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Ahamba IS, Mary-Cynthia Ikele C, Kimpe L, Goswami N, Wang H, Li Z, Ren Z, Dong X. Unraveling the genetic and epigenetic landscape governing intramuscular fat deposition in rabbits: Insights and implications. FOOD CHEMISTRY. MOLECULAR SCIENCES 2024; 9:100222. [PMID: 39290671 PMCID: PMC11406001 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2024.100222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 08/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a predominant factor recognized to affect rabbit meat quality, directly impacting flavor, juiciness, and consumer preference. Despite its significance, the major interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors regulating IMF in rabbits remains largely unexplored. This review sheds light on this critical knowledge gap, offering valuable insights and future directions. We delve into the potential role of established candidate genes from other livestock (e.g. PPARγ, FABP4, and SCD) in rabbits, while exploring the identified novel genes of IMF in rabbits. Furthermore, we explored the quantitative trait loci studies in rabbit IMF and genomic selection approaches for improving IMF content in rabbits. Beyond genetics, this review unveils the exciting realm of epigenetic mechanisms modulating IMF deposition. We explored the potential of DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA-mediation as fingerprints for selecting rabbits with desirable IMF levels. Additionally, we explored the possibility of manipulating the epigenetic landscape through nutraceuticals interventions to promote favorable IMF depositions. By comprehensively deciphering the genomic and epigenetic terrain of rabbit intramuscular fat regulation, this study aims to assess the existing knowledge regarding the genetic and epigenetic factors that control the deposition of intramuscular fat in rabbits. By doing so, we identified gaps in the current research, and suggested potential areas for further investigation that would enhance the quality of rabbit meat. This can enable breeders to develop targeted breeding strategies, optimize nutrition, and create innovative interventions to enhance the quality of rabbit meat, meet consumer demands and increase market competitiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeanyi Solomon Ahamba
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | | | - Lionel Kimpe
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | - Naqash Goswami
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | - Zhen Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | - Zhanjun Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
| | - Xianggui Dong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, China
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Rafalska KT, Orzołek A, Ner-Kluza J, Wysocki P. A Comparison of White and Yellow Seminal Plasma Phosphoproteomes Obtained from Turkey ( Meleagris gallopavo) Semen. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9941. [PMID: 39337428 PMCID: PMC11432639 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25189941] [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: 08/07/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma is rich in proteins originating from various male reproductive organs. The phosphorylation of these proteins can significantly impact sperm motility, capacitation, and acrosome reaction. Phosphoproteomics identifies, catalogues, and characterizes phosphorylated proteins. The phosphoproteomic profiling of seminal plasma offers valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms that influence semen quality and male fertility. Thus, the aim of this study was a phosphoproteomic analysis of white and yellow turkey seminal plasma. The experimental material consisted of 100 ejaculates from BIG-6 turkeys between 39 and 42 weeks of age. The collected white and yellow turkey seminal plasmas were analyzed for total protein content; the activity of selected enzymes, i.e., alkaline phosphatase (ALP), acid phosphatase (ACP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT); and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Phosphoproteins were isolated from white and yellow seminal fluids, and the resulting protein fractions were separated by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting. Phosphorylated residues were immunodetected, and the isolated phosphoproteins were identified (nano LC-MS/MS). Yellow seminal plasmas were characterized by higher levels of total protein, GSH, and MDA, as well as higher levels of ALP, ACP, and GPx activity. There were no significant differences in the activity of SOD and CAT. A total of 113 phosphoproteins were identified in turkey seminal fluids. The functional analysis demonstrated that these phosphoproteins were mainly involved in oocyte fertilization, organization and metabolism of the actin cytoskeleton, amplification of the intracellular signal transduction pathway, general regulation of transport, vesicular transport, proteome composition of individual cellular compartments, and the organization and localization of selected cellular components and macromolecules. Increased phosphorylation of the fractions containing proteins encoded by SPARC, PPIB, TRFE, QSOX1, PRDX1, PRDX6, and FASN genes in white plasmas and the proteins encoded by CKB, ORM2, APOA1, SSC5D, RAP1B, CDC42, FTH, and TTH genes in yellow plasmas was observed based on differences in the optical density of selected bands. The obtained results indicate that the phosphorylation profiles of turkey seminal plasma proteins vary depending on the type of ejaculate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna T Rafalska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Orzołek
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Ner-Kluza
- Department of Biochemistry and Neurobiology, Faculty of Materials Science and Ceramics, AGH University, Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Wysocki
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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Zhang Y, Ding N, Cao J, Zhang J, Liu J, Zhang C, Jiang L. Proteomics and Metabolic Characteristics of Boar Seminal Plasma Extracellular Vesicles Reveal Biomarker Candidates Related to Sperm Motility. J Proteome Res 2024; 23:3764-3779. [PMID: 39067049 PMCID: PMC11385425 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.4c00060] [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] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Although seminal plasma extracellular vesicles (SPEVs) play important roles in sperm function, little is known about their metabolite compositions and roles in sperm motility. Here, we performed metabolomics and proteomics analysis of boar SPEVs with high or low sperm motility to investigate specific biomarkers affecting sperm motility. In total, 140 proteins and 32 metabolites were obtained through differentially expressed analysis and weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). Seven differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) (ADIRF, EPS8L1, PRCP, CD81, PTPRD, CSK, LOC100736569) and six differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) (adenosine, beclomethasone, 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, urea, 1-methyl-l-histidine, and palmitic acid) were also identified in WGCNA significant modules. Joint pathway analysis revealed that three DEPs (GART, ADCY7, and NTPCR) and two DEMs (urea and adenosine) were involved in purine metabolism. Our results suggested that there was significant correlation between proteins and metabolites, such as IL4I1 and urea (r = 0.86). Furthermore, we detected the expression level of GART, ADCY7, and CDC42 in sperm of two groups, which further verified the experimental results. This study revealed that several proteins and metabolites in SPEVs play important roles in sperm motility. Our results offered new insights into the complex mechanism of sperm motility and identified potential biomarkers for male reproductive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Ning Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Jinkang Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Jing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Chun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Li Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Animal Science & Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
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Sulc A, Czétány P, Máté G, Balló A, Semjén D, Szántó Á, Márk L. MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry Reveals Lipid Alterations in Physiological and Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome Human Testicular Tissue Sections. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8358. [PMID: 39125928 PMCID: PMC11313448 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158358] [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: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia, the absence of sperm cells in semen, affects around 15% of infertile males. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most common pathological lesion in the background of non-obstructive azoospermia and is characterised by the complete absence of germinal epithelium, with Sertoli cells exclusively present in the seminiferous tubules. Studies have shown a correlation between successful spermatogenesis and male fertility with lipid composition of spermatozoa, semen, seminal plasma or testis. The aim of this research was to discover the correlation between the Johnsen scoring system and phospholipid expressions in testicular cryosections of SCOS patients. MALDI imaging mass spectrometry is used to determine spatial distributions of molecular species, such as phospholipids. Phosphatidylcholines (PCs), phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs) and sphingomyelins (SMs) are the most abundant phospholipids in mammalian cells and testis. SMs, the structural components of plasma membranes, are crucial for spermatogenesis and sperm function. Plasmalogens, are unique PCs in testis with strong antioxidative properties. This study, using imaging mass spectrometry, demonstrates the local distribution of phospholipids, particularly SMs, PCs, plasmalogens and PEs in human testicular samples with SCOS for the first time. This study found a strong relationship between the Johnsen scoring system and phospholipid expression levels in human testicular tissues. Future findings could enable routine diagnostic techniques during microTESE procedures for successful sperm extraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Sulc
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
| | - Péter Czétány
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
- Urology Clinic, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gábor Máté
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
- Pannon Reproduction Institute, 8300 Tapolca, Hungary
| | - András Balló
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
- Urology Clinic, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Dávid Semjén
- Institute of Pathology, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Árpád Szántó
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
- Urology Clinic, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary
| | - László Márk
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
- National Laboratory on Human Reproduction, University of Pécs, 7622 Pécs, Hungary; (P.C.); (G.M.); (A.B.); (Á.S.)
