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Peng F, Lu J, Su K, Liu X, Luo H, He B, Wang C, Zhang X, An F, Lv D, Luo Y, Su Q, Jiang T, Deng Z, He B, Xu L, Guo T, Xiang J, Gu C, Wang L, Xu G, Xu Y, Li M, Kelley KW, Cui B, Liu Q. Oncogenic fatty acid oxidation senses circadian disruption in sleep-deficiency-enhanced tumorigenesis. Cell Metab 2024; 36:1598-1618.e11. [PMID: 38772364 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Circadian disruption predicts poor cancer prognosis, yet how circadian disruption is sensed in sleep-deficiency (SD)-enhanced tumorigenesis remains obscure. Here, we show fatty acid oxidation (FAO) as a circadian sensor relaying from clock disruption to oncogenic metabolic signal in SD-enhanced lung tumorigenesis. Both unbiased transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal that FAO senses SD-induced circadian disruption, as illustrated by continuously increased palmitoyl-coenzyme A (PA-CoA) catalyzed by long-chain fatty acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (ACSL1). Mechanistically, SD-dysregulated CLOCK hypertransactivates ACSL1 to produce PA-CoA, which facilitates CLOCK-Cys194 S-palmitoylation in a ZDHHC5-dependent manner. This positive transcription-palmitoylation feedback loop prevents ubiquitin-proteasomal degradation of CLOCK, causing FAO-sensed circadian disruption to maintain SD-enhanced cancer stemness. Intriguingly, timed β-endorphin resets rhythmic Clock and Acsl1 expression to alleviate SD-enhanced tumorigenesis. Sleep quality and serum β-endorphin are negatively associated with both cancer development and CLOCK/ACSL1 expression in patients with cancer, suggesting dawn-supplemented β-endorphin as a potential chronotherapeutic strategy for SD-related cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Peng
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jinxin Lu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Keyu Su
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Psychobehavioral Cancer Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R&A Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Huandong Luo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Bin He
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Cenxin Wang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan An
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Dekang Lv
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yuanyuan Luo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R&A Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Qitong Su
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Tonghui Jiang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ziqian Deng
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Bin He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Psychobehavioral Cancer Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lingzhi Xu
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Tao Guo
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jin Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Psychobehavioral Cancer Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chundong Gu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Guowang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Separation Sciences for Analytical Chemistry, National Chromatographic R&A Center, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Cambridge-Soochow University Genomic Resource Center, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mindian Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Center for Circadian Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease, Southwest Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Keith W Kelley
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine and Department of Animal Sciences, College of ACES, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Bai Cui
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Psychobehavioral Cancer Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Quentin Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China; State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Psychobehavioral Cancer Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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2
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Dong J, Dong Y, An L, Wang Y, Li Y, Jin L. The role of the sensory input intervention in recovery of the motor function in hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy rat model. J Neurophysiol 2024; 131:865-871. [PMID: 38568478 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00054.2024] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Motor disturbances predominantly characterize hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Among its intervention methods, environmental enrichment (EE) is strictly considered a form of sensory intervention. However, limited research uses EE as a single sensory input intervention to validate outcomes postintervention. A Sprague-Dawley rat model subjected to left common carotid artery ligation and exposure to oxygen-hypoxic conditions is used in this study. EE was achieved by enhancing the recreational and stress-relief items within the cage, increasing the duration of sunlight, colorful items exposure, and introducing background music. JZL184 (JZL) was administered as neuroprotective drugs. EE was performed 21 days postoperatively and the rats were randomly assigned to the standard environment and EE groups, the two groups were redivided into control, JZL, and vehicle injection subgroups. The Western blotting and behavior test indicated that EE and JZL injections were efficacious in promoting cognitive function in rats following HIE. In addition, the motor function performance in the EE-alone intervention group and the JZL-alone group after HIE was significantly improved compared with the control group. The combined EE and JZL intervention group exhibited even more pronounced improvements in these performances. EE may enhance motor function through sensory input different from the direct neuroprotective effect of pharmacological treatment.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Rarely does literature assess motor function, even though it is common after hypoxia ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Previously used environmental enrichment (EE) components have not been solely used as sensory inputs. Physical factors were minimized in our study to observe the effects of purely sensory inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juchuan Dong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Dong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijuan An
