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Kumari D, Nair N, Bedwal RS. Effects of Dietary Zinc Deficiency and Supplementation on Prepubertal Rat Testes: Sulfhydryl and Antioxidant Status. Indian J Clin Biochem 2024; 39:539-547. [PMID: 39346712 PMCID: PMC11436516 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-023-01167-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
The study was designed to investigate the effects of dietary zinc deficiency and supplementation on antioxidant system viz. superoxide-dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione- S-transferase, catalase and sulfhydryls levels (GSH, TSH, NPSH and PBSH) in testes of Wistar rats. Pre-pubertal rats were divided into two groups with 6 sub-groups each viz. zinc control (ZC), pair fed (PF), zinc deficient (ZD), zinc control supplementation (ZCS), pair-fed supplementation (PFS) and zinc deficient supplementation (ZDS). Experiments were set for 2- and 4-weeks followed by 4 weeks of zinc supplementation. The zinc deficient group animals exhibited significant decrease in gonado-somatic index (2- and 4- weeks), sulfhydryls levels, GSH, GPx, GR (2 and 4-weeks) and GST concentration (2-weeks). However, after zinc supplementation significant improvement in gonadosomatic index, SH, GSH, antioxidant enzyme levels (GR, GPx, and GST) in deficient groups has been observed. Zinc deficiency during pre-pubertal period affected growth and caused dysregulation of the glutathione antioxidant system. The significant alterations in the levels of antioxidant enzymes and non-enzymatic antioxidant system (GSH and SH) in zinc deficient groups could be due to alleviated generation of free radicals, causative factor for increased oxidative stress which may lead to infertility as oxidative stress is a common pathology seen during infertility. Altered antioxidant system and sulfhydryls levels in testes due to dietary zinc deficiency reflect the significance of optimum zinc for maintaining homeostatic balance in gonadal physiology. Supplementing zinc for 4 weeks could reduce the redox imbalance which may help in alleviating oxidative stress induced alterations in testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Kumari
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004 India
- Department of Zoology, SS Jain Subodh PG College, Jaipur, India
| | - Neena Nair
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004 India
| | - R. S. Bedwal
- Cell and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302004 India
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Zhang XM, Shi XQ, Wang YZ, Gong S, Tang J, Tang M, Liu LX, Sun W, Yi Y. Comparative study on metabolites, nutrients, and antioxidant capacity of endosperm in Gymnocladus chinensis, Gleditsia sinensis, and Gleditsia japonica var. delavayi. Food Chem 2024; 463:141384. [PMID: 39340903 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.141384] [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: 07/16/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024]
Abstract
'Zaojiaomi' is a traditional food derived from Gleditsia sinensis or Gleditsia japonica var. delavayi endosperm. However, metabolite profile of Gymnocladus chinensis endosperm and its comparison to the aforementioned species remains understudied. This research employed a UPLC-MS based metabolomics approach to investigate and compare metabolite composition of G. chinensis endosperm with that of G. sinensis and G. japonica endosperm. A total of 1177 metabolites were identified, with 579 and 577 differentially abundant metabolites found between G. chinensis vs. G. japonica and G. chinensis vs. G. sinensis, respectively. They were mainly enriched in pathways related to flavonoid biosynthesis, suggesting potential for enhanced antioxidant activity, compared to G. japonica and G. sinensis. Additionally, G. chinensis endosperm was found to be rich in L-arginine, L-aspartic acid, and zinc elements, which have various health benefits. These findings provide valuable insights into metabolic composition of G. chinensis endosperm and its potential as a functional food source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Alpine Rhododendron Diseases and Pests of Institutions of Higher Learning in Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,.
| | - Xiao-Qian Shi
- School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yi-Zhen Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Su Gong
- School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Jing Tang
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Alpine Rhododendron Diseases and Pests of Institutions of Higher Learning in Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Ming Tang
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Alpine Rhododendron Diseases and Pests of Institutions of Higher Learning in Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Lun-Xian Liu
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Alpine Rhododendron Diseases and Pests of Institutions of Higher Learning in Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; School of Life Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China,; Key Laboratory of Environment Friendly Management on Alpine Rhododendron Diseases and Pests of Institutions of Higher Learning in Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yin Yi
- Key Laboratory of State Forestry Administration on Biodiversity Conservation in Karst Area of Southwest, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
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Sahu C, Jena G. Combination treatment of zinc and selenium intervention ameliorated BPA-exposed germ cell damage in SD rats: elucidation of molecular mechanisms. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:6685-6704. [PMID: 38498059 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03044-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a commonly used environmental toxicant, is easily exposed to the human body and causes testicular damage, sperm abnormalities, DNA damage and apoptosis, and interferes in the process spermatogenesis and steroidal hormone production along with obstruction in testes and epididymis development. Zinc (Zn), a potent regulator of antioxidant balance, is responsible for cellular homeostasis, enzymes and proteins activities during spermatogenesis for cell defence mechanisms in the testes. Selenium (Se) is required for spermatogenesis, antioxidant action and in the activities of different selenoproteins. Both Zn and Se are essential simultaneously for the proper regulation of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation as well as protection against chemical and disease-associated germ cell toxicity. Thus, the study aimed to understand the importance and beneficial effect of Zn and Se co-treatment against BPA-exposed testicular damage in rats. BPA 100 and 200 mg/kg/day was exposed through an oral gavage. Zn (3 mg/kg/day) i.p. and Se (0.5 mg/kg/day) i.p. were injected for 8 weeks. The testicular toxicity was evaluated by measuring body and organs weight, biochemical investigations, sperm parameters, testicular and epididymal histopathology, quantification DNA damage by halo assay, DNA breaks (TUNEL assay), immunohistochemistry and western blot. Results revealed that Zn and Se co-treatment ameliorated BPA-associated male gonadal toxicity in rat as revealed by decreased SGPT, SGOT and BUN levels in serum, reduced testes and epididymis tissue injury, DNA breaks, apoptosis, expressions of 8-OHdG, γ-H2AX and NFκB with an increased serum testosterone and catalase levels. These findings suggest that Zn and Se co-treatment could be a beneficial and protective option against BPA-exposed testicular and epididymal toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chittaranjan Sahu
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S., Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Gopabandhu Jena
- Facility for Risk Assessment and Intervention Studies, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), S.A.S., Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India.
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Marín de Jesús S, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Cortés-Barberena E, Hernández-Rodriguez J, Montes S, Arrieta-Cruz I, Pérez-Aguirre SG, Bonilla-Jaime H, Limón-Morales O, Arteaga-Silva M. Zinc and Its Impact on the Function of the Testicle and Epididymis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8991. [PMID: 39201677 PMCID: PMC11354358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168991] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element; it exhibits a plethora of physiological properties and biochemical functions. It plays a pivotal role in regulating the cell cycle, apoptosis, and DNA organization, as well as in protein, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism. Among other important processes, Zn plays an essential role in reproductive health. The ZIP and ZnT proteins are responsible for the mobilization of Zn within the cell. Zn is an inert antioxidant through its interaction with a variety of proteins and enzymes to regulate the redox system, including metallothioneins (MTs), metalloenzymes, and gene regulatory proteins. The role of Zn in the reproductive system is of great importance; processes, such as spermatogenesis and sperm maturation that occur in the testicle and epididymis, respectively, depend on this element for their development and function. Zn modulates the synthesis of androgens, such as testosterone, for these reproductive processes, so Zn deficiency is related to alterations in sperm parameters that lead to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Marín de Jesús
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico; (S.M.d.J.); (S.G.P.-A.)
| | | | - Edith Cortés-Barberena
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, División de Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico;
| | - Joel Hernández-Rodriguez
- Cuerpo Académico de Investigación en Quiropráctica, Universidad Estatal del Valle de Ecatepec, Av. Central s/n Valle de Anáhuac, Ecatepec de Morelos 55210, Mexico;
| | - Sergio Montes
- Unidad Académica Multidisciplinaria Reynosa-Aztlán, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Calle 16 y Lago de Chapala, Aztlán, Reynosa 88740, Mexico;
| | - Isabel Arrieta-Cruz
- Departamento de Investigación Básica, Instituto Nacional de Geriatría, Secretaria de Salud, Ciudad de Mexico 10200, Mexico;
| | - Sonia Guadalupe Pérez-Aguirre
- Doctorado en Ciencias Biológicas y de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico; (S.M.d.J.); (S.G.P.-A.)
| | - Herlinda Bonilla-Jaime
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico; (H.B.-J.); (O.L.-M.)
| | - Ofelia Limón-Morales
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico; (H.B.-J.); (O.L.-M.)
| | - Marcela Arteaga-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico; (H.B.-J.); (O.L.-M.)
