Roles of reactive oxygen species in the spermatogenesis regulation

Sestrin2 and Sestrin3 protect spermatogenesis against heat-induced meiotic defects†

Heat stress induces testicular oxidative stress, impairs spermatogenesis, and increases the risk of male infertility. Recent studies have highlighted the antioxidative properties of the Sestrins family in reducing cellular oxidative damage. However, the role of Sestrins (Sestrin1, 2, and 3) in the testicular response to heat stress remains unclear. Here, we found that Sestrin2 and 3 were highly expressed in the testis relative to Sestrin1. Then, the Sestrin2-/- and Sestrin3-/- mice were generated by CRISPR/Cas9 to investigate the role of them on spermatogenesis after heat stress. Our data showed that Sestrin2-/- and Sestrin3-/- mice testes exhibited more severe damage manifested by exacerbated loss of germ cells and higher levels of oxidative stress as compared to wild-type counterparts after heat stress. Notably, Sestrin2-/- and Sestrin3-/- mice underwent a remarkable increase in heat-induced spermatocyte apoptosis than that of controls. Furthermore, the transcriptome landscape of spermatocytes and chromosome spreading showed that loss of Sestrin2 and Sestrin3 exacerbated meiotic failure by compromising DNA double-strand breaks repair after heat stress. Taken together, our work demonstrated a critical protective function of Sestrin2 and Sestrin3 in mitigating the impairments of spermatogenesis against heat stress.

N-Acetyl-L-cysteine attenuates titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO2 NP)-induced autophagy in male germ cells

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are widely used in consumer products, raising concerns about their impact on human health. This study investigates the effects of TiO2 NPs on male germ cells while focusing on cell proliferation inhibition and underlying mechanisms. This was done by utilizing mouse GC-1 spermatogonia cells, an immortalized spermatogonia cell line. TiO2 NPs induced a concentration-dependent proliferation inhibition with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Notably, TiO2 NPs induced autophagy and decreased ERK phosphorylation. Treatment with the ROS inhibitor N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) alleviated TiO2 NPs-induced autophagy, restored ERK phosphorylation, and promoted cell proliferation. These findings call attention to the reproductive risks posed by TiO2 NPs while also highlighting NAC as a possible protective agent against reproductive toxins.

LanCL2 Implicates in Testicular Redox Homeostasis and Acrosomal Maturation

Redox balance plays an important role in testicular homeostasis. While lots of antioxidant molecules have been identified as widely expressed, the understanding of the critical mechanisms for redox management in male germ cells is inadequate. This study identified LanCL2 as a major male germ cell-specific antioxidant gene that is important for testicular homeostasis. Highly expressed in the brain and testis, LanCL2 expression correlates with testicular maturation and brain development. LanCL2 is enriched in spermatocytes and round spermatids of the testis. By examining LanCL2 knockout mice, we found that LanCL2 deletion did not affect postnatal brain development but injured the sperm parameters of adult mice. With histopathological analysis, we noticed that LanCL2 KO caused a pre-maturation and accelerated the self-renewal of spermatogonial stem cells in the early stage of spermatogenesis. In contrast, at the adult stage, LanCL2 KO damaged the acrosomal maturation in spermiogenesis, resulting in spermatogenic defects with a reduced number and motility of spermatozoa. Furthermore, we show that this disruption of testicular homeostasis in the LanCL2 KO testis was due to dysbalanced testicular redox homeostasis. This study demonstrates the critical role of LanCL2 in testicular homeostasis and redox balance.

Molecular mechanism of ferroptosis and its application in the treatment of clear cell renal cell carcinoma

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is a common malignant tumor of the urinary tract, the incidence of which is continuously increasing and affects human health worldwide. Despite advances in existing treatments, treatment outcomes still need to be improved due to higher rates of postoperative recurrence, chemotherapy resistance, etc.; thus, there is an urgent need for innovative therapeutic approaches. Ferroptosis is a recently found type of regulated cell death that is characterized primarily by the buildup of lipid peroxidation products and fatal reactive oxygen species created by iron metabolism, which plays a crucial role in tumor progression and therapy.With the molecular mechanisms associated with ferroptosis being increasingly studied and refined, triggering ferroptosis by regulators that target ferroptosis and ccRCC may be the key to developing potential therapeutic strategies for ccRCC. Therefore, ferroptosis is expected to be a new breakthrough in treating ccRCC. This paper examines the mechanism of ferroptosis, the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis in ccRCC, and the potential application of ferroptosis in combination with other therapies for the treatment of ccRCC. The goal is to offer novel perspectives for the research and clinical application of ferroptosis in the treatment of ccRCC.

Apigetrin ameliorates doxorubicin prompted testicular damage: biochemical, spermatological and histological based study

Doxorubicin (DOX) is a highly effective, commonly prescribed, potent anti-neoplastic drug that damages the testicular tissues and leads to infertility. Apigetrin (APG) is an important flavonoid that shows diverse biological activities. The present research was designed to evaluate the alleviative role of APG against DOX-induced testicular damages in rats. Forty-eight adult male albino rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups, control, DOX administered (3 mgkg-1), DOX + APG co-administered (3 mgkg-1 of DOX; 15 mgkg-1 of APG), and APG administered group (15 mgkg-1). Results of the current study indicated that DOX treatment significantly reduced the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GSR), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while increasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). DOX treatment also reduced the sperm count, viability, and motility. Moreover, DOX significantly increased the sperm morphological anomalies and reduced the levels of plasma testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The administration of DOX significantly increased the expressions of Bax and Caspase-3, as well as the levels of inflammatory markers. Additionally, DOX treatment significantly downregulated the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes (StAR, 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD) and Bcl-2. Furthermore, DOX administration provoked significant histopathological abnormalities in the testicular tissues. However, APG supplementation significantly reversed all the testicular damages due to its androgenic, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory nature. Therefore, it is concluded that APG may prove a promising therapeutic agent to treat DOX-induced testicular damages.

Single-cell transcriptome profiling implicates the psychological stress-induced disruption of spermatogenesis

Male infertility has emerged as a global issue, partly attributed to psychological stress. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the adverse effects of psychological stress on male reproductive function remain elusive. We created a psychologically stressed model using terrified-sound and profiled the testes from stressed and control rats using single-cell RNA sequencing. Comparative and comprehensive transcriptome analyses of 11,744 testicular cells depicted the cellular landscape of spermatogenesis and revealed significant molecular alterations of spermatogenesis suffering from psychological stress. At the cellular level, stressed rats exhibited delayed spermatogenesis at the spermatogonia and pachytene phases, resulting in reduced sperm production. Additionally, psychological stress rewired cellular interactions among germ cells, negatively impacting reproductive development. Molecularly, we observed the down-regulation of anti-oxidation-related genes and up-regulation of genes promoting reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in the stress group. These alterations led to elevated ROS levels in testes, affecting the expression of key regulators such as ATF2 and STAR, which caused reproductive damage through apoptosis or inhibition of testosterone synthesis. Overall, our study aimed to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which psychological stress disrupts spermatogenesis, offering insights into the mechanisms of psychological stress-induced male infertility in other species and promises in potential therapeutic targets.

Effects of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction on reproductive aging

Mitochondria, the versatile organelles crucial for cellular and organismal viability, play a pivotal role in meeting the energy requirements of cells through the respiratory chain located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, concomitant with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A wealth of evidence derived from contemporary investigations on reproductive longevity strongly indicates that the aberrant elevation of ROS level constitutes a fundamental factor in hastening the aging process of reproductive systems which are responsible for transmission of DNA to future generations. Constant changes in redox status, with a pro-oxidant shift mainly through the mitochondrial generation of ROS, are linked to the modulation of physiological and pathological pathways in gametes and reproductive tissues. Furthermore, the quantity and quality of mitochondria essential to capacitation and fertilization are increasingly associated with reproductive aging. The article aims to provide current understanding of the contributions of ROS derived from mitochondrial respiration to the process of reproductive aging. Moreover, understanding the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction on both female and male fertility is conducive to finding therapeutic strategies to slow, prevent or reverse the process of gamete aging, and thereby increase reproductive longevity.