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Yufan Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongmei Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihua Jin
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, People's Republic of China
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3
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Shinde D, Bhat SK, Ganesh CB. The opioid peptide β-endorphin interferes with the pituitary-testis axis in the Mozambique tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2024; 50:733-743. [PMID: 38277042 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-024-01302-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Although the involvement of β-endorphin (β-ERP) in vertebrate reproduction has been suggested, its role in testicular activity is not clear in fish. We describe the influence of β-ERP on spermatogenesis in a cichlid fish in the present paper. In comparison to the control group, the administration of β-ERP (3 µg) caused a significant increase in the number of spermatogonia-A and spermatids. Following treatment with β-ERP (6 µg), a significant increase in the number of spermatogonia-A was observed, whereas the numbers of all the other germ cells, excluding spermatogonia-B, significantly decreased in comparison to those in the control group. In addition, treatment of fish with 6 µg β-ERP resulted in a significant reduction in the dimensions of the lumen and seminiferous lobules, the level of immunopositive androgen receptor (AR) expression in Sertoli cells, and the percentage of luteinizing hormone (LH) immunolabeled in the pituitary compared to those in the control group or the group treated with 3 µg β-ERP. In contrast, the intensity of AR immunoreactivity and the percentage of LH immunolabeling were substantially increased in fish treated with 3 µg β-ERP compared to those in the control group. These findings reveal for the first time that a low dose of β-ERP stimulates the recruitment of spermatogonia as well as spermateleosis, whereas a high concentration affects the recruitment of germ cells prior to meiotic division in tilapia. These results suggest that β-ERP exerts modulatory effects at the testicular and hypophysial levels through alterations in AR expression and LH secretory activity, respectively, in teleosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Shinde
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 580 003, India
| | - Shilpa K Bhat
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 580 003, India
| | - C B Ganesh
- Neuroendocrinology Research Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 580 003, India.
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Schreurs RRCE, Koulis A, Booiman T, Boeser-Nunnink B, Cloherty APM, Rader AG, Patel KS, Kootstra NA, Ribeiro CMS. Autophagy-enhancing ATG16L1 polymorphism is associated with improved clinical outcome and T-cell immunity in chronic HIV-1 infection. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2465. [PMID: 38548722 PMCID: PMC10979031 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46606-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic HIV-1 infection is characterized by T-cell dysregulation that is partly restored by antiretroviral therapy. Autophagy is a critical regulator of T-cell function. Here, we demonstrate a protective role for autophagy in HIV-1 disease pathogenesis. Targeted analysis of genetic variation in core autophagy gene ATG16L1 reveals the previously unidentified rs6861 polymorphism, which correlates functionally with enhanced autophagy and clinically with improved survival of untreated HIV-1-infected individuals. T-cells carrying ATG16L1 rs6861(TT) genotype display improved antiviral immunity, evidenced by increased proliferation, revamped immune responsiveness, and suppressed exhaustion/immunosenescence features. In-depth flow-cytometric and transcriptional profiling reveal T-helper-cell-signatures unique to rs6861(TT) individuals with enriched regulation of pro-inflammatory networks and skewing towards immunoregulatory phenotype. Therapeutic enhancement of autophagy recapitulates the rs6861(TT)-associated T-cell traits in non-carriers. These data underscore the in vivo relevance of autophagy for longer-lasting T-cell-mediated HIV-1 control, with implications towards development of host-directed antivirals targeting autophagy to restore immune function in chronic HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée R C E Schreurs
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Athanasios Koulis
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thijs Booiman
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Brigitte Boeser-Nunnink
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra P M Cloherty
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anusca G Rader
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kharishma S Patel
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Neeltje A Kootstra
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla M S Ribeiro
- Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam institute for Immunology & Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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5
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Li R, Du Y, Li K, Xiong X, Zhang L, Guo C, Gao S, Yao Y, Xu Y, Yang J. Single-cell transcriptome profiling implicates the psychological stress-induced disruption of spermatogenesis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102158. [PMID: 38439912 PMCID: PMC10910125 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rufeng Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yuefeng Du
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Kang Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofan Xiong
- Center for Tumor and Immunology, the Precision Medical Institute, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710004, P.R. China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Chen Guo
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Shanfeng Gao
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yufei Yao
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Yungang Xu
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
| | - Juan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi’an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education of China, Xi’an 710061, P.R. China
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Xiong X, Zhang S, Zang L, Xin Y, Pang Y, Zhang S, Yang Y, Tu R, Zhang L, Du Y, Yang J. Cell apoptosis in the testis of male rats is elevated by intervention with β-endorphin and the mu opioid receptor. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100789. [PMID: 37499346 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100789] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
