1
|
Gül M, Russo GI, Kandil H, Boitrelle F, Saleh R, Chung E, Kavoussi P, Mostafa T, Shah R, Agarwal A. Male Infertility: New Developments, Current Challenges, and Future Directions. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:502-517. [PMID: 38164030 PMCID: PMC11216957 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230232] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
There have been many significant scientific advances in the diagnostics and treatment modalities in the field of male infertility in recent decades. Examples of these include assisted reproductive technologies, sperm selection techniques for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, surgical procedures for sperm retrieval, and novel tests of sperm function. However, there is certainly a need for new developments in this field. In this review, we discuss advances in the management of male infertility, such as seminal oxidative stress testing, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, genetic and epigenetic tests, genetic manipulations, artificial intelligence, personalized medicine, and telemedicine. The role of the reproductive urologist will continue to expand in future years to address different topzics related to diverse questions and controversies of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy of male infertility, training researchers and physicians in medical and scientific research in reproductive urology/andrology, and further development of andrology as an independent specialty.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gül
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Hussein Kandil
- Fakih IVF Fertility Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Department of Reproductive Urology, Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
- Well Women's Centre, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, India
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Batra V, Dagar K, Diwakar MP, Kumaresan A, Kumar R, Datta TK. The proteomic landscape of sperm surface deciphers its maturational and functional aspects in buffalo. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1413817. [PMID: 39005499 PMCID: PMC11239549 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1413817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Buffalo is a dominant dairy animal in many agriculture-based economies. However, the poor reproductive efficiency (low conception rate) of the buffalo bulls constrains the realization of its full production potential. This in turn leads to economic and welfare issues, especially for the marginal farmers in such economies. The mammalian sperm surface proteins have been implicated in the regulation of survival and function of the spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Nonetheless, the lack of specific studies on buffalo sperm surface makes it difficult for researchers to explore and investigate the role of these proteins in the regulation of mechanisms associated with sperm protection, survival, and function. This study aimed to generate a buffalo sperm surface-specific proteomic fingerprint (LC-MS/MS) and to predict the functional roles of the identified proteins. The three treatments used to remove sperm surface protein viz. Elevated salt, phosphoinositide phospholipase C (PI-PLC) and in vitro capacitation led to the identification of N = 1,695 proteins (≥1 high-quality peptide-spectrum matches (PSMs), p < 0.05, and FDR<0.01). Almost half of these proteins (N = 873) were found to be involved in crucial processes relevant in the context of male fertility, e.g., spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and protection in the FRT, and gamete interaction or fertilization, amongst others. The extensive sperm-surface proteomic repertoire discovered in this study is unparalleled vis-à-vis the depth of identification of reproduction-specific cell-surface proteins and can provide a potential framework for further studies on the functional aspects of buffalo spermatozoa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Batra
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Komal Dagar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Maharana Pratap Diwakar
- Cell Science and Molecular Biology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Castillo J, de la Iglesia A, Leiva M, Jodar M, Oliva R. Proteomics of human spermatozoa. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2312-2320. [PMID: 37632247 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteomic methodologies offer a robust approach to identify and quantify thousands of proteins from semen components in both fertile donors and infertile patients. These strategies provide an unprecedented discovery potential, which many research teams are currently exploiting. However, it is essential to follow a suitable experimental design to generate robust data, including proper purification of samples, appropriate technical procedures to increase identification throughput, and data analysis following quality criteria. More than 6000 proteins have been described so far through proteomic analyses in the mature sperm cell, increasing our knowledge on processes involved in sperm function, intercommunication between spermatozoa and seminal fluid, and the transcriptional origin of the proteins. These data have been complemented with comparative studies to ascertain the potential role of the identified proteins on sperm maturation and functionality, and its impact on infertility. By comparing sperm protein profiles, many proteins involved in the