- Laboratorio de Neuroendocrinología Reproductiva, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Av. San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico 09340, Mexico
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Ahmed N, Deng L, Narejo MUN, Baloch I, Deng L, Chachar S, Li Y, Li J, Bozdar B, Chachar Z, Hayat F, Chachar M, Gong L, Tu P. Bridging agro-science and human nutrition: zinc nanoparticles and biochar as catalysts for enhanced crop productivity and biofortification. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1435086. [PMID: 39220014 PMCID: PMC11361987 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1435086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The integration of zinc nanoparticles (Zn NPs) with biochar offers a transformative approach to sustainable agriculture by enhancing plant productivity and human nutrition. This combination improves soil health, optimizes nutrient uptake, and increases resilience to environmental stressors, leading to superior crop performance. Our literature review shows that combining Zn NPs with biochar significantly boosts the crop nutrient composition, including proteins, vitamins, sugars, and secondary metabolites. This enhancement improves the plant tolerance to environmental challenges, crop quality, and shelf life. This technique addresses the global issue of Zn deficiency by biofortifying food crops with increased Zn levels, such as mung beans, lettuce, tomatoes, wheat, maize, rice, citrus, apples, and microgreens. Additionally, Zn NPs and biochar improve soil properties by enhancing water retention, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and microbial activity, making soils more fertile and productive. The porous structure of biochar facilitates the slow and sustained release of Zn, ensuring its bioavailability over extended periods and reducing the need for frequent fertilizer applications. This synergy promotes sustainable agricultural practices and reduces the environmental footprint of the traditional farming methods. However, potential ecological risks such as biomagnification, nanoparticle accumulation, and toxicity require careful consideration. Comprehensive risk assessments and management strategies are essential to ensure that agricultural benefits do not compromise the environmental or human health. Future research should focus on sustainable practices for deploying Zn NPs in agriculture, balancing food security and ecological integrity and positioning this approach as a viable solution for nutrient-efficient and sustainable agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazir Ahmed
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lifang Deng
- Institute of Biomass Engineering, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Iqra Baloch
- Faculty of Crop Production, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Lansheng Deng
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sadaruddin Chachar
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongquan Li
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Li
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bilquees Bozdar
- Faculty of Crop Production, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, Pakistan
| | - Zaid Chachar
- College of Agriculture and Biology, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Faisal Hayat
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | | | - Lin Gong
- Dongguan Yixiang Liquid Fertilizer Co. Ltd., Dongguan, China
| | - Panfeng Tu
- College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Chemek M, Kadi A, Al-Mahdawi FKI, Potoroko I. Zinc as a Possible Critical Element to Prevent Harmful Effects of COVID-19 on Testicular Function: a Narrative Review. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01638-0. [PMID: 38987405 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01638-0] [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: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Research into innovative non-pharmacological therapeutic routes via the utilization of natural elements like zinc (Zn) has been motivated by the discovery of new severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV2) variants and the ineffectiveness of certain vaccination treatments during COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, research on SARS-COV-2's viral cellular entry and infection mechanism has shown that it may seriously harm reproductive system cells and impair testicular function in young men and adolescents, which may lead to male infertility over time. In this context, we conducted a narrative review to give an overview of the data pertaining to Zn's critical role in testicular tissue, the therapeutic use of such micronutrients to enhance male fertility, as well as in the potential mitigation of COVID-19, with the ultimate goal of elucidating the hypothesis of the potential use of Zn supplements to prevent the possible harmful effects of SARS-COV2 infection on testis physiological function, and subsequently, on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marouane Chemek
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia.
| | - Ammar Kadi
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia
| | | | - Irina Potoroko
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia
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7
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Behairy A, Hashem MMM, Abo-El-Sooud K, El-Metwally AE, Soliman AM, Mouneir SM, Hassan BA, Abd-Elhakim YM. Mitigating effect of gallic acid on zinc oxide nanoparticles and arsenic trioxide-induced spermatogenesis suppression, testicular injury, hormonal imbalance, and immunohistochemical changes in rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03228-y. [PMID: 38935127 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03228-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The current study compared the effects of incorporated exposure to arsenic trioxide (As) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) on male reproductive hormones, oxidative stress, and inflammatory biomarkers in adult rats to each metal alone. A defensive trial with gallic acid (GA) has also been studied. A total of 60 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were categorized into six groups: control, GA (20 mg/kg), ZnONPs (100 mg/kg), As (8 mg/kg), ZnONPs with As, and GA concurrently with ZnONPs and As at the same previous doses. The regimens were applied for 60 days in sequence. Current findings showed significant weight loss in all study groups, with testicular weights significantly decreased in the As and combined groups. Testosterone, follicular stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone serum levels were also considerably reduced, while serum levels of estradiol increased. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoexpression was significantly upregulated while proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was downregulated. Moreover, there was a significant elevation of testicular malondialdehyde, reduction of testicular superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase with disruptive testes, prostate glands, and seminal vesicle alterations in all experimental groups with marked changes in the combined group. Additionally, the present results revealed the protective effects of GA on ZnONPs and As adverse alterations in rats. GA enhanced sperm picture, oxidant status, and hormonal profile. Also, it modulates iNOS and PCNA immunoexpression and recovers the histoarchitecture of the testes, prostate glands, and seminal vesicles. Ultimately, GA may be a promising safeguarding agent against ZnONPs and As-induced disturbances to reproductive parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amany Behairy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Mohamed M M Hashem
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Khaled Abo-El-Sooud
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Abeer E El-Metwally
- Pathology Department, Animal Reproduction Research Institute, Giza, 3514805, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Soliman
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Samar M Mouneir
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Bayan A Hassan
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University, Cairo, 11835, Egypt
| | - Yasmina M Abd-Elhakim
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
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Mogielnicka-Brzozowska M, Cichowska AW. Molecular Biomarkers of Canine Reproductive Functions. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:6139-6168. [PMID: 38921038 PMCID: PMC11202846 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of the current study is to review potential molecular biomarker substances selected so far as useful for assessing the quality of dog semen. Proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and ions can serve as molecular biomarkers of reproductive functions (BRFs) for evaluating male reproductive health and identifying potential risk factors for infertility or reproductive disorders. Evaluation of BRF levels in semen samples or reproductive tissues may provide insights into the underlying causes of infertility, such as impaired sperm function, abnormal sperm-egg interaction, or dysfunction of the male reproductive tract. Molecular biomarker proteins may be divided into two groups: proteins that are well-studied, such as A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs), albumins (ALBs), alkaline phosphatase (ALPL), clusterin (CLU), canine prostate-specific esterase (CPSE), cysteine-rich secretory protein 2 (CRISP2), lactotransferrin (LTF), metalloproteinases (MMPs), and osteopontin (OPN) and proteins that are not well-studied. Non-protein markers include lipid-based substances (fatty acids, phosphatidylcholine), carbohydrates (glycosaminoglycans), and ions (zinc, calcium). Assessing the levels of BRFs in semen samples may provide valuable information for breeding management and reproductive assessments in dogs. This review systematizes current knowledge that could serve as a starting point for developing practical tests with the use of biomarkers of canine reproductive functions and their predictive value for assisted reproductive technique outcomes and semen preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Mogielnicka-Brzozowska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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9
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Alosaimi M, Abd-Elhakim YM, Mohamed AAR, Metwally MMM, Khamis T, Alansari WS, Eskandrani AA, Essawi WM, Awad MM, El-Shaer RAA, Ibrahim S, Nassan MA, Metwally AS. Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Attenuate Acrylamide-Induced Cardiac Injury via Controlling Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Associated Apoptosis Through ATF3/CHOP/BCL2 Signaling in Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:2657-2671. [PMID: 37752374 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03855-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Due to their distinctive properties, several eco-friendly metal oxide nanoparticles were assessed for their possible cardioprotective properties. Acrylamide (ACD), a pervasive chemical in food and the environment, has been linked to cardiac toxicity. Therefore, this study examined the probable protective effect of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (GS-ZNPs) against ACD-oral exposure-induced cardiac damage in rats. For 60 days, 40 male Sprague-Dawley rats were separated into four sets that orally administered distilled water, 10-mg GS-ZNP/kg b.w., 20-mg ACD/kg b.w., or GS-ZNP + ACD. Then, cardiac damage indicators comprising CPK, CK-MB, cTn, and LDH were assessed. Besides, cardiac tissues' architecture, oxidative stress indicators, and Zn content were evaluated. The mRNA expression of the ERS-related genes, including ATF3, ATF4, ATF6, XBP-1, CHOP, JNKs, and BiP, were determined. Moreover, ERS-dependent anti-apoptotic (BCL-2) and apoptotic (Caspase-3 and BAX) genes mRNA expression were analyzed. The results showed that GS-ZNP significantly alleviated the increased ACD-induced serum cardiac damage indicators, MDA tissue content, and histopathological changes. Furthermore, the ACD-induced reduction of antioxidants and Zn heart contents were significantly reestablished by GS-ZNP. Furthermore, the ACD-induced upregulation of the ERS-encoding genes and apoptotic genes was reversed by GS-ZNP. Besides, the ACD-induced BCL-2 downregulation was counteracted by GS-ZNP. Overall, GS-ZNP could be a biologically potent compound to alleviate ACD's cardiotoxic effects, possibly by controlling the ERS and apoptosis-related genes and antioxidant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal Alosaimi
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasmina M Abd-Elhakim
