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Clark KL, Shukla M, George JW, Gustin S, Rowley MJ, Davis JS. An environmentally relevant mixture of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) impacts proliferation, steroid hormone synthesis, and gene transcription in primary human granulosa cells. Toxicol Sci 2024; 200:57-69. [PMID: 38603627 PMCID: PMC11199914 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that are resistant to biodegradation and are environmentally persistent. PFAS are found in many consumer products and are a major source of water and soil contamination. This study investigated the effects of an environmentally relevant PFAS mixture (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], perfluorooctanesulfonic acid [PFOS], perfluorohexanesulfonic acid [PFHxS]) on the transcriptome and function of human granulosa cells (hGCs). Primary hGCs were harvested from follicular aspirates of healthy, reproductive-age women who were undergoing oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization. Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS-MS) was performed to identify PFAS compounds in pure follicular fluid. Cells were cultured with vehicle control or a PFAS mixture (2 nM PFHxS, 7 nM PFOA, 10 nM PFOS) for 96 h. Analyses of cell proliferation/apoptosis, steroidogenesis, and gene expression were measured via 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays/immunofluorescence, ELISA/western blotting, and RNA sequencing/bioinformatics, respectively. PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS were detected in 100% of follicle fluid samples. Increased cell proliferation was observed in hGCs treated with the PFAS mixture with no impacts on cellular apoptosis. The PFAS mixture also altered steroid hormone synthesis, increasing both follicle-stimulating hormone-stimulated and basal progesterone secretion and concomitant upregulation of STAR protein. RNA sequencing revealed inherent differences in transcriptomic profiles in hGCs after PFAS exposure. This study demonstrates functional and transcriptomic changes in hGCs after exposure to a PFAS mixture, improving our knowledge about the impacts of PFAS exposures and female reproductive health. These findings suggest that PFAS compounds can disrupt normal granulosa cell function with possible long-term consequences on overall reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendra L Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, USA
| | - Mamta Shukla
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Jitu W George
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, USA
| | - Stephanie Gustin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
- Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, Omaha, Nebraska 68138, USA
| | - M Jordan Rowley
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - John S Davis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
- Veterans Affairs Nebraska-Western Iowa Health Care System, Omaha, Nebraska 68105, USA
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2
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Zheng N, Shen Y, Wang Y, Xiang M, Yu K, Zhang J, Zha X, Duan Z, Wang F, Zhu F, Cao Y. Unraveling the Impact of the PROCA1 Mutation in Male Infertility: Incorporating Whole Exome Sequencing in Teratozoospermia Patients and Analyzing Proca1 Knockout Mice. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01624-6. [PMID: 38867036 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
In the world, about 15% of couples are infertile, and nearly half of all infertility was caused by men. A large number of genetic mutations are thought to affect spermatogenesis by regulating acrosome formation. Here, we identified three patients harbouring the protein interacting with cyclin A1 (PROCA1) mutation by whole exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing among patients with predominantly acrosome-deficient teratozoospermia. However, the expression and roles of PROCA1 in infertile men remain unclear. We found that PROCA1 is predominantly expressed in the testis, where it is specifically localized to the acrosome of normal human sperm. Proca1 knockout (KO) mice were subsequently generated using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. However, Proca1 KO adult male mice were fertile, with testis-to-body weight ratios comparable to those of wild-type (WT) mice. Testicular tissue or sperm morphology were not significantly different in Proca1 KO mice compared to WT mice. Expression of the acrosome markers PNA and SP56 in the acrosome was comparable between Proca1 KO and WT mice. In summary, these findings suggested that the PROCA1 mutation identified in humans does not affect acrosome biogenesis in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yiru Shen
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Mingfei Xiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Kexin Yu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xiaomin Zha
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Zongliu Duan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Fengsong Wang
- School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
