405891 PMCID: PMC8997045 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST) is used to assess the functional integrity of sperm plasma membranes in many species. The primary aim of this study was to test a simplified HOST procedure for the evaluation of feline semen. The second objective was to check if sperm abnormalities can influence the results of this test. Urethral semen was collected from 19 male, domestic cats. In Exp. 1, HOST was performed in different media (50 mOsm/kg fructose or distilled water), temperature (37 °C or room temperature) and time (5 and 30 min). In Exp. 2, the potential effect of sperm abnormalities on HOST results was assessed by observing individual normal and abnormal spermatozoa microinjected into droplets of distilled water. The results showed no differences between the HOST results performed in different media, temperature and time. Viable abnormal spermatozoa were able to swell under hypo-osmotic conditions in the same manner as normal ones, except spermatozoa with distal droplets, which showed a higher frequency of ‘despiralization’. In conclusion, HOST can be reliably performed at 0 mOsm/kg for 5 min at room temperature, which may contribute to a wider use of this test under clinical environments. Viable abnormal spermatozoa are able to swell under hypo-osmotic conditions; therefore, their presence in the ejaculate would not bias the results of HOST when total coiling is calculated.
Collapse
|
9
|
Pal P, De A, Roychowdhury T, Mukhopadhyay PK. Vitamin C and E supplementation can ameliorate NaF mediated testicular and spermatozoal DNA damages in adult Wistar rats. Biomarkers 2022; 27:361-374. [PMID: 35232301 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2022.2048891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Present study was designed to explore the efficacy of vitamin C and E (VC&VE) against fluoride mediated testicular, epididymal and spermatozoal anomalies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty two adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Group-I was control; Group-II received sodium fluoride (NaF) at 15 mg/kg/day dose; Group-III was provided with VC (200 mg/kg/day) and VE (400 mg/kg/day) plus NaF; Group-IV received only VC&VE. Structural integrity and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl) of testis and epididymis were assessed. Spermatozoal parameters (count, motility, viability and hypo-osmotic swelling) were evaluated. Testicular functional maker enzymes (acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase) were also assessed. Integrity of testicular and spermatozoal DNA were evaluated. Testicular fluoride content was measured. RESULT Fluoride induced structural changes and alterations of oxidative stress markers were observed in testis and epididymis. Spermatozoal potentials were altered and reduced activities of testicular functional marker enzymes were observed. Fluoride caused testicular and spermatozoal DNA damages. VC&VE supplementation resulted in protectionfrom all fluoride mediated alterations and helped in attenuating testicular fluoride accumulation. CONCLUSION Antioxidant properties of VC&VE ameliorated fluoride mediated reproductive damages but only supplementation did not exhibit any notable effect compared to control rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyankar Pal
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
| | - Ayan De
- School of Environmental Studies, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Effect of graphene oxide as cryoprotectant on post-thaw sperm functional and kinetic parameters of cross bred (HF X Sahiwal) and Murrah buffalo ( ) bulls. Cryobiology 2022; 106:102-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2022.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
11
|
Meneghini MA, Galarza RA, Quiroga JPF, Faletti AG. Diet-induced maternal obesity and overnutrition cause a decrease in the sperm quality of the offspring. J Nutr Biochem 2022; 103:108966. [PMID: 35181443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2022.108966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The present work aimed to study the changes caused by maternal obesity and overnutrition in both the quality and function of spermatozoa of the offspring. To this end, female rats received either a standard (SD) or cafeteria (CD) diet from 22 days of age until the weaning of their offspring, and the male offspring (OSD and OCD respectively) were used. Different endpoints in the offspring, as body weight, weight gain and glycemia were recorded and the testes were removed at 60 days of age. Different spermatozoa parameters, such as mitochondrial function, functional integrity of the sperm plasma membrane, capacitation, and acrosome status, were evaluated. The OCD group was heavier than the OSD group and exhibited lower testis and epididymal indices. The OCD group also showed a decrease in the ability of the sperm tail to react in the presence of a hypoosmotic solution, deficiency in sperm mitochondrial function, a lower percentage of spermatozoa without acrosome when exposed to a capacitation medium, and a higher number of abnormal metaphases. In addition, compared with OSD, OCD rats had a higher number of TUNEL-positive cells in the histological sections of the testis, and greater presence of reactive oxygen species in the spermatozoa, evaluated by a fluorescent probe. However, the OCD group displayed lower protein levels of cytochrome c and caspase-3 in testis tissue than the control group. These results suggest that maternal obesity and overnutrition program the offspring to develop poor sperm quality and function, which may imply a condition of subfertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Agustina Meneghini
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centros de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rocío Alejandra Galarza
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centros de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jeremías Pablo Flores Quiroga
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centros de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alicia Graciela Faletti
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Centros de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gomes do Espírito Santo C, Alvarez Balaro MF, Dantas Rodrigues Santos J, Francisco Leodido Correia L, Vieira de Souza C, Ryonosuke Taira A, Campos Pereira da Costa MM, da Silva Carvalho AB, Ungerfeld R, Zandonadi Brandão F. Semen quality, testosterone values, and testicular and accessory gland parameters in rams receiving sustained stimulation with low doses of buserelin. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/an20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
ContextThe use of buserelin, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist, can improve semen quality. Nevertheless, the appropriate dosage, and frequency and time of application, remain to be established owing to the subsequent negative feedback on endogenous production of testosterone described so far.AimsThis study aimed to propose a new buserelin application protocol for sperm improvement in Santa Inês rams.MethodsFifteen Santa Inês rams were divided into two experimental groups: the first group (n=8) received 2.5μg buserelin acetate; and the second group (n=7) received saline solution. Treatments were applied for 21 days at intervals of 6h, totalling four hormonal or saline applications per day. In all animals, macroscopic and microscopic seminal characteristics and freezability, plasma testosterone, pixels of testicular parenchyma, and biometric analysis of testicular and accessory sex glands by ultrasound were evaluated throughout the period of hormonal application and for a further 7 days.Key resultsRams receiving buserelin showed a peak of testosterone after the first week (Day 7) of application, with a drop in values at Day 14, followed by negative feedback at Day 21 and return to basal concentrations at Day 28. They also showed improvement of kinetics parameters such as straight line velocity (μm/s: +buserelin 51.5±1.5 > control 46.6±1.6) and linearity coefficient (%: +buserelin 53.5±1.8 > control 47.5±1.9). Ultrasound parameters, pixels of testicular parenchyma, and freezability were not affected by treatment.ConclusionsThe administration of buserelin was able to improve some sperm kinetics parameters of Santa Inês rams.ImplicationsLow doses of this GnRH analogue can be used; however, further adjustments to the hormonal protocol are needed to obtain an effective improvement in sperm quality.
Collapse
|
13
|
OUP accepted manuscript. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2022; 11:426-436. [PMID: 35782652 PMCID: PMC9244228 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfac022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The central objective of this study was to investigate the cumulative effects restraint stress and sodium arsenite on reproductive health in male rats. Methods Healthy male Wistar rats were allocated into 4 groups (n = 8). Animals in group 1 served as controls and did not subjected to any stress. Rats in groups 2, 3, and 4 were subjected to either restraint stress (5 h/day) or maintained on arsenic (25 ppm) via drinking water or both for 65 days. After completion of the experimental period, all the rats were analyzed for selected reproductive endpoints. Results Restraint stress or sodium arsenite treatment increased serum corticosterone levels, reduced testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm viability, motility, membrane integrity, and decreased testicular steroidogenic enzymes such as 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases associated with reduced serum testosterone levels, deteriorated testicular architecture, and reduced activity levels of testicular superoxide dismutase and catalase accompanied by elevated lipid peroxidation levels. In rats subjected to restraint stress and sodium arsenite, a significant decrease in selected sperm qualitative and quantitative parameters, serum testosterone levels were observed as compared with rats subjected to sodium arsenite alone. A significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation with a concomitant decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes was observed in the testis of rats subjected to both restraint stress and sodium arsenite treatment as compared with sodium arsenite alone intoxicated rats. Surprisingly, serum corticosterone levels were significantly elevated in rats following both stressors as compared with arsenic alone treated rats. Analysis of atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed that the accumulation of arsenic in the testis of arsenic-treated and arsenic plus immobilization stress groups was significant as compared with controls. Conclusions Based on the findings, it can be concluded that deterioration of male reproductive health could be accelerated in arsenic intoxicated rats following restraint stress.