- Imaging Centre for Life and Material Sciences, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- HUN-REN-PTE, Human Reproduction Research Group, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Guerra-Carvalho B, Carrageta DF, Maurício T, Pereira SC, Barros A, Carvalho RA, Alves MG, Domingues P, Oliveira PF. Metabolomics analysis of human spermatozoa reveals impaired metabolic pathways in asthenozoospermia. Eur J Clin Invest 2024:e14289. [PMID: 39046266 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a major health issue, affecting 15% of reproductive-age couples with male factors contributing to 50% of cases. Asthenozoospermia (AS), or low sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility with complex aetiology, involving genetic and metabolic alterations, inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the molecular mechanisms behind low motility are unclear. In this study, we used a metabolomics approach to identify metabolic biomarkers and pathways involved in sperm motility. METHODS We compared the metabolome and lipidome of spermatozoa of men with normozoospermia (n = 44) and AS (n = 22) using untargeted LC-MS and the metabolome of seminal fluid using 1H-NMR. Additionally, we evaluated the seminal fluid redox status to assess the oxidative stress in the ejaculate. RESULTS We identified 112 metabolites and 209 lipids in spermatozoa and 27 metabolites in the seminal fluid of normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men. PCA analysis of the spermatozoa's metabolomics and lipidomics data showed a clear separation between groups. Spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic men presented lower levels of several amino acids, and increased levels of energetic substrates and lysophospholipids. However, the metabolome and redox status of the seminal fluid was not altered inAS. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate impaired metabolic pathways associated with redox homeostasis and amino acid, energy and lipid metabolism in AS. Taken together, these findings suggest that the metabolome and lipidome of human spermatozoa are key factors influencing their motility and that oxidative stress exposure during spermatogenesis or sperm maturation may be in the aetiology of decreased motility in AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- LAQV-REQUIMTE and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - David F Carrageta
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedicine and (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago Agra do Crasto, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Tatiana Maurício
- Institute of Biomedicine and (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago Agra do Crasto, Aveiro, Portugal
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sara C Pereira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
- ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alberto Barros
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rui A Carvalho
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Group of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Institute of Biomedicine and (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago Agra do Crasto, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro Domingues
- Mass Spectrometry Centre, LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
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Martínez-Díaz P, Parra A, Sanchez-López CM, Casas J, Lucas X, Marcilla A, Roca J, Barranco I. Small and Large Extracellular Vesicles of Porcine Seminal Plasma Differ in Lipid Profile. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7492. [PMID: 39000599 PMCID: PMC11242203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma contains a heterogeneous population of extracellular vesicles (sEVs) that remains poorly characterized. This study aimed to characterize the lipidomic profile of two subsets of differently sized sEVs, small (S-) and large (L-), isolated from porcine seminal plasma by size-exclusion chromatography and characterized by an orthogonal approach. High-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry was used for lipidomic analysis. A total of 157 lipid species from 14 lipid classes of 4 major categories (sphingolipids, glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids, and sterols) were identified. Qualitative differences were limited to two cholesteryl ester species present only in S-sEVs. L-sEVs had higher levels of all quantified lipid classes due to their larger membrane surface area. The distribution pattern was different, especially for sphingomyelins (more in S-sEVs) and ceramides (more in L-sEVs). In conclusion, this study reveals differences in the lipidomic profile of two subsets of porcine sEVs, suggesting that they differ in biogenesis and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Martínez-Díaz
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Ana Parra
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Christian M Sanchez-López
- Àrea de Parasitologia, Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Parasitologia, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
- Joint Research Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, Health Research Institute La Fe, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Josefina Casas
- Research Unit on BioActive Molecules (RUBAM), Institute for Advanced Chemistry (IQAC-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Marcilla
- Àrea de Parasitologia, Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Parasitologia, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
- Joint Research Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, Health Research Institute La Fe, Universitat de València, 46100 Valencia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
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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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Kumar G, Gurao A, Vasisth R, Chitkara M, Singh R, Ranganatha Sriranga K, Shivanand Dige M, Mukesh M, Singh P, Singh Kataria R. Genome-wide 5'-C-phosphate-G-3' methylation patterns reveal the effect of heat stress on the altered semen quality in Bubalus bubalis. Gene 2024; 906:148233. [PMID: 38331117 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148233] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Semen production and quality are closely correlated with different environmental factors in bovines, particularly for the buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) bulls reared under tropical and sub-tropical conditions. Factors including DNA methylation patterns, an intricate process in sperm cells, have an impact on the production of quality semen in buffalo bulls under abiotic stress conditions. The present study was conducted to identify DNA methylome signatures for semen quality in Murrah buffalo bulls, acclaimed as a major dairy breed globally, under summer heat stress. Based on semen quality parameters that significantly varied between the two groups over the seasons, the breeding bulls were classified into seasonally affected (SA = 6) and seasonally non-affected (SNA = 6) categories. DNA was isolated from purified sperm cells and sequenced using the RRBS (Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing) technique for genome-wide methylome data generation. During the hot summer months, the physiological parameters such as scrotal surface temperature, rectal temperature, and respiration rate for both the SA and SNA bulls were significantly higher in the afternoon than in the morning. Whereas, the global CpG% of SA bulls was positively correlated with the afternoon's scrotal surface and rectal temperature. The RRBS results conveyed differentially methylated cytosines in the promoter region of the genes encoding the channels responsible for Ca2+ exchange, NPTN, Ca2+ activated chloride channels, ANO1, and a few structure-related units such as septins (SEPT4 and SEPT6), SPATA, etc. Additionally, the hypermethylated set of genes in SA was significantly enriched for pathways such as the FOXO signaling pathway and oocyte meiosis. The methylation patterns suggest promoter methylation in the genes regulating the sperm structure as well as surface transporters, which could contribute to the reduced semen quality in the Murrah buffalo bulls during the season-related heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Kumar
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | - Ankita Gurao
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | - Rashi Vasisth
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | - Meenakshi Chitkara
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | - Ravinder Singh
- ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | | | | | - Manishi Mukesh
- ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal (Haryana), India
| | - Pawan Singh
- ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal (Haryana), India
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9