acquisition of fertilizing ability have been identified. Furthermore, altered abundance of specific protein groups has been observed in a wide range of infertile phenotypes, including asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, and normozoospermia with unsuccessful assisted reproductive techniques outcomes, leading to the identification of potential clinically useful protein biomarkers. Finally, proteomics has been used to evaluate alterations derived from semen sample processing, which might have an impact on fertility treatments. However, the intrinsic heterogeneity and inter-individual variability of the semen samples have resulted in a relatively low overlap among proteomic reports, highlighting the relevance of combining strategies for data validation and applying strict criteria for proteomic data analysis to obtain reliable results. This mini-review provides an overview of the most critical steps to conduct robust sperm proteomic studies, the most relevant results obtained so far, and potential next steps to increase the impact of sperm proteomic data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judit Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto de la Iglesia
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Leiva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Biomedical Diagnostic Center (CDB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Biomedical Diagnostic Center (CDB), Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cannarella R, Marino M, Condorelli RA, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Is It Time for Andrology and Endocrinology Professionals in Assisted Reproduction Centers? World J Mens Health 2023; 41:796-808. [PMID: 37118957 PMCID: PMC10523123 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220253] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiologists indicate that about half of the couple's infertility cases are due to a male factor. Despite this, the role of andrologists or endocrinologists in assisted reproductive technique (ART) centers is still underestimated. According to our literature review, this reduces the chance of a thorough clinical evaluation of the male partners, which, sometimes consists only in a mere semen analysis, usually performed by laboratory technicians. A more complete diagnostic process could lead to the identification of potentially treatable causes of infertility, the recognition of diseases that require immediate treatment, and to the discovery of genetic diseases and, therefore, transmissible to the offspring. It can also increase the success rate of ART resulting in less psychological and financial burden for both public health resources and infertile couples. The presence of medical personnel with andrological and endocrinological skills in the ART centers represents the first step in creating 'precision medicine'. We hope that the guidelines of the various scientific societies will clearly contemplate this possibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marta Marino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Calogero AE, Cannarella R, Agarwal A, Hamoda TAAAM, Rambhatla A, Saleh R, Boitrelle F, Ziouziou I, Toprak T, Gul M, Avidor-Reiss T, Kavoussi P, Chung E, Birowo P, Ghayda RA, Ko E, Colpi G, Dimitriadis F, Russo GI, Martinez M, Calik G, Kandil H, Salvio G, Mostafa T, Lin H, Park HJ, Gherabi N, Phuoc NHV, Quang N, Adriansjah R, La Vignera S, Micic S, Durairajanayagam D, Serefoglu EC, Karthikeyan VS, Kothari P, Atmoko W, Shah R. The Renaissance of Male Infertility Management in the Golden Age of Andrology. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:237-254. [PMID: 36649928 PMCID: PMC10042649 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects nearly 186 million people worldwide and the male partner is the cause in about half of the cases. Meta-regression data indicate an unexplained decline in sperm concentration and total sperm count over the last four decades, with an increasing prevalence of male infertility. This suggests an urgent need to implement further basic and clinical research in Andrology. Andrology developed as a branch of urology, gynecology, endocrinology, and, dermatology. The first scientific journal devoted to andrological sciences was founded in 1969. Since then, despite great advancements, andrology has encountered several obstacles in its growth. In fact, for cultural reasons, the male partner has often been neglected in the diagnostic and therapeutic workup of the infertile couple. Furthermore, the development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) has driven a strong impression that this biotechnology can overcome all forms of infertility, with a common belief that having a spermatozoon from a male partner (a sort of sperm donor) is all that is needed to achieve pregnancy. However, clinical practice has shown that the quality of the male gamete is important for a successful ART outcome. Furthermore, the safety of ART has been questioned because of the high prevalence of comorbidities in the offspring of ART conceptions compared to spontaneous conceptions. These issues have paved the way for more research and a greater understanding of the mechanisms of spermatogenesis and male infertility. Consequently, numerous discoveries have been made in the field of andrology, ranging from genetics to several "omics" technologies, oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation, the sixth edition of the WHO manual, artificial intelligence, management of azoospermia, fertility in cancers survivors, artificial testis, 3D printing, gene engineering, stem cells therapy for spermatogenesis, and reconstructive microsurgery and seminal microbiome. Nevertheless, as many cases of male infertility remain idiopathic, further studies are required to improve the clinical management of infertile males. A multidisciplinary strategy involving both clinicians and scientists in basic, translational, and clinical research is the core principle that will allow andrology to overcome its limits and reach further goals. This state-of-the-art article aims to present a historical review of andrology, and, particularly, male infertility, from its "Middle Ages" to its "Renaissance", a golden age of andrology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Taha Abo-Almagd Abdel-Meguid Hamoda