| | - Fuxi Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University), Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Kent K, Nozawa K, Sutton C, Daniel F, Ikawa M, Garcia TX, Matzuk MM. CUB domains are not required for OVCH2 function in sperm maturation in the mouse epididymis. Andrology 2024; 12:682-697. [PMID: 37551853 PMCID: PMC10850435 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovochymase 2 (Ovch2) is an epididymis-specific gene that is required for male fertility. While a multitude of reproductive tract-specific genes required for male fertility have been identified, OVCH2 is thus far the first protein required for male fertility that contains Complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1 (CUB) domains located in tandem in the C-terminus of the protein. Identifying the functional significance of this unique domain has implications in better understanding fertility and infertility and as a potential contraceptive target. OBJECTIVE The goals of these studies were to understand the influence and requirement of OVCH2 CUB domains in the localization and functional requirement of OVCH2 in sperm maturation and function. MATERIALS AND METHODS To this end, we performed in vivo localization analysis of OVCH2 and reproductive phenotype analysis of mice containing C-terminal FLAG tag on OVCH2, with either the entire protein intact, or CUB2 or both CUB1 and CUB2 genetically ablated. All mice were generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approach. RESULTS We found that OVCH2 is specifically expressed in the proximal caput epididymidis, and the absence of CUB2 did not affect this localization pattern. Although the absence of both CUB domains significantly reduced sperm motility and progressive motility, this effect was not manifested in a reduction in fertility over a 6-month period mating trial, which showed no significant differences between control and CUB deletant mice. Further, the absence of one or both CUB domains did not affect reproductive organ structure or sperm morphology. CONCLUSIONS Our studies demonstrate that the CUB domains are not required for fertility in male mice, at least under the normal animal housing conditions our mice were tested in, and suggest that the enzymatic activity of the OVCH2 protease, in the absence of its CUB domains, is sufficient for normal sperm processing in the epididymis. Although our findings do not preclude the possibility that OVCH2 CUB domains are required under a yet-identified stress condition, our findings demonstrate that the most likely region for deleterious mutations in men with idiopathic infertility and the most vulnerable site for inhibition of OVCH2 protein function is in its protease domain, and not its CUB domains. Our findings have implications in the genetic screening of infertile men and the development of a novel non-hormonal male contraceptive by honing in on the more critical region of a functionally required protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kent
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Courtney Sutton
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Frey Daniel
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Thomas X. Garcia
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, TX 77030, USA
| | - Martin M. Matzuk
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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4
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Nickels L, Yan W. Nonhormonal Male Contraceptive Development-Strategies for Progress. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 76:37-48. [PMID: 38101934 PMCID: PMC10759220 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the widely demonstrated public health benefits of contraception, limited contraceptive options are available for men, placing both the contraceptive burden and opportunity solely on women. This review outlines the need for an increased focus on male contraceptive development and highlights several related topics, including the perspectives of women and men on male contraceptives, historical challenges, and reasons behind the persistent delays in male contraceptive development. It also discusses the importance of serendipitous observations in drug discovery and the limitations of depleting sperm or spermatogenic cells as a contraceptive approach. It further provides an overview of ongoing research and development on novel methods, with a goal to offer insights into the multifaceted aspects of nonhormonal male contraceptive development, addressing its implications for the health of men and women. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Despite well over half a century of effort in developing male contraceptives, there are no approved male contraceptive drugs on the market. This review aims to present strategies for progress in nonhormonal male contraception based on lessons learned from history, with the hope of expediting development and bringing a male contraceptive drug closer to reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan Nickels
- Male Contraceptive Initiative, Durham, North Carolina (L.N.); The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California (W.Y.); and Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California (W.Y.)
| | - Wei Yan
- Male Contraceptive Initiative, Durham, North Carolina (L.N.); The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California (W.Y.); and Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California (W.Y.)