β-endorphin (β-EP) is involved in the regulation of male germ cells; however, little is known about the effect of β-EP on primary germ cells via opioid receptors. In this study, we first revealed significant cell apoptosis in the testis of male rats after β-EP intervention. Subsequently, the expression of the mu opioid receptor (MOR) was detected in both Leydig cells (LCs) and spermatogonia (SGs) by fluorescence colocalization; overlapping signals were also detected in apoptotic cells. In addition, LCs and SGs were separated from the testis of male rats and primary cells were treated with β-EP; this increased the mRNA levels of MOR and was accompanied by acute cell apoptosis. Our findings provide a foundation for the further study of apoptosis in reproductive cells regulated by β-EP and the MOR receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Xiong
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, PR China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis & Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Lulu Zang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis & Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yanlong Xin
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Biodiagnosis & Biotherapy, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yixin Pang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Shuting Zhang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yu Yang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine Institute, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Rongfu Tu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, PR China
| | - Yuefeng Du
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, PR China.
| | - Juan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, PR China.
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Monageng E, Offor U, Takalani NB, Mohlala K, Opuwari CS. A Review on the Impact of Oxidative Stress and Medicinal Plants on Leydig Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1559. [PMID: 37627554 PMCID: PMC10451682 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081559] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells are essential for steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular antioxidant level brings about oxidative stress. Oxidative stress (OS) results in the dysfunction of Leydig cells, thereby impairing steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and ultimately, male infertility. To prevent Leydig cells from oxidative insults, there needs to be a balance between the ROS production and the cellular protective capacity of antioxidants. Evidence indicates that medicinal plants could improve Leydig cell function at specific concentrations under basal or OS conditions. The increased usage of medicinal plants has been considered a possible alternative treatment for male infertility. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of oxidative stress on Leydig cells as well as the effects of various medicinal plant extracts on TM3 Leydig cells. The medicinal plants of interest include Aspalathus linearis, Camellia sinensis, Moringa oleifera, Morinda officinale, Taraxacum officinale, Trichilia emetica, Terminalia sambesiaca, Peltophorum africanum, Ximenia caffra, Serenoa repens, Zingiber officinale, Eugenia jambolana, and a combination of dandelion and fermented rooibos (CRS-10). According to the findings obtained from studies conducted on the evaluated medicinal plants, it can, therefore, be concluded that the medicinal plants maintain the antioxidant profile of Leydig cells under basal conditions and have protective or restorative effects following exposure to oxidative stress. The available data suggest that the protective role exhibited by the evaluated plants may be attributed to their antioxidant content. Additionally, the use of the optimal dosage or concentration of the extracts in the management of oxidative stress is of the utmost importance, and the measurement of their oxidation reduction potential is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Monageng
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Ugochukwu Offor
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Ndivhuho Beauty Takalani
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Kutullo Mohlala
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Chinyerum Sylvia Opuwari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
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8
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Giulioni C, Maurizi V, Galosi AB. The role of physical agents' exposure in male infertility: A critical review. Arch Ital Urol Androl 2023; 95:10890. [PMID: 36924383 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2023.10890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A decrease in semen quality is an increasingly widespread pathological condition worldwide. Jobs and lifestyles have changed a lot with the advancement of technology in the last few decades, and a new series of risk factors for male infertility have spread. OBJECTIVE This review aims to summarize the current literature on this relationship, evaluating alterations in semen parameters and hormonal profile. METHODS A deep research was performed through MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science on articles regarding the relationship between physical agents and male fertility over the last twenty years. Some physical agents already associated with male infertility, such as heat and radiation, while emerging ones, such as physical exertion, psychological stress and sedentary activities, were newly considered. RESULTS Most studies described sperm quality after exposure. Overall sperm impairment was shown after radiation and alteration of specific parameters, such as sperm concentration, were observed after psychological stress and sedentary work. In addition, an association was also reported between physical exertion and hormonal profile, especially pituitary hormones and testosterone. CONCLUSIONS Although the associations between physical agents and male infertility are suggestive, the level of evidence of the studies is not adequate to define their influence, except for physical exertion. Therefore, new prospective studies are necessary for the validation of the correlation and the possible safeguarding of the exposed working classes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giulioni
- Department of Urology, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Umberto I Hospital "Ospedali Riuniti", Ancona.