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Prochowska S, Bonarska-Kujawa D, Bobak Ł, Eberhardt M, Niżański W. Fatty acid composition and biophysical characteristics of the cell membrane of feline spermatozoa. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10214. [PMID: 38702489 PMCID: PMC11068737 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61006-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm membrane composition and biophysical characteristics play a pivotal role in many physiological processes (i.e. sperm motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and fusion with the oocyte) as well as in semen processing (e.g. cryopreservation). The aim of this study was to characterize the fatty acid content and biophysical characteristics (anisotropy, generalized polarization) of the cell membrane of domestic cat spermatozoa. Semen was collected from 34 adult male cats by urethral catheterization. After a basic semen evaluation, the fatty acid content of some of the samples (n = 11) was evaluated by gas chromatography. Samples from other individuals (n = 23) were subjected to biophysical analysis: membrane anisotropy (which is inversely proportional to membrane fluidity) and generalized polarization (describing lipid order); both measured by fluorimetry at three temperature points: 38 °C, 25 °C and 5 °C. Spermatozoa from some samples (n = 10) were cryopreserved in TRIS egg yolk-glycerol extender and underwent the same biophysical analysis after thawing. Most fatty acids in feline spermatozoa were saturated (69.76 ± 24.45%), whereas the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content was relatively low (6.12 ± 5.80%). Lowering the temperature caused a significant decrease in membrane fluidity and an increase in generalized polarization in fresh spermatozoa, and these effects were even more pronounced following cryopreservation. Anisotropy at 38 °C in fresh samples showed strong positive correlations with viability and motility parameters after thawing. In summary, feline spermatozoa are characterized by a very low PUFA content and a low ratio of unsaturated:saturated fatty acids, which may contribute to low oxidative stress. Cryopreservation alters the structure of the sperm membrane, increasing the fluidity of the hydrophobic portion of the bilayer and the lipid order in the hydrophilic portion. Because lower membrane fluidity in fresh semen was linked with better viability and motility after cryopreservation, this parameter may be considered an important factor in determination of sperm cryoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylwia Prochowska
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Dorota Bonarska-Kujawa
- Department of Physics and Biophysics, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Łukasz Bobak
- Department of Functional Food Product Development, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 51-630, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Maria Eberhardt
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
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Tahir A, Ijaz MU, Naz H, Afsar T, Almajwal A, Amor H, Razak S. Protective effect of didymin against 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:2203-2214. [PMID: 37801147 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02763-4] [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: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE 2, 3, 7, 8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is one of the most potent environmental toxicants, which causes oxidative stress and adversely affects the male reproductive system. The current study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative role of didymin (DDM) against TCDD-induced testicular toxicity. METHODS Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four equal groups (n=12). (i) Control group, (ii) TCDD-induced group was provided with 10 μg/kg/day of TCDD, (iii) TCDD + DDM group received 10 μg/kg/day of TCDD and 2 mg/kg/day of DDM, and (iv) DDM-treated group was administered with 2 mg/kg/day of DDM. After 56 days of treatment, biochemical, steroidogenic, hormonal, spermatogenic, apoptotic, and histopathological parameters were estimated. RESULTS TCDD affected the biochemical profile by reducing the activities of antioxidant enzymes, while increasing the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, it decreased the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), 17β-HSD, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1), and 17α-hydroxylase/17, 20-lyase (CYP17A1), as well as reduced the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and plasma testosterone. Besides, epididymal sperm count, viability, and motility were decreased, while sperm morphological anomalies were increased. Moreover, TCDD altered the apoptotic profile by up-regulating the expressions of Bax and caspase-3, while downregulated the Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, histopathological damages were prompted due to TCDD administration. However, DDM restored all the TCDD-induced damages owing to its antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and androgenic potential. CONCLUSION Our data suggested that DDM might play its role as a therapeutic agent against TCDD-prompted testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arfa Tahir
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umar Ijaz
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - Huma Naz
- Department of Zoology, Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Almajwal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
| | - Suhail Razak
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Hu B, Zhang H, Li Y, Xue Q, Yang M, Cao C, Gao L, Chu G, Cai R, Zheng Y, Pang W. Kojic acid inhibits pig sperm apoptosis and improves capacitated sperm state during liquid preservation at 17°C. Mol Reprod Dev 2024; 91:e23738. [PMID: 38462735 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23738] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The parameters of sperm apoptosis and capacitation during liquid storage at 17°C can indicate the quality of pig sperm and the potential development of early embryos. However, the effect of kojic acid (KA) on semen preservation and its mechanism has not been fully understood. In this study, we discovered that adding KA to the diluent improved the antioxidant capacity of sperm mitochondria, maintained the normal structure of sperm mitochondria, and reduced sperm apoptosis. Western blot analysis revealed that KA prevented the release of Cytochrome c from mitochondria to the cytoplasm, reduced the expression of pro-apoptosis proteins cleaved Caspase-3 and cleaved Caspase-9, and increased the expression of the antiapoptosis protein Bcl-XL. Furthermore, KA also enhanced the motility parameters, oxidative phosphorylation level, adenosine triphosphate level, and protein tyrosine phosphorylation of capacitated sperm, while preserving the acrosome integrity and plasma membrane integrity of capacitated sperm. In conclusion, this study offers new insights into the molecular mechanism of how KA inhibits porcine sperm apoptosis and improves capacitated sperm parameters. Additionally, it suggests that KA can serve as an alternative to antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingyan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haize Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuqing Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qin Xue
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Menghao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chaoyue Cao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lei Gao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guiyan Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Cai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Weijun Pang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
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12
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Norris AC, Yazlovitskaya EM, Yang TS, Mansueto A, Stafford JM, Graham TR. ATP10A deficiency results in male-specific infertility in mice. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1310593. [PMID: 38415274 PMCID: PMC10896839 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1310593] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Over 8% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility and nearly half of these cases are due to male-specific issues where the underlying cause is often unknown. Therefore, discovery of new genetic factors contributing to male-specific infertility in model organisms can enhance our understanding of the etiology of this disorder. Here we show that murine ATP10A, a phospholipid flippase, is highly expressed in male reproductive organs, specifically the testes and vas deferens. Therefore, we tested the influence of ATP10A on reproduction by examining fertility of Atp10A knockout mice. Our findings reveal that Atp10A deficiency leads to male-specific infertility, but does not perturb fertility in the females. The Atp10A deficient male mice exhibit smaller testes, reduced sperm count (oligozoospermia) and lower sperm motility (asthenozoospermia). Additionally, Atp10A deficient mice display testes and vas deferens histopathological abnormalities, as well as altered total and relative amounts of hormones associated with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Surprisingly, circulating testosterone is elevated 2-fold in the Atp10A knockout mice while luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, and inhibin B levels were not significantly different from WT littermates. The knockout mice also exhibit elevated levels of gonadotropin receptors and alterations to ERK, p38 MAPK, Akt, and cPLA2-dependent signaling in the testes. Atp10A was knocked out in the C57BL/6J background, which also carries an inactivating nonsense mutation in the closely related lipid flippase, Atp10D. We have corrected the Atp10D nonsense mutation using CRISPR/Cas9 and determined that loss of Atp10A alone is sufficient to cause infertility in male mice. Collectively, these findings highlight the critical role of ATP10A in male fertility in mice and provide valuable insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana C. Norris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | | | - Tzushan Sharon Yang
- Division of Comparative Medicine, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Alex Mansueto
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - John M. Stafford
- Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Todd R. Graham
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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13