Potential role of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity in testicular dysfunction following co-administration of alcohol and combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) in diabetic rats: an immunohistochemistry study

Diabetes, alcohol abuse, and combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) use have been reported to cause multi-organ complications via induction of oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, these are the most common factors implicated in male reproductive dysfunctions. This study evaluated testicular oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and germ cell proliferation in diabetic rats receiving alcohol or cART and their combination. Thirty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups, each consisting of six rats; control, diabetic only (DM), diabetic treated with alcohol (DM + A), diabetic treated with cART (DM + cART), and diabetic treated with both alcohol and cART (DM + A + cART). After 90 days of treatment, the rats were terminated, and the testes were extracted and processed for immunohistochemistry analysis for oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis, and cell proliferation marker. In comparison to the control, oxidative stress markers, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHDG) increased significantly in all treated groups. Expression of testicular proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α was upregulated in all treated groups, but interleukin-6 was upregulated in DM, DM + cART, and DM + A + cART treated groups and was downregulated in the DM + A treated group. All treated animal groups showed an upregulation of apoptotic marker (caspase 3) and a downregulation of proliferation marker (Ki-67). However, Ki-67 staining intensity significantly increased in treated animals compared to the control. These findings suggest that diabetes, alcohol abuse, cART use, and their combination via iNOS activity upregulation can induce inflammation and oxidative stress in testicular tissue, stimulating germ cell apoptosis and proliferation inhibition leading to failure of spermatogenesis.

Does Nanosilver Exposure Modulate Steroid Metabolism in the Testes?-A Possible Role of Redox Balance Disruption

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are a popular engineered nanomaterial widely used in industry. Despite the benefits they bring to society, AgNPs are not neutral to human health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a single intravenous dose (5 mg/kg body weight) of 20 nm AgNPs on steroid metabolism and redox balance in the testes of adult rats. The effects were evaluated 1 day or 28 days after intervention and compared with saline-treated animals. Decreased aromatase and estrogen receptor α levels (by 21% and 27%, respectively) were observed 1 day after AgNPs administration, while increased testosterone, increased dihydrotestosterone levels, higher androgen receptors and higher aromatase expression in Leydig cells (by 43%, 50%, 20% and 32%, respectively) as well as lower (by 35%) androgen receptor protein levels were observed 28 days after exposure to AgNPs compared to control groups. The AgNPs treatment resulted in decreased superoxide dismutase activity, decreased GSH/GSSG ratio, and increased glutathione reductase activity (by 23%, 63% and 28%, respectively) compared to control animals, irrespective of the time of measurement. Increased (by 28%) intratesticular lipid hydroperoxides level was observed 1 day after AgNPs exposure, while decreased (by 70%) GSH and increased (by 43%) 7-ketocholesterol levels were observed 28 days after treatment compared to control animals. Conclusions: AgNPs exposure caused redox imbalance in the gonads shortly after AgNPs administration, while a longer perspective AgNPs exposure was associated with impaired androgen metabolism, probably due to increased oxidative stress.

Sericin and melatonin mitigate diethylnitrosamine-instigated testicular impairment in mice: Implications of oxidative stress, spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and modulation of Nrf2/WT1/SF-1 signaling pathways

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic influence of combination therapy with sericin and melatonin on attenuating diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-instigated testicular dysfunction in mice and defining the molecular mechanisms involved in orchestrating redox signaling pathways and restoring spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Different groups of male Swiss albino mice were established and injected with respective drugs intraperitoneally. Semen analysis, hormonal assays, and oxidative stress biomarkers were evaluated. Additionally, melatonin and its receptors, WT1, SF-1, vimentin, Nrf2, and ANXA1 expressions were assessed. Histopathological and ultrastructural features of the testes were investigated by semithin, SEM, and TEM analyses.

KEY FINDINGS

Exposure to DEN exhibited pathophysiological consequences, including a remarkable increase in lipid peroxidation associated with substantial diminutions in SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH, GSH:GSSG, and GST. Furthermore, it disrupted spermatozoa integrity, testosterone, FSH, LH, melatonin, and its receptors (MT1 and MT2) levels, implying spermatogenesis dysfunction. By contrast, treatment with sericin and melatonin significantly restored these disturbances. Interestingly, the combination therapy of sericin and melatonin noticeably augmented the Nrf2, WT1, and SF-1 expressions compared to DEN-treated mice, deciphering the amelioration perceived in antioxidant defense and spermatogenesis inside cells. Furthermore, immunohistochemical detection of ANXA1 alongside histopathological and ultrastructural analyses revealed evident maintenance of testicular structures without discernible inflammation or anomalies in mice administered with sericin and melatonin compared to the DEN-treated group.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings highlighted that treatment with sericin and melatonin alleviated the testicular tissues in mice from oxidative stress and dysregulated spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis engendered by DEN.

Prepubertal oral exposure to relevant doses of acrylamide impairs the testicular antioxidant system in adulthood, increasing protein carbonylation and lipid peroxidation

The increased prevalence of human infertility due to male reproductive disorders has been linked to extensive exposure to chemical endocrine disruptors. Acrylamide (AA) is a compound formed spontaneously during the thermal processing of some foods that are mainly consumed by children and adolescents. We previously found that prepubertal exposure to AA causes reduced sperm production and functionality. Oxidative stress is recognized as the main cause of reduced sperm quality and quantity. In this sense, our objective was to evaluate the expression and activity of genes related to enzymatic antioxidant defense, nonprotein thiols, lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonylation (PC) and DNA damage in the testes of rats exposed to acrylamide (2.5 or 5 mg/kg) from weaning to adult life by gavage. For the AA2.5 and AA5 groups, there were no alterations in the transcript expression of genes related to enzymatic antioxidant defense. The enzymatic activities and metabolic parameters were also not affected in the AA2.5 group. For the AA5 group, the enzymatic activities of G6PDH and GPX were reduced, SOD was increased, and protein carbonylation (PC) was increased. Data were also evaluated by Integrate Biomarker Response (IBRv2), a method to analyze and summarize the effects on biomarkers between doses. The IBRv2 index was calculated as 8.9 and 18.71 for AA2.5 and AA5, respectively. The following biomarkers were affected by AA2.5: decreased enzymatic activities of G6PDH, SOD, and GPX, increased GST and GSH, increased LPO and PC, and decreased DNA damage. For AA5, decreased enzymatic activities of G6PDH, GST, CAT and GPX, increased SOD and GSH, increased PC, and decreased LPO and DNA damage were observed. In conclusion, AA exposure during the prepubertal period causes imbalances in the testicular enzymatic antioxidant defense, contributing to the altered spermatic scenario in the testes of these rats.

The Regulatory Effects of JAK2/STAT3 on Spermatogenesis and the Redox Keap1/Nrf2 Axis in an Animal Model of Testicular Ischemia Reperfusion Injury

The male reproductive system requires the pleiotropic activity of JAK/STAT to maintain its function, especially spermatogenesis. The study aims to investigate the effect of JAK2 signaling on the expression of the Keap1/Nrf2 axis, spermatogenesis, and the Sertoli cells (Sc) junctions in an animal model of testicular ischemia reperfusion injury (tIRI). Testes subjected to tIRI exhibited increased JAK2/STAT3 activity associated with spermatogenic arrest and reduced expression of the Sc junctions. In addition, there was an increased protein expression of Keap1 and decreased Nrf2., which was coupled with the downregulation of gene expression of antioxidant enzymes. Reduced SOD and CAT activities were accompanied by increased lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation during tIRI. Increased caspase 9 activity and Bax/Bcl2 ratio indicated initiation of apoptosis. Inhibition of JAK2 activity by AG490 maintained the integrity of spermatogenesis and SC junctions, normalized the expression of the Keap1/Nrf2 axis and its downstream antioxidant enzymes, and prevented germ cell apoptosis. The results further emphasized the regulatory role of JAK2/STAT3 on spermatogenesis, Keap1/Nrf2 signaling, and maintenance of the testicular redox balance to combat testicular dysfunction and male infertility.