- Department of Urology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment and Development, Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Imad Ziouziou
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Gul
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | - Tomer Avidor-Reiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ponco Birowo
- Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | | | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Marlon Martinez
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gokhan Calik
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Nazim Gherabi
- Faculty of Medicine, Algiers University, Algiers, Algeria
| | | | - Nguyen Quang
- Center for Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Viet Duc University Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Urology, Andrology and Sexual Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Ricky Adriansjah
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Banding, Indonesia
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sava Micic
- Department of Andrology, Uromedica Polyclinic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Priyank Kothari
- Department of Urology, B.Y.L Nair Ch Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Widi Atmoko
- Department Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pereira R, Sousa M. Morphological and Molecular Bases of Male Infertility: A Closer Look at Sperm Flagellum. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14020383. [PMID: 36833310 PMCID: PMC9956255 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a major health problem worldwide without an effective therapy or cure. It is estimated to affect 8-12% of couples in the reproductive age group, equally affecting both genders. There is no single cause of infertility, and its knowledge is still far from complete, with about 30% of infertile couples having no cause identified (named idiopathic infertility). Among male causes of infertility, asthenozoospermia (i.e., reduced sperm motility) is one of the most observed, being estimated that more than 20% of infertile men have this condition. In recent years, many researchers have focused on possible factors leading to asthenozoospermia, revealing the existence of many cellular and molecular players. So far, more than 4000 genes are thought to be involved in sperm production and as regulators of different aspects of sperm development, maturation, and function, and all can potentially cause male infertility if mutated. In this review, we aim to give a brief overview of the typical sperm flagellum morphology and compile some of the most relevant information regarding the genetic factors involved in male infertility, with a focus on sperm immotility and on genes related to sperm flagellum development, structure, or function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rute Pereira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-1918-127-817
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
What Does Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Change in Embryonic Development? The Spermatozoon Contribution. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020671. [PMID: 36675600 PMCID: PMC9867417 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020671] [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: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) technique was invented to solve severe male infertility due to altered sperm parameters. Nowadays, it is applied worldwide for the treatment of couple infertility. ICSI is performed with any available spermatozoon from surgery or ejaculated samples, whatever are the sperm motility, morphology or quantity. The aim of the present review was to study if embryo development and kinetics would be modified by (1) ICSI under the technical aspects, (2) the micro-injected spermatozoa in connection with male infertility. From published data, it can be seen that ICSI anticipates the zygote kinetics Furthermore, because fertilization rate is higher in ICSI compared to conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF), more blastocysts are obtained for clinical use in ICSI. Sperm and spermatozoa characteristics, such as sperm parameters, morphology and vitality, DNA content (levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, microdeletions, and chromosomal abnormalities), RNA content, epigenetics, and sperm recovery site (testicular, epididymis, and ejaculated), have an impact on fertilization and blastocyst rates and embryo kinetics in different ways. Even though ICSI is the most common solution to solve couples' infertility, the causes of male infertility are crucial in building a competent spermatozoa that will contribute to normal embryonic development and healthy offspring.
