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Mannino F, Urzì Brancati V, Lauro R, Pirrotta I, Rottura M, Irrera N, Cavallini GM, Pallio G, Gitto E, Manti S. Levosimendan and Dobutamin Attenuate LPS-Induced Inflammation in Microglia by Inhibiting the NF-κB Pathway and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Nrf2/HO-1 Signalling. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1009. [PMID: 38790971 PMCID: PMC11117907 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051009] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypovolemic shock is a circulatory failure, due to a loss in the effective circulating blood volume, that causes tissue hypoperfusion and hypoxia. This condition stimulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokine production in different organs and also in the central nervous system (CNS). Levosimendan, a cardioprotective inodilator, and dobutamine, a β1-adrenergic agonist, are commonly used for the treatment of hypovolemic shock, thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. For this reason, we aimed at investigating levosimendan and dobutamine's neuroprotective effects in an "in vitro" model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation. Human microglial cells (HMC3) were challenged with LPS (0.1 µg/mL) to induce an inflammatory phenotype and then treated with levosimendan (10 µM) or dobutamine (50 µM) for 24 h. Levosimendan and dobutamine significantly reduced the ROS levels and markedly increased Nrf2 and HO-1 protein expression in LPS-challenged cells. Levosimendan and dobutamine also decreased p-NF-κB expression and turned off the NLRP3 inflammasome together with its downstream signals, caspase-1 and IL-1β. Moreover, a reduction in TNF-α and IL-6 expression and an increase in IL-10 levels in LPS-stimulated HMC3 cells was observed following treatment. In conclusion, levosimendan and dobutamine attenuated LPS-induced neuroinflammation through NF-κB pathway inhibition and NLRP3 inflammasome activation via Nrf2/HO-1 signalling, suggesting that these drugs could represent a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of neuroinflammation consequent to hypovolemic shock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Mannino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Valentina Urzì Brancati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Rita Lauro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Igor Pirrotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Michelangelo Rottura
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Gian Maria Cavallini
- Department of Surgery, Medicine, Dentistry and Morphological Sciences, with Interest in Transplants, Oncology and Regenerative Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Pallio
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphological and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Eloisa Gitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (F.M.); (V.U.B.); (R.L.); (I.P.); (M.R.); (N.I.); (E.G.)
| | - Sara Manti
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood Gaetano Barresi, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
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Videla LA, Valenzuela R, Zúñiga-Hernández J, Del Campo A. Relevant Aspects of Combined Protocols for Prevention of N(M)AFLD and Other Non-Communicable Diseases. Mol Nutr Food Res 2024; 68:e2400062. [PMID: 38506156 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202400062] [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: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Obesity is a global health issue characterized by the excessive fat accumulation, leading to an increased risk of chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), which can progress from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, there are no approved pharmacological protocols for prevention/treatment of MAFLD, and due the complexity lying beneath these mechanisms, monotherapies are unlikely to be efficacious. This review article analyzes the possibility that NCDs can be prevented or attenuated by the combination of bioactive substances, as they could promote higher response rates, maximum reaction results, additive or synergistic effects due to compounds having similar or different mechanisms of action and/or refraining possible side effects, related to the use of lower doses and exposures times than monotherapies. Accordingly, prevention of mouse MAFLD is observed with the combination of the omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid with the antioxidant hydroxytyrosol, whereas attenuation of mild cognitive impairment is attained by folic acid plus cobalamin in elderly patients. The existence of several drawbacks underlying published monotherapies or combined trials, opens space for adequate and stricter experimental and clinical tryouts to achieve meaningful outcomes with human applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Videla
- Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Valenzuela
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, 8380453, Chile
| | - Jessica Zúñiga-Hernández
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Talca, Talca, 3465548, Chile
| | - Andrea Del Campo
- Cellular Physiology and Bioenergetic Laboratory, School of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, Santiago, 7820436, Chile
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Minas A, de Oliveira Rodrigues L, Camargo M, Bertolla RP. Insight into inflammation involvement in varicocele: A narrative review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13786. [PMID: 37881120 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13786] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele is one of the main causes of male infertility. Although the pathophysiology mechanism of varicocele is very well described and understood, there are some unanswered questions that remains unknown. Some studies have previously described the state of testicular inflammation and sperm in animal models, especially the mouse model, and the seminal plasma of men with varicocele, with or without changes in semen parameters. METHODS OF STUDY This review intended to verify the role of inflammatory mechanism in varicocele, using clinical studies as well as animal model studies on the effect of inflammation caused by varicocele on the function of testicular somatic and germ cells. RESULTS In-vivo studies confirmed whether anti-inflammatory molecules could treat the semen of men with varicocele and rats with varicocele. The use of different anti-inflammatory agents in mouse model studies provided a new perspective for future clinical studies to investigate the effect of concurrent treatment with surgery to improve surgical outcomes. CONCLUSION Similar to animal model studies, previously conducted clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapy in varicocele patients. However, clinical trials using anti-inflammatory are needed to be conducted agents to evaluate different aspects of this therapeutical approach in varicocele patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aram Minas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Larissa de Oliveira Rodrigues
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Camargo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Pimenta Bertolla