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Khophloiklang V, Chanapiwat P, Kaeoket K. Camellia oil with its rich in fatty acids enhances post-thawed boar sperm quality. Acta Vet Scand 2024; 66:6. [PMID: 38347642 PMCID: PMC10863207 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-024-00728-y] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Boar sperm are highly susceptible to specific conditions during cryopreservation, leading to a significant decrease in their fertilizing potential due to damage to their membranes. Camellia oil, known for its fatty acids with antioxidant and biological properties, has not been previously explored for the cryopreservation of boar semen. This study aimed to examine the effects of camellia oil on post-thawed boar sperm quality. Boar semen ejaculates (n = 9) were collected and divided into six equal aliquots based on camellia oil concentrations (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 2.5% v/v) in the freezing extender. Semen samples were processed and cryopreserved using the liquid nitrogen vapor method. Thereafter, frozen semen samples were thawed at 50 °C for 12 s and evaluated for sperm morphology by scanning electron microscope, sperm motility using a computer-assisted sperm analyzer, sperm viability, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, MDA level and total antioxidant capacity. RESULTS The results demonstrated that the supplementation of 1.5% (v/v) camellia oil showed superior post-thaw sperm qualities such as improved sperm morphology, motility, acrosome integrity and mitochondrial function by 14.3%, 14.3% and 11.7%, respectively, when compared to the control group. Camellia oil at a concentration of 1.5% (v/v) showed the lowest level of MDA (18.3 ± 2.1 µmol/L) compared to the other groups. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, adding 1.5% (v/v) camellia oil in the freezing extender reduced the oxidative damage associated with cryopreservation and resulted in a higher post-thawed sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassakorn Khophloiklang
- Semen Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Thungyai, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80240, Thailand
| | - Panida Chanapiwat
- Semen Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand
| | - Kampon Kaeoket
- Semen Laboratory, Department of Clinical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Mahidol University, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom, 73170, Thailand.
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Klug J, Berberián MV, López Martí JM, Mayorga LS, Del Pópolo MG. Membrane Binding Strength vs Pore Formation Cost─What Drives the Membrane Permeation of Nanoparticles Coated with Cell-Penetrating Peptides? J Phys Chem B 2024; 128:937-948. [PMID: 38232319 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c06461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) enable the transport of nanoparticles through cell membranes. Using molecular simulations, we conduct an in-depth investigation into the thermodynamic forces governing the passive translocation of CPP-coated nanoparticles across lipid bilayers, contrasting their behavior with that of bare particles to dissect the contribution of the peptides. Our analysis unveils a distinctive two-stage translocation mechanism, where the adsorption energy of the particles overcomes the cost of forming a hydrophilic transmembrane pore. Proper evaluation of the translocation mechanisms is only possible when using two reaction coordinates, in particular, one that explicitly includes the density of the lipids on the binding site of the particle. An analysis of adsorption and activation free energies in terms of a simple kinetic model provides a clearer understanding of the CPP effect. Experimental validation using nonendocytic cells confirms the superior membrane permeation of CPP-coated particles. Our findings have implications for the rational design of more efficient cell-permeating particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Klug
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Atlantic Technological University, ATU Sligo, Ash Lane, Sligo F91 YW50, Ireland
| | - María Victoria Berberián
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) CONICET/UNCUYO. Centro Universitario, Mendoza M5502JMA, Argentina
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB)─CONICET/UNCUYO, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Jesús M López Martí
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Luis S Mayorga
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM) CONICET/UNCUYO. Centro Universitario, Mendoza M5502JMA, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
| | - Mario G Del Pópolo
- Instituto Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Básicas (ICB)─CONICET/UNCUYO, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Padre Jorge Contreras 1300, Mendoza CP5500, Argentina
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15
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Galdiero M, Trotta C, Schettino MT, Cirillo L, Sasso FP, Petrillo F, Petrillo A. Normospermic Patients Infected With Ureaplasma parvum: Role of Dysregulated miR-122-5p, miR-34c-5, and miR-141-3p. Pathog Immun 2024; 8:16-36. [PMID: 38223489 PMCID: PMC10783813 DOI: 10.20411/pai.v8i2.603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Ureaplasma parvum (UP) is a causative agent of non-gonococcal urethritis, involved in the pathogenesis of prostatitis and epididymitis, and it could impair human fertility. Although UP infection is a frequent cause of male infertility the study evidence assessing their prevalence and the association in patients with infertility is still scarce. The molecular processes leading to defects in spermatozoa quality are not completely investigated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been extensively reported as gene regulatory molecules on post-transcriptional levels involved in various biological processes such as gametogenesis, embryogenesis, and the quality of sperm, oocyte, and embryos. Methods Therefore, the study design was to demonstrate that miRNAs in body fluids like sperm could be utilized as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for pathological and physiological conditions such as infertility. A post-hoc bioinformatics analysis was carried out to predict the pathways modulated by the miRNAs dysregulated in the differently motile spermatozoa. Results Here it is shown that normospermic patients infected by UP had spermatozoa with increased quantity of superoxide anions, reduced expression of miR-122-5p, miR-34c-5, and increased miR-141-3p compared with non-infected normospermic patients. This corresponded to a reduction of sperm motility in normospermic infected patients compared with normospermic non-infected ones. A target gene prediction presumed that an essential role of these miRNAs resided in the regulation of lipid kinase activity, accounting for the changes in the constitution of spermatozoa membrane lipids caused by UP. Conclusions Altogether, the data underline the influence of UP on epigenetic mechanisms regulating spermatozoa motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy. Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Carolo Trotta
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli Naples Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Schettino
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli Naples Italy
| | - Luigi Cirillo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples Italy
| | | | - Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy. Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138, Naples, Italy
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16
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Di Nisio A, De Toni L, Sabovic I, Vignoli A, Tenori L, Dall’Acqua S, Sut S, La Vignera S, Condorelli RA, Giacone F, Ferlin A, Foresta C, Garolla A. Lipidomic Profile of Human Sperm Membrane Identifies a Clustering of Lipids Associated with Semen Quality and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:297. [PMID: 38203468 PMCID: PMC10778809 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010297] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Reduced sperm motility and/or count are among the major causes of reduced fertility in men, and sperm membranes play an important role in the spermatogenesis and fertilization processes. However, the impact of sperm lipid composition on male fertility remains under-investigated. The aim of the present study was to perform a lipidomic analysis of human sperm membranes: we performed an untargeted analysis of membrane lipid composition in fertile (N = 33) and infertile subjects (N = 29). In parallel, we evaluated their serum lipid levels. Twenty-one lipids were identified by their mass/charge ratio and post-source decay spectra. Sulfogalactosylglycerolipid (SGG, seminolipid) was the most abundant lipid component in the membranes. In addition, we observed a significant proportion of PUFAs. Important differences have emerged between the fertile and infertile groups, leading to the identification of a lipid cluster that was associated with semen parameters. Among these, cholesterol sulfate, SGG, and PUFAs represented the most important predictors of semen quality. No association was found between the serum and sperm lipids. Dietary PUFAs and SGG have acknowledged antioxidant functions and could, therefore, represent sensitive markers of sperm quality and testicular function. Altogether, these results underline the important role of sperm membrane lipids, which act independently of serum lipids levels and may rather represent an independent marker of reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Luca De Toni
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Iva Sabovic
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Alessia Vignoli
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CERM) at the Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.)