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5
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Mariani NAP, Silva JV, Fardilha M, Silva EJR. Advances in non-hormonal male contraception targeting sperm motility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:545-569. [PMID: 37141450 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high rates of unintended pregnancy and the ever-growing world population impose health, economic, social, and environmental threats to countries. Expanding contraceptive options, including male methods, are urgently needed to tackle these global challenges. Male contraception is limited to condoms and vasectomy, which are unsuitable for many couples. Thus, novel male contraceptive methods may reduce unintended pregnancies, meet the contraceptive needs of couples, and foster gender equality in carrying the contraceptive burden. In this regard, the spermatozoon emerges as a source of druggable targets for on-demand, non-hormonal male contraception based on disrupting sperm motility or fertilization. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE A better understanding of the molecules governing sperm motility can lead to innovative approaches toward safe and effective male contraceptives. This review discusses cutting-edge knowledge on sperm-specific targets for male contraception, focusing on those with crucial roles in sperm motility. We also highlight challenges and opportunities in male contraceptive drug development targeting spermatozoa. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a literature search in the PubMed database using the following keywords: 'spermatozoa', 'sperm motility', 'male contraception', and 'drug targets' in combination with other related terms to the field. Publications until January 2023 written in English were considered. OUTCOMES Efforts for developing non-hormonal strategies for male contraception resulted in the identification of candidates specifically expressed or enriched in spermatozoa, including enzymes (PP1γ2, GAPDHS, and sAC), ion channels (CatSper and KSper), transmembrane transporters (sNHE, SLC26A8, and ATP1A4), and surface proteins (EPPIN). These targets are usually located in the sperm flagellum. Their indispensable roles in sperm motility and male fertility were confirmed by genetic or immunological approaches using animal models and gene mutations associated with male infertility due to sperm defects in humans. Their druggability was demonstrated by the identification of drug-like small organic ligands displaying spermiostatic activity in preclinical trials. WIDER IMPLICATIONS A wide range of sperm-associated proteins has arisen as key regulators of sperm motility, providing compelling druggable candidates for male contraception. Nevertheless, no pharmacological agent has reached clinical developmental stages. One reason is the slow progress in translating the preclinical and drug discovery findings into a drug-like candidate adequate for clinical development. Thus, intense collaboration among academia, private sectors, governments, and regulatory agencies will be crucial to combine expertise for the development of male contraceptives targeting sperm function by (i) improving target structural characterization and the design of highly selective ligands, (ii) conducting long-term preclinical safety, efficacy, and reversibility evaluation, and (iii) establishing rigorous guidelines and endpoints for clinical trials and regulatory evaluation, thus allowing their testing in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Joana V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
- Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
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Kang I, Koo M, Yoon H, Park BS, Jun JH, Lee J. Ovastacin: An oolemma protein that cleaves the zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:154-159. [PMID: 37643828 PMCID: PMC10477413 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.05981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Monospermy occurs in the process of normal fertilization where a single sperm fuses with the egg, resulting in the formation of a diploid zygote. During the process of fertilization, the sperm must penetrate the zona pellucida (ZP), the outer layer of the egg, to reach the egg's plasma membrane. Once a sperm binds to the ZP, it undergoes an acrosomal reaction, which involves the release of enzymes from the sperm's acrosome that help it to penetrate the ZP. Ovastacin is one of the enzymes that is involved in breaking down the ZP. Studies have shown that ovastacin is necessary for the breakdown of the ZP and for successful fertilization to occur. However, the activity of ovastacin is tightly regulated to ensure that only one sperm can fertilize the egg. One way in which ovastacin helps to prevent polyspermy (the fertilization of an egg by more than one sperm) is by rapidly degrading the ZP after a sperm has penetrated it. This makes it difficult for additional sperm to penetrate the ZP and fertilize the egg. Ovastacin is also thought to play a role in the block to polyspermy, a mechanism that prevents additional sperm from fusing with the egg's plasma membrane after fertilization has occurred. In summary, the role of ovastacin in monospermic fertilization is to help ensure that only one sperm can fertilize the egg, while preventing polyspermy and ensuring successful fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inyoung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoungjoo Koo
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejin Yoon
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Beom Seok Park
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyun Jun
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Eulji Medi-Bio Research Institute (EMBRI), Eulji University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
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Bilekova S, Garcia-Colomer B, Cebrian-Serrano A, Schirge S, Krey K, Sterr M, Kurth T, Hauck SM, Lickert H. Inceptor facilitates acrosomal vesicle formation in spermatids and is required for male fertility. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1240039. [PMID: 37691832 PMCID: PMC10483240 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1240039] [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: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a crucial biological process that enables the production of functional sperm, allowing for successful reproduction. Proper germ cell differentiation and maturation require tight regulation of hormonal signals, cellular signaling pathways, and cell biological processes. The acrosome is a lysosome-related organelle at the anterior of the sperm head that contains enzymes and receptors essential for egg-sperm recognition and fusion. Even though several factors crucial for acrosome biogenesis have been discovered, the precise molecular mechanism of pro-acrosomal vesicle formation and fusion is not yet known. In this study, we investigated the role of the insulin inhibitory receptor (inceptor) in acrosome formation. Inceptor is a single-pass transmembrane protein with similarities to mannose-6-phosphate receptors (M6PR). Inceptor knockout male mice are infertile due to malformations in the acrosome and defects in the nuclear shape of spermatozoa. We show that inceptor is expressed in early spermatids and mainly localizes to vesicles between the Golgi apparatus and acrosome. Here we show that inceptor is an essential factor in the intracellular transport of trans-Golgi network-derived vesicles which deliver acrosomal cargo in maturing spermatids. The absence of inceptor results in vesicle-fusion defects, acrosomal malformation, and male infertility. These findings support our hypothesis of inceptor as a universal lysosomal or lysosome-related organelle sorting receptor expressed in several secretory tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bilekova