| | - Valentina Maurizi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, "Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Ancona.
| | - Andrea Benedetto Galosi
- Department of Urology, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Umberto I Hospital "Ospedali Riuniti", Ancona.
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9
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Luo D, Qi X, Xu X, Yang L, Yu C, Guan Q. Involvement of p38 MAPK in Leydig cell aging and age-related decline in testosterone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1088249. [PMID: 36950685 PMCID: PMC10025507 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1088249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Age-related decline in testosterone is associated with Leydig cell aging with impaired testosterone synthesis in aging. Obesity accelerates the age-related decline in testosterone. However, the mechanisms underlying the Leydig cell aging and the effects of obesity on Leydig cell aging remain unclear. METHOD Natural aging mice and diet-induced obese mice were used to assess the process of testicular Leydig cell senescence with age or obesity. Bioinformatic analysis of the young and aged human testes was used to explore key genes related Leydig cell aging. Leydig cell-specific p38 MAPK knockout (p38LCKO) mice were used to further analyze the roles of p38 MAPK in Leydig cell aging. The levels of testosterone and steroidogenic enzymes, activity of p38 MAPK, aging status of Leydig cells, and oxidative stress and inflammation of testes or Leydig cells were detected by ELISA, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) staining analysis, respectively. RESULT The serum testosterone level was significantly reduced in aged mice compared with young mice. In the testis of aged mice, the reduced mRNA and protein levels of LHCGR, SRB1, StAR, CYP11A1, and CYP17A1 and the elevated oxidative stress and inflammation were observed. KEGG analysis showed that MAPK pathway was changed in aged Leydig cells, and immunoblotting displayed that p38 MAPK was activated in aged Leydig cells. The intensity of SA-β-Gal staining on Leydig cells and the number of p21-postive Leydig cells in aged mice were more than those of young mice. Similar to aged mice, the testosterone-related indexes decreased, and the age-related indexes increased in the testicular Leydig cells of high fat diet (HFD) mice. Aged p38LCKO mice had higher levels of testosterone and steroidogenic enzymes than those of age-matched wild-type (WT) littermates, with reduced the intensity of SA-β-Gal staining and the expression of p21 protein. CONCLUSION Our study suggested that obesity was an important risk factor for Leydig cell aging. p38 MAPK was involved in Leydig cell aging induced by age and obesity. The inhibition of p38 MAPK could delay Leydig cell aging and alleviate decline in testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Qi
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoqin Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Leilei Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Chunxiao Yu, ; Qingbo Guan,
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shandong Academy of Clinical Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- *Correspondence: Chunxiao Yu, ; Qingbo Guan,
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Xiong X, Wu Q, Zhang L, Gao S, Li R, Han L, Fan M, Wang M, Liu L, Wang X, Zhang C, Xin Y, Li Z, Huang C, Yang J. Chronic stress inhibits testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells through mitochondrial damage via Atp5a1. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:354-363. [PMID: 34894202 PMCID: PMC8743653 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is one of the leading causes of male infertility, but its exact function in testosterone synthesis has scarcely been reported. We found that adult male rats show a decrease in bodyweight, genital index and serum testosterone level after continual chronic stress for 21 days. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and MALDI-TOF-MS analysis identified 10 differentially expressed proteins in stressed rats compared with controls. A strong protein interaction network was found to be centred on Atp5a1 among these proteins. Atp5a1 expression significantly decreased in Leydig cells after chronic stress. Transfection of Atp5a1 siRNAs decreased StAR, CYP11A1, and 17β-HSD expression by damaging the structure of mitochondria in TM3 cells. This study confirmed that chronic stress plays an important role in testosterone synthesis by regulating Atp5a1 expression in Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofan Xiong
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine InstituteThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Qiuhua Wu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
- Center of Medical GeneticsNorthwest Women’s and Children’s HospitalXi’anChina
| | - Lingyu Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Shanfeng Gao
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Rufeng Li
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Lin Han
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
| | - Meiyang Fan
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
| | - Liying Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
| | - Chunli Zhang
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine InstituteThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Yanlong Xin
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine InstituteThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Zongfang Li
- Western China Science and Technology Innovation Port in Precision Medicine InstituteThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong UniversityXi'anChina
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