| | - Leonardo Tenori
- Magnetic Resonance Center (CERM) at the Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (A.V.); (L.T.)
- Consorzio Interuniversitario Risonanze Magnetiche MetalloProteine (CIRMMP), 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall’Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy; (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | - Stefania Sut
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy; (S.D.); (S.S.)
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.L.V.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Rosita Angela Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.L.V.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Filippo Giacone
- Centro HERA-Unità di Medicina della Riproduzione, Via Barriera del Bosco, 51/53, Sant’Agata li Battiati, 95030 Catania, Italy;
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (A.D.N.); (L.D.T.); (I.S.); (A.F.); (A.G.)
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17
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Ow MC, Hall SE. Inheritance of Stress Responses via Small Non-Coding RNAs in Invertebrates and Mammals. EPIGENOMES 2023; 8:1. [PMID: 38534792 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes8010001] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
While reports on the generational inheritance of a parental response to stress have been widely reported in animals, the molecular mechanisms behind this phenomenon have only recently emerged. The booming interest in epigenetic inheritance has been facilitated in part by the discovery that small non-coding RNAs are one of its principal conduits. Discovered 30 years ago in the Caenorhabditis elegans nematode, these small molecules have since cemented their critical roles in regulating virtually all aspects of eukaryotic development. Here, we provide an overview on the current understanding of epigenetic inheritance in animals, including mice and C. elegans, as it pertains to stresses such as temperature, nutritional, and pathogenic encounters. We focus on C. elegans to address the mechanistic complexity of how small RNAs target their cohort mRNAs to effect gene expression and how they govern the propagation or termination of generational perdurance in epigenetic inheritance. Presently, while a great amount has been learned regarding the heritability of gene expression states, many more questions remain unanswered and warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria C Ow
- Department of Biology, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Sarah E Hall
- Department of Biology and Program in Neuroscience, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
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18
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Swathi D, Ramya L, Archana SS, Krishnappa B, Binsila BK, Selvaraju S. Identification of hub genes and their expression profiling for predicting buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) semen quality and fertility. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22126. [PMID: 38092793 PMCID: PMC10719284 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48925-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm transcriptomics provide insights into subtle differences in sperm fertilization competence. For predicting the success of complex traits like male fertility, identification of hub genes involved in various sperm functions are essential. The bulls from the transcriptome profiled samples (n = 21), were grouped into good and poor progressive motility (PM), acrosome integrity (AI), functional membrane integrity (FMI) and fertility rate (FR) groups. The up-regulated genes identified in each group were 87, 470, 1715 and 36, respectively. Gene networks were constructed using up- and down-regulated genes from each group. The top clusters from the upregulated gene networks of the PM, AI, FMI and FR groups were involved in tyrosine kinase (FDR = 1.61E-11), apoptosis (FDR = 1.65E-8), translation (FDR = 2.2E-16) and ribosomal pathway (FDR = 1.98E-21), respectively. From the clusters, the hub genes were identified and validated in a fresh set of semen samples (n = 12) using RT-qPCR. Importantly, the genes (fold change) RPL36AL (14.99) in AI, EIF5A (54.32) in FMI, and RPLP0 (8.55) and RPS28 (13.42) in FR were significantly (p < 0.05) up-regulated. The study suggests that the expression levels of MAPK3 (PM), RPL36AL + RPS27A or RPL36AL + EXT2 (AI), RPL36AL or RPS27A (FMI) and RPS18 + RPS28 (FR) are potential markers for diagnosing the semen quality and fertility status of bulls which can be used for the breeding program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divakar Swathi
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Jain University, Bengaluru, 560001, India
| | - Laxman Ramya
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Santhanahalli Siddalingappa Archana
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Balaganur Krishnappa
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Bala Krishnan Binsila
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India
| | - Sellappan Selvaraju
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Animal Physiology Division, ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bengaluru, 560030, India.