Collapse
|
14
|
Ghoneim IM, Al-Mubarak AH, Fayez MM, Waheed MM, El-Bahr SM. Impact of antibiotics on spermatozoa quality and bacterial load of chilled-stored camels (Camelus dromedarius) semen. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 54:21. [PMID: 34936039 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-03002-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This experiment was conducted to assess the effect of different antibiotics in tris-fructose egg yolk-based diluent on bacterial load and sperm quality of dromedary camels during processing and cold storage. Ten semen ejaculates were collected from five male dromedary camels. Each sample was fractioned into four equally divided aliquots and diluted in one of four tris-fructose egg yolk. The first extender contained no antibiotic (NC). The second extender included streptomycin sulphate (1000 μg/ml) and benzyl penicillin (1000 IU/ml) (SP). The third extender was supplied with 250 μg/ml gentamicin sulphate (Gent). The fourth extender contained 500 μg/ml gentamicin sulphate,100 μg/ml tylosin tartrate, 300 μg/ml lincomycin hydrochloride and 600 μg/ml spectinomycin hydrochloride (GTLS). After dilution, the extended semen samples were cooled to 5 °C within 2 h and finally stored at 5 °C for 72 h. Microbial concentration, motility of spermatozoa, live spermatozoa, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity percentages were evaluated just after dilution at 35 °C, 0, 24, 48 and 72 h from the start of cooling to 5 °C. The results revealed that the diluent containing gentamicin had significantly (P<0.05) maximum motility percentage at the different examination intervals. The pattern of live spermatozoa percentage was varied between the different treatments at different examination intervals. The diluent supplied with Gent was distinguished with a significant peak percentage (P<0.05) of swelled spermatozoa among the other antibiotics supplied diluents. The number of colony-forming units isolated from the semen samples kept in diluent containing no antibiotics was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that isolated from the diluents supplemented with antibiotics. In conclusion, the semen diluents fortified with gentamicin generally keep the motility, acrosomal and plasma membrane integrity and live spermatozoa for 72-h preservation of dromedary semen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I M Ghoneim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, P.O. 400, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Al-Hufof, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12515, Egypt
| | - A H Al-Mubarak
- Ministry of Agriculture, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - M M Fayez
- Ministry of Agriculture, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Veterinary Serum and Vaccine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M M Waheed
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, P.O. 400, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Al-Hufof, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. .,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12515, Egypt.
| | - S M El-Bahr
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology (Biochemistry), College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, P.O. 400, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Al-Hufof, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ajayi AF, Akhigbe RE. Codeine-induced sperm DNA damage is mediated predominantly by oxidative stress rather than apoptosis. Redox Rep 2021; 25:33-40. [PMID: 32290793 PMCID: PMC7189206 DOI: 10.1080/13510002.2020.1752003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACTBackground: Opioids have been implicated to induce infertility. Although codeine remains the most used opioid for recreational purpose, no study has documented its effect on sperm quality. Elucidating the effect of codeine on sperm cells and the associated mechanisms may provide an insight into preventing drug-induced sperm damage. Twenty-one New Zealand white rabbits were randomized into three groups; control and codeine-treated. The codeine-treated groups received either 4 or 10mg/kg b.w of codeine for six weeks.Results: Codeine treatment led to significant decrease in sperm count, motility, viability, normal morphology, and sperm membrane integrity. This was associated with significant rise in sperm DNA fragmentation, oxidative damage, and caspase 3 activity. The percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation correlates positively with 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, a biomarker of oxidative DNA damage, and caspase 3 activity, a biomarker of apoptosis. The observed correlation was stronger between sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative DNA damage than sperm DNA fragmentation and caspase 3 activity.Conclusion: This study revealed that chronic codeine exposure causes sperm DNA fragmentation and poor sperm quality primarily via oxidative stress rather than activation of caspase 3-dependent apoptosis. Findings of the present study may explain drug-induced male factor infertility, particularly, those associated with opioid use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunso Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Roland Eghoghosoa Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rajabi-Toustani R, Mehr MRA, Motamedi-Mojdehi R. Reduction of seminal plasma concentration can decrease detrimental effects of seminal plasma on chilled ram spermatozoa. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20200211. [PMID: 34122651 PMCID: PMC8189354 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of seminal plasma (SP) and cold-shock on ram spermatozoa during 36 h storage at 5°C. In both ejaculated spermatozoa coated with egg yolk (second ejaculate; coated spermatozoa) and epididymal spermatozoa, samples were treated with 0, 50 and 100% seminal plasma. Different levels of seminal plasma were added on the basis of ram spermatocrit (32%). Then half of aliquots were suddenly put on ice water (cold-shock) and other half were gradually (0.25°C/min) chilled (non- cold shock). Sperm motility, viability and functional membrane integrity were determined in both aliquots at 0, 12, 24 and 36 h storage at 5°C. Under non- cold shock and cold-shock conditions, coated spermatozoa treated with 0% SP showed the highest motility compared to ejaculated spermatozoa (first ejaculate; uncoated spermatozoa) after 12, 24 and 36 h of storage at 5°C (P<0.05). Under non- cold shock and cold-shock conditions, viability and functional membrane integrity was higher in the coated spermatozoa treated with 0% SP than in the uncoated spermatozoa during 36 h storage (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between coated spermatozoa treated with 0 and 50% SP in the percentage of motility and viability after 24 and 36 h of storage (P>0.05). Under non- cold shock and cold-shock conditions, the percentage of motility of epididymal spermatozoa treated with 0% SP was significantly (P<0.05) higher than those treated with 100% SP after 36 h of storage at 5°C. In conclusion, removal of seminal plasma and/or reduction (up to 50%) of its concentration can decrease detrimental effects of seminal plasma on chilled ram spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reza Rajabi-Toustani
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.,Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Rasool Motamedi-Mojdehi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
McDermott JP, Numata S, Blanco G. Na,K-ATPase Atp1a4 isoform is important for maintaining sperm flagellar shape. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1493-1505. [PMID: 33977467 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02087-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to investigate the mechanisms by which the testis specific Na,K-ATPase ion transport system (Atp1a4) controls sperm morphology and shape. METHODS Sperm from wild-type (WT) and Atp1a4 knockout (Atp1a4 KO) mice were analyzed morphologically, using light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy; and functionally, applying sperm osmotic challenge and viability tests. In addition, a sperm proteomic study was performed. RESULTS Light microscopy confirmed that sperm lacking Atp1a4 present a bend at the junction of the mid- and principal piece of the flagellum. This bend had different degrees of angulation, reaching occasionally a complete flagellar retroflexion. The defect appeared in sperm collected from the cauda epididymis, but not the epididymal caput or the testis. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy revealed a dilation of the cytoplasm at the site of the bend, with fusion of the plasma membrane in overlapping segments of the flagellum. This was accompanied by defects in the axoneme and peri-axonemal structures. Sperm from Atp1a4 KO mice showed an abnormal response to hypoosmotic challenge with decreased viability, suggesting reduced capacity for volume regulation. Exposure to Triton X-100 only partially recovered the flagellar bend of Atp1a4 KO sperm, showing that factors other than osmotic regulation contribute to the flagellar defect. Interestingly, several key sperm structural proteins were expressed in lower amounts in Atp1a4 KO sperm, with no changes in their localization. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our results show that Atp1a4 plays an important role in maintaining the proper shape of the sperm flagellum through both osmotic control and structurally related mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeff P McDermott
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - September Numata
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Gustavo Blanco