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Amany Abdel-Rahman Mohamed
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed M M Metwally
- Department of Pathology and Clinical pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, King Salman International University, Ras sudr, Egypt
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Tarek Khamis
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
| | - Wafa S Alansari
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, 21577, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Areej A Eskandrani
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, Taibah University, Medina, 30002, Saudi Arabia
| | - Walaa M Essawi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, 81528, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Awad
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Rehab A A El-Shaer
- Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Sarah Ibrahim
- Human Anatomy and Embryology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Nassan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Turabah University College, Taif University, PO Box 11099, Taif, 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aya Sh Metwally
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, 81528, Egypt
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Cirovic A, Cirovic A, Yimthiang S, Vesey DA, Satarug S. Modulation of Adverse Health Effects of Environmental Cadmium Exposure by Zinc and Its Transporters. Biomolecules 2024; 14:650. [PMID: 38927054 PMCID: PMC11202194 DOI: 10.3390/biom14060650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is the second most abundant metal in the human body and is essential for the function of 10% of all proteins. As metals cannot be synthesized or degraded, they must be assimilated from the diet by specialized transport proteins, which unfortunately also provide an entry route for the toxic metal pollutant cadmium (Cd). The intestinal absorption of Zn depends on the composition of food that is consumed, firstly the amount of Zn itself and then the quantity of other food constituents such as phytate, protein, and calcium (Ca). In cells, Zn is involved in the regulation of intermediary metabolism, gene expression, cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. The cellular influx, efflux, subcellular compartmentalization, and trafficking of Zn are coordinated by transporter proteins, solute-linked carriers 30A and 39A (SLC30A and SLC39A), known as the ZnT and Zrt/Irt-like protein (ZIP). Because of its chemical similarity with Zn and Ca, Cd disrupts the physiological functions of both. The concurrent induction of a Zn efflux transporter ZnT1 (SLC30A1) and metallothionein by Cd disrupts the homeostasis and reduces the bioavailability of Zn. The present review highlights the increased mortality and the severity of various diseases among Cd-exposed persons and the roles of Zn and other transport proteins in the manifestation of Cd cytotoxicity. Special emphasis is given to Zn intake levels that may lower the risk of vision loss and bone fracture associated with Cd exposure. The difficult challenge of determining a permissible intake level of Cd is discussed in relation to the recommended dietary Zn intake levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cirovic
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Aleksandar Cirovic
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (A.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Supabhorn Yimthiang
- Environmental Safety Technology and Health, School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand;
| | - David A. Vesey
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia;
- Department of Kidney and Transplant Services, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Soisungwan Satarug
- Centre for Kidney Disease Research, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia;
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11
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Liu J, Wang E, Xi Z, Dong J, Chen C, Xu P, Wang L. Zinc mitigates cadmium-induced sperm dysfunction through regulating Ca 2+ and metallothionein expression in the freshwater crab Sinopotamon henanense. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 279:109860. [PMID: 38387689 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal element that might adversely affect sperm function such as the acrosome reaction (AR). Although it is widely recognized that zinc (Zn) plays a crucial role in sperm quality, the complete elucidation of how Zn ameliorates Cd-induced sperm dysfunction is still unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the protective effects of Zn against the sperm dysfunction induced by Cd in the freshwater crab Sinopotamon henanense. The results demonstrated that Cd exposure not only impaired the sperm ultrastructure, but also caused sperm dysfunction by decreasing the AR induction rate, acrosome enzyme activity, and Ca2+ content in sperm while elevating the activity and transcription expression of key Ca2+ signaling pathway-related proteins Calmodulin (CAM) and Ca2+-ATPase. However, the administration of Zn was found to alleviate Cd-induced sperm morphological and functional disorders by increasing the activity and transcription levels of CaM and Ca2+-ATPase, thereby regulating intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and reversing the decrease in Ca2+ contents caused by Cd. Furthermore, this study was the first to investigate the distribution of metallothionein (MT) in the AR of S. henanense, and it was found that Zn can reduce the elevated levels of MT in crabs caused by Cd, demonstrating the significance of Zn in inducing MT to participate in the AR process and in metal detoxification in S. henanense. These findings offer novel perspectives and substantiation regarding the utilization of Zn as a protective agent against Cd-induced toxicity and hold significant practical implications for mitigating Cd-induced sperm dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Liu
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Ermeng Wang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhipeng Xi
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Jingwei Dong
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Chienmin Chen
- Department of Environmental Resource Management, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan City 000700, Taiwan
| | - Peng Xu
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China
| | - Lan Wang
- School of Life Science, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, Shanxi, China.
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12
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Zeng X, Wang Z, Yu L, Wang L, Liu Y, Chen Y, Wang C. Zinc Supplementation Reduces Testicular Cell Apoptosis in Mice and Improves Spermatogenic Dysfunction Caused by Marginal Zinc Deficiency. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:1656-1668. [PMID: 37515670 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03789-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an important trace element in the human body and plays an important role in growth, development, and male reproductive functions. Marginal zinc deficiency (MZD) is common in the human population and can cause spermatogenic dysfunction in males. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate methods to improve spermatogenic dysfunction caused by MZD and to further explore its mechanism of action. A total of 75 4-week-old male SPF ICR mice were randomly divided into five groups (control, MZD, MZD + ZnY2, MZD + ZnY4, and MZD + ZnY8, 15 mice per group). The dietary Zn content was 30 mg/kg in the control group and 10 mg/kg in the other groups. From low to high, the Zn supplementation doses administered to the three groups were 2, 4, and 8 mg/kg·bw. After 35 days, the zinc content, sperm quality, activity of spermatogenic enzymes, oxidative stress level, and apoptosis level of the testes in mice were determined. The results showed that MZD decreased the level of Zn in the serum, sperm quality, and activity of spermatogenic enzymes in mice. After Zn supplementation, the Zn level in the serum increased, sperm quality was significantly improved, and spermatogenic enzyme activity was restored. In addition, MZD reduced the content of antioxidants (copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu-Zn SOD), metallothionein (MT), and glutathione (GSH) and promoted malondialdehyde (MDA) production. The apoptosis index of the testis also increased significantly in the MZD group. After Zn supplementation, the level of oxidative stress decreased, and the apoptosis index in the testis was reduced. Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed that the expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) mRNA and Bcl-2/BCL2-associated X (Bax) in the control group decreased in testicular cells, and their expression was restored after Zn supplementation. The results of this study indicated that Zn supplementation can reduce the level of oxidative stress and increase the ability of testicular cells to resist apoptosis, thereby improving spermatogenic dysfunction caused by MZD in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangchao Zeng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqiong Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Yu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueling Liu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Chen
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunhong Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Ma J, Sun B, Te LG, Huang X, Zuo X, Han XK, Wang SS. A Dietary Supplement Jinghuosu Ameliorates Reproductive Damage Induced by Tripterygium Glycosides. Chin J Integr Med 2024; 30:330-338. [PMID: 38212501 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-023-3750-9] [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] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the possible protective effects of Jinghuosu, a dietary supplement (DS), on tripterygium glycosides (TG)-induced reproductive system injury in rats and its underlying mechanisms. METHODS A reproductive damage model was established in rats by feeding of TGs. Twenty-eight male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups using a random number table (n=7 in each): control (C) group, model (M) group, DS group and L-carnitine (LC) group. Rats in M, DS and LC groups received 40 mg/kg TGs orally. Starting from the 5th week, after administration of TGs for 4 h every day, rats in DS and LC groups were administered with 2.7 g/kg DS and 0.21 g/kg LC, respectively, for protective treatment over the next 4 weeks. Rats in Group C continued to receive the control treatment. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used for histopathological analysis of rat testicular tissues. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to measure alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase, alcohol dehydrogenase, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. Chemiluminescence assay was used to determine the serum testosterone content. Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were conducted to analyze the expression of genes and proteins related to the testosterone synthesis pathway and the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 antioxidant pathway. RESULTS Oral administration of TGs induced significant increases in the testicular levels of zinc transporter 1 and MDA (P<0.05). On the other hand, sperm concentration, sperm motility, and serum testosterone, serum zinc, testicular zinc, Zrt-, Irt-like protein 1, ALP, luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, Cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1, 3 β -hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 T-AOC, GSH-Px, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, heme oxygenase-1 and NAD (P)H: quinone oxidoreductase 1 levels decreased following TGs exposure (P<0.05). All of these phenotypes were evidently reversed by DS (P<0.05). CONCLUSION DS Jinghuosu protects against TG-induced reproductive system injury in rats, probably by improving zinc homeostasis, enhancing the testosterone synthesis and attenuating oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Bo Sun
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Li-Ger Te
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Xin Huang
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Xin Zuo
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China
| | - Xiao-Ke Han
- Xingtai Infertility Specialist Hospital, Xingtai, Hebei Province, 054000, China
| | - Shu-Song Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China.
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
- School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, 050024, China.