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Balma Garcia-Colomer
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Alberto Cebrian-Serrano
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Helmholtz Center Munich, Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Silvia Schirge
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Karsten Krey
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Virology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Sterr
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Technology Platform, Core Facility Electron Microscopy and Histology, Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefanie M. Hauck
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health GmbH, Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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8
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SLO3 in the fast lane: The latest male contraceptive target with a promising small-molecule inhibitor. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2221758120. [PMID: 36791103 PMCID: PMC9974486 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2221758120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
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9
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Service CA, Puri D, Hsieh TC, Patel DP. Emerging concepts in male contraception: a narrative review of novel, hormonal and non-hormonal options. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2023; 17:26334941221138323. [PMID: 36909934 PMCID: PMC9996746 DOI: 10.1177/26334941221138323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Access to reliable contraception is a pillar of modern society. The burden of unintended pregnancy has fallen disproportionately on the mother throughout human history; however, recent legal developments surrounding abortion have sparked a renewed interest in male factor contraceptives beyond surgical sterilization and condoms. Modern efforts to develop reversible male birth control date back nearly a century and initially focused on altering the hypothalamic-pituitary-testes axis. These hormonal contraceptives faced multiple barriers, including systemic side effects, challenging dosing regimens, unfavorable routes of delivery, and the public stigma surrounding steroid use. Novel hormonal agents are seeking to overcome these barriers by limiting the side effects and simplifying use. Non-hormonal contraceptives are agents that target various stages of spermatogenesis; such as inhibitors of retinoic acid, Sertoli cell-germ cell interactions, sperm ion channels, and other small molecular targets. The identification of reproductive tract-specific genes associated with male infertility has led to more targeted drug development, made possible by advances in CRISPR and proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). Despite multiple human trials, no male birth control agents have garnered regulatory approval in the United States or abroad. This narrative review examines current and emerging male contraceptives, including hormonal and non-hormonal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Austin Service
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dhruv Puri
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tung-Chin Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Darshan P Patel
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, 9333 Genesee Avenue, Suite 320, La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
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10
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Influence of Two Widely Used Solvents, Ethanol and Dimethyl Sulfoxide, on Human Sperm Parameters. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010505. [PMID: 36613946 PMCID: PMC9820180 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
To study mechanisms involved in fertility, many experimental assays are conducted by incubating spermatozoa in the presence of molecules dissolved in solvents such as ethanol (EtOH) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Although a vehicle control group is usually included in such studies, it does not allow to evaluate the intrinsic effect of the solvent on sperm parameters and its potential influence on the outcome of the experiment. In the present study, we incubated human spermatozoa for 4 h in a capacitation medium in the absence or the presence of different concentrations of EtOH and DMSO (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0%) to assess the impact of these solvents on sperm motility, vitality, capacitation, and acrosome integrity. The presence of statistically significant relationships between increasing solvent concentrations and the investigated parameters was assessed using linear mixed models. A significant effect was observed with both solvents for total and progressive sperm motilities. We also evaluated the effect of time for these parameters and showed that the influence of the solvents was stable between 0 and 4 h, indicating an almost direct impact of the solvents. While EtOH did not influence sperm vitality and acrosome integrity, a significant effect of increasing DMSO concentrations was observed for these parameters. Finally, regarding capacitation, measured via phosphotyrosine content, although a dose-dependent effect was observed with both solvents, the statistical analysis did not allow to precisely evaluate the intensity of the effect. Based on the results obtained in the present study, and the corresponding linear mixed models, we calculated the concentration of both solvents which would result in a 5% decline in sperm parameters. For EtOH, these concentrations are 0.9, 0.7, and 0.3% for total motility, progressive motility, and capacitation, respectively, while for DMSO they are 1.5, 1.1, >2, 0.3 and >2% for total motility, progressive motility, vitality, capacitation, and acrosome integrity, respectively. We recommend using solvent concentrations below these values to dissolve molecules used to study sperm function in vitro, to limit side effects.