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Das P, Mitra D, Jana K, Ghosh D. In Vitro Study on Spermicidal Action of Hydro-methanol Extract of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Stem in Rat and Human Sperm: a Comparative Analysis. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3480-3494. [PMID: 37640890 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01327-4] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Human fertility regulation is a major way to control overpopulation. In this perspective, this study emphasized the in vitro effect of hydro-methanol extract of Tinospora cordifolia (TCHME) stem for spermicidal and reproductive hypo-functions using human and rat samples. Control, 0.5-, 1-, and 2-mg TCHME-charged groups were considered to assess the relevant parameters. Levels of spermiological parameters like sperm motility, viability, the integrity of plasma and acrosomal membrane, and nuclear chromatin decondensation were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in the dose- and duration-dependent TCHME-charged groups compared to the control. The inhibitory concentration 50 (IC50) of TCHME on motile human and rat sperms were 0.8 and 0.4 mg/ml, respectively. Testicular androgenic key enzymes and antioxidant enzymes (human sperm pellet, testes, and epididymis of rat)' activities were significantly diminished (p < 0.05), while antioxidant enzymes' activities were significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in renal and insignificantly (p > 0.05) elevated in hepatic tissues of rat in TCHME-charged groups compared to the control. Significant elevation (p < 0.05) of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)' level in human sperm pellet, testes, and epididymis of rats and significant diminution (p < 0.05) in TBARS levels of liver and kidney were observed in TCHME-charged groups. It focused that TCHME is more potent for stress imposition on reproductive tissues and sperm compared to the other tested tissues. Non-significant alterations (p > 0.05) in glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) and glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) activities in the said organs of rat indicated its non-toxic effect. It highlighted that TCHME possesses spermicidal and reproductive tissue-specific effects which strengthen the possibilities of male contraceptive development from it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puja Das
- Centre for Life Sciences, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, 721 102, India
| | - Dipanwita Mitra
- Molecular Medicine, Nutrigenomics and Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, 721 102, India
| | - Kuladip Jana
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, EN 80, Sector-V, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, 700091, India
| | - Debidas Ghosh
- Molecular Medicine, Nutrigenomics and Public Health Research Laboratory, Department of Bio-Medical Laboratory Science and Management, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal, 721 102, India.
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20
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Zhou Y, Zhong X, Chen L, Gong L, Luo L, He Q, Zhu L, Tian K. Gut microbiota combined with metabolome dissects long-term nanoplastics exposure-induced disturbed spermatogenesis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 267:115626. [PMID: 37890247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115626] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
As the concerned emerging pollutants, several lines of evidence have indicated that nanoplastics (NPs) lead to reproductive toxicity. However, the biological mechanism underlying NPs disturbed spermatogenesis remains largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to reveal the potential mechanism of impaired spermatogenesis caused by long-term NPs exposure from the perspective of integrated metabolome and microbiome analysis. After 12 weeks of gavage of polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and animo-modified polystyrene nanoplastics (Amino-NPs), a well-designed two-exposure stages experimental condition. We found that NPs exposure induced apparent abnormal spermatogenesis, which appeared more severe in the Amino-NPs group. Mechanistically, 14 floras associated with glucose and lipid metabolism were significantly altered, as evidenced by 16 S rRNA sequencing. Testicular metabolome revealed that the Top 50 changed metabolites were also enriched in lipid metabolism. Subsequently, the combined gut microbiome and metabolome analysis uncovered the strong correlations between Klebsiella, Blautia, Parabacteroides, and lipid metabolites (e.g., PC, LysoPC and GPCho). We speculate that the dysbiosis of gut microbiota-related disturbed lipid metabolism may be responsible for long-term NPs-induced damaged spermatogenesis, which provides new insights into NPs-induced dysregulated spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhou
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Xiang Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hang Tian Hospital, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Liangkai Chen
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Liming Gong
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Lei Luo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Qian He
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Affiliated Hospital of Shijiazhuang Medical College, Shijiazhuang 050000, PR China
| | - Kunming Tian
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China; Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China; Key Laboratory of Maternal& Child Health and Exposure Science of Guizhou Higher Education Institutes, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, PR China.
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21
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Cheng X, Xie H, Xiong Y, Sun P, Xue Y, Li K. Lipidomics profiles of human spermatozoa: insights into capacitation and acrosome reaction using UPLC-MS-based approach. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1273878. [PMID: 38027124 PMCID: PMC10660817 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1273878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lipidomics elucidates the roles of lipids in both physiological and pathological processes, intersecting with many diseases and cellular functions. The maintenance of lipid homeostasis, essential for cell health, significantly influences the survival, maturation, and functionality of sperm during fertilization. While capacitation and the acrosome reaction, key processes before fertilization, involve substantial lipidomic alterations, a comprehensive understanding of the changes in human spermatozoa's lipidomic profiles during these processes remains unknown. This study aims to explicate global lipidomic changes during capacitation and the acrosome reaction in human sperm, employing an untargeted lipidomic strategy using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Methods Twelve semen specimens, exceeding the WHO reference values for semen parameters, were collected. After discontinuous density gradient separation, sperm concentration was adjusted to 2 x 106 cells/ml and divided into three groups: uncapacitated, capacitated, and acrosome-reacted. UPLC-MS analysis was performed after lipid extraction from these groups. Spectral peak alignment and statistical analysis, using unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA), bidirectional orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (O2PLS-DA) analysis, and supervised partial least-squares-latent structure discriminate analysis (PLS-DA), were employed to identify the most discriminative lipids. Results The 1176 lipid peaks overlapped across the twelve individuals in the uncapacitated, capacitated, and acrosome-reacted groups: 1180 peaks between the uncapacitated and capacitated groups, 1184 peaks between the uncapacitated and acrosome-reacted groups, and 1178 peaks between the capacitated and acrosome-reacted groups. The count of overlapping peaks varied among individuals, ranging from 739 to 963 across sperm samples. Moreover, 137 lipids had VIP values > 1.0 and twenty-two lipids had VIP > 1.5, based on the O2PLS-DA model. Furthermore, the identified twelve lipids encompassed increases in PI 44:10, LPS 20:4, LPA 20:5, and LPE 20:4, and decreases in 16-phenyl-tetranor-PGE2, PC 40:6, PS 35:4, PA 29:1, 20-carboxy-LTB4, and 2-oxo-4-methylthio-butanoic acid. Discussion This study has been the first time to investigate the lipidomics profiles associated with acrosome reaction and capacitation in human sperm, utilizing UPLC-MS in conjunction with multivariate data analysis. These findings corroborate earlier discoveries on lipids during the acrosome reaction and unveil new metabolites. Furthermore, this research highlights the effective utility of UPLC-MS-based lipidomics for exploring diverse physiological states in sperm. This study offers novel insights into lipidomic changes associated with capacitation and the acrosome reaction in human sperm, which are closely related to male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haifeng Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peibei Sun
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yamei Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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22
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Mattioli S, Angelucci E, Dal Bosco A, Signorini C, Sylla L, Bosa L, Collodel G, Durand T, Galano JM, Oger C, Castellini C. Pro-Atherogenic and Pro-Oxidant Diets Influence Semen and Blood Traits of Rabbit Bucks. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1880. [PMID: 37891960 PMCID: PMC10603835 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101880] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many dietary factors can affect sperm traits. We compared the effect of diets rich in pro-oxidant (flaxseed oil) and pro-atherogenic (coconut oil) substances without added antioxidants on semen traits, using the rabbit as an animal model. Thirty rabbit bucks (8 months old) were fed three diets for 150 days: CNT (control) a standard diet; HA (high-atherogenic) standard diet + 3% coconut oil, and HO (high-oxidizing) standard diet + 3% flaxseed oil. Semen samples were collected weekly for the evaluation of qualitative traits (kinetics, viability) and the oxidative damage (MDA and cytokines). Blood was collected at the start (T0) and end (T8) of the experimental period for the assessment of the oxidative damage (MDA and isoprostanoids), lipid profile, and testosterone. A worsening of sperm kinetics and viability was recorded in the HA group. Lipid oxidation in seminal plasma, as well as isoprostanoids in blood (F3-IsoPs and F4-NeuroPs), increased in both the HO and HA groups. A high level of TNF-α, a marker of inflammatory status, was recorded in the seminal plasma of the HA group. The resulting outcomes were mainly attributable to the different fatty acid profiles (SFA vs. PUFA) of the diets, which modulated an inflammatory/oxidative response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Mattioli
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06124 Perugia, Italy; (E.A.); (A.D.B.); (L.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Elisa Angelucci
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06124 Perugia, Italy; (E.A.); (A.D.B.); (L.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Alessandro Dal Bosco
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06124 Perugia, Italy; (E.A.); (A.D.B.); (L.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci, 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.)