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14
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Yuan Q, Hong R, Ni Y, Jiang M, Liu J, Chen Z, Yang D. Correlation between seminal plasma biochemical markers and semen parameters in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: identification of biomarkers for L-carnitine therapy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1330629. [PMID: 38532897 PMCID: PMC10963428 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1330629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background L-carnitine therapy for idiopathic sperm abnormalities exhibits variable effectiveness, and currently, there are no established criteria to predict patient response. This study investigated correlations between seminal plasma markers and semen parameters to identify biomarkers that can guide indications for L-carnitine therapy indications in patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 223 male patients with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia, who sought medical attention at our clinic between January 2020 and October 2022. These patients underwent a pretreatment seminal plasma biochemical analysis, followed by a three-month continuous L-carnitine treatment. The correlation between seminal plasma biochemical parameters and pretreatment semen parameters was analyzed. Semen quality was compared between cases with normal and abnormal seminal plasma biochemical parameters, both pretreatment and posttreatment. The correlation between the changes in semen parameters after treatment and seminal plasma biochemical parameters were investigated. Results Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between all pretreatment semen parameters and seminal plasma biochemical markers, except for liquefying time and the ratio of normal morphology. Subgroup analysis, stratified by seminal fructose, zinc, citric acid, and neutral glycosidase levels, demonstrated that abnormal groups exhibited significantly different levels of semen parameters compared with the normal groups. The changing difference and changing ratio in the ratio of forward motile sperm showed a negative correlation with seminal fructose levels (r=-0.165 and -0.144). The changing difference in semen volume was negatively correlated with the level of seminal neutral glycosidase (r=-0.158). The changing ratio in semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and count of forward motile sperm all exhibited negative correlations with the levels of seminal neutral glycosidase (range from -0.178 to -0.224). Conclusion Seminal plasma biochemical markers, particularly fructose and neutral glycosidase, may serve as valuable indicators for determining the eligibility of patients with idiopathic sperm abnormalities for L-carnitine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilong Yuan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ruifang Hong
- Department of Pharmacy, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunping Ni
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manbo Jiang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongyu Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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15
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Hu Y, Zhang D, Zhang Q, Yin T, Jiang T, He S, Li M, Yue X, Luo G, Tao F, Cao Y, Ji D, Ji Y, Liang C. Serum Cu, Zn and IL-1β Levels May Predict Fetal Miscarriage Risk After IVF Cycles: A Nested Case-Control Study. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:5561-5574. [PMID: 36964416 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03621-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023]
Abstract
To explore the association between serum-related indicators (levels of inflammatory cytokines and essential trace elements) and miscarriage risk among infertile women undergoing assisted reproductive techniques (ART) on the 14th day after embryo transfer, and to develop and establish a multivariable algorithm model that might predict pregnancy outcome. According to a nested case-control study design, a total of 100 miscarriage cases and 100 live birth controls were included in this study, and women in both groups were infertile and have underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF). Pregnancy tests were performed and serum levels of five essential trace elements (vanadium (V), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se) and molybdenum (Mo)) and five inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)) of the participants were measured on the 14th day after embryo transfer. The serum levels of five inflammatory cytokines were determined by multiple magnetic bead enzyme immunity analyzer; and the serum concentrations of five elements were determined simultaneously by inductively coupled plasma‒mass spectrometry (ICP ‒ MS). The logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between these serum indices and miscarriage risk among women undergoing ART, and a predictive model of pregnancy outcome based on these indices was established. The levels of IL-10, IL-1β and TNF-α of infertile women in the live birth group were significantly higher than those in the miscarriage group (p = 0.009, p < 0.001, p = 0.006), and the levels of V, Cu, Zn and Se of infertile women in the live birth group were also significantly higher than those in the miscarriage group (all p < 0.001). Through logistic regression analyses, we found that serum levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, V, Cu, Zn and Se were significantly and negatively associated with miscarriage risk. Different combination prediction models were generated according to the results of logistic regression analyses, and the combination of IL-1β, Cu and Zn had the best prediction performance. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.776, the sensitivity of the model was 60% and the specificity was 84%. In conclusion, the serum-related indicators of women undergoing ART on the 14th day after embryo transfer, including the inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and TNF-α and the essential trace metal elements such as V, Cu, Zn and Se, were negatively correlated with miscarriage risk. A multivariate algorithm model to predict pregnancy outcome among women undergoing ART was established, which showed that IL-1β, Cu and Zn might synergistically predict pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Hu
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Dongyang Zhang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 678 Furong Road, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, China
| | - Tao Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Shitao He
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Mengzhu Li
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Xinyu Yue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Guiying Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Dongmei Ji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Yanli Ji
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Chunmei Liang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Osadchuk L, Kleshchev M, Osadchuk A. Effects of cigarette smoking on semen quality, reproductive hormone levels, metabolic profile, zinc and sperm DNA fragmentation in men: results from a population-based study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1255304. [PMID: 37920251 PMCID: PMC10619690 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1255304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cigarette smoking seems to have a negative impact on men's reproductive health, but our knowledge of its effects on the reproductive function of Russian men is still very limited. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of cigarette smoking on semen quality, including sperm DNA fragmentation, hormonal, zinc and metabolic status in young men from the general multi-ethnic Russian population (n=1,222, median age 23 years) and to find out the ethno-specific effects of smoking by comparing male groups of different ethnicity. Methods Each participant filled out a standardized questionnaire, provided one blood and semen sample. Semen parameters, serum reproductive hormones, lipids, glucose, uric acid and seminal zinc were analyzed. Participants were classified as smokers (n=450) and non-smokers (n=772), and smokers were stratified into moderate (≤10 cigarettes/day) and heavy (>10 cigarettes/day) smokers. Results In the entire study population, heavy smokers were characterized by a decrease in semen volume, total sperm count, sperm concentration and motility, and an increase in sperm DNA fragmentation and teratozoospermia compared with non-smokers (p<0.05). There was also a reduction in the serum and seminal zinc level as well as an impairment in metabolic health in smokers compared with non-smokers (p<0.05). No significant differences between smokers and non-smokers were found for serum levels of LH, FSH, inhibin B, testosterone and estradiol. In the second part of our study, the most numerous ethnic groups of Slavs (n=654), Buryats (n=191), and Yakuts (n=125) were selected from the entire study population. Among three ethnic groups, the smoking intensity was higher in Slavs than in Buryats or Yakuts suggesting a greater tobacco addiction in Slavs than in Asians. A decrease in semen parameters and seminal zinc levels, and an increase in sperm DNA fragmentation and teratozoospermia was observed only in smoking Slavs (p<0.05); moderate decrease in testosterone and increase in triglyceride levels were revealed in smoking Yakuts (p<0.05), but no significant changes were detected in smoking Buryats. Conclusion We concluded that cigarette smoking has an ethno-specific effect on male reproductive function, probably due to the different activity of the seminal antioxidant system, which is yet to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludmila Osadchuk
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Federal Research Center 'Institute of Cytology and Genetics', the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Maxim Kleshchev
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Federal Research Center 'Institute of Cytology and Genetics', the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander Osadchuk
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Federal Research Center 'Institute of Cytology and Genetics', the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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17
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Zhu B, Yang C, Liu D, Zhi Q, Hua ZC. Zinc depletion induces JNK/p38 phosphorylation and suppresses Akt/mTOR expression in acute promyelocytic NB4 cells. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2023; 79:127264. [PMID: 37473591 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2023.127264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myeloid leukemia is associated with reduced serum zinc and increased intracellular zinc. Our previous studies found that zinc depletion by TPEN induced apoptosis with PML-RARα oncoprotein degradation in acute promyelocytic NB4 cells. The effect of zinc homeostasis on intracellular signaling pathways in myeloid leukemia cells remains unclear. OBJECTIVE This study examined how zinc homeostasis affected MAPK and Akt/mTOR pathways in NB4 cells. METHODS We used western blotting to detect the activation of p38 MAPK, JNK, ERK1/2, and Akt/mTOR pathways in NB4 cells stimulated with the zinc chelator TPEN. Whether the effects of TPEN on these pathways could be reversed by zinc or the nitric oxide donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was further explored by western blotting. We used Zinpyr-1 staining to assess the role of SNP on labile zinc levels in NB4 cells treated with TPEN. In additional, we evaluated expressional correlations between the zinc-binding protein Metallothionein-2A (MT2A) and genes related to MAPKs and Akt/mTOR pathways in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) based on the TCGA database. RESULTS Zinc depletion by TPEN activated p38 and JNK phosphorylation in NB4 cells, whereas ERK1/2 phosphorylation was increased first and then decreased. The protein expression levels of Akt and mTOR were downregulated by TPEN. The nitric oxide donor SNP promotes zinc release in NB4 cells under zinc depletion conditions. We further found that the effects of zinc depletion on MAPK and Akt/mTOR pathways in NB4 cells can be reversed by exogenous zinc supplementation or treatment with the nitric oxide donor SNP. By bioinformatics analyses based on the TCGA database, we demonstrated that MT2A expression was negatively correlated with the expression of JNK, and was positively correlated with the expression of ERK1 and Akt in AML. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that zinc plays a critical role in leukemia cells and help understanding how zinc depletion induces apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhu
- School of Biopharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, PR China.
| | - Chunhao Yang
- School of Biopharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, PR China
| | - Dekang Liu
- School of Medicine, and Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Qi Zhi
- School of Medicine, and Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, PR China
| | - Zi-Chun Hua
- School of Biopharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
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18
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Navale GR, Rana A, Saini S, Singh S, Saini R, Chaudhary VK, Roy P, Ghosh K. An efficient fluorescence chemosensor for sensing Zn(II) ions and applications in cell imaging and detection of Zn(II) induced aggregation of PrP(106–126) peptide. J Photochem Photobiol A Chem 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotochem.2023.114703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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19
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Tousizadeh S, Mohammadi-Moghadam F, Sadeghi R, Ahmadi A, Shakeri K. Investigation of the levels of essential and non-essential metals in women with and without abortion history: A study based on the Persian population of the Shahrekord cohort. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 329:138434. [PMID: 37001760 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous abortion is a serious threat to the mothers' physical and mental well-being. The cause of spontaneous abortion is multifactorial disease. Prenatal non-essential metal exposure, particularly heavy metals, has been suggested to be associated with adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the concentration of essential and non-essential metals including Pb, As, Zn, and Se and the risk of spontaneous abortion. In this case-control study the levels of Pb, As, Zn, and Se in the whole blood of 60 women with spontaneous abortion (case group) and also 60 women without spontaneous abortion (control group) were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results revealed statistically significant reductions (P < 0.001) in whole blood levels of Zn and Se as well as the levels of As and Pb had a substantial elevation (P < 0.001) in cases compared to controls. According to the findings, repeated spontaneous abortion may be influenced by increasing whole blood levels of heavy metals such as As (OR = 17.53, P = 0.001) and Pb (OR = 15.58, P = 0.001) as well as decreasing levels of vital micronutrients Zn (OR = 0.20, P = 0.001) and Se (OR = 0.14, P = 0.001). The results of this study support the idea that limiting intake of non-essential metals during pregnancy can decrease the risk of spontaneous abortion. Overall, the information presented is expected to help plan future fundamental and applied investigations on the spontaneous abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Tousizadeh
- Student Research Committee, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Fazel Mohammadi-Moghadam
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran; Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ramezan Sadeghi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran.