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Evans HC, Dinh TTN, Hardcastle ML, Gilmore AA, Ugur MR, Hitit M, Jousan FD, Nicodemus MC, Memili E. Advancing Semen Evaluation Using Lipidomics. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:601794. [PMID: 33937366 PMCID: PMC8085260 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.601794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing a deeper understanding of biological components of sperm is essential to improving cryopreservation techniques and reproductive technologies. To fully ascertain the functional determinants of fertility, lipidomic methods have come to the forefront. Lipidomics is the study of the lipid profile (lipidome) within a cell, tissue, or organism and provides a quantitative analysis of the lipid content in that sample. Sperm cells are composed of various lipids, each with their unique contribution to the overall function of the cell. Lipidomics has already been used to find new and exciting information regarding the fatty acid content of sperm cells from different species. While the applications of lipidomics are rapidly evolving, gaps in the knowledge base remain unresolved. Current limitations of lipidomics studies include the number of available samples to analyze and the total amount of cells within those samples needed to detect changes in the lipid profiles across different subjects. The information obtained through lipidomics research is essential to systems and cellular biology. This review provides a concise analysis of the most recent developments in lipidomic research. This scientific resource is important because these developments can be used to not only combat the reproductive challenges faced when using cryopreserved semen and artificial reproductive technologies in livestock such as cattle, but also other mammals, such as humans or endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly C. Evans
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Thu T. N. Dinh
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Madison L. Hardcastle
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Alicia A. Gilmore
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Muhammet R. Ugur
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Mustafa Hitit
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
- Department of Animal Genetics, Kastamonu University, Kastamonu, Turkey
| | - Frank Dean Jousan
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Molly C. Nicodemus
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| | - Erdogan Memili
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Fluoride is essential for the development of teeth and bone but its excessive exposure causes reprotoxic effects. We have studied the graded effects of different doses of sodium fluoride (NaF) on 24 adult Wistar rats which were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6). All the rats were given normal diet prepared in our laboratory. Control (group I) rats were received vehicle only and treated rats (group II, III, and IV) were administered NaF orally at 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg/d doses, respectively, for 30 consecutive days. Gravimetric index of testis was decreased significantly in group III and IV rats but such changes were not observed in the accessory reproductive organs. Marked alterations in number, motility, viability, and plasma membrane functional integrity of caudal spermatozoa were noted in most of the treated groups. Noticeable alterations in testicular histoarchitecture were observed in group III and IV rats. Graded Changes of testicular redox homeostasis were noted by assessment of enzymatic (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase, glutathione s-transferase [GST], and glutathione peroxidase [GPx]) and nonenzymatic (malondialdehyde [MDA] and protein carbonyl [PC]) markers. Changes of testicular functional markers (acid phosphatase [ACP], alkaline phosphatase [ALP], and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity) were noted in group III and IV rats. DNA fragmentation assay proved the possibility of DNA damage caused by oxidative stress, as evidenced by prominent trailing pattern of fragmented testicular genomic DNA from group III and IV rats. The study concludes that fluoride-mediated oxidative stress not only impedes the structural and functional facets of testis but also results in testicular DNA damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyankar Pal
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jeronimo Moreira SS, Maria da Silva A, Paz Souza AL, Gurgel Praxedes EC, Freire de Souza Junior JB, Pereira AF, Silva AR. Cryopreservation of Spix's yellow-toothed cavy epididymal sperm using Tris- and coconut water-based extenders supplemented with egg yolk or Aloe vera. Cryobiology 2021; 99:40-45. [PMID: 33508264 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Addressing the establishment of biobanks for the conservation of wild hystricomorph rodents' germplasm, we verified the effects of different extenders and distinct concentrations of non-permeant cryoprotectants on the sperm parameters of Spix's yellow-toothed cavies. Nine testis-epididymis complexes were used for sperm collection by retrograde washing using Tris or a powdered coconut water extender (ACP®-116c). Spermatozoa were diluted and frozen with the same extenders supplemented with egg yolk or Aloe vera at a 10% or 20% concentration. After recovery and cryopreservation, all samples were evaluated for sperm kinetic parameters, morphology, membrane integrity, osmotic response, and sperm-binding capability using an egg yolk perivitelline membrane assay. After recovery, no differences were observed between Tris and ACP®-116c that provided 515.4 × 106 sperm/mL and 561.6 × 106 sperm/mL, presenting >65% motile sperm, respectively. After cryopreservation, most effective preservation of sperm kinetic parameters (68.1 ± 5.9% motile sperm) and membrane integrity (48.2 ± 7.4%) was provided by Tris extender supplemented with 10% egg yolk. However, both extenders supplemented with any concentration of egg yolk or Aloe vera presented similar preservation of osmotic response and sperm-binding ability after cryopreservation. In summary, we suggest the use of a Tris extender supplemented of 10% egg yolk for cryopreservation of Spix's yellow-toothed cavy epidydimal sperm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andreia Maria da Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro-RN, Brazil
| | - Ana Liza Paz Souza
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro-RN, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Alexandre Rodrigues Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid, Mossoro-RN, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Holmes E, Björndahl L, Kvist U. Hypotonic challenge reduces human sperm motility through coiling and folding of the tail. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13859. [PMID: 33026690 PMCID: PMC7757238 DOI: 10.1111/and.13859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ejaculates collected for in vitro procedures show variably rapid increases in osmolality, depending on enzymatic degradation of compounds. Changes in osmolality can affect cell functions due to the energy consuming processes needed to control cell volume. The aim was to examine the effects of a hypotonic challenge for spermatozoa exposed to increased osmolality. Spermatozoa were selected by density gradient centrifugation and washed in media with different osmolalities. Osmolality was measured by freezing‐point depression and sperm velocities by CASA. Swimming pattern observations and assessments of tail morphology of fixed spermatozoa were done with phase contrast microscopy. Increased osmolality did not change the curvilinear velocity (VCL), while decreased osmolality reduced or abolished VCL nonreversibly. For spermatozoa first exposed to 400 mOsm/kg, reversal of osmolality to 290 mOsm/kg reduced the VCL and the average path velocity (VAP) permanently. Hypotonic challenges increased sperm tail coiling and folding in a dose‐response pattern. Spermatozoa once adjusted to high osmolality in the liquefied ejaculate are likely to suffer if exposed to a medium with a lower osmolality. For improved success of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), it appears to be important to minimise the duration of sperm exposure to the ejaculate, by early dilution or sperm preparation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma Holmes
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lars Björndahl
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrik Kvist
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Daveedu T, Pavani R, Sukeerthi S, Gopinath M, Sainath SB. α-lipoic acid protects testis and epididymis against linuron-induced oxidative toxicity in adult rats. Toxicol Res 2020; 36:343-357. [PMID: 33005594 PMCID: PMC7494705 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-019-00036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Linuron is well known for its antiandrogenic property. However, the effects of linuron on testicular and epididymal pro- and antioxidant status are not well defined. On the other hand, α-lipoic acid is well known as universal antioxidant. Therefore, the purpose of this study was twofold: firstly to investigate whether linuron exposure alters antioxidant status in the testis and epididymis of rats and if so, whether the supplementation of α-lipoic acid mitigates linuron-induced oxidative toxicity in rats. To address this question, α-lipoic acid at a dose of 70 mg/Kg body weight (three times a week) was administered to linuron exposed rats (10 or 50 mg/Kg body weight, every alternate day over a period of 60 days), and the selected reproductive endpoints were analyzed after 60 days. Respective controls were maintained in parallel. Linuron at selected doses reduced testicular daily sperm count, and epididymal sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability, and number of tail coiled sperm, reduced activity levels of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, decreased expression levels of StAR mRNA, inhibition of testosterone levels, and elevated levels of testicular cholesterol in rats over controls. Linuron intoxication deteriorated the structural integrity of testis and epididymis associated with reduced the reproductive performance over controls. Conversely, α-lipoic acid supplementation enhanced sperm quality and improved the testosterone synthesis pathway in linuron exposed rats over its respective control. Administration of α-lipoic acid restored inhibition of testicular and epididymal enzymatic (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidise) and non-enzymatic (glutathione content), increased lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content produced by linuron in rats. α-lipoic acid supplementation inhibited the expression levels of testicular caspase-3 mRNA levels and also its activity in linuron treated rats. To summate, α-lipoic acid-induced protection of reproductive health in linuron treated rats could be attributed to its antioxidant, and steroidogenic properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - K. Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - T. Daveedu