Collapse
|
8
|
Wu X, Yun D, Sang M, Liu J, Zhou L, Shi J, Wang L, Bu T, Li L, Huang Y, Lin D, Sun F, Cheng CY. Defects of microtubule cytoskeletal organization in NOA human testes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:154. [PMID: 36329464 PMCID: PMC9632130 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01026-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The importance of actin and microtubule (MT) cytoskeletons in testis function in rodents is known to some extent, but its role in the etiology of azoospermia in humans remains unexplored. Here, we examined if MT cytoskeleton was defective in NOA (non-obstructive azoospermia) testes versus normal human testes based on histopathological, immunofluorescence (IF), and scRNA-Seq transcriptome profiling. Testis biopsy samples from n = 6 normal men versus n = 3 Sertoli cell only (SCO) and n = 3 MA (meiotic arrest) of NOA patients were used for histopathological analysis. IF analysis was also used to examine MT organization across the seminiferous epithelium, investigating the likely involvement of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). scRNA-Seq transcriptome profiling datasets from testes of 3 SCO patients versus 3 normal men in public domain in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) Sample (GSM) with identifiers were analyzed to examine relevant genes that regulate MT dynamics. NOA testes of MA and SCO patients displayed notable defects in MT organization across the epithelium with extensive truncation, mis-alignments and appeared as collapsed structures near the base of the tubules. These changes are in contrast to MTs in testes of normal men. scRNA-Seq analyses revealed considerable loss of spermatogenesis capacity in SCO testes of NOA patients versus normal men. An array of genes that support MT dynamics displayed considerable changes in expression and in spatial distribution. In summary, defects in MT cytoskeleton were noted in testes of NOA (SCO) patients, possibly mediated by defective spatial expression and/or distribution of MAPs. These changes, in turn, may impede spermatogenesis in SCO testes of NOA patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Damin Yun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mengmeng Sang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianpeng Liu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liwei Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Shi
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Linxi Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - YingYing Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dengfeng Lin
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China.
| | - C Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China.
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
- Center for Biomedical Research, The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yeh LY, Lee RKK, Lin MH, Huang CH, Li SH. Correlation between Sperm Micro Ribonucleic Acid-34b and -34c Levels and Clinical Outcomes of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection in Men with Male Factor Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012381. [PMID: 36293237 PMCID: PMC9604024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Few studies have examined the correlation between sperm miRNA levels and clinical outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In this study, we aimed to assess the correlation of sperm miR-34b, miR-34c, miR-122, and miR-429 levels with ICSI outcomes in men with teratozoospermia and asthenozoospermia. TaqMan microRNA quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate the relative expression of miRNAs in sperm. The relative miRNA levels quantified using a comparative method found that the four miRNAs were not associated with fertilization rate and early embryo development. However, revels of miR-34b and miR-34c in teratozoospermia sperm of the live birth group were significantly higher than those in the non-live birth group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the optimal cut-off delta cycle threshold values of miR-34b and miR-34c were 8.630 and 7.883, respectively. Statistical analysis found that the levels of miR-34b and the miR-34c in teratozoospermic and asthenozoospermic sperm above the thresholds were not associated with the fertilization rate and the high-quality embryo rate above 50%; however, they were more likely to exhibit higher implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates. miR-34b and miR-34c were significantly associated with ICSI clinical outcomes in male factor infertility, especially teratozoospermia. Further validation is required before it becomes a clinically valid reference indicator.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yu Yeh
- Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Robert Kuo-Kuang Lee
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Huei Lin
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Huang
- Institute of Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Hsiang Li
- Department of Medical Research, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Tamsui District, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
- MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 112, Taiwan
- Department of Chemical Engineering & Biotechnology, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Davalieva K, Rusevski A, Velkov M, Noveski P, Kubelka-Sabit K, Filipovski V, Plaseski T, Dimovski A, Plaseska-Karanfilska D. Comparative proteomics analysis of human FFPE testicular tissues reveals new candidate biomarkers for distinction among azoospermia types and subtypes. J Proteomics 2022; 267:104686. [PMID: 35914715 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2022.104686] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Understanding molecular mechanisms that underpin azoospermia and discovery of biomarkers that could enable reliable, non-invasive diagnosis is highly needed. Using label-free data-independent LC-MS/MS acquisition coupled with ion mobility, we compared the FFPE testicular proteome of patients with obstructive (OA) and non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) subtypes hypospermatogenesis (Hyp) and Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCO). Out of 2044 proteins identified based on ≥2 peptides, 61 proteins had the power to quantitatively discriminate OA from NOA and 30 to quantitatively discriminate SCO from Hyp and OA. Among these, H1-6, RANBP1 and TKTL2 showed superior potential for quantitative discrimination among OA, Hyp and SCO. Integrin signaling pathway, adherens junction, planar cell polarity/convergent extension pathway and Dectin-1 mediated noncanonical NF-kB signaling were significantly associated with the proteins that could discriminate OA from NOA. Comparison with 2 transcriptome datasets revealed 278 and 55 co-differentially expressed proteins/genes with statistically significant positive correlation. Gene expression analysis by qPCR of 6 genes (H1-6, RANBP1, TKTL2, TKTL1, H2BC1, and ACTL7B) with the highest discriminatory power on protein level and the same regulation trend with transcriptomic datasets, confirmed proteomics results. In summary, our results suggest some underlying pathways in azoospermia and broaden the range of potential novel candidates for diagnosis. SIGNIFICANCE: Using a comparative proteomics approach on testicular tissue we have identified several pathways associated with azoospermia and a number of testis-specific and germ cell-specific proteins that have the potential to pinpoint the type of spermatogenesis failure. Furthermore, comparison with transcriptomics datasets based on genome-wide gene expression analyses of human testis specimens from azoospermia patients identified proteins that could discriminate between obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia subtypes on both protein and mRNA levels. Up to our knowledge, this is the first integrated comparative analysis of proteomics and transcriptomics data from testicular tissues. We believe that the data from our study contributes significantly to increase the knowledge of molecular mechanisms of azoospermia and pave the way for new investigations in regards to non-invasive diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Davalieva
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia.