| | - Ali Ahmadi
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Kobra Shakeri
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
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20
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Huang A, Hu A, Li L, Ma C, Yang T, Gao H, Zhu C, Cai Z, Qiu X, Xu J, Shen J, Zhong L, Chen G. Effect of Zn 2+ on emodin molecules studied by time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 289:122217. [PMID: 36529043 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.122217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Emodin is a natural drug for treating neurodegenerative diseases and plays a vital role in the mitigation of nerve damage. Metal ions can modify the drug properties of emodin, where Zn2+ can synergize with the emodin molecule and enhance the drug effect of emodin. Besides, complex changes can be observed in the fluorescence intensity and fluorescence lifetime of the emodin molecule as the concentration of Zn2+ increases. Herein, the synergistic effects of ligand structural in Zn(II)-Emodin complexes and the electronic effects of metal elements on the antioxidant properties of the complexes are discussed in detail based on UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, time-correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) technique and quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level. The experimental results confirm that Zn2+ can coordinate with the hydroxyl groups on the emodin to make the molecule structure more rigid, thus inhibiting the non-radiative processes such as high-frequency vibrations of the emodin molecule in solution. The suppression of non-radiative processes leads to an increase in the average fluorescence lifetime of the emodin molecule, and finally results in the enhanced fluorescence intensity. The chemical softness of Zn(II)-Emodin is then confirmed to be higher than that of emodin by Gaussian calculations, indicating its higher chemical reactivity and lower stability. The stronger electron donating ability of Zn(II)-Emodin compared to emodin may explain the higher antioxidant activity of Zn(II)-Emodin, which gives it a stronger pharmacological activity. The results of this study show that emodin can well complex with Zn2+ to remove excess Zn2+ in human body and the resulting complex has better antioxidant properties, which helps to understand the role of Zn2+ in drug-metal coordination and provides guidance for the design of new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anlan Huang
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Anqi Hu
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Lei Li
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Chaoqun Ma
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Taiqun Yang
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Hui Gao
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Chun Zhu
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Zicheng Cai
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Xiaoqian Qiu
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Jinzeng Xu
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Jialu Shen
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Lvyuan Zhong
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China
| | - Guoqing Chen
- School of Science, Jiangnan University, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China; Jiangsu Provincial Research Center of Light Industrial Optoelectronic Engineering and Technology, Lihu Avenue 1800, 214122 Wuxi, China.
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21
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Wu Y, Chao Y, Miao Y, Li Y, Xu T, Li S, Peng J. Time-resolved ICP-MS analysis of mineral element contents and distribution patterns in spermatogenic cells of different types. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1255:341054. [PMID: 37032047 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Mineral elements play an important role in the spermatogenesis, maturation, and fertilization of sperm. It is of great scientific significance to study the role of mineral elements in spermatogenesis by accurately measuring the content of elements in different spermatogenic cells and analyzing the distribution pattern of elements in spermatogenesis. Here, time-resolved inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to analyze the content and distribution patterns of mineral elements in spermatogenic cells of different types at the single cell level. Firstly, spermatogonia, spermatocytes, round spermatids and elongating spermatids were successfully isolated from testis of mice of different weeks of age by differential adherent method and discontinuous bovine serum albumin (BSA) density gradient method. Then, signal profiles and elemental distributions of 24Mg, 31P, 52Cr, 55Mn, 56Fe and 66Zn in spermatogenic cells were obtained with dwell time at 0.1 ms. Based on the results of acid digestion, we derived a formula to calculate element content in single cell from peak area for each element, and the feasibility and universality of the formula in the quantitative detection of single cell elements were verified by sperm samples to a certain extent. The detection results of element content in single cell showed that the content of 31P in elongating spermatids was significantly higher than that in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and round spermatids (P < 0.01), and the distribution range was wider. However, the 52Cr and 56Fe content of elongating spermatids was lower than that of spermatogonia, spermatocytes and round spermatids (P < 0.05). When spermatogonia developed into round spermatids, the contents of 55Mn and 66Zn in single cell increased significantly (P < 0.05), then decreased to the lowest in elongating spermatids. In addition, the significant decrease of 52Cr, 55Mn, 56Fe and 66Zn content in elongating spermatids also be visually observed from the center of the fitting curve of the element signal intensity distribution moving to the left. This study provides an elemental view of the changes in elemental content at various stages of spermatogenesis at the single-cell level. Time-resolved ICP-MS is used to detect mineral elements content and distribution patterns in spermatogenic cells of testis, which is helpful to better explore the stages and modes of action of various elements in spermatogenesis, and provide direct evidence for revealing the effects of element content changes on spermatogenesis and semen quality regulation.
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22
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Rodríguez-Díaz R, Blanes-Zamora R, Vaca-Sánchez R, Gómez-Rodríguez J, Hardisson A, González-Weller D, Gutiérrez ÁJ, Paz S, Rubio C, González-Dávila E. Influence of Seminal Metals on Assisted Reproduction Outcome. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:1120-1134. [PMID: 35543968 PMCID: PMC9898355 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03256-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Increased levels of metal ions in human seminal fluid have a significant correlation with male fertility. Few publications explain the effect of metals in semen and their influence on assisted reproductive treatments. Semen parameters and the levels of twenty-two metals were measured in the seminal fluid of 102 men attended in a Reproductive Unit. Metals were determined by optical emission spectrophotometry. A statistical relationship was found between spermiogram and iron, which was lower than expected in pathological spermiograms (p = 0.032); zinc (p = 0.066), calcium (p = 0.047), and magnesium (p = 0.048) mean levels were higher in normozoospermics. More days of sexual abstinence correlates with higher seminal zinc (p = 0.001) and magnesium levels (p = 0.002). Lower vanadium values were found to be associated with higher fertilization rates (p = 0.039). Higher values of lead (p = 0.052) and vanadium (p = 0.032) were obtained in patients who did not reach 100% embryo cleavage rate. Aluminium (p = 0.042) and sodium (p = 0.002) were found in lower amounts associated with better blastocyst rates. The implantation rate shows an inverse association with women's age and iron and calcium content, compared to magnesium and sodium which presented a significant direct association with this percentage. A significant direct relationship was found between the positive evolution of pregnancy and the values of zinc (p = 0.004), calcium (p = 0.013), potassium (p = 0.002), and magnesium (p = 0.009). The study confirms that zinc, iron, calcium, sodium, aluminium, magnesium, vanadium, and lead have positive-negative effects on reproduction and support the analysis of metals in semen as a new line of study on male fertility with implications for reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubí Rodríguez-Díaz
- Human Reproduction Unit, Canary Islands University Hospital, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain.
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.
| | - Raquel Blanes-Zamora
- Human Reproduction Unit, Canary Islands University Hospital, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Rebeca Vaca-Sánchez
- Human Reproduction Unit, Canary Islands University Hospital, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Jorge Gómez-Rodríguez
- Human Reproduction Unit, Canary Islands University Hospital, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Spain
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Arturo Hardisson
- Toxicology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Ángel J Gutiérrez
- Toxicology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Soraya Paz
- Toxicology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Carmen Rubio
- Toxicology, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - E González-Dávila
- Mathematics, Statistics and Operations Research, University of La Laguna, San Cristobal de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Moringa olifera Ethanolic Extract Lessens Acrylamide-Induced Testicular Damage, Apoptosis, and Steroidogenesis-Related Gene Dysregulation in Adult Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12020361. [PMID: 36829920 PMCID: PMC9952201 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12020361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the possible protective role of green synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles using Moringa olifera leaf extract (MO-ZNPs) in acrylamide (ACR)-induced reproductive dysfunctions in male rats. ACR (20 mg/kg b.wt/day) and/or MO-ZNPs (10 mg/kg b.wt/day) were given orally by gastric gavage for 60 days. Then, sperm parameters; testicular enzymes; oxidative stress markers; reproductive hormones including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH)-estradiol, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration; testis histology; steroidogenesis-related gene expression; and apoptotic markers were examined. The findings revealed that MO-ZNPs significantly ameliorated the ACR-induced decline in the gonadosomatic index and altered the pituitary-gonadal axis, reflected by decreased serum testosterone and FSH with increased estradiol and LH, and sperm analysis disruption. Furthermore, a notable restoration of the tissue content of antioxidants (catalase and reduced glutathione) but depletion of malondialdehyde was evident in MO-ZNPs+ACR-treated rats compared to ACR-exposed ones. In addition, MO-ZNPs oral dosing markedly rescued the histopathological changes and apoptotic caspase-3 reactions in the testis resulting from ACR exposure. Furthermore, in MO-ZNPs+ACR-treated rats, ACR-induced downregulation of testicular steroidogenesis genes and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immune-expression were reversed. Conclusively, MO-ZNPs protected male rats from ACR-induced reproductive toxicity by suppressing oxidative injury and apoptosis while boosting steroidogenesis and sex hormones.