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Zheng S, Zhao N, Lin X, Qiu L. Impacts and potential mechanisms of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) on male testosterone biosynthesis disruption. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2023; 0:reveh-2023-0064. [PMID: 37651650 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2023-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to PM2.5 is the most significant air pollutant for health risk. The testosterone level in male is vulnerable to environmental toxicants. In the past, researchers focused more attention on the impacts of PM2.5 on respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and nervous system, and few researchers focused attention on the reproductive system. Recent studies have reported that PM2.5 involved in male testosterone biosynthesis disruption, which is closely associated with male reproductive health. However, the underlying mechanisms by which PM2.5 causes testosterone biosynthesis disruption are still not clear. To better understand its potential mechanisms, we based on the existing scientific publications to critically and comprehensively reviewed the role and potential mechanisms of PM2.5 that are participated in testosterone biosynthesis in male. In this review, we summarized the potential mechanisms of PM2.5 triggering the change of testosterone level in male, which involve in oxidative stress, inflammatory response, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy and mitophagy, microRNAs (miRNAs), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification. It will provide new suggestions and ideas for prevention and treatment of testosterone biosynthesis disruption caused by PM2.5 for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Nannan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Xiaojun Lin
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P.R. China
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Freni J, Pallio G, Marini HR, Micali A, Irrera N, Romeo C, Puzzolo D, Mannino F, Minutoli L, Pirrotta I, Scarfone A, Antonuccio P. Positive Effects of the Nutraceutical Association of Lycopene and Selenium in Experimental Varicocele. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13526. [PMID: 37686330 PMCID: PMC10488142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713526] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Many natural substances commonly found in healthy diets have been studied for their potential to reduce male infertility associated with varicocele. A positive role of selenium (Se) or lycopene alone was demonstrated in experimental varicocele, while no data are available on their association. One group of male Sprague-Dawley rats was sham operated and daily treated with Se (3 mg/kg, i.p.), lycopene (1 mg/kg, i.p.), or their association. A second group underwent surgery to induce varicocele. Sham and half of the varicocele animals were sacrificed after twenty-eight days, while the residual animals were treated for one more month and then sacrificed. In varicocele animals, testosterone levels and testes weight were reduced, Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression was absent in the tubules and increased in Leydig cells, caspare-3 was increased, seminiferous epithelium showed evident structural changes, and many apoptotic germ cells were demonstrated with TUNEL assay. The treatment with lycopene or Se alone significantly increased testis weight and testosterone levels, reduced apoptosis and caspase-3 expression, improved the tubular organization, decreased HIF-1α positivity of Leydig cells, and restored its tubular positivity. Lycopene or Se association showed a better influence on all biochemical and morphological parameters. Therefore, the nutraceutical association of lycopene plus Se might be considered a possible therapeutic tool, together with surgery, in the treatment of male infertility. However, long-term experimental and clinical studies are necessary to evaluate sperm quantity and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Freni
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (J.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Giovanni Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Herbert Ryan Marini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Carmelo Romeo
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (J.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Federica Mannino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Igor Pirrotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Alessandro Scarfone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Pietro Antonuccio
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
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Fallah Asl H, Jalali Mashayekhi F, Zendedel A, Baazm M. The time course of nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome complex expressions in the testis tissue of an experimental varicocele rat model: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2023; 21:577-584. [PMID: 37727396 PMCID: PMC10505694 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v21i7.13895] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Varicocele is characterized by abnormal dilation of the testicular vein, which results in hypoxia, the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and the production of proinflammatory cytokines. It seems that a group of cytosolic receptors named nod-like receptor family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, is activated and involved in the pathogenesis of varicocele. Objective We aim to determine the time course of NLRP3 inflammasome expression in the testis tissue following varicocele induction. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 36 adult Wistar rats (8 wk, 200-250 gr) were used. For the varicocele induction, the left renal vein was partially ligated. The mRNA levels of NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain, and caspase-1 were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 wk after varicocele induction. Results Results showed that the gene expression of NLRP3 inflammasome component including NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain, and caspase-1 did not alter during week 1, 2, 4, and 8 after operation (p = 0.09). 12 wk after varicocele induction, gene expression levels were significantly up-regulated (p = 0.02). Conclusion Our data provides clear evidence that varicocele stimulates inflammasome activation in the testis tissue 12 wk after the operation, and this time is required for investigating NLRP3 activity in the varicocele rat model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh Fallah Asl
- Students Research Committee, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Farideh Jalali Mashayekhi
- Department of Genetics and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Adib Zendedel
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Maryam Baazm
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