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - R. Pavani
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - S. Sukeerthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - M. Gopinath
- Department of Pharmacy, Ratnam Pharmacy College, Muthukur, Nellore, AP India
| | - Sri Bhashaym Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Panda AP, Roy SC, Sakhare DT, Badami S, Divyashree BC, Gurupriya VS, Dhali A. Reduced cytochrome oxidase activity and increased protein tyrosine phosphorylation of mitochondria-rich fractions of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) spermatozoa after a cycle of freezing and thawing. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1567-1580. [PMID: 31233700 DOI: 10.1071/rd18502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The motility and fertility of mammalian spermatozoa are compromised when they are cryopreserved. Sperm mitochondrial proteins play a vital role in conferring motility. However, the effects of cryopreservation on mitochondria-specific proteins remain primarily unexplored in domestic animals, including buffaloes, so the present study aimed to evaluate this issue. Mitochondria were isolated from both non-cryopreserved and cryopreserved buffalo spermatozoa by sonication followed by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation. The purity of the mitochondrial preparation was assessed by cytochrome oxidase assay and electron microscopy. Mitochondria separated from cryopreserved buffalo spermatozoa were associated with significantly lower (P ≤ 0.05) cytochrome oxidase activity as compared with non-cryopreserved spermatozoa. The intensities of two low-molecular-mass mitochondrial proteins (30.1 kDa and 26.1 kDa) were significantly reduced as compared with the non-cryopreserved group. In addition, in cryopreserved buffalo sperm mitochondria, the intensities of three tyrosine phosphorylated proteins (126.6, 106.7 and 26 kDa) increased significantly compared with the non-cryopreserved group. Of these, tyrosine phosphorylation of the 26-kDa mitochondrial protein of cryopreserved sperm was very intense and unique because it could not be detected in the mitochondria of non-cryopreserved sperm. Thus, the study confirmed that both cytochrome oxidase activity and the proteins of buffalo sperm mitochondria undergo significant cryogenic changes in terms of quantity and quality after a cycle of freezing and thawing and this may be one of the important causes of reduced post-thaw motility and fertility of cryopreserved buffalo spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya P Panda
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Sudhir C Roy
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India; and Corresponding author.
| | - Deepak T Sakhare
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Sharanabasav Badami
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Bannur C Divyashree
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Vijayasaraswathy S Gurupriya
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| | - Arindam Dhali
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Hosur Road, Adugodi, Bangalore 560030, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Katragadda V, Adem M, Mohammad RA, Sri Bhasyam S, Battini K. Testosterone recuperates deteriorated male fertility in cypermethrin intoxicated rats. Toxicol Res 2020; 37:125-134. [PMID: 33489863 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-020-00046-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study investigates the protective effects of testosterone against reproductive toxicity induced by cypermethrin (50 mg/kg body weight) in rats. Significant reduction in the testicular and accessory sex organ weights were observed in cypermethrin-treated rats over controls. Cypermethrin intoxication significantly reduced testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm count, sperm motility, sperm viability and HOS-tail coiled sperm accompanied by significant reduction in the activity levels of testicular steroidogenic enzymes such as 3β- and 17β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in rats as compared to controls. Further, qPCR studies indicated that the mRNA expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) significantly decreased in cypermethrin-treated rats over controls. Molecular docking analysis indicated that the binding affinity of cypermethrin (- 11.2 kcal/mol) towards StAR protein was greater as compared to its natural ligand, cholesterol (- 8.2 kcal/mol) suggesting improper cholesterol channeling across the testis. Significant reduction in the circulatory levels of testosterone was also recorded in cypermethrin-exposed rats. An increase in pre- and post-implantation loss was observed in rats cohabited with cypermethrin-treated rats. On the other hand, testosterone (4.16 mg/kg body weight) treatment ameliorated cypermethrin-induced reprotoxic effects in rats. To conclude, cypermethrin-induced deterioration of suppressed reproductive performance in male rats could be linked to its antiandrogenic effects and on the other hand, testosterone-mediated protection of male reproductive health in cypermethrin-treated rats at least in part occurs via restoration of testosterone biosynthesis, spermatogenesis and sperm maturation events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasudha Katragadda
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women's University), Tirupati, AP 517 502 India
| | - Meghapriya Adem
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women's University), Tirupati, AP 517 502 India
| | - Reshma Anjum Mohammad
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women's University), Tirupati, AP 517 502 India
| | - Sainath Sri Bhasyam
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore, AP 524 320 India
| | - Kishori Battini
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam (Women's University), Tirupati, AP 517 502 India
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Biswas S, Kumar Mukhopadhyay P. Casein- and pea-enriched high-protein diet can take care of the reprotoxic effects of arsenic in male rats. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13560. [PMID: 32196711 DOI: 10.1111/and.13560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Arsenic toxicity is a significant health problem featured with several incidents of male reproductive dysfunctions. We studied the protective effects of a casein- and pea-enriched formulated high-protein diet (FHPD) on arsenic-mediated testicular dysfunctions in rats. Adult male rats sustained on either a benchmark diet (n = 8) or an isocaloric FHPD (n = 8) were gavaged with arsenic trioxide (3mg/kg body wt/rat/day) for 30 consecutive days. A vehicle-fed group (n = 8) maintained on the standard diet served as control. The arsenic-treated group continued on the standard diet had a significantly reduced testicular and accessory sex organs weights. They exhibited decreased count, motility, viability and disrupted plasma membrane integrity of caudal spermatozoa with a higher incidence of gross morphological anomalies and DNA damage. Attenuated steroidogenic enzyme activities and low serum testosterone level vouched for a compromised state of testicular steroidogenesis. An increased testicular malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl contents coupled with impaired activities of antioxidant enzymes and free radical scavengers mirrored a situation of exacerbated testicular oxidative imbalance and disrupted redox homeostasis. FHPD, by and large, countermanded testicular steroidogenesis and antioxidant defence system and revoked the ill effects of arsenic. We conclude that specific protein-enriched diet may serve as prospective weaponry in encountering the arsenic-threatened testicular functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sagnik Biswas
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, Kolkata, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Ostrich ejaculate characteristics and male libido around equinox and solstice dates. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 52:2609-2619. [PMID: 32451835 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02299-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The study evaluated the effect of time of the year in which changes in photoperiod occurs on ostrich semen characteristics and male libido. Semen was collected for 5 days before, on and 5 days after winter solstice (21 June 2016), spring equinox (22 September 2016), summer solstice (21 December 2016) and autumn equinox (20 March 2017) in the southern hemisphere. Semen was collected from 10 South African Black ostrich males (average age ± standard deviation; 4.5 ± 2.27 years) using the dummy female. Semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm per ejaculate, sperm motility traits, percentage of normal sperm, head and tail abnormalities and percentage of affected sperm in the hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOS) were evaluated. Male libido defined as the willingness of males to mount the dummy female was also recorded. Semen samples collected around summer solstice, spring and autumn equinox were higher in sperm concentration and sperm output compared with winter solstice (P < 0.05). Study periods did not influence semen volume, sperm motility traits, the percentage of normal sperm, head abnormalities and HOS. Tail abnormalities were higher around winter solstice than around spring equinox (P < 0.05). Male libido and the success of semen collection were significantly higher around spring equinox (P < 0.05). Changes in photoperiod in the southern hemisphere do not affect semen production in ostriches. However, high sperm output and male libido around spring equinox and summer solstice dates suggest that these periods may be preferred for semen collection for artificial insemination and storage purposes.