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11
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Sheridan T, Gómez-Torres P, Vera Cruz G, Martínez-Pérez GZ. A global grounded theory exploration of investigators' perspectives on male hormonal contraceptive development and acceptability. Glob Public Health 2022; 17:3760-3772. [PMID: 35901059 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2022.2102201] [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: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
While best practices have been proposed on how to engage men in family planning (FP), the limited options of male hormonal contraceptives (MHC) are a barrier to reaching men as clients of FP programs. The lack of alternative MHC is preventing the global health community from providing holistic reproductive healthcare. A qualitative grounded theory study was conducted in 2020 to explore MHC experts' perceptions around the development and theoretical acceptability of MHCs. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with 15 key informants. The informants cited evidence that there is a demand for MHC. The inability to access this data by the pharmaceutical industry was acknowledged. Many informants expressed concern of the possibility for MHC to increase male power in a predominantly patriarchal world. To most informants, at least for the initial introduction of MHC, fertility sharing is something that will largely happen among couples alone rather than individually. There is proven demand among women and men for MHC, however industries may still be reluctant to invest. Effort is needed by the sexual and reproductive health and rights community to include male engagement in FP and to advocate for the development and use of MHC as a tool for women's empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Sheridan
- The Barcelona Institute for Global Health Foundation (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Piedad Gómez-Torres
- Department of Physiatrics and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Germano Vera Cruz
- Department of Psychology, UR 7273 CRP-CPO, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
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12
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Male contraceptive development: A medicinal chemistry perspective. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114709. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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13
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Cavarocchi E, Whitfield M, Saez F, Touré A. Sperm Ion Transporters and Channels in Human Asthenozoospermia: Genetic Etiology, Lessons from Animal Models, and Clinical Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073926. [PMID: 35409285 PMCID: PMC8999829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, sperm fertilization potential relies on efficient progression within the female genital tract to reach and fertilize the oocyte. This fundamental property is supported by the flagellum, an evolutionarily conserved organelle that provides the mechanical force for sperm propulsion and motility. Importantly several functional maturation events that occur during the journey of the sperm cells through the genital tracts are necessary for the activation of flagellar beating and the acquisition of fertilization potential. Ion transporters and channels located at the surface of the sperm cells have been demonstrated to be involved in these processes, in particular, through the activation of downstream signaling pathways and the promotion of novel biochemical and electrophysiological properties in the sperm cells. We performed a systematic literature review to describe the currently known genetic alterations in humans that affect sperm ion transporters and channels and result in asthenozoospermia, a pathophysiological condition defined by reduced or absent sperm motility and observed in nearly 80% of infertile men. We also present the physiological relevance and functional mechanisms of additional ion channels identified in the mouse. Finally, considering the state-of-the art, we discuss future perspectives in terms of therapeutics of asthenozoospermia and male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Cavarocchi
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
| | - Marjorie Whitfield
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
| | - Fabrice Saez
- UMR GReD Institute (Génétique Reproduction & Développement) CNRS 6293, INSERM U1103, Team «Mécanismes de L’Infertilité Mâle Post-Testiculaire», Université Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (A.T.)
| | - Aminata Touré
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (A.T.)