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Peng M, Wang W, Zhu W, Bai Y, Ning N, Huang Q, Pang X, Zhou J, Zhang H, Zhao K. Zishen Yutai Pill improves sperm quality and reduces testicular inflammation in experimental varicocele rats. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17161. [PMID: 37484236 PMCID: PMC10361325 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17161] [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: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Zishen Yutai Pill (ZYP), containing 15 Chinese traditional medicine, is a safe and well quality-controlled TCM preparation with promising effects in many fields of reproduction. The current study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effects of ZYP on sperm quality and testis in varicocele (VC) rats. Materials and methods Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6), i.e., a sham group, a VC group, and VC groups treated with different dose of ZYP (1575 and 3150 mg/kg/d, respectively). The experimental VC model was established by partial ligation of left renal vein. Six weeks after model establishment, ZYP was orally administered once a day for the next 6 weeks. Parameters relating to testis and sperm quality were assessed. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to showed testicular tissue damage in experimental VC rats. Expressions of proteins relating to NLRP3 inflammasome pathways were determined using Western blot (WB). The mRNA expressions of relating genes were determined using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Results ZYP could significantly improve sperm motility and decrease sperm DNA fragmentation index in VC rats (P < 0.05). Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining showed that ZYP could alleviate testicular tissue damage caused by experimental varicocele in rats. Compared to the VC model, expressions of NLRP3, ASC, and caspase-1 in rats treated with ZYP were significantly down-regulated, as validated by both qRT-PCR and WB analysis (P < 0.05). Conclusions In brief, ZYP could improve sperm DNA integrity by inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and alleviating the chronic inflammation of testicular tissue induced by experimental varicocele in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meilin Peng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Bai
- Hospital of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Ning
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiuling Huang
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiufei Pang
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiewen Zhou
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Ördek E, Kati B, Koyuncu İ, Demir M, Yağmur İ, Pelit ES, Çiftçi H, Yeni E. What is the impact of inflammasome mechanisms on male infertility? Turk J Med Sci 2023; 53:685-691. [PMID: 37476898 PMCID: PMC10387968 DOI: 10.55730/1300-0144.5631] [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: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanisms to explain inflammation in male infertility of unknown cause are still being investigated. The inflammasome is a key regulator of innate immunity in the inflammatory response to infections. Our study aims to investigate the effects of varicocele on infertility, its relationship with antioxidant and inflammasome mechanisms, and how it could be guided in azoospermic or nonazoospermic patients. METHODS A cross-sectional cohort study was conducted at the department of urology in our university hospital. Eightyeight randomly selected men aged 20-45 admitted to our hospital because of infertility between September 2019 and July 2020 were included in the study. Patients were divided into four equal groups according to their clinical status, those with/without azoospermia and with/without varicocele. Blood and semen samples were taken from the patients. NOD-like receptor pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) and interleukin-1 beta (IL1β) and total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) levels were measured in serum and semen, and the groups were compared statistically. RESULTS Serum and semen NLRP3, IL1β, TAS, TOS, and OSI values of the patients with varicocele or azoospermia were significantlyhigher than those without either varicocele or azoospermia (p < 0.05). The oxidative stress markers TAS, TOS, and OSI values were significantly higher in the other groups than those without azoospermia and varicocele (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION Inflammasome mechanisms, such as NLRP3 and IL1-β molecules, may provide additional benefit in evaluating the need and benefit of surgical or medical treatment in infertility with and without vascular pathology and with and without azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eser Ördek
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Bülent Kati
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - İsmail Koyuncu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Demir
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - İsmail Yağmur
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Eyyup Sabri Pelit
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Halil Çiftçi
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey
| | - Ercan Yeni
- Department of Urology, Ankara State Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
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Jia X, Yin Z, Peng Y. Gene differential co-expression analysis of male infertility patients based on statistical and machine learning methods. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1092143. [PMID: 36778885 PMCID: PMC9911419 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1092143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility has always been one of the important factors affecting the infertility of couples of gestational age. The reasons that affect male infertility includes living habits, hereditary factors, etc. Identifying the genetic causes of male infertility can help us understand the biology of male infertility, as well as the diagnosis of genetic testing and the determination of clinical treatment options. While current research has made significant progress in the genes that cause sperm defects in men, genetic studies of sperm content defects are still lacking. This article is based on a dataset of gene expression data on the X chromosome in patients with azoospermia, mild and severe oligospermia. Due to the difference in the degree of disease between patients and the possible difference in genetic causes, common classical clustering methods such as k-means, hierarchical clustering, etc. cannot effectively identify samples (realize simultaneous clustering of samples and features). In this paper, we use machine learning and various statistical methods such as hypergeometric distribution, Gibbs sampling, Fisher test, etc. and genes the interaction network for cluster analysis of gene expression data of male infertility patients has certain advantages compared with existing methods. The cluster results were identified by differential co-expression analysis of gene expression data in male infertility patients, and the model recognition clusters were analyzed by multiple gene enrichment methods, showing different degrees of enrichment in various enzyme activities, cancer, virus-related, ATP and ADP production, and other pathways. At the same time, as this paper is an unsupervised analysis of genetic factors of male infertility patients, we constructed a simulated data set, in which the clustering results have been determined, which can be used to measure the effect of discriminant model recognition. Through comparison, it finds that the proposed model has a better identification effect.