Collapse
|
27
|
Dave P, Farber N, Vij S. Conventional semen analysis and advanced sperm function tests in diagnosis and management of varicocele. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13629. [PMID: 32369238 DOI: 10.1111/and.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical varicoceles are a common cause of male infertility and affect sperm parameters as measured in a conventional semen analysis. Varicocelectomy has been shown in prospective studies to improve semen parameters in men with a clinical varicocele. Clinical varicoceles are also a well-known source of oxidative stress which may affect the quality of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress due to a limited capacity for DNA repair. The susceptibility of spermatozoa to oxidative stress is modulated by a balance between ROS and antioxidants, which can be quantified by various laboratory assays. Varicocelectomy has been consistently shown to reduce both ROS and sperm DNA fragmentation, and various assays should be utilised in the diagnosis and treatment of infertile men with a clinical varicocele.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priya Dave
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nicholas Farber
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah Vij
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vaadala S, Ponneri N, Karanam VS, Sainath SB, Reddy PS, Pamuru RR, Mohammed A. Recovery of Prenatal Baicalein Exposure Perturbed Reproduction by Postnatal Exposure of Testosterone in Male Mice. Int J Endocrinol 2020; 2020:5012736. [PMID: 33293955 PMCID: PMC7714599 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5012736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Baicalein (BC), a flavonoid, which lacks the qualities of reproductive health and shows adverse effects, is tested in this study. Inseminated mice were injected with 30, 60, and 90 mg BC/Kg body weight on gestation days 11, 13, 15, and 17. The F1 BC-exposed males of each dosage were divided into six groups. First three groups (n = 6 from each BC dosage) were used for assessment of reproductive performance, the others (n = 4 from each BC dosage) were administered with testosterone 4.16 mg/kg body weight on postnatal days 21, 31, and 41. The reproductive health of adult F1 males at the age of 55 and 60 was tested. Prenatal BC exposure showed reduced fertility after cohabitation with control females. The BC exposure significantly reduced the body weight, tissue indices, and sperm parameters (motility, count, viability, and daily sperm count) and altered the sperm membrane in a hypoosmotic swelling test. A downward trend was observed in testicular steroidogenic marker enzymes (3β- and 17β-steroid dehydrogenases) and serum testosterone, whereas increase in serum titers of FSH and LH along with altered the testicular histology. Conversely, testosterone (4.16 mg/kg body weight) partially recovered reduced male reproductive health by BC. BC impaired male reproductive health due to low levels of testosterone is reverted by external testosterone is evidenced in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sridevi Vaadala
- Department of Biochemistry, Yogi Vemana University, Vemanapuram, Kadapa 516 005, AP, India
| | - Naveen Ponneri
- Department of Biochemistry, Yogi Vemana University, Vemanapuram, Kadapa 516 005, AP, India
| | | | - Sri Bhashyam Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Kakutur, P. S. Nellore 524 320, AP, India
| | | | | | - Arifullah Mohammed
- Institute of Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture (IFSSA), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Campus Jeli, Locked Bag 100, Jeli 17600, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Faculty of Agro-based Industry (FIAT), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Campus Jeli, Locked Bag 100, Jeli 17600, Kelantan, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Almadaly EA, Ashour MA, El-Kon II, Heleil BA. Traditional and non-traditional methods used for discrimination among Ossimi rams with different field fertility. Small Rumin Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
30
|
Gadea J, Toledano-Díaz A, Navarro-Serna S, Jiménez-Movilla M, Soriano P, Matás C, Santiago-Moreno J. Assessment and preservation of liquid and frozen-thawed Black crested mangabey (Lophocebus aterrimus) spermatozoa obtained by transrectal ultrasonic-guided massage of the accessory sex glands and electroejaculation. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 210:106176. [PMID: 31635773 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Black Crested Mangabey (Lophocebus aterrimus) is an African monkey listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN and in captivity the population is limited to 34 males. The aim of this study was to evaluate two Black Crested Mangabey males, maintained in captivity in a zoological garden and suspected of infertility, with a complete examination of their genital tract using ultrasonography, followed by recovery of semen using transrectal ultrasonic massage of the accessory sexual glands (TUMASG) and electroejaculation. One male had small testicular and accessory sex gland sizes indicative of senile hypoplasia. The other male was suspected of infertility. Four semen samples were obtained. Fresh semen was initially evaluated, diluted in Refrigeration Medium Test Yolk buffer, cooled at 15 °C and cryopreserved. Endocrine profiles (testosterone, oestradiol, FSH, LH, cortisol), prostatic specific antigen and semen variables (volume, concentration, motility by CASA, viability and acrosome status using flow cytometry, morphology, morphometry utilising TEM) were evaluated in raw, cooled and cryopreserved samples. There was no detrimental effect of cooling or cryopreservation on sperm viability and acrosomal integrity. Similar percentages of viable and acrosome-intact spermatozoa were present in cooled (for 6 h) and frozen-thawed semen samples (75.1% compared with 69.0%, P > 0.05), while progressive motility was greater in cooled, compared with frozen-thawed samples (81.5% compared with 67.3%). This study was the first in which there was evaluation of sperm variables in this species and, although this study is limited by the number of animals it provides background information for further studies using assisted reproductive technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Gadea
- Dpto. Fisiología, Universidad de Murcia, Spain; IMIB-Arrixaca. Murcia. Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | - Carmen Matás
- Dpto. Fisiología, Universidad de Murcia, Spain; IMIB-Arrixaca. Murcia. Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Jeyendran RS, Caroppo E, Rouen A, Anderson A, Puscheck E. Selecting the most competent sperm for assisted reproductive technologies. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:851-863. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
32
|
Yelumalai S, Giribabu N, Karim K, Omar SZ, Salleh NB. In vivo administration of quercetin ameliorates sperm oxidative stress, inflammation, preserves sperm morphology and functions in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced adult male diabetic rats. Arch Med Sci 2019; 15:240-249. [PMID: 30697276 PMCID: PMC6348351 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2018.81038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been associated with sperm damage. In view of the fact that quercetin possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, this compound may help to protect sperm against damage in DM. In this study, in-vivo effects of quercetin on sperm parameters in DM were investigated. MATERIAL AND METHODS Quercetin (10, 25 and 50 mg/kg/b.w.) was given orally to streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced adult male diabetic rats for 28 days. Following treatment completion, rats were sacrificed and sperm were harvested from the cauda epididymis. Sperm count, motility, viability, hyperosmotic swelling (HOS) tail-coiled sperm and morphology were assessed. Levels of lipid peroxidation (LPO) and anti-oxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx) in sperm with and without H2O2 incubation were determined by biochemical assays. Expression levels of SOD, CAT and GPx mRNAs in sperm were evaluated by qPCR. Sperm DNA integrity was estimated by flow cytometry while expression levels of the inflammatory markers NF-κβ and TNF-α in sperm were determined by Western blotting. RESULTS In diabetic rats receiving quercetin, sperm count and motility, viability and HOS tail-coiled sperm increased (p < 0.05) while sperm with abnormal morphology decreased. Moreover, sperm SOD, CAT, GPx activities and their mRNA expression levels increased while sperm LPO, NF-κβ and TNF-α levels decreased. In normal and diabetic rat sperm incubated with H2O2, a further increase in MDA and further decreases in SOD, CAT and GPx were observed, and these were ameliorated by quercetin treatment. CONCLUSIONS In-vivo administration of quercetin to diabetic rats helps to ameliorate sperm damage and improves sperm morphology and functions in DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suseela Yelumalai
- Department of Obstetric and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nelli Giribabu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kamarulzaman Karim
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Zawiah Omar