FDX1 regulates leydig cell ferroptosis mediates PM2.5-induced testicular dysfunction of mice

Epidemiological studies have established an association between chronic exposure to PM2.5 and male infertility. However, the underlying mechanisms were not fully revealed. In this study, we established mice models exposed to PM2.5 for 16 weeks, and a significant decrease in sperm quality accompanied by an increase in testosterone levels were observed after PM2.5 exposure. Moreover, treatment with ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a specific ferroptosis inhibitor, effectively mitigated PM2.5-induced testicular dysfunction in mice. And lipid peroxidation and ferritin accumulation were found to be significantly increased in Leydig cells of testes with a PM2.5-dose dependent manner. Further investigations revealed that TM-3 cells, a mouse Leydig cell line, were prone to ferroptosis after PM2.5 exposure, and the cell viability was partly rescued after the intervention of Fer-1. Furthermore, our results supported that the ferroptosis of TM-3 cells was attributed to the upregulation of ferredoxin 1 (FDX1), which was the protein transferring electrons to cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 to aid lysing cholesterol to pregnenolone at initial of steroidogenesis. Mechanically, PM2.5-induced FDX1 upregulation resulted in cellular ROS elevation and ferrous iron overload, which together initiated an autoxidation process of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the cell membrane of Leydig cells until the accumulated lipid peroxides triggered ferroptotic cell death. Simultaneously, upregulation of FDX1 promoted steroidogenesis and let to an increased level of testosterone. In summary, our work suggested that FDX1, a mediator involving steroidogenesis, was a key regulator in PM2.5-induced Leydig cells ferroptosis.

Puerarin improves busulfan-induced disruption of spermatogenesis by inhibiting MAPK pathways

Male infertility is a global concern, with a noticeable increase in the decline of spermatogenesis and sperm quality. However, there are limited clinically effective treatments available. This study aimed to investigate the potential effectiveness of puerarin in treating male infertility, which leads to gonadal changes. The results obtained from various analyses such as CASA, immunofluorescence, DIFF-Quick, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining demonstrated that puerarin supplementation significantly alleviated the busulfan-induced reduction in spermatogenesis and sperm quality in both young and adult mice. Furthermore, puerarin exhibited a marked improvement in the damage caused by busulfan to the architecture of seminiferous tubules, causal epididymis, blood-testicular barrier (BTB), as well as spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. Similarly, puerarin significantly reduced the levels of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and caspase-3 in the testes of busulfan-induced mice, as determined by microplate reader analysis. Additionally, RNA-seq data, RT-qPCR, and western blotting revealed that puerarin restored the abnormal gene expressions induced by busulfan to nearly healthy levels. Notably, puerarin significantly reversed the impact of busulfan on the expression of marker genes involved in spermatogenesis and oxidative stress. Moreover, puerarin suppressed the phosphorylation of p38, ERK1/2, and JNK in the testes, as observed through testicular analysis. Consequently, this study concludes that puerarin may serve as a potential alternative for treating busulfan-induced damage to male fertility by inactivating the testicular MAPK pathways. These findings may pave the way for the use of puerarin in addressing chemotherapy- or other factors-induced male infertility in humans.

Novel Aspects of cAMP-Response Element Modulator (CREM) Role in Spermatogenesis and Male Fertility

Spermatogenesis is a very complex process with an intricate transcriptional regulation. The transition from the diploid to the haploid state requires the involvement of specialized genes in meiosis, among other specific functions for the formation of the spermatozoon. The transcription factor cAMP-response element modulator (CREM) is a key modulator that triggers the differentiation of the germ cell into the spermatozoon through the modification of gene expression. CREM has multiple repressor and activator isoforms whose expression is tissue-cell-type specific and tightly regulated by various factors at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational level. The activator isoform CREMτ controls the expression of several relevant genes in post-meiotic stages of spermatogenesis. In addition, exposure to xenobiotics negatively affects CREMτ expression, which is linked to male infertility. On the other hand, antioxidants could have a positive effect on CREMτ expression and improve sperm parameters in idiopathically infertile men. Therefore, CREM expression could be used as a biomarker to detect and even counteract male infertility. This review examines the importance of CREM as a transcription factor for sperm production and its relevance in male fertility, infertility and the response to environmental xenobiotics that may affect CREMτ expression and the downstream regulation that alters male fertility. Also, some health disorders in which CREM expression is altered are discussed.

Mixed exposure effect of seminal metals on semen quality, mediation of total antioxidant capacity, and moderation of GSTM1/GSTT1 gene deletion in Chinese reproductive-aged men

BACKGROUND

The effects of metal exposure on semen quality and the role of oxidative damage in this process remain unclear.

METHODS

We recruited 825 Chinese male volunteers, and 12 seminal metals (Mn, Cu, Zn, Se, Ni, Cd, Pb, Co, Ag, Ba, Tl, and Fe), the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and reduced glutathione were measured. Semen parameters and GSTM1/GSTT1-null genotypes were also detected. Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) was applied to evaluate the effect of the mixed exposure to metals on semen parameters. The mediation of TAC and moderation of GSTM1/GSTT1 deletion were analyzed.

RESULTS

Most seminal metal concentrations were correlated with each other. The BKMR models revealed a negative association between the semen volume and metal mixture, with Cd (cPIP = 0.60) and Mn (cPIP = 0.10) as the major contributors. Compared to fixing all scaled metals at their median value (50th percentiles), fixing the scaled metals at their 75th percentiles decreased the TAC by 2.17 units (95%CI: -2.60, -1.75). Mediation analysis indicated that Mn decreased the semen volume, with 27.82% of this association mediated by TAC. Both the BKMR and multi-linear models showed that seminal Ni was negatively correlated with sperm concentration, total sperm count, and progressive motility, which was modified by GSTM1/GSTT1. Furthermore, Ni and the total sperm count showed a negative association in GSTT1 and GSTM1 null males (β[95%CI]: 0.328 [-0.521, -0.136]) but not in males with GSTT1 and/or GSTM1. Although Fe and the sperm concentration and total sperm count were positively correlated, they showed inverse "U" shapes in univariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

Exposure to the 12 metals was negatively associated with semen volume, with Cd and Mn as the major contributors. TAC may mediate this process. GSTT1 and GSTM1 can modify the reduction in the total sperm count caused by seminal Ni exposure.

Pinostrobin alleviates testicular and spermatological damage induced by polystyrene microplastics in adult albino rats

BACKGROUND

Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) have become major environmental pollutants that adversely effects multiple organs specifically testicles. Pinostrobin (PN) is an important flavonoid which, shows several pharmacological potentials.

PURPOSE

The current study was designed to elucidate the mitigative effects of PN against PS-MPs induced testicular toxicities in rats.

METHODS

48 male albino rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups, control, PS-MPs group (0.01 mg/kg), PS-MPs + PN group (0.01 mg/kg of PS-MPs; 40 mg/kg of PN) and PN group (40 mg/kg).

RESULTS

PS-MPs intoxication substantially lessened the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with catalase (CAT) while, raised the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, PS-MPs reduced luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration, sperm motility, sperm count, expression of steroidogenic enzymes and Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic protein) along with the count of spermatogenic cells. While, dead sperm count, sperm abnormalities (tail, neck and head), Bax and caspase-3 (apoptotic proteins) expression along with histopathological anomalies were elevated. Moreover, PS-MPs exposure increased the level of inflammatory markers. However, PN treatment considerably decreased oxidative stress (OS) by reducing ROS as well as increased sperm motility and alleviated all the damages induced by the PS-MPs.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, it is concluded that PN may prove a potential therapeutic candidate to restore all the PS-MPs-induced testicular toxicities.

Methylprednisolone Promotes Mycobacterium smegmatis Survival in Macrophages through NF-κB/DUSP1 Pathway

Background: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) is the causative agent of tuberculosis. As an important component of host immunity, macrophages are not only the first line of defense against M. tuberculosis but also the parasitic site of M. tuberculosis in the host. Glucocorticoids can cause immunosuppression, which is considered to be one of the major risk factors for active tuberculosis, but the mechanism is unclear. Objective: To study the effect of methylprednisolone on the proliferation of mycobacteria in macrophages and try to find key molecules of this phenomenon. Methods: The macrophage line RAW264.7 infected by M. smegmatis was treated with methylprednisolone, and the intracellular bacterial CFU, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), cytokine secretion, autophagy, and apoptosis were measured. After the cells were treated with NF-κB inhibitor BAY 11-7082 and DUSP1 inhibitor BCI, respectively, the intracellular bacterial CFU, ROS, IL-6, and TNF-α secretion were detected. Results: After treatment with methylprednisolone, the CFU of intracellular bacteria increased, the level of ROS decreased, and the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α decreased in infected macrophages. After BAY 11-7082 treatment, the CFU of M. smegmatis in macrophages increased, and the level of ROS production and the secretion of IL-6 by macrophages decreased. Transcriptome high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analysis suggested that DUSP1 was the key molecule in the above phenomenon. Western blot analysis confirmed that the expression level of DUSP1 was increased in the infected macrophages treated with methylprednisolone and BAY 11-7082, respectively. After BCI treatment, the level of ROS produced by infected macrophages increased, and the secretion of IL-6 increased. After the treatment of BCI combined with methylprednisolone or BAY 11-7082, the level of ROS produced and the secretion of IL-6 by macrophages were increased. Conclusion: methylprednisolone promotes the proliferation of mycobacteria in macrophages by suppressing cellular ROS production and IL-6 secretion through down-regulating NF-κB and up-regulating DUSP1 expression. BCI, an inhibitor of DUSP1, can reduce the level of DUSP1 in the infected macrophages and inhibit the proliferation of intracellular mycobacteria by promoting cellular ROS production and IL-6 secretion. Therefore, BCI may become a new molecule for host-directed therapy of tuberculosis, as well as a new strategy for the prevention of tuberculosis when treated with glucocorticoids.