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Scuruchi M, Mannino F, Imbesi C, Pallio G, Vermiglio G, Bagnato G, Minutoli L, Bitto A, Squadrito F, Irrera N. Biglycan Involvement in Heart Fibrosis: Modulation of Adenosine 2A Receptor Improves Damage in Immortalized Cardiac Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021784. [PMID: 36675295 PMCID: PMC9866951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021784] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis is a common pathological feature of different cardiovascular diseases, characterized by the aberrant deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins in the cardiac interstitium, myofibroblast differentiation and increased fibrillar collagen deposition stimulated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β activation. Biglycan (BGN), a small leucine-rich proteoglycan (SLRPG) integrated within the ECM, plays a key role in matrix assembly and the phenotypic control of cardiac fibroblasts. Moreover, BGN is critically involved in pathological cardiac remodeling through TGF-β binding, thus causing myofibroblast differentiation and proliferation. Adenosine receptors (ARs), and in particular A2AR, may play a key role in stimulating fibrotic damage through collagen production/deposition, as a consequence of cyclic AMP (cAMP) and AKT activation. For this reason, A2AR modulation could be a useful tool to manage cardiac fibrosis in order to reduce fibrotic scar deposition in heart tissue. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the possible crosstalk between A2AR and BGN modulation in an in vitro model of TGF-β-induced fibrosis. Immortalized human cardiac fibroblasts (IM-HCF) were stimulated with TGF-β at the concentration of 10 ng/mL for 24 h to induce a fibrotic phenotype. After applying the TGF-β stimulus, cells were treated with two different A2AR antagonists, Istradefylline and ZM241385, for an additional 24 h, at the concentration of 10 µM and 1 µM, respectively. Both A2AR antagonists were able to regulate the oxidative stress induced by TGF-β through intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction in IM-HCFs. Moreover, collagen1a1, MMPs 3/9, BGN, caspase-1 and IL-1β gene expression was markedly decreased following A2AR antagonist treatment in TGF-β-challenged human fibroblasts. The results obtained for collagen1a1, SMAD3, α-SMA and BGN were also confirmed when protein expression was evaluated; phospho-Akt protein levels were also reduced following Istradefylline and ZM241385 use, thus suggesting that collagen production involves AKT recruited by the A2AR. These results suggest that A2AR modulation might be an effective therapeutic option to reduce the fibrotic processes involved in heart pathological remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Scuruchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Mannino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Chiara Imbesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanna Vermiglio
- Department of Biomedical, Dental, Morphological and Functional Imaging Sciences, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Gianluca Bagnato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bitto
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via C. Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy
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11
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Marini HR, Micali A, Puzzolo D, Minutoli L, Antonuccio P. Varicocele, Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: From Mechanisms of Action in Animal Models to Therapeutic Application. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416118. [PMID: 36555779 PMCID: PMC9784674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is one of the main causes of infertility in men, thus representing an important clinical problem worldwide. Inflammation contributes mainly to its pathogenesis, even if the exact pathophysiological mechanisms that correlate varicocele and infertility are still unknown. In addition, oxidative stress, apoptosis, hypoxia, and scrotal hyperthermia seem to play important roles. So far, the treatment of varicocele and the care of the fertility-associated problems still represent an area of interest for researchers, although many advances have occurred over the past few years. Recent experimental animal studies, as well as the current epidemiological evidence in humans, demonstrated that many functional foods of natural origin and nutraceuticals that are particularly abundant in the Mediterranean diet showed anti-inflammatory effects in varicocele. The aim of the present narrative review is to mainly evaluate recent experimental animal studies regarding the molecular mechanisms of varicocele and the state of the art about possible therapeutic approaches. As the current literature demonstrates convincing associations between diet, food components and fertility, the rational intake of nutraceuticals, which are particularly abundant in foods typical of plant-based eating patterns, may be a reliable therapeutic supportive care against varicocele and, consequently, could be very useful in the cure of fertility-associated problems in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Ryan Marini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-090-221-3652
| | - Pietro Antonuccio
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
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12