- Department of Obstetric and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Naguib Bin Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sai Siva Ram AK, Pratap Reddy K, Girish BP, Supriya C, Sreenivasula Reddy P. Arsenic aggravated reproductive toxicity in male rats exposed to lead during the perinatal period. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2018; 7:1191-1204. [PMID: 30510688 PMCID: PMC6220733 DOI: 10.1039/c8tx00146d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the reproductive toxic effects of arsenic on adult Wistar rats exposed to lead during the perinatal period. The pregnant rats were allowed ad libitum access to tap water containing 819 mg of lead (Pb) per L or without Pb from conception until weaning. Litter size, survival rate and developmental milestones of the pups delivered by Pb exposed dams were comparable to those of the control rats. Conversely, the pups exposed to Pb during the perinatal period exhibited significant delay in cliff avoidance, negative geotaxis, surface righting reflex, ascending wire mesh and testis descent. The control and perinatal Pb-exposed male rats were maintained on tap water containing 2.3 mg of arsenite (As) per L or without arsenite from the pubertal period (post-natal day 55) to adulthood (post-natal day 115) and assessed for reproductive end points. The results revealed that the (1) relative weights of the testis, epididymis, seminiferous tubules and ventral prostate; (2) daily sperm production; (3) epididymal sperm density and (4) numbers of motile, viable, and HOS tail swelled sperm declined significantly in the rats exposed to either Pb or As. The activity levels of testicular 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases were also significantly decreased in the experimental rats. Significant elevation in the levels of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation in association with reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes in the testis and different epididymal regions was recorded in the experimental rats. In the fertility study, although each male in the control and experimental groups produced a copulatory plug and impregnated a female, the mean conception time significantly increased in the experimental groups. The mean number of implantations decreased significantly in the females mated with the experimental males. Moreover, the results of the present study also indicate that reproductive alterations were more deteriorated in the Pb-exposed rats treated with arsenic when compared to individual exposures. In conclusion, the data clearly suggest that reproductive toxicity in male rats exposed to Pb during the perinatal period is exacerbated by As treatment during the pubertal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A K Sai Siva Ram
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
| | - K Pratap Reddy
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
- Department of Biotechnology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
| | - B P Girish
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
- Department of Biotechnology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
| | - Ch Supriya
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
- Department of Biotechnology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
| | - P Sreenivasula Reddy
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Smarr MM, Kannan K, Sun L, Honda M, Wang W, Karthikraj R, Chen Z, Weck J, Buck Louis GM. Preconception seminal plasma concentrations of endocrine disrupting chemicals in relation to semen quality parameters among male partners planning for pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:78-86. [PMID: 30014899 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some non-persistent endocrine disruptors (EDCs) are adversely associated with semen quality and few studies have measured those EDCs in seminal plasma. OBJECTIVE To find an association between EDCs in seminal plasma and semen quality parameters. METHODS Five chemical classes of non-persistent EDCs were quantified in seminal plasma from 339 male partners who participated in a prospective pregnancy study. Bisphenols, benzophenone UV-filters, antimicrobials and phthalate diesters and their monoester metabolites were measured using high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Semen samples underwent next day analysis using a standardized protocol for the quantification of 35 endpoints. Linear mixed-effects models of EDCs that were log transformed and rescaled by their standard deviations or dichotomized at the 75th percentile for each exposure and outcomes with covariate adjustment were performed. EDCs in seminal plasma were also assessed relative to clinical reference values of semen quality endpoints using logistic regression or generalized estimating equations. RESULTS The most consistent findings supporting adverse associations between seminal EDCs and semen quality were observed for some phthalate metabolites. For example, seminal plasma mono-ethyl, mono-n-butyl, mono-2-isobutyl and mono-benzyl phthalate concentrations were associated with decreased odds of having semen volume above clinical reference values (mEP: aOR=0.46; 95%CI= 0.32, 0.66; mBP: aOR=0.40; 95%CI= 0.28, 0.57; miBP: aOR=0.39; 95%CI= 0.27, 0.56), and mBzP: aOR= 0.34; 95%CI= 0.24, 0.49). CONCLUSIONS Environmentally relevant concentrations of specific phthalates in seminal plasma were associated with diminished semen volume, sperm motility, viability, and morphological alterations in sperm heads such that semen volume and sperm viability fall below reference values.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Smarr
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA; Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA; Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | | | - Masato Honda
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Wei Wang
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY, USA
| | | | - Zhen Chen
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer Weck
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Germaine M Buck Louis
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Archana D, Supriya C, Girish B, Kishori B, Reddy PS. Alleviative effect of resveratrol on polyvinyl chloride-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats. Food Chem Toxicol 2018; 116:173-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2018.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
36
|
Male urinary biomarkers of antimicrobial exposure and bi-directional associations with semen quality parameters. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 77:103-108. [PMID: 29474822 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobials including parabens, triclosan, and triclocarban have endocrine disrupting properties. Among 501 male partners of couples planning to become pregnant, preconception urinary biomarkers of parabens, triclosan and triclocarban exposure were quantified in spot urine samples. Men also provided two fresh semen samples collected approximately one month to undergo 24-h semen quality analysis. Linear mixed-effects models, adjusted for creatinine, race, age and body mass index, were utilized to assess the relationship between log transformed chemical concentrations rescaled by their standard deviations and semen parameters. Methyl, ethyl and butyl parabens, were associated with diminished sperm count and several sperm motility parameters. Hydroxylated paraben metabolites and triclosan were significantly positively associated with select semen quality parameters. Overall, our findings suggest that specific urinary parabens found in consumer goods (methyl, ethyl and butyl parabens) may adversely impact sperm quality parameters among reproductive-age male partners of couples trying for pregnancy.
Collapse
|
37
|
Girish BP, Reddy PS. Forskolin ameliorates mancozeb-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity in Wistar rats by reducing oxidative toxicity and by stimulating steroidogenesis. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 32. [PMID: 29283200 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we have tested the beneficial effects of forskolin in protecting the mancozeb-induced reproductive toxicity in rats. Adult male Wistar rats were exposed to either mancozeb (500 mg/kg body weight/day) or forskolin (5 mg/kg body weight/day) or both for 65 days and analyzed for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis and testicular and epididymal oxidative toxicity. A significant decrease in daily sperm production, epididymal sperm count, motile, viable, and hypo-osmotic swelling-tail swelled sperm was observed in mancozeb-treated rats. The activity levels of testicular 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and circulatory testosterone levels were significantly decreased in mancozeb-treated rats. Exposure to mancozeb resulted in a significant decrease in glutathione levels and superoxide dismutase and catalase activity levels with an increase in lipid peroxidation levels in the testes and epididymis. Coadministration of forskolin mitigated the mancozeb-induced oxidative toxicity and suppressed steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B P Girish
- Department of Biotechnology, S.V. University, Tirupati 517 502, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Prathima P, Pavani R, Sukeerthi S, Sainath SB. α-Lipoic acid inhibits testicular and epididymal oxidative damage and improves fertility efficacy in arsenic-intoxicated rats. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 32. [DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Papisetty Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology; Vikrama Simhapuri University; Nellore AP 524003 India
| | | | - Sadepalli Sukeerthi
- Department of Biotechnology; Vikrama Simhapuri University; Nellore AP 524003 India
| | - Sri Bhashyam Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology; Vikrama Simhapuri University; Nellore AP 524003 India
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Protective role of epigallocatechin-3-gallate on arsenic induced testicular toxicity in Swiss albino mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 96:685-694. [PMID: 29040955 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.09.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 09/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Arsenic, often referred to as the king of poisons is carcinogenic in humans and animals. It affects multiorgan systems including reproduction. The present study was undertaken to explore the protective role of green tea compound, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on arsenic induced testicular toxicity in Swiss albino mice. Thirty two adult male mice were randomly assigned to four groups (n=8). Group I served as control without test chemical. The group II received arsenic (200ppm) through drinking water, group III received only EGCG (20mg/kgb.wt., intraperitoneally, alternate days) and group IV was administered arsenic+EGCG for 40days. Factorial experimental design was employed to assess the treatment effect. The EGCG restored arsenic induced decrements in epididymal sperm concentration, kinematic attributes (total motility, rapid, progressive motile, fast progressive, VSL, VAP, VCL, BCF, LIN, WOB, STR and Type A), structutal membrane integrity, functional membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential. As evidenced by the histoarchitectural studies, the EGCG reversed the deleterious effects of arsenic on testicular malondialdehyde (p<0.05) levels, reduced glutathione, antioxidative enzymes and spermatogenesis. Overall, the results suggest that EGCG reduces the testicular oxidative stress induced by arsenic poisoning and thereby protect the reproductive system.