| | - Juan Yang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical SciencesXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CenterXi’anChina
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to DiseasesMinistry of Education of China, Xi’an Jiaotong UniversityXi’anChina
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Abdollahi F, Farhang Dehghan S, Amanpour S, Haghparast A, Sabour S, Zendehdel R. Effect of Co-exposure to Heat and Psychological Stressors on Sperm DNA and Semen Parameters. Toxicol Rep 2021; 8:1948-1954. [PMID: 34917486 PMCID: PMC8646159 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-exposure to heat and psychological stressors on semen quality have been studied. Combined exposure group had significantly lower semen quality compared with those of others. Heat exposure group had a higher percentage of sperm DNA damage compared to others.
The present study aims to investigate the effects of co-exposure to heat and psychological stress on sperm DNA and semen parameters among male rats. The study was conducted on 40 healthy adult male Wistar rats. The rats were randomly categorized into four groups of same size consisting of a control group, a heat stress, psychological and co-exposure groups. The heat stress group was exposed to a temperature of 36 °C at 20% relative humidity. The psychological stress exposure group was subjected to three stressors including exposure to strobe light, noise and tilting cage. According the results,the co-exposure group had lower mean sperm parameters including sperm count (17.22 ± 4.22 106/ml), motility (42.63 ± 12.95 %), viability (48.50 ± 23.25 %), normal morphology (56 ± 7.5%), progressive motility (11.61 ± 7.81%), non-progressive motility (31.18 ± 7.77%), curvilinear velocity (24.11 ± 3.81 μm/s) and straight-line velocity (3.2 ± 1.4 μm/s) when compared with those of the other groups (P = 0.001). Mean sperm immobility (57.36 ± 12.95%) and non-progressive motility (37.93 ± 11.15%) in the co-exposure group was higher compared to the other groups (P = 0.001 and P = 0.333, respectively). Assessment of damage to sperm DNA revealed that the heat exposure group had a higher percentage of sperm DNA damage (9.44 ± 6.80 %) compared to others (P = 0.185). In case of all of exposure scenario, the chance that the semen quality decreased compared to the control group has been increased. In general the combined stress had a greater significant effect on sperm parameters compared to other exposure groups, except for DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Abdollahi
- Department of Health and Safety at work, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Farhang Dehghan
- Environmental and Occupational Hazards Control Research Center, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Amanpour
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Haghparast
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Siamak Sabour
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rezvan Zendehdel
- Environmental and Occupational Hazards Control Research Center, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Kilinc L, Uz YH. Protective effects of curcumin against methotrexate-induced testicular damage in rats by suppression of the p38-MAPK and nuclear factor-kappa B pathways. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:211-220. [PMID: 34352168 PMCID: PMC8421662 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The present study aimed to investigate the possibility that curcumin (CMN) protects against methotrexate (MTX)-induced testicular damage by affecting the phospho-p38 (p-p38) mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways. Methods Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into three groups. The control group was given an intragastric administration of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) daily for 14 days, the MTX group was given a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day, and the MTX+CMN group was given intragastric CMN (100 mg/kg/day, dissolved in DMSO) for 14 days and a single intraperitoneal dose of MTX (20 mg/kg) on the 11th day. At the end of the experiment, all animals were sacrificed and the testicular tissues were removed for morphometry, histology, and immunohistochemistry. Body and testicular weights were measured. Results Body weights, seminiferous tubule diameter, and germinal epithelium height significantly decreased in the MTX group compared to the control group. Whereas, the number of histologically damaged seminiferous tubules and interstitial space width significantly increased in the MTX group. In addition, the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the immunoreactivity of NF-κB also increased in the MTX group compared to the control group. CMN improved loss of body weight, morphometric values, and histological damage due to MTX. CMN also reduced the number of p-p38 MAPK immunopositive cells and the NF-κB immunoreactivity. Conclusion CMN may reduce MTX-induced testicular damage by suppressing the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyla Kilinc
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Yesim Hulya Uz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey