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Wang K, Gao Y, Wang C, Liu Z, Liang M, Liao Y, Hu K. Is Parthanatos Involved in Varicocele? DNA Cell Biol 2022; 41:861-870. [PMID: 36067068 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2022.0289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicoceles (VCs) have received widespread attention as a primary factor affecting male fertility and a pathological condition that may lead to decreased sperm count and motility in patients. Many studies have shown that an imbalance of local antioxidant balance exists in patients with VC, leading to an obvious increase in the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and may cause reductive stress. Excessive ROS may aggravate spermatogenesis dysfunction and affect male fertility. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is an enzyme associated with DNA repair in eukaryotic cells, can be activated by DNA fragments with structural damage, and has been considered a DNA damage receptor in DNA damage repair and apoptosis. We built a rat model of VC and an oxidative damage model of a spermatocyte-derived cell line (GC-2 cells) induced by hydrogen peroxide to study the role of PARP1 in VC. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by RNA sequencing in the testes of VC rats. Analysis of DEGs revealed some genes with significantly altered expression, which were validated in rat and cell models. Immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative PCR analysis, Western blot, and flow cytometry were used to analyze the changes between the control group and the VC or hydrogen peroxide group. Overall, we found that PARP1 protein expression increased in VC rats and in the hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress model of GC-2 cells. Parthanatos may be one of the factors leading to reduced reproductive capacity in VC patients. Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of male infertility induced by oxidative stress and provides a new therapeutic target for VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanxian Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zirui Liu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaping Liao
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
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13
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Kati B, Gonel A, Ordek E, Pelit ES, Ciftci H. Do inflammatory markers such as
NLRP3
and
IL1
‐β have an effect on the prediction of testicular sperm extraction success in infertile men? Andrologia 2022; 54:e14572. [DOI: 10.1111/and.14572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Kati
- Faculty of Medicine, Urology Department Harran University Sanliurfa Turkey
| | - Ataman Gonel
- Faculty of Medicine, Biochemistry Department Harran University Sanliurfa Turkey
| | - Eser Ordek
- Faculty of Medicine, Urology Department Harran University Sanliurfa Turkey
| | - Eyyup Sabri Pelit
- Faculty of Medicine, Urology Department Harran University Sanliurfa Turkey
| | - Halil Ciftci
- Faculty of Medicine, Urology Department Harran University Sanliurfa Turkey
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14
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Roshanravan N, Koche Ghazi MK, Ghaffari S, Naemi M, Alamdari NM, Shabestari AN, Mosharkesh E, Soleimanzadeh H, Sadeghi MT, Alipour S, Bastani S, Tarighat-Esfanjani A. Sodium selenite and Se-enriched yeast supplementation in atherosclerotic patients: Effects on the expression of pyroptosis-related genes and oxidative stress status. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2022; 32:1528-1537. [PMID: 35365371 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2022.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Atherosclerosis as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the arterial wall is the main leading cause of the cardiovascular disease (CVD). Caspase-dependent pyroptosis plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of CVD. Selenium (Se) is an important component of the antioxidant defense and plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of daily consumption of sodium selenite and Se-enriched yeast on the expression of pyroptosis-related genes, and biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients with atherosclerosis. METHODS AND RESULTS In this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 60 patients with atherosclerosis were recruited. Participants received 200 μg/day of sodium selenite, Se-enriched yeast, or placebo for 8 following weeks. The pyroptosis-related genes' mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was assessed before and after the intervention. Also, the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and glutathione peroxidases (GPX) were measured at baseline and following the intervention. Following sodium selenite and Se-enriched yeast supplementation, the relative expression levels of TLR4, ASC, NLRP3, and NF-κB1 were significantly downregulated (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the changes in GPX were significantly increased after selenite and yeast supplementation (p < 0.05). Also, selenite and yeast consumption caused a statistically significant decrease in the change of MDA level (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION In summary, these findings showed that Se supplementation may reduce inflammation through down-regulation of some pro-inflammatory genes, improving antioxidant defenses in atherosclerosis patients. Further research is required to come to a definite conclusion of selenium supplementation on the CVD risk. This study was registered on the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials website (identifier: RCT20110123005670N28; https://www.irct.ir/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdiyeh Khabbaz Koche Ghazi
- Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samad Ghaffari
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naemi
- Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Namazi Shabestari
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Erfan Mosharkesh
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Soleimanzadeh
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Shahriar Alipour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell And Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Ali Tarighat-Esfanjani
- Nutrition Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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15