Collapse
|
40
|
Smarr MM, Kannan K, Chen Z, Kim S, Buck Louis GM. Male urinary paracetamol and semen quality. Andrology 2017; 5:1082-1088. [PMID: 28853221 PMCID: PMC10506067 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The endocrine-disrupting properties of paracetamol have been previously demonstrated in rodent studies of abnormal sperm morphology and diminished testosterone production, in addition to epidemiologic studies of diminished couple fecundity. In this study, we examined the relationship between paracetamol and its metabolite p-aminophenol quantified in a single spot urine and semen quality among 501 male partners of couples planning for pregnancy. Men provided a urine specimen and two fresh semen samples collected approximately one month apart and underwent 24-h analysis for 35 semen quality parameters. Paracetamol and p-aminophenol were quantified in urine by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with an electrospray triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. The relationship between natural-log-transformed urinary paracetamol and p-aminophenol rescaled by their standard deviation and 21 Box-Cox-transformed, 14 non-transformed semen parameters was assessed using linear mixed-effects models. The median concentrations (IQR) of urinary paracetamol and p-aminophenol were 15.5 ng/mL (5.44, 73.5) and 978 ng/mL (500, 1596), respectively. Following adjustment for creatinine and age, a 1-standard deviation increase in log-transformed urinary paracetamol was associated with a reduction in beat cross-frequency and an increase in DNA fragmentation [β (95% CI): -0.59 Hz (-1.16, -0.03) and 0.05% (0.01, 0.09), respectively]. These findings were corroborated in models of categorical chemical concentrations; higher concentrations of paracetamol remained associated with reduced beat cross-frequency and increased DNA fragmentation. A 1-standard deviation increase in log-transformed urinary p-aminophenol was associated with a reduction in sperm head area [β (95% CI): -0.1 μm2 (-0.18, -0.02) and width -0.02 μm (-0.04, -0.01)]. However, only the association with sperm head area remained statistically significant in models of p-aminophenol quartiles. Our findings suggest that adult male urinary paracetamol is associated with sperm motility and DNA fragmentation, while the metabolite, p-aminophenol, is predominantly associated with sperm head morphometry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M. Smarr
- Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Kurunthachalam Kannan
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, and Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York 12201, USA
| | - Zhen Chen
- Biostatistic and Bioinformatics Branch, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| | - Sungduk Kim
- Biostatistics Branch Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics National Cancer Institute Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Germaine M. Buck Louis
- Office of the Director, Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20829, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Taghilou P, Rostami B, Masoumi R, Mirzaei-Alamouti H. Effects of supplementation of the Tris-egg yolk extender with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on frozen-thawed ram semen characteristics. Small Rumin Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2017.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
42
|
Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Pavani R, Daveedu T, Munikumar M, Gobinath M, Valli M, Sainath SB. α-lipoic acid inhibits oxidative stress in testis and attenuates testicular toxicity in rats exposed to carbimazole during embryonic period. Toxicol Rep 2017; 4:373-381. [PMID: 28959662 PMCID: PMC5615143 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrauterine exposure of carbiamzole (CBZ) on male fertility is not well defined. CBZ exposure in utero results in spermatotoxic effects and impaired steroidogenesis in offspring rats at their adulthood. Gestational exposure to CBZ augmented testicular oxidative damage in offspring rats. α-lipoic acid supplementation with its antioxidant properties ameliorated diminished male reproductive health in rats exposed to CBZ prenatally.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the probable protective effect of α-lipoic acid against testicular toxicity in rats exposed to carbimazole during the embryonic period. Time-mated pregnant rats were exposed to carbimazole from the embryonic days 9–21. After completion of the gestation period, all the rats were allowed to deliver pups and weaned. At postnatal day 100, F1 male pups were assessed for the selected reproductive endpoints. Gestational exposure to carbimazole decreased the reproductive organ indices, testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm variables viz., sperm count, viable sperm, motile sperm and HOS-tail coiled sperms. Significant decrease in the activity levels of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and expression of StAR mRNA levels with a significant increase in the total cholesterol levels were observed in the testis of experimental rats over the controls. These events were also accompanied by a significant reduction in the serum testosterone levels in CBZ exposed rats, indicating reduced steroidogenesis. In addition, the deterioration of the testicular architecture and reduced fertility ability were noticed in the carbimazole exposed rats. Significant reduction in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione content with a significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation were observed in the testis of carbimazole exposed rats over the controls. Conversely, supplementation of α-lipoic acid (70 mg/Kg bodyweight) ameliorated the male reproductive health in rats exposed to carbimazole during the embryonic period as evidenced by enhanced reproductive organ weights, selected sperm variables, testicular steroidogenesis, and testicular enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. To conclude, diminished testicular antioxidant balance associated with reduced spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis might be responsible for the suppressed reproduction in rats exposed to the carbimazole transplacentally. On the other hand, α-lipoic acid through its antioxidant and steroidogenic properties mitigated testicular toxicity which eventually restored the male reproductive health of carbimazole-exposed rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - K Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - R Pavani
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - T Daveedu
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - M Munikumar
- Biomedical Informatics Centre, National Institute of Nutrition-ICMR, Jamia Islamia (Post), Hyderabad-500007, Telangana, India, India
| | - M Gobinath
- Department of Pharmacy, Ratnam Institute of Pharmacy, Nellore-524346, AP, India
| | - M Valli
- Department of Genetics, Narayana Medical College, Nellore-524003, AP, India
| | - S B Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Whitcomb BW, Bloom MS, Kim S, Chen Z, Buck Louis GM. Male birthweight, semen quality and birth outcomes. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:505-513. [PMID: 28104697 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the relations among birthweight (BW), semen parameters and birth outcomes in a population-based sample? SUMMARY ANSWER BW is unrelated to semen parameters, which are in turn unrelated to birth outcomes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In clinical settings, there has been suggestion that semen parameters are related to BW when comparing fertile and infertile men; however, findings have been less clear in more general populations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Questionnaire data and semen samples were collected at baseline from 427 male participants of the population-based Longitudinal Investigation of Fertility and the Environment (LIFE) prospective cohort study from 2005 to 2009, who were followed prospectively to assess pregnancy outcomes among 226 singleton births. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Men of at least 18 years of age who were married or in a committed relationship and trying to conceive were eligible for participation; physician-diagnosed infertility was an exclusion criterion. Participants were recruited from two geographic areas and semen samples were analyzed for 34 quality parameters categorized as general, motility, morphology, sperm head and sperm chromatin structure using methods including computer-aided semen analysis integrated visual optical system and sperm chromatin structure assay. Linear and mixed models were used for statistical analysis of the relations between men's BW, semen parameters, and BW, gestational age at delivery, birth length, head circumference and ponderal index of singleton births. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE No association was observed between male BW and semen parameters or birth outcomes. Few associations were observed between semen parameters and birth outcomes, and the observed statistically significant associations were isolated and without a consistent pattern that would suggest an association between BW and birth outcomes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Men's BW was self-reported and may be subject to some imprecision. Semen analysis was performed the day after collection, an approach that impacts the assessment of motility and that may limit inference from our analyses of motility measures. In addition, inclusion criteria for selection into the cohort limits generalizability to generally healthy couples trying to conceive and without known subfertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Despite suggestions from prior studies of male in utero exposures impacting BW and male reproductive health, there appears to be little support for such relations in this generally healthy population. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Supported by the Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (N01-HD-3-3355, N01-HD-3-3356 and NOH-HD-3-3358). The authors report no competing interests, and a Memo of Understanding with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for semen analysis. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B W Whitcomb
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts, 715 N. Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01002, USA
| | - M S Bloom
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, One University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany, State University of New York, One University Place, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - S Kim
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr., Bethesda MD 20852, USA