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Huang J, Hu L, Yang J. Dietary zinc intake and body mass index as modifiers of the association between household pesticide exposure and infertility among US women: a population-level study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:20327-20336. [PMID: 36251185 PMCID: PMC9574790 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23629-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Clinical studies on the relationship between pesticide exposure at home and infertility in the general population are scarce. Whether the antioxidant nutrients or other health-related factors affect the pesticide-infertility relationship remains unknown. This nationwide study screened 29,400 participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys conducted between 2013 and 2018. The participants were subdivided according to dietary zinc intake based on the recommended dietary allowances as the low-zinc and high-zinc groups (< 8 and ≥ 8 mg/day, respectively), and according to body mass index (BMI; cut-off 28 kg/m2) as the low-BMI and high-BMI groups. Participants who were exposed to pesticides at home had an increased risk of infertility (odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 1.06-2.29). The incidence of infertility differed in low-zinc and high-zinc groups (OR, 95% CI: 2.38, 1.40-4.06 vs. 0.98, 0.53-1.79, respectively), indicating an interaction between pesticide exposure and zinc intake in households (P = 0.047), which suggests that a zinc-rich diet may reduce the risk of pesticide-induced infertility. Similarly, the relationship between pesticide exposure and infertility risk differed in the low-BMI and high-BMI groups (OR, 95% CI: 0.90, 0.42-1.93 vs. 2.23, 1.39-3.58, respectively; P = 0.045), suggesting that high BMI may intensify the infertility risk caused by pesticide exposure. These new findings reveal the antagonistic and synergistic effect of zinc and obesity, respectively, in pesticide-induced infertility risk and suggest that individuals who are obese and on a low-zinc diet may be more susceptible to infertility induced by household pesticide exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Disease-Related Gene, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Shaanxi Xi’an, 710061 China
- Ganzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Ganzhou, 341000 China
| | - Liqin Hu
- Ganzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Province, Ganzhou, 341000 China
| | - Juan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Disease-Related Gene, Ministry of Education, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Shaanxi Xi’an, 710061 China
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25
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Dadgar Z, Shariatzadeh SMA, Mehranjani MS, Kheirolahi A. The therapeutic effect of co-administration of pentoxifylline and zinc in men with idiopathic infertility. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:431-439. [PMID: 35182288 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-02931-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pentoxifylline is a derivative of methylxanthine that affects sperm motility. Also, zinc is an antioxidant that is involved in the activation of antioxidant enzymes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of co-administration of pentoxifylline, and zinc in men with idiopathic infertility. In the present study, men with idiopathic infertility were identified and randomly divided into four groups: pentoxifylline, zinc, pentoxifylline + zinc, and placebo. According to the grouping, the patients received pentoxifylline and zinc for 3 months. Then, sperm parameters, biochemical factors, reproductive hormones, inflammatory factors, and DNA damage were evaluated before and after intervention. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. Pentoxifylline and zinc were significantly effective in improving biochemical parameters, inflammatory factors, concentration, and motility of sperm. Pentoxifylline did not affect sperm morphology and reproductive hormones. However, in the zinc and zinc + pentoxifylline groups, a significant increase in normal morphology and reproductive hormones was observed. In the pentoxifylline group, sperm DNA fragmentation increased significantly, while in the zinc and zinc + pentoxifylline group, DNA fragmentation reduced significantly. Because of the role of zinc in protecting sperm chromatin, it is recommended that zinc and pentoxifyllinebe prescribed simultaneously. Clinical trial code: NCT05156684.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynab Dadgar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | | | | | - Abdolreza Kheirolahi
- Department of Urology, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
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26
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Sree CG, Buddolla V, Lakshmi BA, Kim YJ. Phthalate toxicity mechanisms: An update. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 263:109498. [PMID: 36374650 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2022.109498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates are one of the most widely used plasticizers in polymer products, and they are increasingly being exposed to people all over the world, generating health concerns. Phthalates are often used as excipients in controlled-release capsules and enteric coatings, and patients taking these drugs may be at risk. In both animals and human, phthalates are mainly responsible for testicular dysfunction, ovarian toxicity, reduction in steroidogenesis. In this regard, for a better understanding of the health concerns corresponding to phthalates and their metabolites, still more research is required. Significantly, multifarious forms of phthalates and their biomedical effects are need to be beneficial to investigate in the various tissues or organs. Based on these investigations, researchers can decipher their toxicity concerns and related mechanisms in the body after phthalate's exposure. This review summarizes the chemical interactions, mechanisms, and their biomedical applications of phthalates in animals and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chendruru Geya Sree
- Dr. Buddolla's Institute of Life Sciences, Tirupati 517503, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Viswanath Buddolla
- Dr. Buddolla's Institute of Life Sciences, Tirupati 517503, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Buddolla Anantha Lakshmi
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-Do 13120, Republic of Korea.
| | - Young-Joon Kim
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Gachon University, 1342 Seongnam-Daero, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-Do 13120, Republic of Korea.
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Xu S, Wu Y, Chen Y, Lu W, Wang YX, Gao B, Zhang J. Environmental metal exposure, seminal plasma metabolome and semen quality: Evidence from Chinese reproductive-aged men. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:155860. [PMID: 35595136 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.155860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Environmental metal exposure has been associated with decreasing semen quality, but the effects of multiple metal exposure on seminal plasma metabolome remain obscure. In this study, semen and repeated urine samples from 551 volunteers were collected in Wuhan City. Heavy metals and trace elements were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer, and seminal plasma metabolomes were acquired using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis showed more than half of the seminal plasma metals were associated with specific metabolite modules, whereas only a few urine metals presented weak associations, indicating that seminal plasma may be an ideal biological sample for male reproductive biomarker discovery and exposure risk assessment. Seminal plasma zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) concentrations were significantly associated with 22 metabolites (e.g., glycerophospholipids, acyl-carnitines and amino acid derivatives). Among these metabolites, acyl-carnitines were positively associated with semen quality and sperm concentration. Moreover, acyl-carnitines were associated with both Zn and Se exposure, indicating the potential role of carnitine pathway in their toxicity mechanism. Our findings suggest that seminal plasma metabolome connects Zn and Se exposure and sperm concentrations in Chinese men of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yaru Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yujie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wenqing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Departments of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Biling Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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Maciejewski R, Radzikowska-Büchner E, Flieger W, Kulczycka K, Baj J, Forma A, Flieger J. An Overview of Essential Microelements and Common Metallic Nanoparticles and Their Effects on Male Fertility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191711066. [PMID: 36078782 PMCID: PMC9518444 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Numerous factors affect reproduction, including stress, diet, obesity, the use of stimulants, or exposure to toxins, along with heavy elements (lead, silver, cadmium, uranium, vanadium, mercury, arsenic). Metals, like other xenotoxins, can cause infertility through, e.g., impairment of endocrine function and gametogenesis or excess production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The advancement of nanotechnology has created another hazard to human safety through exposure to metals in the form of nanomaterials (NMs). Nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit a specific ability to penetrate cell membranes and biological barriers in the human body. These ultra-fine particles (<100 nm) can enter the human body through the respiratory tract, food, skin, injection, or implantation. Once absorbed, NPs are transported to various organs through the blood or lymph. Absorbed NPs, thanks to ultrahigh reactivity compared to bulk materials in microscale size, disrupt the homeostasis of the body as a result of interaction with biological molecules such as DNA, lipids, and proteins; interfering with the functioning of cells, organs, and physiological systems; and leading to severe pathological dysfunctions. Over the past decades, much research has been performed on the reproductive effects of essential trace elements. The research hypothesis that disturbances in the metabolism of trace elements are one of the many causes of infertility has been unquestionably confirmed. This review examines the complex reproductive risks for men regarding the exposure to potentially harmless xenobiotics based on a series of 298 articles over the past 30 years. The research was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases searching for papers devoted to in vivo and in vitro studies related to the influence of essential elements (iron, selenium, manganese, cobalt, zinc, copper, and molybdenum) and widely used metallic NPs on male reproduction potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wojciech Flieger
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Kinga Kulczycka
- Institute of Health Sciences, John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-708 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Alicja Forma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, ul. Jaczewskiego 8B, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Flieger
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4A, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-81448-7182
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29
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Liu H, Huang Z, Zheng H, Zhu Z, Yang H, Liu X, Pang T, He L, Lin H, Hu L, Zeng Q, Han L. Jiawei Runjing Decoction Improves Spermatogenesis of Cryptozoospermia With Varicocele by Regulating the Testicular Microenvironment: Two-Center Prospective Cohort Study. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:945949. [PMID: 36016555 PMCID: PMC9395676 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.945949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the study was to explore the evidence of JWRJD in the treatment of cryptozoospermia. Methods: A total of 162 cryptozoospermia patients with varicocele who refused to undergo surgery were included from January 2021 to December 2021. They were divided into the Jiawei Runjing Decoction group (group A), tamoxifen group (group B), and no treatment group (group C), and after the follow-up for 3 months, therapeutic effectiveness was compared. Network pharmacology was used to analyze and validate the effects and mechanisms of JWRJD. Results: Fifty-eight patients were treated with JWRJD, 55 with tamoxifen, and 49 without any treatment. After treatment, five patients were lost: one in group A, one in group B, and three in group C. The sperm count and the decrease of FSH in group A were significantly higher, but the degree of decline in the testicular volume and the degree of vein expansion have decreased significantly, which were closely related to the testicular volume (TV) [especially changes in the left testicular volume (ΔL-TV)], citric acid (CC) and its changes (ΔCC), and the vein width (VW) [especially left spermatic vein width (L-VW) and mean vein width (M-VW) and their changes (ΔL-VW and ΔM-VW)], as well as the sperm count before the treatment (bSC), which were the significant indexes to predict the therapeutic effect, especially for patients >35 years old and with grade III varicoceles. Network pharmacological analysis verifies that it can be regulated by fluid shear stress and the atherosclerosis pathway to improve the testicular microenvironment for spermatogenesis. Conclusion: JWRJD may promote spermatogenesis in cryptozoospermia patients with varicocele, which may be closely related to improving the testicular microenvironment, especially for >35 year olds and grade III varicocele patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongwang Huang
- Department of Andrology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Houbin Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyong Zhu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Ultrasonography, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingzhang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Pang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai Lin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Andrology, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingqi Zeng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Jiangsu Health Vocational College, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Qingqi Zeng, ; Lanying Han,
| | - Lanying Han
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute (Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital), Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Qingqi Zeng, ; Lanying Han,
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30
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Peng C, Cheng Q, Liu Y, Zhang Z, Wang Z, Ma H, Liu D, Wang L, Wang C. Marginal Zinc Deficiency in Mice Increased the Number of Abnormal Sperm and Altered the Expression Level of Spermatogenesis-Related Genes. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:3738-3749. [PMID: 34676520 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-02979-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Marginal zinc deficiency is more common than severe zinc deficiency, and the effect of marginal zinc deficiency on male reproduction is unknown. This study investigated the effect of marginal zinc deficiency on spermatogenesis and its mechanism. Male ICR mice were fed normal zinc (30 mg/kg) and marginal zinc deficiency (10 mg/kg) diets for 35 days. Zinc-dependent proteins and enzymes were measured as biomarkers of zinc levels in the body. Metallothionein and Cu-Zn SOD levels in the control group were higher than those in the marginal zinc deficiency group. Hematoxylin and eosin staining showed that the marginal zinc deficiency diet caused histopathological changes in the testis and destruction of the sperm head under scanning electron microscopy. Sperm parameters and sex hormone levels were also affected by marginal zinc deficiency. In addition, marginal zinc deficiency led to alter expression level of several important spermatogenesis-related genes in the epididymis and testes. These results indicate that although zinc intake in marginal zinc deficiency is close to the recommended reference value, low zinc intake interferes with the expression of genes related to spermatogenesis and may lead to sperm abnormalities in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Peng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Cheng
- Angel Nutritech Company Limited, Yichang, 443000, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Youjiao Liu
- Angel Nutritech Company Limited, Yichang, 443000, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoyu Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqiong Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Haitao Ma
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Duanya Liu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunhong Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Heterogeneous Immunolocalisation of Zinc Transporters ZIP6, ZIP10 and ZIP14 in Human Normo- and Asthenozoospermic Spermatozoa. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:3444-3454. [PMID: 36005133 PMCID: PMC9406340 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44080237] [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: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc (in the form of Zn2+) is necessary for male fertility. Both Zn2+ quantity and its localisation have been detected in seminal plasma and ejaculated spermatozoa, suggesting its active uptake via zinc import transporters (ZIPs). Immunofluorescence was used to characterise the expression and localisation of three distinct types of ZIP transporters in ejaculated spermatozoa of normo- and asthenozoospermic sperm samples. ZIP6, ZIP10 and ZIP14 showed heterogeneous sperm cell expression and different compartmental distribution. In both types of sperm samples, ZIP6 and ZIP14 were predominantly localised in the sperm head, while ZIP10 was found along the sperm tail. Compartmental localisation of ZIPs in asthenozoospermia was not changed. However, regarding sub-compartmental localisation in sperm head regions, for ZIP6 asthenozoospermia only decreased its acorn/crescent-like pattern. In contrast, ZIP14 immunostaining was altered in favour of crescent-like, as opposed to acorn-like and acorn/crescent-like patterns. The specific ZIPs localisation may reflect their different roles in sperm cell integrity and motility and may change over time. This is the first report of their specific compartmental and sub-compartmental localisation in ejaculated human sperm cells. Further research will lead to a greater understanding of the roles of ZIPs in sperm cell biology, which could positively influence procedures for human infertility therapy.