| | - Aleksandar Rusevski
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Milan Velkov
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Predrag Noveski
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Katerina Kubelka-Sabit
- Laboratory for Histopathology, Clinical Hospital "Sistina", 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Vanja Filipovski
- Laboratory for Histopathology, Clinical Hospital "Sistina", 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Toso Plaseski
- Faculty of Medicine, Endocrinology and Metabolic Disorders Clinic, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Aleksandar Dimovski
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia; Faculty of Pharmacy, University "St. Cyril and Methodius", 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia
| | - Dijana Plaseska-Karanfilska
- Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology "Georgi D Efremov", Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia, Macedonia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Saget S, Kappeler L, Grandjean V, Leneuve P, Berthaut I, Faure C, Czernichow S, Racine C, Lévy R, Dupont C. Association between metabolic disorders and seminal plasma miRNA levels: a pilot study. Basic Clin Androl 2022; 32:9. [PMID: 35668388 PMCID: PMC9171949 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00159-7] [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: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excess weight and metabolic disorders have a negative impact on male reproductive functions. The mechanisms involved are numerous and complex and epigenetic mechanisms may also be involved, notably through the small non-coding RNAs. Among them, microRNAs (miRNAs) are of particular interest. This preliminary study aimed to identify the miRNAs differentially enriched in seminal plasma related to metabolic disorders and if some are also associated with spermatic parameters alterations. One hundred and sixty men between 18 to 45 years, partners of infertile couple, were included in this cohort. The miRNAs associated with metabolism were selected from the literature and assayed by quantitative real-time PCR using TaqMan gene expression assays. A subset of those with an interesting profile in seminal plasma were secondarily tested in blood. RESULTS Among the 11 selected miRNAs, seven were detected in seminal plasma (miR10b, miR19a, miR19b, miR34b, miR34c, miR133b, miRlet7c). A negative correlation was observed between seminal miR19a levels and metabolic syndrome, blood glucose and C-peptide. Seminal miR19b levels were also negatively correlated with metabolic syndrome. Seminal miR34c levels were negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Seminal miR133b levels were positively correlated with BMI, waist circumference and leptin levels. Interestingly, modifications of miRNAs in seminal plasma seem specific since highlighted above correlations were not retrieved in the blood plasma for the miR19a, 19b, 10b, 34c. CONCLUSION Few metabolic and anthropometric disorders are correlated with the level of specific miRNAs in seminal plasma. Further studies will be required to decipher if other small non-coding RNAs may also be correlated with metabolic and anthropometric disorders and to assess their potential implication in the alteration of reproductive functions in men with obesity or metabolic disorders. CLINICAL STUDY Metabolic Syndrome and Male Infertility (Metasperme): Trial registration: NCT01974947 . Registered 18 July 2013.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Saget
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Kappeler
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Grandjean
- Inserm U1065, Team Control of Gene Expression (10), Université Cote d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Patricia Leneuve
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Berthaut
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de La Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, AP-HP.Sorbonne-Université, 75020, Paris, France
| | - Céline Faure
- Service de Biologie de La Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, AP-HP.Sorbonne-Université, 75020, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Czernichow
- Service de Nutrition, Université de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Chrystèle Racine
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
| | - Rachel Lévy
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de La Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, AP-HP.Sorbonne-Université, 75020, Paris, France
| | - Charlotte Dupont
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Centre de Recherche St-Antoine, CRSA, 75012, Paris, France.