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The NLRP3 inflammasome: molecular activation and regulation in spermatogenesis and male infertility; a systematic review. Basic Clin Androl 2022; 32:8. [PMID: 35637440 PMCID: PMC9150048 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00157-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility related to varicocele, infections, metabolic dysfunctions, oxidative stress and environmental toxicants is also associated with inflammatory processes that ultimately lead to the activation of the inflammasome pathway (IP). IP is classically activated by DAMPs, MAMPs or LAMPs, which stand for Damage-, Microbe- or Lifestyle-Associated Molecular Patterns, respectively. The most important player in IP activation is the NLRP3 (NOD[Nuclear oligomerization domain]-, LRR[Leucine rich repeat]- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) which functions as an intracellular sensor of D/M/L-AMPs resulting in activation of caspase-1, promotion of apoptosis, pyroptosis and generation of inflammatory cytokines. This review addresses the question of whether IP activation might be associated with male infertility situations. Results & conclusions We conducted a systematic review of articles published in the Google Scholar, and PubMed databases through October 2021. It turns out that inflammasome activation and its consequences including cytokine storms, apoptosis and pyroptosis could be associated with the reduced sperm count as well as the structural and functional sperm defects recorded in several situations associated with male infertility suggesting that anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies could be possibly considered to restore male fertility in future research.
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16
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Babaei A, Asadpour R, Mansouri K, Sabrivand A, Kazemi‐Darabadi S. Lycopene improves testicular damage and sperm quality in experimentally induced varicocele: Relationship with apoptosis, hypoxia, and hyperthermia. Food Sci Nutr 2022; 10:1469-1480. [PMID: 35592276 PMCID: PMC9094497 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is considered the main reason for male infertility. Antioxidants are common drugs used to reduce the complications of varicocele in these patients. So, we investigated the effects of lycopene on sperm quality, testicular histology, and the expression of some genes in experimentally induced varicocele. Fifty adult male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 12), sham (n = 5), and varicocele (n = 33) groups. After 2 months of induced varicocele, five rats were randomly sacrificed and induced varicocele was investigated in each group. Finally, 35 rats were divided into five groups: the control, varicocele, varicocele reserving solvent, and varicocele reserving lycopene (4 and 10 mg/kg) for 2 months. At the end of the experiment, sperm viability, membrane integrity, the expression of Bax, Bcl2, hypoxia (hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α [HIF1‐α]), heat‐shock protein (heat‐shock protein A2 [HSPA2]) genes, and the histology of testes were measured. The results showed a significant decrease in the sperm viability, membrane integrity, Johnson's score, and the expression of the Bcl2 gene in the varicocele group compared to the control group. Also, there was a significant increase in Bax, HSPA2, and HIF1‐α expressions in the varicocele group compared to the control group. Although the administration of lycopene (10 mg/kg) in rats with varicocele improved sperm viability and membrane integrity, Johnson's score, and Bax expression compared to the varicocele group. Our findings indicated that the administration of lycopene in the varicocele group improved sperm quality and testicular injury induced by varicocele via decreasing apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Babaei
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Reza Asadpour
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Kamran Mansouri
- Medical Biology Research CenterHealth Technology InstituteKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Adel Sabrivand
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
| | - Siamak Kazemi‐Darabadi
- Department of Clinical SciencesFaculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of TabrizTabrizIran
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17
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Mebendazole-Induced Blood-Testis Barrier Injury in Mice Testes by Disrupting Microtubules in Addition to Triggering Programmed Cell Death. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084220. [PMID: 35457043 PMCID: PMC9029725 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mebendazole (MBZ) is a synthetic benzimidazole known for its antiparasitic properties. In recent years, growing evidence showed that MBZ was also used as an anti-tumor agent. However, whether (and to what extent) this drug treatment affected the male reproductive system was not well-understood. In this study, male C57BL/6 mice were injected with 40 mg/kg/day of MBZ. The treatment was for 3 and 7 days. Our results showed that the injected mice exhibited an abnormal spermatogenic phase with a significant decrease in sperm. We further detected microtubule disruption and transient functional destruction of the blood–testes barrier (BTB) in the MBZ-injected mice testes (BTB). Our data confirmed that MBZ suppressed the expression of the BTB junction-associated proteins and disrupted the Sertoli cells’ function in vivo. Moreover, MBZ-treated mice demonstrated an aberrant caspase-3 signalling pathway, which resulted in the apoptosis of the germ cells. Here, we present our data, indicating that MBZ impairs BTB by reducing the expression of the microtubules’ and BTB junction-associated proteins. The last leads to activating the caspase-3 pathway, which triggers extensive germ cell apoptosis.