Both selenium deficiency and excess impair male reproductive system via inducing oxidative stress-activated PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis and cell proliferation signaling in testis of mice

Selenium (Se) deficiency or excess impairs testicular development and spermatogenesis, while the underlying mechanisms in this regard remain unclear. This study was designed to explore the molecular biology of Se deficiency or excess in spermatogenesis in mice. Three-week-old male mice (n = 10 mice/diet) were fed with Se-deficient diet (SeD, 0.02 mg Se/kg), adequate-Se diet (SeA, 0.2 mg Se/kg), or excess-Se diet (SeE, 2.0 mg Se/kg) for 5 months. Compared with SeA, SeD reduced (P < 0.05) the body weight (10.4%) and sperm density (84.3%) but increased (P < 0.05) sperm deformity (32.8%); SeE decreased (P < 0.05) the sperm density (78.5%) and sperm motility (35.9%) of the mice. Meanwhile, both SeD and SeE increased (P < 0.05) serum FSH concentrations (10.4-25.6%) and induced testicular damage in mice in comparison with the SeA. Compared with SeA, SeD increased (P < 0.05) the 8-OHdG concentration by 25.5%; SeE increased (P < 0.05) both MDA and 8-OHdG concentrations by 118.8-180.3% in testis. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis showed that there 1325 and 858 transcripts were altered (P < 0.05) in the testis by SeD and SeE, respectively, compared with SeA. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that these differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, which is regulated by oxidative stress. Moreover, western blotting analysis revealed that SeD and SeE dysregulated PI3K-AKT-mediated apoptosis and cell proliferation signaling, including upregulating (P < 0.05) caspase 3, cleaved-caspase 3, BCL-2 and (or) P53 and downregulating (P < 0.05) PI3K, p-AKT, p-mTOR, 4E-BP1, p-4E-BP1 and (or) p-p70S6K in the testis of mice compared with SeA. Additionally, compared with SeA, both SeD and SeE increased (P < 0.05) GPX3 and SELENOO; SeD decreased (P < 0.05) GPX1, TXRND3 and SELENOW, but SeE increased (P < 0.05) production of three selenoproteins in the testis. Conclusively, both Se deficiency and excess impairs male reproductive system in mice, potentially with the induction of oxidative stress and activation of PI3K/AKT-mediated apoptosis and cell proliferation signaling in the testis.

Enlightening the mechanism of ferroptosis in epileptic heart

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological degenerative disease with a high incidence, affecting all age groups. Refractory Epilepsy (RE) occurs in approximately 30-40% of cases with a higher risk of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP). Recent studies have shown that spontaneous seizures developed in epilepsy can be related to an increase in oxidative stress and reactive oxygen derivatives (ROS) production. Increasing ROS concentration causes lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, destruction of nuclear genetic material, enzyme inhibition, and cell death by a mechanism known as "ferroptosis" (Fts). Inactivation of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) induces Fts, while oxidative stress is linked with increased intracellular free iron (Fe+2) concentration. Fts is also a non-apoptotic programmed cell death mechanism, where a hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-141) dependent hypoxic stress-like condition appears to occur with accumulation of iron and cytotoxic ROS in affected cells. Assuming convulsive crises as hypoxic stress, repetitive convulsive/hypoxic stress can be an effective inducer of the "epileptic heart" (EH), which is characterized by altered autonomic function and a high risk of malignant or fatal bradycardia. We previously reported that experimental recurrent seizures induce cardiomyocyte Fts associated with SUDEP. Furthermore, several genes related to Fts and hypoxia have recently been identified in acute myocardial infarction. An emerging theme from recent studies indicates that inhibition of GPX4 through modulating expression or activities of the xCT antiporter system (SLC7A11) governs cell sensitivity to oxidative stress from ferroptosis. Furthermore, during hypoxia, an increased expression of stress transcriptional factor ATF3 can promote Fts induced by erastin in a HIF-141-dependent manner. We propose that inhibition of Fts with ROS scavengers, iron chelators, antioxidants, and transaminase inhibitors could provide a therapeutic effect in epilepsy and improve the prognosis of SUDEP risk by protecting the heart from ferroptosis.

Optimization of Sperm Cryopreservation Formulation in Portunus trituberculatus

Portunus trituberculatus is a very important marine economic species, and its aquaculture industry has been developing rapidly. However, the phenomenon of marine wild capture of P. trituberculatus and germplasm degradation has become increasingly serious. It is necessary to develop the artificial farming industry and carry out germplasm resource protection, for which sperm cryopreservation technology is an effective method. This research compared three methods (mesh-rubbing, trypsin digestion, and mechanical grinding) for acquiring free sperm, and the best method was mesh-rubbing. Then, the optimal cryopreservation conditions were selected, and the optimal formulation was sterile calcium-free artificial seawater, the optimal cryoprotectant was 20% glycerol, and the best equilibrium time was 15 min at 4 °C. The optimal cooling program was suspending the straws at 3.5 cm on the liquid nitrogen surface for 5 min and then storing them in liquid nitrogen. Finally, the sperm were thawed at 42 °C. However, the expression of sperm-related genes and the total enzymatic activities of frozen sperm were significantly decreased (p < 0.05), which showed that sperm cryopreservation damaged the sperm. Our study improves the sperm cryopreservation technology and the yield of aquaculture in P. trituberculatus. Additionally, the study provides a certain technical basis for the establishment of a sperm cryopreservation library of crustaceans.

Açai Berry Attenuates Cyclophosphamide-Induced Damage in Genitourinary Axis-Modulating Nrf-2/HO-1 Pathways

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is used to treat different malignancies and autoimmune disorders in men. This chemotherapy frequently reduces tumors, which is beneficial, but also causes infertility because of severe oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the bladder and testes brought on by its metabolite, acrolein. The goal of this study was to assess the efficacy of a novel food, açai berry, in preventing CYP-induced damage in the bladder and testes.

METHODS

CYP was administered intraperitoneally once during the experiment at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight diluted in 10 mL/kg b.w. of water. Açai berry was administered orally at a dose of 500 mg/kg.

RESULTS

The administration of açai berry was able to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, and histological changes in the bladder and testes after CYP injection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show for the first time that açai berry modulates physiological antioxidant defenses to protect the bladder and testes against CYP-induced changes.

Antipsychotic Drug-Mediated Adverse Effects on Rat Testicles May Be Caused by Altered Redox and Hormonal Homeostasis

Sexual dysfunction, as a noticeable adverse effect of atypical antipsychotic drugs (APDs) for the treatment of schizophrenia, has not been investigated in detail. A study was undertaken to investigate whether 28-day long treatment with clozapine, ziprasidone or sertindole (using a recommended daily dose for atypical antipsychotic therapy), induced histopathological changes both in rat testicles and prostate, changed the activity of the antioxidant defence system and altered blood testosterone and prolactin. Clozapine, ziprasidone and sertindole induced histopathological changes in rat testicular tissue, which could be attributed to a disturbed testicular antioxidant defence system in addition to an altered prolactin to testosterone ratio. None of the APD treatments induced histopathological changes in prostate. Our results demonstrate that APDs have the capacity to change both redox and endocrinological balance. One or both outcomes could underline testicular degeneration and disturbed spermatogenesis.

Utility of melatonin in mitigating ionizing radiation-induced testis injury through synergistic interdependence of its biological properties

Background

Ionizing radiations (IR) have widespread useful applications in our daily life; however, they have unfavorable effects on reproductive health. Maintaining testicular health following IR exposure is an important requirement for reproductive potential. The current study explored the role of melatonin (MLT) in mitigating IR-induced injury in young adult rat testis.