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Nazmara Z, Ebrahimi B, Makhdoumi P, Noori L, Mahdavi SA, Hassanzadeh G. Effects of illicit drugs on structural and functional impairment of testis, endocrinal disorders, and molecular alterations of the semen. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:856-867. [PMID: 34712415 PMCID: PMC8528244 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2021.53326.12002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Illicit drug use is growing among young people, which is one of the major problems in today's society that can be associated with many medical issues, including infertility. Amphetamines, cocaine, opioids, and marijuana are the most common and the most used illicit drugs worldwide. The purpose of this review was to collect as much literature as possible about the impact of illicit drugs on male fertility and summarize their valuable data. Original studies and reviews were collected by searching the keywords "illicit drugs (all kinds of that) and male infertility". The obtained information was also categorized based on the content of the "Infertility in the Male" book. Almost all studies suggested that taking all kinds of illicit drugs with the effects on different parts of the male reproductive system can result in subfertility or complete infertility in the consumers. Although the data in this field are not decisive and there are some confounding factors in human studies, it can be inferred that the use of any illicit drug with an effect on male sexual health reduces fertility potency. Therefore, it is recommended that couples, who are planning to conceive, avoid taking any illicit drugs before and during treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Nazmara
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Ebrahimi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouran Makhdoumi
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Leila Noori
- Department of Biomedicine, Neurosciences and Advanced Diagnostic, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Gholamreza Hassanzadeh
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
This paper is the forty-second consecutive installment of the annual anthological review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system, summarizing articles published during 2019 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides and receptors as well as effects of opioid/opiate agonists and antagonists. The review is subdivided into the following specific topics: molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors (1), the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia in animals (2) and humans (3), opioid-sensitive and opioid-insensitive effects of nonopioid analgesics (4), opioid peptide and receptor involvement in tolerance and dependence (5), stress and social status (6), learning and memory (7), eating and drinking (8), drug abuse and alcohol (9), sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (10), mental illness and mood (11), seizures and neurologic disorders (12), electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (13), general activity and locomotion (14), gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (15), cardiovascular responses (16), respiration and thermoregulation (17), and immunological responses (18).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, NY, 11367, United States.
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Kolbasi B, Bulbul MV, Karabulut S, Altun CE, Cakici C, Ulfer G, Mudok T, Keskin I. Chronic unpredictable stress disturbs the blood-testis barrier affecting sperm parameters in mice. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:983-995. [PMID: 33653651 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does chronic stress affect the key proteins and sperm parameters of the blood-testis barrier (BTB)? DESIGN C57Bl/6 mice were divided into two groups: a non-treated control group and a chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) applied group. The stress status of the animals was confirmed with behavioural tests. Histopathologic evaluation was conducted by haematoxylin and eosin staining and electron microscope. Malondialdehyde, corticosterone and testosterone levels were evaluated in peripheral blood. Expression levels of BTB proteins, namely zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), claudin-11 (CLDN11) and clathrin in Sertoli cells, were assessed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence techniques. Sperm samples were collected from cauda epididymis, and sperm parameters analysed. RESULTS The stress model was confirmed by behavioural tests. Histopathological evaluation of the testes demonstrated a mild degeneration in seminiferous tubules. Malondialdehyde (P = 0.008) and corticosterone levels increased (P = 0.004) and testosterone levels decreased (P = 0.005) in the CUS group. Electron microscopic evaluation confirmed the damage in BTB integrity in the CUS group. Western blot analysis showed that ZO-1 and CLDN11 levels were significantly decreased, although clathrin levels were unchanged. Although sperm concentration and total motility rate were not significantly different between the groups, progressive motility (P = 0.03), normal sperm morphology (P = 0.04), chromatin integrity (toluidine blue) (P = 0.002) and the acrosomal reaction rate (P = 0.002) were significantly decreased, and acrosomal abnormality rate was dramatically increased (P = 0.04) in the CUS group. CONCLUSIONS In mice, CUS disrupted BTB integrity and impaired sperm parameters. A decrease in ZO-1 and CLDN11 expression levels may be proposed as the causative factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bircan Kolbasi
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Muhammet Volkan Bulbul
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Erdem Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cagri Cakici
- Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gozde Ulfer
- Department of Biochemistry, Istanbul Medipol University Hospital Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tangul Mudok
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul Kent University Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ilknur Keskin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey; Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center (REMER), Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technologies (SABITA), Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul, Turkey.