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18
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Wang K, Gao Y, Wang C, Liang M, Liao Y, Hu K. Role of Oxidative Stress in Varicocele. Front Genet 2022; 13:850114. [PMID: 35401656 PMCID: PMC8984266 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.850114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the official statistics of the World Health Organization, at least 48 million couples and 186 million people suffer from infertility. Varicocele has been recognized as the leading cause of male infertility and can affect spermatogenesis and cause testicular and epididymal disorders through multiple diverse pathophysiological processes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by oxidative stress have been reconciled as an important pathogenic factor throughout the course of varicocele. Testis respond to heat stress, hypoxia, and inflammation at the cost of producing excessive ROS. High levels of ROS can lead to infertility not only through lipid peroxidation or DNA damage, but also by inactivating enzymes and proteins in spermatogenesis. This review studies the oxidative stress and its role in the pathophysiology and molecular biology of varicocele in the context of a decline in fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ke Hu
- *Correspondence: Ke Hu, ; Yaping Liao,
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19
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Wang S, Kang J, Song Y, Zhang A, Pan Y, Zhang Z, Li Y, Niu S, Liu L, Liu X. Long noncoding RNAs regulated spermatogenesis in varicocele-induced spermatogenic dysfunction. Cell Prolif 2022; 55:e13220. [PMID: 35297519 PMCID: PMC9136499 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the expression, potential functions and mechanisms of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathogenesis of varicocele (VC)‐induced spermatogenic dysfunction. Materials and Methods We established a rat model with left experimental VC and divided rats into the sham group, the VC group, and the surgical treatment group (each group, n = 10). Haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and sperm quality were analysed to evaluate spermatogenesis function. LncRNA expression profiles were analysed using lncRNA‐Seq (each group n = 3) and validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (each group n = 10). Correlation analysis and gene target miRNA prediction were used to construct competing endogenous RNA network. The regulated signalling pathway and spermatogenic dysfunction of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE lncRNAs) were validated by Western blot. Results HE detection and sperm quality analysis showed that VC could induce spermatogenic dysfunction. Eight lncRNAs were upregulated and three lncRNAs were downregulated in the VC group compared with the sham group and surgical treatment group. The lncRNA of NONRATG002949.2, NONRATG001060.2, NONRATG013271.2, NONRATG022879.2, NONRATG023424.2, NONRATG005667.2 and NONRATG010686.2 were significantly negatively related to sperm quality, while NONRATG027523.1, NONRATG017183.2 and NONRATG023747.2 were positively related to sperm quality. The lncRNAs promote spermatogenic cell apoptosis and inhibit spermatogonia and spermatocyte proliferation and meiotic spermatocytes by regulating the PI3K–Akt signalling pathway. Conclusion DE lncRNAs may be potential biomarkers for predicting the risk of spermatogenic dysfunction in VC and the effect of surgical repair. These DE lncRNAs promote spermatogenic dysfunction by regulating the PI3K–Akt signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangren Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaqi Kang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- Department of Urology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Aiqiao Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Pan
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhexin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuezheng Li
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Niu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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20
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Li M, Li J, Zhang C, Hou S, Weng B. MIR210HG is aberrantly expressed in the seminal plasma of varicocele patients and associated with varicocele-related dyszoospermia. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14277. [PMID: 35146790 DOI: 10.1111/and.14277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to confirm the expression of the seminal plasma long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) microRNA210 host gene (MIR210HG) in varicocele (VC) patients, to further explore the association between MIR210HG and VC severity and to evaluate whether MIR210HG can predict VC-related dyszoospermia. Semen samples from 188 VC patients and 92 healthy men were collected. Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR detected seminal plasma MIR210HG levels. Receiver operating characteristic analysis assessed the ability of MIR210HG to screen patients with VC, or to screen VC patients with abnormal semen quality. Logistic analysis assessed the value of MIR210HG in predicting dyszoospermia in VC patients. The levels of MIR210HG in seminal plasma of VC patients were upregulated, which could screen VC patients. In addition, the levels of seminal plasma MIR210HG were upregulated with VC severity and were downregulated at 6 months after surgery in VC patients. Moreover, elevated MIR210HG levels in VC patients with abnormal semen quality could screen patients with abnormal semen quality and could independently predict the occurrence of dyszoospermia in VC patients. Seminal plasma MIR210HG expression is upregulated in VC patients, is associated with the severity of VC and may function as an independent predictor of VC-related dyszoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monong Li
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinli Li
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Changcun Zhang