Methods

Rats were given daily MLT (25 mg/kg) for 3 and 14 days after receiving 4 Gy γ-radiation.

Results

Serum MLT levels and other antioxidants, including glutathione content, and the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in the testis of the irradiated rats were remarkably maintained by MLT administration in irradiated rats. Hence, the hydrogen peroxide level declined with remarkably reduced formation of oxidative stress markers, 4-hydroxynonenal, and 8-Hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine in the testis of irradiated animals after MLT administration. The redox status improvement caused a remarkable regression of proapoptotic protein (p53, Cyto-c, and caspase-3) in the testis and improved inflammatory cytokines (CRP and IL-6), and anti-inflammatory cytokine (interleukin IL-10) in serum. This is associated with restoration of disturbed sex hormonal balance, androgen receptor upregulation, and testicular cell proliferation activity in irradiated rats, explaining the improvement of sperm parameters (count, motility, viability, and deformation). Consequently, spermatogenic cell depletion and decreased seminiferous tubule diameter and perimeter were attenuated by MLT treatment post irradiation. Moreover, the testis of irradiated-MLT-treated rats showed well-organized histological architecture and normal sperm morphology.

Conclusions

These results show that radiation-induced testicular injury is mitigated following IR exposure through synergistic interdependence between the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-DNA damage actions of MLT.

Ferroptosis in glioma treatment: Current situation, prospects and drug applications

Ferroptosis is a regulatory form of iron-dependent cell death caused by the accumulation of lipid-based reactive oxygen species (ROS) and differs from apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necrosis. Especially in neoplastic diseases, the susceptibility of tumor cells to ferroptosis affects prognosis and is associated with complex effects. Gliomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors, accounting for disease in 81% of patients with malignant brain tumors. An increasing number of studies have revealed the particular characteristics of iron metabolism in glioma cells. Therefore, agents that target a wide range of molecules involved in ferroptosis may regulate this process and enhance glioma treatment. Here, we review the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis and summarize the potential therapeutic options for targeting ferroptosis in glioma.

Metabolomic disorders unveil hepatotoxicity of environmental microplastics in wild fish Serranus scriba (Linnaeus 1758)

Coastal areas are worldwide subject to large inputs of anthropogenic wastes that are discharged directly into inshore waters, where they will be weathered into small microplastics (MPs) of up to a size <20 μm. This study provides information about the presence of small environmental MPs (≤3 μm) in the liver of adult benthopelagic fish Serranus scriba (Linnaeus 1758), caught from three coastal regions in Tunisia distinguished by different patterns of human activity. Polymer composition in fish liver was identified using Raman microspectroscopy. Results revealed differences in the abundance, size distribution and presence of plastic additives over the investigated sites. Polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA: 34% particles/g of tissue), high density polyethylene (HDPE: 24.4%) and the two smaller size classes, i.e. 3-1.2 μm and 1.2-0.45 μm, were the most abundant MPs types and size distribution found, respectively, in Bizerte channel (BC) site (Bizerte city, Tunisia). Moreover, at hepatic level data showed a significant site-dependent cytotoxicity expressed by changes in malondialdehyde (MDA) content, presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) expressed by altered level of catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities and in the content of metallothioneins (MTs), as well as genotoxicity by changes in the amount of micronucleus (MN), and neurotoxicity by altered activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). A innovative metabolomics analysis was also performed to further investigate the distinct patterns of key metabolite changes in the liver of Serranus scriba. A total of 36 metabolites were significantly affected, mainly involved in energy, amino acid and osmolyte metabolism. These findings emphasised for the first time a close relationship between the source, abundance and size ranges of environmental MPs ≤ 3 μm and their hepatotoxicity in wild organisms.

Testicular Expression of Antioxidant Enzymes and Changes in Response to a Slow-Release Deslorelin Implant (Suprelorin® 4.7 mg) in the Dog

Spermatogenesis takes place in a hypoxic environment, and antioxidant enzymes protect germ and somatic cells from free radical-mediated damage. Expression of the antioxidant enzyme system in the canine testis has not yet been investigated. We hypothesized that the slow-release GnRH superagonist deslorelin 4.7 mg implant, which induces temporary reversible suppression of endocrine and germinative testicular function, would affect the testicular expression of antioxidant enzymes compared to untreated adult and prepubertal dogs. The goal of this study was to investigate and compare gene (by qPCR, in whole-tissue homogenates) and protein expression (by immunohistochemistry) of superoxide dismutase (SOD1, SOD2), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx1), and glutathione disulfide reductase (GSR) in the testes of untreated adult (CON, n = 7), prepubertal (PRE, n = 8), and deslorelin-treated (DES, n = 5, 16 weeks after implantation) dogs. We found that in DES dogs, the gene expression of SOD1 was significantly (p < 0.05) lower and GPx1 was higher than in CON, and SOD2 was higher than in PRE. Expression of all, except for the SOD2 mRNA, differed between the CON and PRE dogs. Immunohistochemistry showed distinct cell-specific localization and expression patterns for the antioxidant enzymes in each experimental group. Additionally, in the CON animals, cell-specific SOD1, CAT, and GSR expression was dependent on the stage of the seminiferous epithelium cycle. These findings confirm that members of the antioxidant enzyme system are present in normal adult and prepubertal testis as well as in the deslorelin-treated downregulated adult canine testis, and that this local antioxidant system protects developing germ cells and somatic cells from oxidative damage. Different expression patterns of antioxidant enzymes in various germ cell populations and stages of the seminiferous epithelium cycle may indicate differences in their susceptibility to oxidative stress depending on their developmental and maturation stage. The continued presence of the antioxidant enzymes in the testis of DES dogs offers protection to spermatogonia as well as Sertoli and Leydig cells from oxidative stress during temporary infertility, potentially contributing to ensure the reversibility of suppression and the return of normal spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis after the end of deslorelin treatment.

Respiratory exposure to graphene oxide induces pulmonary fibrosis and organ damages in rats involving caspase-1/p38MAPK/TGF-β1 signaling pathways

Numerous studies have shown that graphene oxide (GO) respiratory exposure led to severe lung injury, but whether pulmonary fibrosis caused by GO respiratory exposure is related to the activation of the caspase-1/p38MAPK/TGF-β1 remains unclear. In this study, rats were administrated GO by intratracheal instillation and fed for three months, and the molecular mechanisms of GO on the pulmonary fibrosis and other organ damage caused by GO respiratory exposure were examined. The results showed that the expression of caspase-1/p38MAPK/TGF-β1 pathway-related factors were significantly elevated with the increase of exposure concentrations of GO. Those data proved that the caspase-1/p38MAPK/TGF-β1 signaling pathway was involved in the pulmonary fibrosis caused by GO respiratory exposure. The trends of related factors also proved that the caspase-1/p38MAPK/TGF-β1 pathway was likely to play a dominant role in the sub-acute and sub-chronic stages. The other organ damage examination found that the liver and spleen were damaged initially by the GO respiratory exposure. Meanwhile for the testicle, although the acute injury was severe, signs of recovery were found during the three-month trial period.

Differential Distribution and Activity Profile of Acylpeptide Hydrolase in the Rat Seminiferous Epithelium

Acylpeptide hydrolase (APEH) is a serine protease involved in amino acid recycling from acylated peptides (exopeptidase activity) and degradation of oxidized proteins (endoproteinase activity). This enzyme is inhibited by dichlorvos (DDVP), an organophosphate compound used as an insecticide. The role of APEH in spermatogenesis has not been established; therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the distribution and activity profile of APEH during this process. For this purpose, cryosections of male reproductive tissues (testis and epididymis) and isolated cells (Sertoli cells, germ cells, and spermatozoa) were obtained from adult rats in order to analyze the intracellular localization of APEH by indirect immunofluorescence. In addition, the catalytic activity profiles of APEH in the different male reproductive tissues and isolated cells were quantified. Our results show that APEH is homogeneously distributed in Sertoli cells and early germ cells (spermatocytes and round spermatids), but this pattern changes during spermiogenesis. Specifically, in elongated spermatids and spermatozoa, APEH was localized in the acrosome and the principal piece. The exopeptidase activity was higher in the germ cell pool, compared to sperm and Sertoli cells, while the endoproteinase activity in epididymal homogenates was higher compared to testis homogenates at 24 h of incubation. In isolated cells, this activity was increased in Sertoli and germ cell pools, compared to spermatozoa. Taken together, these results indicate that APEH is differentially distributed in the testicular epithelium and undergoes re-localization during spermiogenesis. A possible role of APEH as a component of a protection system against oxidative stress and during sperm capacitation is discussed.