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32
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Lawlor M, Zigo M, Kerns K, Cho IK, Easley IV CA, Sutovsky P. Spermatozoan Metabolism as a Non-Traditional Model for the Study of Huntington’s Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137163. [PMID: 35806166 PMCID: PMC9266437 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington’s Disease (HD) is a fatal autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disease manifested through motor dysfunction and cognitive deficits. Decreased fertility is also observed in HD animal models and HD male patients, due to altered spermatogenesis and sperm function, thus resulting in reduced fertilization potential. Although some pharmaceuticals are currently utilized to mitigate HD symptoms, an effective treatment that remedies the pathogenesis of the disease is yet to be approved by the FDA. Identification of genes and relevant diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic target pathways including glycolysis and mitochondrial complex-I-dependent respiration may be advantageous for early diagnosis, management, and treatment of the disease. This review addresses the HD pathway in neuronal and sperm metabolism, including relevant gene and protein expression in both neurons and spermatozoa, indicated in the pathogenesis of HD. Furthermore, zinc-containing and zinc-interacting proteins regulate and/or are regulated by zinc ion homeostasis in both neurons and spermatozoa. Therefore, this review also aims to explore the comparative role of zinc in both neuronal and sperm function. Ongoing studies aim to characterize the products of genes implicated in HD pathogenesis that are expressed in both neurons and spermatozoa to facilitate studies of future treatment avenues in HD and HD-related male infertility. The emerging link between zinc homeostasis and the HD pathway could lead to new treatments and diagnostic methods linking genetic sperm defects with somatic comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Lawlor
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - In Ki Cho
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Charles A. Easley IV
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA; (I.K.C.); (C.A.E.IV)
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; (M.L.); (M.Z.); (K.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(573)-882-3329
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33
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Gomes SIL, de Boer TE, van Gestel CAM, van Straalen NM, Soares AMVM, Roelofs D, Amorim MJB. Molecular mechanisms of zinc toxicity in the potworm Enchytraeus crypticus, analysed by high-throughput gene expression profiling. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 825:153975. [PMID: 35183636 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is known to be relatively toxic to some soil-living invertebrates including the ecologically important enchytraeid worms. To reveal the molecular mechanisms of zinc toxicity we assessed the gene expression profile of Enchytraeus crypticus (Enchytraeidae), exposed to the reproduction effect concentrations EC10 and EC50, over 4 consecutive days, using a high-throughput microarray (species customized). Three main mechanisms of toxicity to Zn were observed: 1) Zn trafficking (upregulation of zinc transporters, a defence response to regulate the cellular zinc level), 2) oxidative stress (variety of defence mechanisms, triggered by Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)), and 3) effects on the nervous system (possibly the primary lesion explaining the avoidance behaviour and also why enchytraeids are relatively susceptible to Zn). The adverse outcome at the organism level (reproduction EC50) could be predicted based on gene expression (male gonad development, oocyte maturation), with Zn at the EC50 affecting processes related to higher stress levels. The gene expression response was time-dependent and reflected the cascade of events taking place over-time. The 1 to 4 days of exposure design was a good strategy as it captured the time for sequence of events towards zinc adverse outcomes in E. crypticus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana I L Gomes
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tjalf E de Boer
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; MicroLife Solutions, Science Park 406, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nico M van Straalen
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Amadeu M V M Soares
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Dick Roelofs
- Department of Ecological Science, Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; KeyGene, Agro Business Park 90, 6708 PW, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mónica J B Amorim
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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34
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Zigo M, Kerns K, Sen S, Essien C, Oko R, Xu D, Sutovsky P. Zinc is a master-regulator of sperm function associated with binding, motility, and metabolic modulation during porcine sperm capacitation. Commun Biol 2022; 5:538. [PMID: 35660793 PMCID: PMC9166710 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03485-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm capacitation is a post-testicular maturation step endowing spermatozoa with fertilizing capacity within the female reproductive tract, significant for fertility, reproductive health, and contraception. Recently discovered mammalian sperm zinc signatures and their changes during sperm in vitro capacitation (IVC) warranted a more in-depth study of zinc interacting proteins (further zincoproteins). Here, we identified 1752 zincoproteins, with 102 changing significantly in abundance (P < 0.05) after IVC. These are distributed across 8 molecular functions, 16 biological processes, and 22 protein classes representing 130 pathways. Two key, paradigm-shifting observations were made: i) during sperm capacitation, molecular functions of zincoproteins are both upregulated and downregulated within several molecular function categories; and ii) Huntington's and Parkinson's disease pathways were the two most represented, making spermatozoon a candidate model for studying neurodegenerative diseases. These findings highlight the importance of Zn2+ homeostasis in reproduction, offering new avenues in semen processing for human-assisted reproductive therapy, identification of somatic-reproductive comorbidities, and livestock breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011, USA
| | - Sidharth Sen
- Institute for Data Science and Informatics, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Clement Essien
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Richard Oko
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3 N6, Canada
| | - Dong Xu
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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35
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Age-Related Decline of Male Fertility: Mitochondrial Dysfunction and the Antioxidant Interventions. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050519. [PMID: 35631346 PMCID: PMC9143644 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050519] [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: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are structurally and functionally unique organelles in male gametes. Apparently, as the only organelles remaining in mature sperm, mitochondria not only produce adeno-sine triphosphate (ATP) through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to support sperm mobility, but also play key roles in regulating reactive oxidation species (ROS) signaling, calcium homeostasis, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and apoptosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is often associated with the aging process. Age-dependent alterations of the epididymis can cause alterations in sperm mitochondrial functioning. The resultant cellular defects in sperm have been implicated in male infertility. Among these, oxidative stress (OS) due to the overproduction of ROS in mitochondria may represent one of the major causes of these disorders. Excessive ROS can trigger DNA damage, disturb calcium homeostasis, impair OXPHOS, disrupt the integrity of the sperm lipid membrane, and induce apoptosis. Given these facts, scavenging ROS by antioxidants hold great potential in terms of finding promising therapeutic strategies to treat male infertility. Here, we summarize the progress made in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction, aging, and male infertility. The clinical potential of antioxidant interventions was also discussed.