| | - Lakamy Sylla
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Luigia Bosa
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06124 Perugia, Italy; (E.A.); (A.D.B.); (L.B.); (C.C.)
| | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Policlinico Santa Maria alle Scotte, Viale Bracci, 14, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.)
| | - Thierry Durand
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), UMR, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, 5247 Montpellier, France; (T.D.); (J.-M.G.); (C.O.)
| | - Jean-Marie Galano
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), UMR, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, 5247 Montpellier, France; (T.D.); (J.-M.G.); (C.O.)
| | - Camille Oger
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), UMR, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM, 5247 Montpellier, France; (T.D.); (J.-M.G.); (C.O.)
| | - Cesare Castellini
- Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Science, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, 06124 Perugia, Italy; (E.A.); (A.D.B.); (L.B.); (C.C.)
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23
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Zhang J, Zhu Z, Huang J, Yang H, Wang Q, Zhang Y. Analyzing the impact and mechanism of bisphenol A on testicular lipid metabolism in Gobiocypris rarus through integrated lipidomics and transcriptomics. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 265:115498. [PMID: 37742580 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most common environmental endocrine chemicals, known for its estrogenic effects that can interfere with male spermatogenesis. Lipids play crucial roles in sperm production, capacitation, and motility as important components of the sperm plasma membrane. However, limited research has explored whether BPA affects lipid metabolism in the testes of male fish and subsequently impacts spermatogenesis. In this study, we employed Gobiocypris rarus rare minnow as a research model and exposed them to environmentally relevant concentrations of BPA (15 μg/L) for 5 weeks. We assessed sperm morphology and function and analyzed changes in testicular lipid composition and transcriptomics. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the sperm head membrane damage rate, along with reduced sperm motility and fertilization ability due to BPA exposure. Lipidomics analysis revealed that BPA increased the content of 11 lipids while decreasing the content of 6 lipids in the testes, particularly within glycerophospholipids, glycerolipids, and sphingolipid subclasses. Transcriptomics results indicated significant up-regulation in pathways such as cholesterol metabolism, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling, and fat digestion and absorption, with significant alterations in key genes related to lipid metabolism, including apolipoprotein A-I, apolipoprotein C-I, and translocator protein. These findings suggest that BPA exposure can induce testicular lipid metabolism disruption in rare minnows, potentially resulting in abnormalities in rare minnow spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianlu Zhang
- Shaanxi key laboratory of Qinling Ecological Security, Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi'an 710032, China; College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710127, China
| | - Zhu Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jiqin Huang
- Shaanxi key laboratory of Qinling Ecological Security, Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Hui Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Qijun Wang
- Shaanxi key laboratory of Qinling Ecological Security, Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi'an 710032, China.
| | - Yingying Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
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Zhao J, Meng P, Jin M, Ma X, Ma H, Yang H, Chen Y, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Luo Y, Liu J. Combined addition of L-carnitine and L-proline improves cryopreservation of dairy goat semen. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 257:107325. [PMID: 37677888 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of semen renders artificial insemination easier and cheaper compared to use of fresh semen. However, the cellular oxidative stress, toxicity of cryoprotectants, and osmotic imbalance may lead to a decline in semen quality and fertilization ability during the process of cryopreservation. L-carnitine and L-proline have been demonstrated to possess effective antioxidant properties in cryopreservation, with the latter also exhibiting excellent permeability and thus being utilized as a permeable cryoprotectant in the field. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of LC and LP on cryopreservation of semen of dairy goats. After thawing, sperm motility, membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity rate of cryopreserved semen treated with LC (50 mM) were significantly higher compared to the untreated control samples. Based on this premise, we conducted experiments to assess the cryoprotective efficacy of different concentrations of LP. The findings demonstrated that the inclusion of 50 mM LP resulted in improved sperm motility compared to other concentrations. Furthermore, the levels of damaging reactive oxygen species and the malonyldialdehyde marker for oxidative stress were significantly lower in goat semen treated with these concentrations of LC and LP compared to semen exposed to other treatments. Semen treated with LC and LP also exhibited good fertilization ability during both in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination. Thus, LC (50 mM) and LP (50 mM) improve cryoprotection of dairy goat sperm which suggests that addition of these compounds will be highly beneficial to the development of dairy goat breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianglin Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Peng Meng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of The Fourth Military Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Miaomiao Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xianghai Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hongwei Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hanwen Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yanzhi Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Junyu Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Yan Luo
- College of Animal Engineering, Yangling Vocational and Technical College, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jun Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, Shaanxi, China.