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14
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Oyama Y, Miyata H, Shimada K, Fujihara Y, Tokuhiro K, Garcia TX, Matzuk MM, Ikawa M. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing reveals 12 testis-enriched genes dispensable for male fertility in mice. Asian J Androl 2021; 24:266-272. [PMID: 34290169 PMCID: PMC9226692 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_63_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene expression analyses suggest that more than 1000–2000 genes are expressed predominantly in mouse and human testes. Although functional analyses of hundreds of these genes have been performed, there are still many testis-enriched genes whose functions remain unexplored. Analyzing gene function using knockout (KO) mice is a powerful tool to discern if the gene of interest is essential for sperm formation, function, and male fertility in vivo. In this study, we generated KO mice for 12 testis-enriched genes, 1700057G04Rik, 4921539E11Rik, 4930558C23Rik, Cby2, Ldhal6b, Rasef, Slc25a2, Slc25a41, Smim8, Smim9, Tmem210, and Tomm20l, using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) system. We designed two gRNAs for each gene to excise almost all the protein-coding regions to ensure that the deletions in these genes result in a null mutation. Mating tests of KO mice reveal that these 12 genes are not essential for male fertility, at least when individually ablated, and not together with other potentially compensatory paralogous genes. Our results could prevent other laboratories from expending duplicative effort generating KO mice, for which no apparent phenotype exists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Oyama
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Miyata
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Keisuke Shimada
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Suita, Osaka 564-8565, Japan
| | - Keizo Tokuhiro
- Department of Genome Editing, Institute of Biomedical Science, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka 573-1191, Japan
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.,The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
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15
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Robertson MJ, Kent K, Tharp N, Nozawa K, Dean L, Mathew M, Grimm SL, Yu Z, Légaré C, Fujihara Y, Ikawa M, Sullivan R, Coarfa C, Matzuk MM, Garcia TX. Large-scale discovery of male reproductive tract-specific genes through analysis of RNA-seq datasets. BMC Biol 2020; 18:103. [PMID: 32814578 PMCID: PMC7436996 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00826-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The development of a safe, effective, reversible, non-hormonal contraceptive method for men has been an ongoing effort for the past few decades. However, despite significant progress on elucidating the function of key proteins involved in reproduction, understanding male reproductive physiology is limited by incomplete information on the genes expressed in reproductive tissues, and no contraceptive targets have so far reached clinical trials. To advance product development, further identification of novel reproductive tract-specific genes leading to potentially druggable protein targets is imperative. Results In this study, we expand on previous single tissue, single species studies by integrating analysis of publicly available human and mouse RNA-seq datasets whose initial published purpose was not focused on identifying male reproductive tract-specific targets. We also incorporate analysis of additional newly acquired human and mouse testis and epididymis samples to increase the number of targets identified. We detected a combined total of 1178 genes for which no previous evidence of male reproductive tract-specific expression was annotated, many of which are potentially druggable targets. Through RT-PCR, we confirmed the reproductive tract-specific expression of 51 novel orthologous human and mouse genes without a reported mouse model. Of these, we ablated four epididymis-specific genes (Spint3, Spint4, Spint5, and Ces5a) and two testis-specific genes (Pp2d1 and Saxo1) in individual or double knockout mice generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 system. Our results validate a functional requirement for Spint4/5 and Ces5a in male mouse fertility, while demonstrating that Spint3, Pp2d1, and Saxo1 are each individually dispensable for male mouse fertility. Conclusions Our work provides a plethora of novel testis- and epididymis-specific genes and elucidates the functional requirement of several of these genes, which is essential towards understanding the etiology of male infertility and the development of male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Robertson
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Katarzyna Kent
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Nathan Tharp
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Kaori Nozawa
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Laura Dean
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Michelle Mathew
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Sandra L Grimm
- Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Zhifeng Yu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Christine Légaré
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 boul Laurier, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Yoshitaka Fujihara
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Department of Bioscience and Genetics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibeshinmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, 3-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Department Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec, QC, Canada.,Reproduction, Mother and Youth Health Division, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, 2705 boul Laurier, Quebec, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada
| | - Cristian Coarfa
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Center for Precision Environmental Health, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Thomas X Garcia
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. .,Department of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Houston-Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston, TX, 77058, USA. .,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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