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Molecular and hormonal changes caused by long-term use of high dose pregabalin on testicular tissue: the role of p38 MAPK, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8523-8533. [PMID: 33051752 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05894-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
In 1990, pregabalin was introduced as a novel antiepileptic drug that acts by binding selectively to the alpha-2-delta subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels resulting in increasing neuronal GABA levels and inhibiting the release of exciting neurotransmitters. The aim of our study is to assess the hazardous effects of prolonged high-dose pregabalin (like that abused by addicts) on testes and to clarify the potential causative mechanisms. The current study was conducted on 70 adult male Wistar albino rats which were divided into 7 groups. In our study we evaluated the effect of pregabalin, at concentrations 150 and 300 mg/kg/day for 90 days, on hormones; FSH, LH, testosterone and prolactin secretion. Our study also evaluated the expression of apoptosis-related genes BAX and BCL2 in testicular tissue in addition to the western blotted analysis of p38 Mitogen activated protein kinases (p38 MAPK). The levels of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase were also measured. Pregabalin decreased testosterone level while FSH, LH and prolactin showed a significant increase. It also produced genotoxicity through reversal of the BAX/BCL2 ratio; increased p38 MAPK level and induction of oxidative stress markers. The concomitant administration of vitamin E significantly reduced all the previously mentioned biochemical and hormonal adverse effects caused by pregabalin. Pregabalin can adversely affect male fertility particularly in addicts and patients who are being treated with it for long periods as those suffering from neuropathies and seizures. Antioxidants like vitamin E could have a role in amelioration.
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Oxidized-LDL inhibits testosterone biosynthesis by affecting mitochondrial function and the p38 MAPK/COX-2 signaling pathway in Leydig cells. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:626. [PMID: 32796811 PMCID: PMC7429867 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02751-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal lipid/lipoprotein metabolism induced by obesity may affect spermatogenesis by inhibiting testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells. It is crucial to determine which components of lipoproteins inhibit testosterone synthesis. Circulating oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), the oxidized form of LDL, has been reported to be an independent risk factor for decreased serum testosterone levels. However, whether oxLDL has a damaging effect on Leydig cell function and the detailed mechanisms have been rarely studied. This study first showed the specific localization of oxLDL and mitochondrial structural damage in testicular Leydig cells of high-fat diet-fed mice in vivo. We also found that oxLDL reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by disrupting electron transport chain and inhibited testosterone synthesis-related proteins and enzymes (StAR, P450scc, and 3β‑HSD), which ultimately led to mitochondrial dysfunction and decreased testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells. Further experiments demonstrated that oxLDL promoted lipid uptake and mitochondrial dysfunction by inducing CD36 transcription. Meanwhile, oxLDL facilitated COX2 expression through the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in Leydig cells. Blockade of COX-2 attenuated the oxLDL-induced decrease in StAR and P450scc. Our clinical results clarified that the increased serum oxLDL level was associated with a decline in circulating testosterone levels. Our findings amplify the damaging effects of oxLDL and provide the first evidence that oxLDL is a novel metabolic biomarker of male-acquired hypogonadism caused by abnormal lipid metabolism.
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