Biocide vs. Eco-Friendly Antifoulants: Role of the Antioxidative Defence and Settlement in Mytilus galloprovincialis

Antifoulant paints were developed to prevent and reduce biofouling on surfaces immersed in seawater. The widespread use of these substances over the years has led to a significant increase of their presence in the marine environment. These compounds were identified as environmental and human threats. As a result of an international ban, research in the last decade has focused on developing a new generation of benign antifoulant paints. This review outlines the detrimental effects associated with biocide versus eco-friendly antifoulants, highlighting what are effective antifoulants and why there is a need to monitor them. We examine the effects of biocide and eco-friendly antifoulants on the antioxidative defence mechanism and settlement in a higher sessile organism, specifically the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis. These antifoulants can indirectly assess the potential of these two parameters in order to outline implementation of sustainable antifoulants.

Animal models of male subfertility targeted on LanCL1-regulated spermatogenic redox homeostasis

Oxidative stress in spermatozoa is a major contributor to male subfertility, which makes it an informed choice to generate animal models of male subfertility with targeted modifications of the antioxidant systems. However, the critical male germ cell-specific antioxidant mechanisms have not been well defined yet. Here we identify LanCL1 as a major male germ cell-specific antioxidant gene, reduced expression of which is related to human male infertility. Mice deficient in LanCL1 display spermatozoal oxidative damage and impaired male fertility. Histopathological studies reveal that LanCL1-mediated antioxidant response is required for mouse testicular homeostasis, from the initiation of spermatogenesis to the maintenance of viability and functionality of male germ cells. Conversely, a mouse model expressing LanCL1 transgene is protected against high-fat-diet/obesity-induced oxidative damage and subfertility. We further show that germ cell-expressed LanCL1, in response to spermatogenic reactive oxygen species, is regulated by transcription factor specific protein 1 (SP1) during spermatogenesis. This study demonstrates a critical role for the SP1-LanCL1 axis in regulating testicular homeostasis and male fertility mediated by redox balance, and provides evidence that LanCL1 genetically modified mice have attractive applications as animal models of male subfertility.

Single injection of very mild dose botulinum toxin in the vastus lateralis improves testicular spermatogenesis and sperm motility in ageing experimental mice

Background

Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is a widely used therapeutic agent that blocks the excessive release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction. Previously, repeated intracremasteric injections and slight overdose of BoNT have been reported to induce adverse effects in the testicular parameter of experimental rodents. However, a mild dose of BoNT is highly beneficial against skin ageing, neuromuscular deficits, overactive urinary bladder problems, testicular pain and erectile dysfunctions. Considering the facts, the possible therapeutic benefits of BoNT on the testis might be achieved at a very minimal dosage and via a distal route of action. Therefore, we revisited the effect of BoNT, but with a trace amount injected into the vastus lateralis of the thigh muscle, and analyzed histological parameters of the testis, levels of key antioxidants and sperm parameters in ageing experimental mice.

Results

Experimental animals injected with 1 U/kg bodyweight of BoNT showed enhanced spermatogenesis in association with increased activities of key antioxidants in the testis, leading to enhanced amount of the total sperm count and progressive motility.

Conclusions

This study signifies that a mild intramuscular dose of BoNT can be considered as a potent treatment strategy to manage and prevent male infertility.

A testis-expressing heme peroxidase HPX12 regulates male fertility in the mosquito Anopheles stephensi

In vertebrates dysregulation of the antioxidant defense system has a detrimental impact on male fertility and reproductive physiology. However, in insects, especially mosquitoes the importance of sperm quality has been poorly studied. Since long-term storage of healthy and viable sperm earmarks male reproductive competency, we tested whether the heme peroxidase, a member of antioxidant enzyme family proteins, and abundantly expressed in the testis, also influence male fertility in the mosquito An. stephensi. Here, we show that a heme peroxidase 12 (HPX12), is an important cellular factor to protect the sperms from oxidative stress, and maintains semen quality in the male mosquito reproductive organ. We demonstrate that knockdown of the HPX12 not only impairs the sperm parameters such as motility, viability but also causes a significant down-regulation of MAG expressing transcripts such as ASTEI02706, ASTEI00744, ASTEI10266, likely encoding putative Accessory gland proteins. Mating with HPX12 knockdown male mosquitoes, resulted in ~ 50% reduction in egg-laying, coupled with diminished larval hatchability of a gravid female mosquito. Our data further outlines that increased ROS in the HPX12 mRNA depleted mosquitoes is the ultimate cause of sperm disabilities both qualitatively as well as quantitatively. Our data provide evidence that testis expressing AsHPX12 is crucial for maintaining optimal homeostasis for storing and protecting healthy sperms in the male mosquito's reproductive organs. Since, high reproductive capacity directly influences the mosquito population, manipulating male mosquito reproductive physiology could be an attractive tool to combat vector-borne diseases.

Oxidative stress and DNA damage status in couples undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment

This study examined the status of oxidative stress in 599 couples undertaking in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment and its association with reproductive hormones, smoking, and outcomes. Oxidative stress biomarkers such as malondialdehyde, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), catalase (CAT), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined in follicular fluid and seminal plasma. Tail moment (TM) was used to evaluate DNA damage in the sperm and granulosa cells. Reproductive hormones in serum and cotinine (COT) in urine, follicular fluid, and seminal plasma samples were determined. Separate multivariate linear regression was used to assess associations between levels of each oxidative stress biomarker and each hormone and smoking parameter (modeled as natural log-transformed). The findings indicate that some oxidative stress and DNA damage biomarkers played a role in disrupting certain reproductive hormones in women and their male partners either by overproducing reactive oxygen species or reducing antioxidant defense capacity. Although women were nonsmokers, COT levels > 50 and 10 µg/L in urine and follicular were observed in 5.7 and 1.7%, respectively. Levels of follicular fluid COT were positively associated with H₂O₂ and TM. We used log-binomial multivariate regression to estimate relative risks for the association between oxidative stress/DNA damage and IVF binary outcomes (fertilization rate > 50%, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth). An increase in the CAT levels of follicular fluid was associated with a 48 and 41% decrease in the risk of poor fertilization rate (≤50%) and unsuccessful live birth, respectively. After the models were adjusted for hormonal factors, the associations remained the same, except that the elevated TAC in follicular fluid became significantly associated with a decrease of 42% in the risk of poor fertilization rate (≤50%). The higher antioxidant activity (CAT and TAC) in follicular fluid might positively impact specific IVF outcomes.

The Effects of Organophosphate Esters Used as Flame Retardants and Plasticizers on Granulosa, Leydig, and Spermatogonial Cells Analyzed Using High-Content Imaging

The replacement of regulated brominated flame retardants and plasticizers with organophosphate esters (OPEs) has led to their pervasive presence in the environment and in biological matrices. Further, there is evidence that exposure to some of these chemicals is associated with reproductive toxicity. Using a high-content imaging approach, we assessed the effects of exposure to 9 OPEs on cells related to reproductive function: KGN human granulosa cells, MA-10 mouse Leydig cells, and C18-4 mouse spermatogonial cells. The effects of OPEs were compared with those of 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47), a legacy brominated flame retardant. Alterations in several important cell features, including cell survival, mitochondrial dynamics, oxidative stress, lysosomes, and lipid droplets, were analyzed. Most of the OPEs tested displayed higher cytotoxicity than BDE-47 in all 3 cell lines. Effects on phenotypic parameters were specific for each cell type. Several OPEs increased total mitochondria, decreased lysosomes, increased the total area of lipid droplets, and induced oxidative stress in KGN cells; these endpoints were differentially affected in MA-10 and C18-4 cells. Alterations in cell phenotypes were highly correlated in the 2 steroidogenic cell lines for a few triaryl OPEs. Potency ranking using 2 complementary approaches, Toxicological Prioritization Index analyses and the lowest benchmark concentration/administered equivalent dose method, revealed that while most of the OPEs tested were more potent than BDE-47, others showed little to no effect. We propose that these approaches serve as lines of evidence in a screening strategy to identify the potential for reproductive and endocrine effects of emerging chemicals and assist in regulatory decision-making.