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Sichuan Hou
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Bowen Weng
- Urology Surgery, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, China
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21
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Abo El Gheit RE, Soliman NA, Nagla SA, El‐Sayed RM, Badawi GA, Emam MN, Abdel Ghafar MT, Ibrahim MAA, Elswaidy NRM, Radwan DA, Alshenawy HA, Khaled HE, Kamel S, El‐Saka MH, Madi NM, Younis RL. Melatonin epigenetic potential on testicular functions and fertility profile in varicocele rat model is mediated by Silent information regulator1. Br J Pharmacol 2022; 179:3363-3381. [PMID: 35064582 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Varicocele is a leading cause of male infertility. Melatonin is a highly pleiotropic neurohormone. We aimed to characterize the melatonin epigenetic potential in varicocele and the involved molecular mechanisms. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Fifty-two male albino rats were randomly divided into four groups (13 rats each): control (I), melatonin (II), varicocele (III) and melatonin treated varicocele (IV) groups. Left varicocele was induced by partial left renal vein ligation. Reproductive hormones, epididymal sperm functional parameters, testicular 3/17 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases, antioxidant enzymes, malondialdehyde, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and histopathological/Johnsen's score were evaluated. Flow cytometry and Comet were carried out to explore extent of sperm and testicular DNA damage. Testicular expression of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), forkhead transcription factors-class O (type1) (FOXO1), tumour suppressor gene, P53, cation channels of sperm (CatSper) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein was evaluated by western blot technique. Testicular expression of Bcl-2 and its associated X protein and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells were assayed by immunohistochemical staining. Testicular miR-34a expression was quantified by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. KEY RESULTS The varicocele induced testicular histological injury, enhanced oxidative stress, P53-mediated apoptosis, DNA damage and increased testicular miR-34a expression paralleled with down-regulated SIRT1/FOXO axis. Melatonin treatment of varicocele rats displayed antioxidant/anti-apoptotic efficacy and improved reproductive hormones axis, CatSper expression and fertility parameters. MiR-34a/SIRT1/FOXO1 epigenetic axis integrates testicular melatonin mediated intracellular transduction cascades in varicocele. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Melatonin can be used as an adjuvant therapy to improve varicocele and its complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehab E. Abo El Gheit
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Physical therapy Al Salam University Tanta Egypt
| | - Nema A. Soliman
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Egypt
| | - Salah A. Nagla
- Urology Department, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | - Rehab M. El‐Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy Sinai University El‐Arish North Sinai Egypt
| | - Ghada A. Badawi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy Sinai University El‐Arish North Sinai Egypt
| | - Marwa N. Emam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | | | - Marwa A. A. Ibrahim
- Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | - Noha R. M. Elswaidy
- Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | - Doaa A. Radwan
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | | | - Howayda E. Khaled
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science Suez Canal University Ismailia Egypt
| | - Samar Kamel
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Suez Canal University Ismailia Egypt
| | - Mervat H. El‐Saka
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | - Nermin M. Madi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
| | - Reham L. Younis
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Tanta University Tanta Egypt
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22
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Characterization of varicocele-induced animal models: Potential role of inflammasome complex in the varicocele pathophysiology. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 149:103442. [PMID: 34773809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103442] [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: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Varicocele mechanisms and its impact in testicular dysfunction has been studied in order to understand the pathophysiology involved in this disease. However, study designs using testicular tissues from varicocele patients are restricted due to ethical limitations. Therefore, the use of animal models, mainly rats, that mimics varicocele and its effects is an option to develop new approaches. The surgical technique, that induces the varicocele in rats, is based on the partial obstruction of the left renal vein, leading to a dilation in the left spermatic vein and consequently to the pampiniform plexus, resulting in varicocele-induced condition. Thus, the study of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in varicocele development can be addressed in depth. Besides the animal model goal to uncover the exact varicocele pathophysiology, varicocele induced models are the best options to develop new non-surgical and less invasive therapies. Various animal model studies designed and investigated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents to face varicocele conditions. Minding this fact, we tried to discuss a newly uncovered complex in varicocele condition, known as inflammasome complex. Taking into consideration the possible inflammatory state present in varicocele, the inflammasome complex has been proposed to be involved in the pathophysiology of this disease.
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