- IHU-ICAN Institute of Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Paris, France.
- Service de Biologie de La Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, AP-HP.Sorbonne-Université, 75020, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Non-invasive Molecular Biomarkers for Predicting Outcomes of Micro-TESE in Patients with Idiopathic Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Expert Rev Mol Med 2022; 24:e22. [PMID: 35659383 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2022.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
13
|
Kanaka V, Proikakis S, Drakakis P, Loutradis D, Tsangaris GT. Implementing a preimplantation proteomic approach to advance assisted reproduction technologies in the framework of predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine. EPMA J 2022; 13:237-260. [PMID: 35719135 PMCID: PMC9203609 DOI: 10.1007/s13167-022-00282-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
AbstractThe evolution of the field of assisted reproduction technology (ART) in the last 40 years has significantly contributed to the management of global infertility. Despite the great numbers of live births that have been achieved through ART, there is still potential for increasing the success rates. As a result, there is a need to create optimum conditions in order to increase ART efficacy. The selection of the best sperm, oocyte, and embryo, as well as the achievement of optimal endometrial receptivity, through the contribution of new diagnostic and treatment methods, based on a personalized proteomic approach, may assist in the attainment of this goal. Proteomics represent a powerful new technological development, which seeks for protein biomarkers in human tissues. These biomarkers may aid to predict the outcome, prevent failure, and monitor in a personalized manner in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. In this review, we will present data from studies that have been conducted in the search for such biomarkers in order to identify proteins related to good sperm, oocyte, and embryo quality, as well as optimal endometrial receptivity, which may later lead to greater results and the desirable ART outcome.
Collapse
|
14
|
Botezatu A, Vladoiu S, Fudulu A, Albulescu A, Plesa A, Muresan A, Stancu C, Iancu IV, Diaconu CC, Velicu A, Popa OM, Badiu C, Dinu-Draganescu D. Advanced molecular approaches in male infertility diagnosis. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:684-704. [PMID: 35594455 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac105] [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: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the recent years a special attention has been given to a major health concern namely to male infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, taken into account the statistics that highlight that sperm counts have dropped by 50-60% in recent decades. According to the WHO, infertility affects approximately 9% of couples globally, and the male factor is believed to be present in roughly 50% of cases, with exclusive responsibility in 30%. The aim of this manuscript is to present an evidence-based approach for diagnosing male infertility that includes finding new solutions for diagnosis and critical outcomes, retrieving up-to-date studies and existing guidelines. The diverse factors that induce male infertility generated in a vast amount of data that needed to be analysed by a clinician before a decision could be made for each individual. Modern medicine faces numerous obstacles as a result of the massive amount of data generated by the molecular biology discipline. To address complex clinical problems, vast data must be collected, analysed, and used, which can be very challenging. The use of artificial intelligence (AI) methods to create a decision support system can help predict the diagnosis and guide treatment for infertile men, based on analysis of different data as environmental and lifestyle, clinical (sperm count, morphology, hormone testing, karyotype, etc.) and "omics" bigdata. Ultimately, the development of AI algorithms will assist clinicians in formulating diagnosis, making treatment decisions, and predicting outcomes for assisted reproduction techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Botezatu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - S Vladoiu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Fudulu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Albulescu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania.,National Institute for Chemical pharmaceutical Research & Development
| | - A Plesa
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Muresan
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C Stancu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - I V Iancu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C C Diaconu
- "Stefan S. Nicolau" Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Velicu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - O M Popa
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - C Badiu