Is catalase an effective additive to alleviate oxidative stress during cryopreservation of zebrafish sperm at the repository level?

The goal of this study was to investigate whether supplementation of cryoprotective medium with catalase (CAT), an antioxidation enzyme, is efficient for zebrafish sperm cryopreservation from the viewpoint of high-throughput genetic repository operations. Three cryoprotectants (10%, v/v), dimethylacetamide (DMA), dimethylformamide (DMF), and methanol were used. The objectives were to evaluate the effects of CAT on sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, and concentration for: 1) fresh sperm at equilibration up to 60 min; 2) post-thaw sperm after cooling at 10, 20, and 40 °C/min), and 3) post-thaw fertilization and embryo survival rates. Catalase addition did not improve sperm motility, regardless of the cryoprotectants added. After 10-min exposure to DMA or methanol, membrane integrity was significantly decreased (70-75%) compared to controls. With catalase, sperm cells maintained membrane integrity and after 50 min equilibration, cell concentrations were maintained with CAT compared to cryoprotectant-only test groups. However, after cryopreservation and thawing, CAT did not affect the outcome of motility, membrane integrity, cell concentration, fertilization, or embryo survival assays. Analysis of cooling rates also indicated that CAT did not affect 3-hpf fertilization or 24-hpf survival rates. Overall, addition of CAT could provide some protection of sperm from oxidative stress before freezing, but not after thawing. We propose that decisions concerning routine use of CAT for repositories, especially those handling tens of thousands of frozen samples per year, would depend on whether efficient high-throughput operation, or specific research questions are programmatic goals.

Physiological role of reactive oxygen species in testis and epididymal spermatozoa

The reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in various aspects of male reproductive function, for spermatozoa to acquire the ability to fertilize. However, the increase in ROS generation, both due to internal and external factors, can induce oxidative stress, causing alterations in the structure and function of phospholipids and proteins. In the nucleus, ROS attack DNA, causing its fragmentation and activation of apoptosis, thus altering gene and protein expression. Accumulating evidence also reveals that endogenously produced ROS can act as second messengers in regulating cell signalling pathways and in the transduction of signals that are responsible for regulating spermatogonia self-renewal and proliferation. In the epididymis, they actively participate in the formation of disulphide bridges required for the final condensation of chromatin, as well as in the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of proteins contained in the fibrous sheath of the flagellum, stimulating the activation of progressive motility in epididymal spermatozoa. In this review, the role of small amounts of ROS during spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation was discussed.

Biological Effects Assessment of Antibiofouling EDCs: Gaeta Harbor (South Italy) Benthic Communities' Analysis by Biodiversity Indices and Quantitative gpx4 Expression

The most representative organisms of the Harbor of Gaeta Gulf in South Italy were analyzed for biofouling by visual census and confirmed later by molecular approach on an artificial Conatex panel dipped 3 m into a eutrophic area during the Covid-19 pandemic. Mitochondrial Cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1(COI) gene was sequenced from 20 different marine species (flora: 2 families, 2 orders; fauna: 16 families, 11 orders) to test whether the morphology-based assignment of the most common biofouling member was supported by DNA-based species identification. Twelve months of submersion resulted in generation of sufficient data to obtain a facies climax represented mainly by the bivalve mollusk, Mytilus galloprovincialis. Specific diversity and variations of the biofouling biomasses were analyzed using two different anti-biofouling paints: an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC)-containing metal biocide, and a biocide-free paint. Also, their effects on detoxification and reproductive health of M. galloprovincialis were evaluated using glutathione S-transferase enzymatic activity and RTqPCR expression of the fertility antioxidant gene glutathione peroxidase 4 (gpx4). The obtained data provide useful indications on which future investigations may be focused and may become a potential management tool for a harbor biofouling database to assist local administrations in EDCs protection of autochthonous benthic communities and their fertility using innovative antifouling paints.

Oxidative Stress and Toxicity in Reproductive Biology and Medicine: A Comprehensive Update on Male Infertility Volume II - Conclusion

Infertility is a globally under-recognized public health problem significantly impacting individual health and socioeconomics affecting millions of couples. The reasons for infertility are manifold and not only include many couples decision to postpone having children but also diseases (e.g., diabetes, infections, or varicocele), lifestyle (e.g., obesity), and environmental factors (e.g., bisphenol A, DTT or dioxin). In the pathology of many causes of infertility, oxidative stress plays a significant role as reactive oxygen species (ROS) exert significant detrimental effects. On the other hand, a small amount of ROS is essential to trigger physiological events such as capacitation. Therefore, a fine balance between oxidation and reduction has to be maintained. Apart from treating the underlying disease or correcting the cause of the infertility, oxidative stress can be treated by antioxidant supplementation. Since plants and their extracts contain numerous phytochemicals which exhibit antioxidant activity, many people tend to use herbal products. Alternatively, isolated antioxidants such as vitamin C or E are also used. However, when using purified antioxidants, it is essential that the redox balance is maintained to avoid a "reductive stress" situation, which is as harmful as oxidative stress.

Evaluation of Sertoli cell autophagy associated with laminin, fibronectin, and caspase-3 proteins' alteration, following testicular torsion rat

Autophagy is a vital process that maintains cellular homeostasis by joining lysosomes and providing energy production substrates. In testicular tissue, Sertoli cells play functional roles in spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. It is well known that autophagy physiologically occurs in the Sertoli cells. Under pathological conditions, such as testicular torsion, autophagy can be activated under high-stress stimuli. It is worth noting that Sertoli cells receive autophagy-induced signals through some extracellular matrix proteins, e.g. laminin and fibronectin. The present study aims to evaluate Sertoli cells' autophagy-associated extracellular matrix proteins' alteration following testicular torsion in rat model. The animals were divided into two groups as sham and testicular torsion/detorsion groups. In the testicular torsion/detorsion group, testicular torsion was maintained for 6 hr, followed by detorsion for 14 days. The obtained results revealed that testicular torsion-induced oxidative stress leads to increased autophagy in Sertoli cells as well as the whole testicular tissue. Moreover, extracellular matrix proteins including laminin and fibronectin act as autophagy-regulating proteins, in which their expression levels are reduced and increased respectively. In addition, the level of caspase-3, as an autophagy inhibitory protein, did not increase significantly in the cytoplasm of Sertoli cells as opposed to whole testicular tissue, indicating that autophagy is active after testicular torsion in these cells.

Comparative Fatty Acid Profiling of Edible Fishes in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia

The aim of this study was to compare the relative nutritional benefit of edible Malaysian fishes from the coast of Terengganu in Malaysia, as well as to perform a taxonomical characterization and metal assessment. Discrimination between species was carried out by a morphological and molecular approach by evaluating the total concentrations of metals by ICP-MS analyses and the fatty acids (FA) composition using the GC–MS approach on the fish fillet tissues. The taxonomical studies detected fishes of 11 families and 13 species. The heavy metal assessment showed that all detected elements did not exceed the regulatory limit stated by Malaysian Food Regulations. The proportion of saturated fatty acids (SFA) ranged from 33 to 58.34%, followed by the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) values from 24 to 51.8%, and the lowest proportion was of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), ranging from 12.7 to 35.9%. The ω-3/ω-6 PUFA and PUFA/SFA ratios were determined in the range 1.1 to 7.4 and 0.35 to 1.6, respectively. The C20:5 ω-3 and C22:6 ω-3 acids were detected at levels comparable to those found in the corresponding species from similar tropical marine ecosystems. The high FA values can be useful biochemical tools for comparing the relative nutritional benefits of these biodiverse and non-toxic edible Malaysian fishes.

Curcumin nano-micelle induced testicular toxicity in healthy rats; evidence for oxidative stress and failed homeostatic response by heat shock proteins 70-2a and 90

This study explores the effect of curcumin nano-micelle (NCMN) on the testicular anti-oxidant status and heat shock proteins (Hsp) 70-2a and Hsp 90 expression. Therefore, 24 male Wistar rats were divided into control, 7.50 mg/kg, 15 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg of NCMN-received groups. Following 48 days, the testicular total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities, immunoreactivity of 8-oxodG, Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expressions, germ cell's DNA and mRNA damages, the spermatozoa count, motility and DNA integrity were assessed. With no change in the testicular TAC level, the TOS, MDA and GSH contents were increased in the NMC-received groups. However, CAT and GPX activities were decreased. The NCMN suppressed spermatogenesis, increased immunoreactivity of 8-oxodG, stimulated the Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expressions, and resulted in severe DNA and mRNA damages. Moreover, the NCMN-received animals exhibited remarkable reductions in the spermatozoa count, motility and DNA integrity. In conclusion, chronic and high dose consumption of NCMN initiates OS, and in response to OS, the Hsp70-2a and Hsp90 expression increases. However, considering enhanced DNA and mRNA damages and suppressed spermatogenesis, HSPs over-expression can neither boost the anti-oxidant system nor overcome the NCMN-induced OS-related damages.