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36
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Vickram S, Rohini K, Anbarasu K, Dey N, Jeyanthi P, Thanigaivel S, Issac PK, Arockiaraj J. Semenogelin, a coagulum macromolecule monitoring factor involved in the first step of fertilization: A prospective review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:951-962. [PMID: 35447263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Human male infertility affects approximately 1/10 couples worldwide, and its prevalence is found more in developed countries. Along with sperm cells, the secretions of the prostate, seminal vesicle and epididymis plays a major role in proper fertilization. Many studies have proven the functions of seminal vesicle secretions, especially semenogelin protein, as an optimiser for fertilization. Semenogelin provides the structural components for coagulum formation after ejaculation. It binds with eppin and is found to have major functions like motility of sperm, transporting the sperm safely in the immune rich female reproductive tract until the sperm cells reach the egg intact. The capacitation process is essential for proper fertilization and semenogelin involved in mediating capacitation in time. Also, it has control of events towards the first step in the fertilization process. It is a Zn ions binding protein, and Zn ions act as a cofactor that helps in the proper motility of sperm cells. Therefore, any imbalance in protein that automatically affect sperm physiology and fertility status. This review sheds a comprehensive and critical view on the significant functions of semenogelin in fertilization. This review can open up advanced proteomics research on semenogelin towards unravelling molecular mechanisms in fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundaram Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karunakaran Rohini
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Krishnan Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nibedita Dey
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanivelu Jeyanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 062, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sundaram Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Issac
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603 203 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Abror As Sidiqi A, Sarmin, Mona Airin C, Astuti P. The Effect of Zinc, Shell, and Fishbone Supplementations on Comb Width and Length of Bangkok Rooster. BIO WEB OF CONFERENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20224901003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bangkok rooster is a prestigious ornamental bird in Indonesia. Zinc and shell have an aromatase blocker effect that results in testosterone elevations. Additionally, fishbone contains rich protein for optimum biological functions. Serum testosterone regulates comb size in the chicken. This study aimed to investigate the effect of natural aromatase blockers and protein in the comb of Bangkok roosters. This experiment divided thirteen Bangkok roosters into control and treatment groups with zinc, fishbone-shell, and fishbone supplementations. The weekly comb lengthening and widening were intervals between week 0 and the measurement week in this study. The results suggested that fishbone and fishbone-shell supplementations escalated the comb lengthening. Fishbone–shell treatment significantly increased the comb lengthening in the second and fourth weeks (p < 0.05). The significant elongation change in the fishbone group only appeared in the second week (p < 0.05). Otherwise, the treatments produced lower comb widening in the roosters. Fishbone and fishbone-shell supplementation significantly caused a lower widening in every measurement week (p < 0.05). This study uncovered the effects of zinc, shell, and fishbone supplementations on reproductive phenotype in Bangkok roosters.
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Neamtu RI, Craina M, Dahma G, Popescu AV, Erimescu AG, Citu I, Dobrescu A, Horhat FG, Vulcanescu DD, Gorun F, Bernad ES, Motoc A, Citu IC. Heavy metal ion concentration in the amniotic fluid of preterm and term pregnancies from two cities with different industrial output. Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:111. [PMID: 34970334 PMCID: PMC8713173 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.11034] [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: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth and development of the fetus is a complex phenomenon that can be influenced by several variables. High quantities of heavy metal ions in the amniotic fluid have been linked to poor health, especially in industrial, polluted and poor areas. The aim of the present study was to assess the differences in the concentration of these ions between preterm (weeks 15-37) and term pregnancies (starting at week 37). Another objective was to compare pregnancies from two cities with different industry levels. Two sample lots from two Romanian cities were analyzed. A total of 100 patients from Timisoara were compared with 60 from Petrosani, a heavy industry city in Romania. Demographic data were collected, and amniocentesis was performed on all women. Lead (Pb), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) concentrations were assessed. Descriptive and analytical statistics were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test for non-parametric data and the Fisher's exact test for categorical data. In addition, categorical data was represented graphically. In the Timisoara cohort, the differences in heavy metal concentrations between preterm and term pregnancies were not statistically significant. In the Petrosani cohort, however, the concentrations of Zn (P=0.02606) and Cd (P=0.01512) were higher in preterm than in term pregnancies. When comparing the two cohorts as a whole, the concentration of Pb (P=0.04513), Cd (P=0.00002), As (P=0.03027) and Zn (P<0.00001) were higher in the patients from Petrosani than in those from Timisoara. Only Cu concentrations were higher in the Timisoara cohort (P<0.00001). The concentrations of Ni (P=0.78150) and Fe (P=0.44540) did not differ statistically. Thus, amniocentesis is an important diagnostic and exploratory tool in determining differences in the concentrations of elements such as heavy metal ions. Research over a longer period of time should be carried out to examine the relation between heavy metal ions concentration and possible postnatal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Ionut Neamtu
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marius Craina
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - George Dahma
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Alin Viorel Popescu
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adelina Geanina Erimescu
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioana Citu
- Department of Internal Medicine I, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Amadeus Dobrescu
- Department of Surgery, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin George Horhat
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (Multi-Rez), Microbiology Department, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.,Clinical Laboratory, 'Louis Turcanu' Emergency Hospital for Children, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Dan Dumitru Vulcanescu
- Multidisciplinary Research Center on Antimicrobial Resistance (Multi-Rez), Microbiology Department, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.,Clinical Laboratory, 'Louis Turcanu' Emergency Hospital for Children, 300011 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Florin Gorun
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Elena Silvia Bernad
- Department of Internal Medicine I, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Andrei Motoc
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.,Department of Anatomy and Embryology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Ioan Cosmin Citu
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology and Neonatology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
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Schmalbrock LJ, Weiss G, Rijntjes E, Reinschissler N, Sun Q, Schenk M, Schomburg L. Pronounced Trace Element Variation in Follicular Fluids of Subfertile Women Undergoing Assisted Reproduction. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13114134. [PMID: 34836389 PMCID: PMC8619388 DOI: 10.3390/nu13114134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Female subfertility is a growing concern, especially in view of an increasing prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) offer a perspective for pregnancy, but the outcome rate is still suboptimal. The trace elements (TE), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) are essential for fertility and development. We hypothesized that TE concentrations are related to oocyte quality and growth and affect pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing ART. Concentrations of TE were measured by total reflection X-ray fluorescence. Extracellular glutathione peroxidase 3 (GPX3) and selenoprotein P (SELENOP) were determined as additional Se biomarkers. Corresponding serum and follicular fluid (FF) samples were available from women with (n = 20) and without (n = 20) PCOS diagnosis undergoing hormone treatment within the ART procedure, respectively, and FF samples were classified into five groups based on morphological assessment. Serum showed higher TE concentrations than FF, and TE levels correlated positively between both matrices. Individual FF from the same women showed surprisingly high variability in TE concentration, and follicles without oocytes displayed the lowest TE concentrations. Both Se biomarkers GPX3 and SELENOP were present in FF and correlated positively to Se concentrations. Some notable relationships were observed between morphokinetic parameters, TE concentrations, and GPX3 activity. A slightly depressed serum Zn concentration was observed in PCOS. Our results indicate a direct relationship between TE in serum and FF, positive correlations between the three Se biomarkers in FF, and high variability between the FF from the same woman with the lowest TE concentrations in the follicles with the poorest quality. The differences observed in relation to PCOS diagnoses appear relatively minor. Collectively, the data support the notion that TE assessment of follicles may contribute to optimal oocyte selection and subsequently influence ART success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilly Johanna Schmalbrock
- Cardiovascular–Metabolic–Renal (CMR)—Research Center, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Hessische Straße 3-4, D-10115 Berlin, Germany; (L.J.S.); (E.R.); (Q.S.)
| | - Gregor Weiss
- Das Kinderwunsch Institut Schenk GmbH, Am Sendergrund 11, A-8143 Dobl, Austria; (G.W.); (N.R.)
| | - Eddy Rijntjes
- Cardiovascular–Metabolic–Renal (CMR)—Research Center, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Hessische Straße 3-4, D-10115 Berlin, Germany; (L.J.S.); (E.R.); (Q.S.)
| | - Nina Reinschissler
- Das Kinderwunsch Institut Schenk GmbH, Am Sendergrund 11, A-8143 Dobl, Austria; (G.W.); (N.R.)
| | - Qian Sun
- Cardiovascular–Metabolic–Renal (CMR)—Research Center, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Hessische Straße 3-4, D-10115 Berlin, Germany; (L.J.S.); (E.R.); (Q.S.)
| | - Michael Schenk
- Das Kinderwunsch Institut Schenk GmbH, Am Sendergrund 11, A-8143 Dobl, Austria; (G.W.); (N.R.)
- Correspondence: (M.S.); (L.S.)
| | - Lutz Schomburg
- Cardiovascular–Metabolic–Renal (CMR)—Research Center, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Hessische Straße 3-4, D-10115 Berlin, Germany; (L.J.S.); (E.R.); (Q.S.)
- Correspondence: (M.S.); (L.S.)
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40
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Asgharzadeh F, Roshan-Milani S, Fard AA, Ahmadi K, Saboory E, Pourjabali M, Chodari L, Amini M. The protective effect of zinc on morphine-induced testicular toxicity via p53 and Akt pathways: An in vitro and in vivo approach. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2021; 67:126776. [PMID: 33984544 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2021.126776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic use of morphine is associated with reproductive complications, such as hypogonadism and infertility. While the side effects of morphine have been extensively studied in the testis, much less is known regarding the effects of morphine on Sertoli cells and the effects of zinc on morphine-induced testicular injury as well as their underlying mechanisms. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of morphine (alone and co-administered with zinc) on cell viability and apoptosis of the testicular (Sertoli) cells as well as the tumor suppressor p53 and phosphorylated-protein kinase B (p-Akt) protein levels in both in vitro and in vivo models. METHODS Cultured Sertoli cells were exposed to morphine (23 μM), zinc (8 μM), and zinc prior to morphine and their effects on Sertoli cell viability and apoptosis were investigated. Morphine (3 mg/kg) and zinc (5 mg/kg, 1 h before morphine) were also injected intraperitoneally to rats and then the apoptotic changes in the testis were evaluated. RESULTS Cell viability and p-Akt protein levels decreased in morphine-treated cells, while apoptosis and p53 protein expression increased in these cells. Pretreatment with zinc recovered morphine-induced apoptotic effects, as well as over-expression of p53 and down-regulation of p-Akt. These findings were supported by a subsequent animal study. CONCLUSION The present data indicated the protective effect of zinc against morphine-induced testicular (Sertoli) cell toxicity via p53/Akt pathways in both in vivo and in vitro models and suggested the clinical importance of zinc on infertility among chronic opioid users and addicted men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Asgharzadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Shiva Roshan-Milani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Amin Abdollahzade Fard
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Kimia Ahmadi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Masoumeh Pourjabali
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Leila Chodari
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Neurophysiology Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Amini
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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