- "CI Parhon" National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania.,"Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shi S, Wang T, Wang L, Wang M. Nomogram based on a circular RNA biomarker for predicting the likelihood of successful sperm retrieval via microdissection testicular sperm extraction in patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1109807. [PMID: 36733803 PMCID: PMC9886672 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1109807] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many circular RNAs (circRNAs) are specifically expressed in the testes and seminal plasma of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), highlighting them as potential predictors of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) outcomes. Although research has indicated that circular RNA monoglyceride lipase (circ_MGLL) is highly expressed in the testicular tissues of patients with NOA, the association between circ_MGLL expression and sperm retrieval outcomes (SROs) in patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (iNOA) receiving micro-TESE remains unclear. METHODS This single-center, retrospective cohort study enrolled 114 patients with iNOA who underwent micro-TESE at Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital from January 2017 to November 2021. A logistic regression model was used to examine associations between SRO and circ_MGLL expression in testicular tissues, the results of which were used in conjunction with previous findings to establish a nomogram. The predictive performance of the circ_MGLL-based nomogram was evaluated via calibration curves, receiver operating characteristic curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA) using an internal validation method. RESULTS The generalized additive model indicated that the probability of successful SRO for micro-TESE decreased as circ_MGLL expression increased in testicular tissues. Across the entire cohort, univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that circ_MGLL expression was inversely associated with SRO in patients with NOA. This trend did not change after stratification according to age, body mass index, testicular volume, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) level, luteinizing hormone (LH) level, testosterone (T) level, or pathological type (or after adjusting for these confounders) (odds ratio <1, P < 0.001). A nomogram was then generated by integrating circ_MGLL, pathological types, and FSH, LH, and T levels. The circ_MGLL-based predictive model achieved satisfactory discrimination, with an area under the curve of 0.857, and the calibration curves demonstrated impressive agreement. The DCA indicated that the net clinical benefit of the circ_MGLL-based predictive model was greater than that of circ_MGLL alone. CONCLUSION circ_MGLL is significantly associated with the SRO of micro-TESE in patients with iNOA. The circ_MGLL-based nomogram developed in the current study can predict successful SRO with high accuracy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengjia Shi
- Reproductive Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Tianwei Wang
- Reproductive Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Reproductive Center, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Mingjuan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Northwest Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Mingjuan Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rastgar Rezaei Y, Zarezadeh R, Nikanfar S, Oghbaei H, Nazdikbin N, Bahrami-Asl Z, Zarghami N, Ahmadi Y, Fattahi A, Nouri M, Dittrich R. microRNAs in the pathogenesis of non-obstructive azoospermia: the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic potentials. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:337-353. [PMID: 34355990 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1951890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
miRNAs are involved in different biological processes, including proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Interestingly, 38% of the X chromosome-linked miRNAs are testis-specific and have crucial roles in regulating the renewal and cell cycle of spermatogonial stem cells. Previous studies demonstrated that abnormal expression of spermatogenesis-related miRNAs could lead to nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Moreover, differential miRNAs expression in seminal plasma of NOA patients has been reported compared to normozoospermic men. However, the role of miRNAs in NOA pathogenesis and the underlying mechanisms have not been comprehensively studied. Therefore, the aim of this review is to mechanistically describe the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of NOA and discuss the possibility of using the miRNAs as therapeutic targets.Abbreviations: AMO: anti-miRNA antisense oligonucleotide; AZF: azoospermia factor region; CDK: cyclin-dependent kinase; DAZ: deleted in azoospermia; ESCs: embryonic stem cells; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone; ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection; JAK/STAT: Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription; miRNA: micro-RNA; MLH1: Human mutL homolog l; NF-κB: Nuclear factor-kappa B; NOA: nonobstructive azoospermia; OA: obstructive azoospermia; PGCs: primordial germ cells; PI3K/AKT: Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B; Rb: retinoblastoma tumor suppressor; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; SCOS: Sertoli cell-only syndrome; SIRT: sirtuin; SNPs: single nucleotide polymorphisms; SSCs: spermatogonial stem cells; TESE: testicular sperm extraction; TGF-β: transforming growth factor-beta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeganeh Rastgar Rezaei
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Zarezadeh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saba Nikanfar
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hajar Oghbaei
- Department of Physiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Zahra Bahrami-Asl
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yadollah Ahmadi