Male subfertility and oxidative stress

To date 15% of couples are suffering from infertility with 45-50% of males being responsible. With an increase in paternal age as well as various environmental and lifestyle factors worsening these figures are expected to increase. As the so-called free radical theory of infertility suggests, free radicals or reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an essential role in this process. However, ROS also fulfill important functions for instance in sperm maturation. The aim of this review article is to discuss the role reactive oxygen species play in male fertility and how these are influenced by lifestyle, age or disease. We will further discuss how these ROS are measured and how they can be avoided during in-vitro fertilization.

Effects of Morphine on Serum Reproductive Hormone Levels and the Expression of Genes Involved in Fertility-related Pathways in Male Rats

The effects of morphine on serum reproductive hormone levels and markers involved in fertility-related pathways were evaluated. A total of 30 male Wistar rats were divided into three groups (n = 10) and intraperitoneally administered the following substances for 20 days: two single daily doses of morphine (10 mg/kg; morphine group), saline (healthy saline), and intact group. After confirming the morphine dependence of the experimental groups, all the animals were sacrificed and their total testis tissue was extracted and stored at -80 °C until use. Male reproductive parameters (blood serum of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone) and using Q-PCR and western blot, we evaluated mRNA and protein expression of CREM, TBP, CREB1, HDAC1, and FOS involved in fertility-related pathways were analyzed and compared in the testis samples. The luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels were significantly lower in the morphine-administered group than in the saline and intact groups (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expressions of all five target genes were downregulated in the morphine group (P < 0.05). The protein expression of all five target proteins was downregulated in the morphine group (P < 0.05). We concluded that morphine could decrease the reproductive parameters in male rats.

The dynamic changes of Nrf2 mediated oxidative stress, DNA damage and base excision repair in testis of rats during aging

Accumulation of oxidative stress, DNA damage and impaired DNA repair appear to play critical roles in the decline of testicular function with aging. However, when those factors begin to lose control in testis during aging has not yet been well understood. This study was designed to assess the changes of oxidative stress and DNA damage status, and DNA repair capacity in testis during aging. Thus, male Sprague-Dawley rats at 3, 9, 15 and 24 months of age were used to delineate the dynamic changes in testicular weight and index, testosterone concentration, testicular histology, Nrf2-mediated oxidative stress, DNA damage, DNA repair and apoptosis. Results showed that testicular weight and index, testosterone concentration and spermatid number progressively declined from 9 to 24 months of age. Similarly, seminiferous tubule diameters and seminiferous epithelium heights gradually diminished with aging. Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defense ability was significantly impaired in testis with increasing age including decreased the activity of SOD and the expression levels of Nrf2, HO-1 and NQO-1, and increased the contents of MDA. In addition, DNA damage including DNA single-strand breaks (SSBs) and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) also progressively increased accompanied by increased levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and γ-H2AX, and activated ATM/Chk2 and ATR/Chk1 pathway. Consistent with the results of Nrf2 pathway, the expression levels of APE1, OGG1 and XRCC1 involved in base excision DNA repair (BER) pathway increased from 3 to 9 months of age, and then gradually decreased after 9 months of age. Finally, TUNEL and Western blot results further confirmed germ cell apoptosis progressively increased from 3 to 24 months of age as evidenced by decreased ratio of Bcl-2/Bax and levels of Bcl-2 expression, and increased Bax expression levels. Taken together, our results suggest that downregulation of antioxidant ability mediated by Nrf2 pathway and impairment of BER capacity might correlate with increased DNA damage, and then induce declining testicular function during aging after adult.

Hidrox® Counteracts Cyclophosphamide-Induced Male Infertility through NRF2 Pathways in a Mouse Model

BACKGROUND

Every year, men use cyclophosphamide to treat various cancers and autoimmune diseases. On the one hand, this chemotherapy often has the beneficial effect of regressing the tumor, but on the other hand, it leads to infertility due to excessive oxidative stress and apoptosis in the testes caused by its metabolite, acrolein.

METHODS

The objective of this study was to evaluate the beneficial power of a new compound called Hidrox^®, containing 40-50% hydroxytyrosol, in counteracting the damage related to fertility induced by cyclophosphamide. The study was conducted using a single intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide at a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w, in distilled water at 10 mL/kg b.w. The treatment was administered via the oral administration of Hidrox^® at a dose of 50 mg/kg.

RESULTS

Our study confirms that the use of cyclophosphamide causes a series of sperm and histological alterations strongly connected with oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate for the first time that Hidrox^® protects testes from CYP-induced alterations by the modulation of physiological antioxidant defenses.

cROStalk for Life: Uncovering ROS Signaling in Plants and Animal Systems, from Gametogenesis to Early Embryonic Development

This review explores the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS)/Ca2+ in communication within reproductive structures in plants and animals. Many concepts have been described during the last years regarding how biosynthesis, generation products, antioxidant systems, and signal transduction involve ROS signaling, as well as its possible link with developmental processes and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this review, we first addressed classic key concepts in ROS and Ca2+ signaling in plants, both at the subcellular, cellular, and organ level. In the plant science field, during the last decades, new techniques have facilitated the in vivo monitoring of ROS signaling cascades. We will describe these powerful techniques in plants and compare them to those existing in animals. Development of new analytical techniques will facilitate the understanding of ROS signaling and their signal transduction pathways in plants and mammals. Many among those signaling pathways already have been studied in animals; therefore, a specific effort should be made to integrate this knowledge into plant biology. We here discuss examples of how changes in the ROS and Ca2+ signaling pathways can affect differentiation processes in plants, focusing specifically on reproductive processes where the ROS and Ca2+ signaling pathways influence the gametophyte functioning, sexual reproduction, and embryo formation in plants and animals. The study field regarding the role of ROS and Ca2+ in signal transduction is evolving continuously, which is why we reviewed the recent literature and propose here the potential targets affecting ROS in reproductive processes. We discuss the opportunities to integrate comparative developmental studies and experimental approaches into studies on the role of ROS/ Ca2+ in both plant and animal developmental biology studies, to further elucidate these crucial signaling pathways.

Assessment of Reproductive Toxicity of Hydroethanolic Root Extracts of Caesalpinia benthamiana, Sphenocentrum jollyanum, and Paullinia pinnata

Purpose

Male sexual dysfunction negatively affects an individual's quality of life and thus its of prime public concern, hence the need to boost reproductive abilities in such individuals. This study assessed the effect of hydroethanolic root extracts of Caesalpinia benthamiana (CBRE), Sphenocentrum jollyanum (SJRE), and Paullinia pinnata (PPRE), commonly used as aphrodisiacs in Ghana, using male Sprague-Dawley rats.

Methods

Plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were assayed in grouped rats treated orally with 1 mL/kg normal saline, 50 mg/kg monosodium glutamate (MSG), and 100, 300, or 1000 mg/kg CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE, respectively, for 60 days. Epididymis and testis weights were determined. Semen was assessed on spermatozoa count, motility, and morphology. Malonyladehyde formation in lipid-peroxidation assay and histological examinations were performed to assess pathological changes in testes. Testicular testosterone was also assayed.

Results

While MSG, CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE treatments did not result in significant reduction (p>0.05) in plasma testosterone, there was significant reduction (p≤0.05 -0.0001) in plasma luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. The combined mean wet weights of epididymides and testes of all treated groups did not vary significantly (p>0.05) from the control. There was significant reduction (p≤0.0001) in sperm motility and count, with significant morphological changes (p≤0.05-0.001), ie, bent necks, tails, and midpieces, and multiple anomalies in the spermatozoa in extract and MSG-treated groups. There was also significant (p≤0.0001) reduction in testicular testosterone among all treatment groups.

Conclusion

Hydroethanolic CBRE, SJRE, and PPRE were found to have detrimental effects on reproductive function with prolonged usage and thus may not be safe to use in healthy males who intend to reproduce.