| | - Z Chen
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr., Bethesda MD 20852, USA
| | - G M Buck Louis
- Division of Intramural Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, 6710B Rockledge Dr., Bethesda MD 20852, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Giribabu N, Reddy PS. Protection of male reproductive toxicity in rats exposed to di-n-butyl phthalate during embryonic development by testosterone. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 87:355-365. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.12.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Revised: 12/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
|
45
|
Meena R, Supriya C, Pratap Reddy K, Sreenivasula Reddy P. Altered spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis and suppressed fertility in adult male rats exposed to genistein, a non-steroidal phytoestrogen during embryonic development. Food Chem Toxicol 2016; 99:70-77. [PMID: 27884790 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2016.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This article focuses on the effects of prenatal exposure to genistein on the mother, her pregnancy and reproductive functions of the male progeny, since these issues have ethological relevance in both animals and humans. Pregnant Wistar rats received i.p. injections of genistein at a dose level of 2, 20 or 100 mg/kg body weight daily from 12th to 19th day of gestation. Male pups from control and genistein exposed animals were weaned and allowed to develop until 100 days of age; however, when they were 90 days old, twelve males from each group were cohabited with untreated 90-day old females for 8 days. Results revealed a significant decrease in indices of reproductive organs in adult male rats exposed to genistein during embryonic development. Dose dependent reduction was observed in daily sperm production and epididymal sperm density and quality in genistein treated rats. Significant decrease was observed in the activity levels of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in testis of experimental rats with a decline in plasma testosterone levels. Histological examination of testis of genistein treated rats indicated deterioration in testicular architecture. In the fertility study, the mean number of implantations and live fetuses per dam mated with 100 mg genistein exposed males was reduced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Meena
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati 517502, India
| | - Ch Supriya
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati 517502, India
| | - K Pratap Reddy
- Department of Biotechnology, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati 517502, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Almadaly EA, Farrag FA, Saadeldin IM, El-Magd MA, El-Razek IMA. Relationship between total protein concentration of seminal plasma and sperm characteristics of highly fertile, fertile and subfertile Barki ram semen collected by electroejaculation. Small Rumin Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2016.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
47
|
Tipkantha W, Thuwanut P, Siriaroonrat B, Comizzoli P, Chatdarong K. Mitigation of sperm tail abnormalities using demembranation approach in the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa). Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 52 Suppl 2:214-218. [PMID: 27758006 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Clouded leopards (Neofelis nebulosa) produced high proportion of abnormal spermatozoa (mainly tail defects) that can limit sperm movement and conception. The study aimed to better identify the origin of those defects using a demembranation approach. Ejaculates (1-2 ejaculations/male; n = 9) were allocated to simple washing (control; resulting in 11.7% ± 1.9% coiled tails) and processed through colloid centrifugation to reduce the number of sperm with tail defects (treatment, resulting in 5.9% ± 0.9% coiled tails). Aliquots of semen were incubated in hypo-osmotic solution (HOS, 60 mOsm fructose solution) containing 5 mM dithiothreitol (DTT) (a reducing agent) to prevent oxidation of sperm membrane. Thereafter, 20% Triton X-100 (TX) (a detergent) was added to the HOS/DTT-treated samples. After HOS/DTT incubation, the control samples and sperm-selected samples presented 73.4% ± 3.1% and 73.9% ± 2.5% swollen sperm (bent and coiled) indicating membrane intact, respectively. Most of the coiled tail in the raw ejaculates could not be opened by TX indicating that the cause of coiled sperm tails may be from testicular origin. The proportion of sperm with tightly coiled tail tended to be lower in the sperm-selected group than control group (18.8% ± 3.8% and 26.5% ± 3.4%; p = .1), whereas the sperm opened up by TX tended to be higher in the sperm-selected group (53.6% ± 10.4% and 21.1% ± 7.9%; p = .06). The results indicated TX was able to uncoil half of the tightly coiled sperm in the semen undergone preparation. In conclusion, the coiled sperm in the clouded leopard semen were likely not a defect of sperm volume regulation during post-ejaculate (osmotic swelling) but pre-ejaculate origin. Semen preparation demonstrated its ability to lessen the primary sperm defects and selected spermatozoa that were prone to be mitigated after demembranation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Tipkantha
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Bureau of Conservation Research and Education, Zoological Park Organization (ZPO), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - P Thuwanut
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - B Siriaroonrat
- Bureau of Conservation Research and Education, Zoological Park Organization (ZPO), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - P Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - K Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Comparison of differents methods of sperm selection of llama raw semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 173:8-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
49
|
Guvvala PR, Sellappan S, Parameswaraiah RJ. Impact of arsenic(V) on testicular oxidative stress and sperm functional attributes in Swiss albino mice. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:18200-18210. [PMID: 27265425 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6870-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The arsenic (As) is a multi system effector including reproduction. The present study examined the association of graded doses of As(V) on testicular microenvironment and sperm function in mice. Thirty-six adult male mice were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 6). Group A served as control without test chemical. The groups B, C, D, E, and F were administered graded doses of 10, 25, 50, 100, and 200 ppm As(V), respectively, through drinking water for 40 days. A dose-dependant significant (P < 0.05) decrements were observed in epididymal sperm kinematic attributes (progressive motility, rapid, fast progressive, VCL, VSL, VAP, LIN, STR, WOB and TYPE A (STR >80 %, ALH 2.5 μm) by CASA), viability, plasma membrane functional integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential which were associated with insignificant decrease in serum testosterone levels. The histoarchitectural studies of testes showed progressive loss of spermatozoa concentration in the seminiferous tubules as the As(V) dose increased. The mice exposed to As(V) had an increase in the As accumulation, protein carbonylation, and lipid peroxidation levels associated with alterations in SOD, CAT, and GST activities in the testes. In conclusion, higher doses of As(V) (more than 50 ppm) were found to be testicular toxicants which impaired semen quality by inducing oxidative stress in the testicular microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pushpa Rani Guvvala
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Selvaraju Sellappan
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Ravindra Janivara Parameswaraiah
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Reddy KP, Narayana Rao M, Murthy JSR, Reddy PS. Lead aggravates the diabetic-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2016; 5:1465-1476. [PMID: 30090450 PMCID: PMC6060822 DOI: 10.1039/c6tx00099a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes, an unresolved metabolic disorder, and lead contamination are prevalent problems in contemporary society. Previously, we have reported that either diabetes or lead exposure resulted in reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether diabetic rats exposed to lead demonstrate a higher degree of reproductive toxicity when compared with lead-exposed control rats. Diabetes was induced by injecting a single dose of streptozotocin (50 mg per kg body weight). Control and diabetic rats were exposed to lead at a concentration of 819 mg L-1 (0.15% lead acetate) through drinking water for a period of 30 days and assessed for reproductive and oxidative end points. The relative weights of the testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, and the prostate gland were significantly decreased in diabetic rats. Daily sperm production, epididymal sperm count, motile, viable and HOS-tail swelled sperms, serum testosterone levels and testicular 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity levels were significantly decreased in diabetic rats. Significant reductions in testicular and epididymal antioxidant enzyme activity levels and glutathione levels were observed in diabetic rats with an elevation in the levels of superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxides, and lipid peroxidation. A significant reduction in the number of implantations associated with elevated pre- and post-implantation losses was observed in females mated with diabetic males. Mild histopathological malformations were observed in the testis of the diabetic rats. Similar reproductive and oxidative toxicities were observed in lead-exposed control rats. Furthermore, lead exposed diabetic rats showed additional deterioration in reproductive end points and a noteworthy elevation in oxidative toxicity, suggesting that treatment with lead exacerbates reproductive toxicity in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Pratap Reddy
- Department of Biotechnology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
| | - Madamsetti Narayana Rao
- Department of Biotechnology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
- Department of Botany , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
| | - J S R Murthy
- Department of Botany , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India
| | - P Sreenivasula Reddy
- Department of Zoology , Sri Venkateswara University , Tirupati - 517502 , India . ; ; ; Tel: +91-9247593000
| |
Collapse
|