- Department of Urology, Sina Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cannarella R, Crafa A, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Relevance of sperm imprinted gene methylation on assisted reproductive technique outcomes and pregnancy loss: a systematic review. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:251-259. [PMID: 34080930 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1909667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that gamete-imprinted genes play a role in embryo and placenta development and growth. This systematic review aimed to evaluate whether altered methylation of sperm-imprinted genes associates with sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), pregnancy loss rate and assisted reproductive technique (ART) outcome. To accomplish this, Pubmed, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Academic One Files, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases were used for search strategy from each database inception until December 2020. Specific keywords were used. Studies satisfying the PECOS (Population, Exposure, Comparison/Comparator, Outcomes, Study design) model were retrieved. Ten studies could be included in the qualitative analysis. A significant association was reported between increased SDF rate and aberrant methylation of H19/IGF2 and KCNQ1 genes by two studies. A significantly lower H19 methylation was found in patients with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and in infertile patients compared to fertile men. Methylation of GLT2, PEG1/MEST, and ZAC/PLACL1 were similar in patients with RPL and controls. The ART outcome was similar in patients with aberrant and normal methylation of H19, SNRPN, KCNQ1OT1, PEG1/MEST, LIT1, PEG3, NESPAS, and GLT2. By contrast, a study showed an association between altered GLT2 methylation and more inferior ART results. If further confirmed by well-sized studies, these data might be helpful to identify possible epigenetic predictors of ART outcome. Particularly, aberrant methylation of H19/IGF2 and KCNQ1 genes might represent interesting targets that deserve further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Omics in Seminal Plasma: An Effective Strategy for Predicting Sperm Retrieval Outcome in Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Mol Diagn Ther 2021; 25:315-325. [PMID: 33860468 DOI: 10.1007/s40291-021-00524-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe form of male factor infertility resulting from the impairment of sperm production. Surgical sperm retrieval followed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the only alternative for NOA patients to have their own genetic children. Nevertheless, due to an approximately 50% chance of success, harvesting sperm from these patients remains challenging. Thus, discovering noninvasive biomarkers, which are able to reliably predict the probability of sperm acquisition, not only can eliminate the risk of surgery but also can lower the costs of NOA diagnosis and treatment. Seminal plasma is the non-cellular and liquid portion of the ejaculate that consists of the secretions originating from testes and male accessory glands. In past years, a wide range of biomolecules including DNAs, RNAs, proteins, and metabolic intermediates have been identified by omics techniques in human seminal plasma. The current review aimed to briefly describe genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiles of human seminal plasma in an attempt to introduce potential candidate noninvasive biomarkers for sperm-retrieval success in men with NOA.
Collapse
|
19
|
Molecular Determinants of Seminal Plasma on Sperm Biology and Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073555. [PMID: 33808064 PMCID: PMC8037708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
|
20
|
Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Jezek D, Calogero AE. Editorial: Male Idiopathic Infertility: Novel Possible Targets, Volume I. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:797228. [PMID: 34867832 PMCID: PMC8635955 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.797228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Rosita A. Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Davor Jezek
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Transplantation Biology, University Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- *Correspondence: Aldo E. Calogero,
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Seminal Plasma Proteomic Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239113. [PMID: 33266209 PMCID: PMC7731432 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of idiopathic male infertility is high, up to 75% of patients with abnormal sperm parameters. Hence, the research of its causes is mandatory. Oxidative stress (OS) can be responsible for male infertility in 30–80% of cases. In recent years, seminal plasma (SP) proteomics has developed as a useful tool to provide biomarkers of specific diseases. This systematic review aims to collect the available evidence on the changes of SP proteome in patients exposed to OS to provide possible SP biomarkers of sperm OS. To accomplish this, the following keyterms “seminal fluid proteome”, “seminal plasma proteome”, “oxidative stress”, and “sperm oxidative stress” were used and 137 records were found. Among these, 17 were finally included. Nine proteins involved with OS were found overexpressed in patients with OS. Twenty-three proteins were found differentially expressed in patients with clinical conditions associated with OS, such as varicocele, male accessory gland infection/inflammation, cigarette smoke, and obesity. These proteins do not seem to overlap among the clinical conditions taken into account. We speculate that specific SP proteins may mediate OS in different clinical conditions. Altogether, these results suggest that proteomics could help to better understand some of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of infertility. However, further studies are needed to identify potential biomarkers of male infertility with valuable clinical significance.
Collapse
|