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25
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Correnti S, Preianò M, Fregola A, Gamboni F, Stephenson D, Savino R, D'Alessandro A, Terracciano R. Seminal plasma untargeted metabolomic and lipidomic profiling for the identification of a novel panel of biomarkers and therapeutic targets related to male infertility. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1275832. [PMID: 37829298 PMCID: PMC10565040 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1275832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility occurs approximately in about 50% of all infertility cases and represents a serious concern worldwide. Traditional semen analysis alone is insufficient to diagnose male infertility. Over the past two decades, advances in omics technologies have led to the widespread application of metabolomics profiling as a valuable diagnostic tool for various diseases and disorders. Seminal plasma represents a rich and easily accessible source of metabolites surrounding spermatozoa, a milieu that provides several indispensable nutrients to sustain sperm motility and fertilization. Changes of metabolic profiles in seminal plasma reflect male reproductive tract disorders. Here, we performed seminal plasma metabolomics and lipidomics profiling to identify a new pattern of biomarkers of male infertility. Seminal plasma samples from unfertile subjects (n = 31) and fertile controls (n = 19) were analyzed using an untargeted metabolomics/lipidomics integrated approach, based on Ultra-High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography-tandem Mass Spectrometry. Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis showed a distinct separation between healthy fertile men and infertile subjects. Among the 15 selected candidate biomarkers based on Variable Importance in Projection scores, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) (18:1; 18:1) resulted with the highest score. In total, 40 molecular species showed statistically significant variations between fertile and infertile men. Heat-map and volcano plot analysis indicated that acylcarnitines, phosphatidylserine (PS) (40:2) and lactate were decreased, while PE (18:1; 18:1), Phosphatidic acid (PA) (O-19:2; 18:1), Lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) (O-16:1) and Phosphatidylcholine (PC) (O-16:2; 18:1)-CH3 were increased in the infertile group. The present study is the first one to analyze the metabolomics/lipidomics dysregulation in seminal plasma between fertile and infertile individuals regardless of sub-infertility condition. Association of several metabolites/lipids dysregulation with male infertility reinforced data of previous studies performed with different approaches. In particular, we confirmed significantly decreased levels of PS and carnitines in infertile patients as well as the positive correlation with sperm motility and morphology. If validated on a larger prospective cohort, the metabolite biomarkers of infertility in seminal plasma we identified in the present study might inform novel strategies for diagnosis and interventions to overcome male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Correnti
- Department of Health Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabia Gamboni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Daniel Stephenson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rocco Savino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angelo D'Alessandro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Rosa Terracciano
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Græcia University, Catanzaro, Italy
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26
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Horta Remedios M, Liang W, González LN, Li V, Da Ros VG, Cohen DJ, Zaremberg V. Ether lipids and a peroxisomal riddle in sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1166232. [PMID: 37397249 PMCID: PMC10309183 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1166232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm are terminally differentiated cells that lack most of the membranous organelles, resulting in a high abundance of ether glycerolipids found across different species. Ether lipids include plasmalogens, platelet activating factor, GPI-anchors and seminolipid. These lipids play important roles in sperm function and performance, and thus are of special interest as potential fertility markers and therapeutic targets. In the present article, we first review the existing knowledge on the relevance of the different types of ether lipids for sperm production, maturation and function. To further understand ether-lipid metabolism in sperm, we then query available proteomic data from highly purified sperm, and produce a map of metabolic steps retained in these cells. Our analysis pinpoints the presence of a truncated ether lipid biosynthetic pathway that would be competent for the production of precursors through the initial peroxisomal core steps, but devoid of subsequent microsomal enzymes responsible for the final synthesis of all complex ether-lipids. Despite the widely accepted notion that sperm lack peroxisomes, the thorough analysis of published data conducted herein identifies nearly 70% of all known peroxisomal resident proteins as part of the sperm proteome. In view of this, we highlight open questions related to lipid metabolism and possible peroxisomal functions in sperm. We propose a repurposed role for the truncated peroxisomal ether-lipid pathway in detoxification of products from oxidative stress, which is known to critically influence sperm function. The likely presence of a peroxisomal-derived remnant compartment that could act as a sink for toxic fatty alcohols and fatty aldehydes generated by mitochondrial activity is discussed. With this perspective, our review provides a comprehensive metabolic map associated with ether-lipids and peroxisomal-related functions in sperm and offers new insights into potentially relevant antioxidant mechanisms that warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Weisheng Liang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Lucas N. González
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Victoria Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Vanina G. Da Ros
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Débora J. Cohen
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanina Zaremberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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27
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Gavrizi SZ, Hosseinzadeh P, Brush RS, Tytanic M, Eckart E, Peck JD, Craig LB, Diamond MP, Agbaga MP, Hansen KR. Sperm very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids: relation to semen parameters and live birth outcome in a multicenter trial. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:753-760. [PMID: 36681262 PMCID: PMC10176595 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.020] [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: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the levels of sperm very long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) are correlated with sperm parameters and the outcome of live birth after conventional therapy for unexplained infertility. DESIGN Cohort analysis of the Reproductive Medicine Network's Assessment of Multiple Intrauterine Gestations from Ovarian Stimulation randomized controlled trial. SETTING Multicenter randomized controlled trial. PATIENTS Male partners from 185 couples with unexplained infertility who provided baseline semen samples for analysis. INTERVENTION We determined the levels of VLC-PUFAs in total lipid isolated from sperm membranes using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry analyses. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sperm concentration, motility, morphology, total motile count (TMC), and live birth after standard treatment for unexplained infertility. RESULTS Total VLC-PUFA percentage was positively correlated with sperm concentration (Spearman's rank correlation (rs) 0.56, P<.0001), TMC (rs = 0.40, P<.0001), and morphology (rs = 0.26, P=.0005). After adjustment for male body mass index, age, and race, a one-standard-deviation increase in the percentage of total VLC-PUFA was associated with a 62% increase in the geometric mean (GM) of sperm concentration (GM Ratio: 1.62 [95% confidence intervals {CI}: 1.45, 1.82]) and a 43% increase in the geometric mean of TMC (GM Ratio: 1.43 [95% CI; 1.24, 1.63]). Although no evidence of association was observed for sperm motility, a positive relationship was also observed between the percentage of total VLC-PUFA and sperm morphology [adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) for one-standard-deviation increase in total VLC-PUFA: 1.18 (95% CI; 1.02, 1.36)]. After adjustment for female age and treatment group, the probability of a live birth outcome was 72% more likely among those in the third tertile of hydroxylated VLC-PUFA percentage than in the first tertile (RR 1.72 [95% CI; 1.01, 2.94]). CONCLUSIONS The positive correlation between sperm VLC-PUFAs percentage and sperm parameters, as well as the significant association between hydroxylated VLC-PUFA percentage and the outcome of live birth, strongly suggest that this class of fatty liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry acids is essential for normal sperm structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Z Gavrizi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Pardis Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
| | - Richard Steven Brush
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Madison Tytanic
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Erin Eckart
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma College of Public Health, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Jennifer D Peck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma College of Public Health, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Michael P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - Martin-Paul Agbaga
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Dean A. McGee Eye Institute, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Karl R Hansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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Mateo-Otero Y, Madrid-Gambin F, Llavanera M, Gomez-Gomez A, Haro N, Pozo OJ, Yeste M. Sperm physiology and in vitro fertilising ability rely on basal metabolic activity: insights from the pig model. Commun Biol 2023; 6:344. [PMID: 36997604 PMCID: PMC10063579 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04715-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Whether basal metabolic activity in sperm has any influence on their fertilising capacity has not been explored. Using the pig as a model, the present study investigated the relationship of energetic metabolism with sperm quality and function (assessed through computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry), and fertility (in vitro fertilisation (IVF) outcomes). In semen samples from 16 boars, levels of metabolites related to glycolysis, ketogenesis and Krebs cycle were determined through a targeted metabolomics approach using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. High-quality sperm are associated to greater levels of glycolysis-derived metabolites, and oocyte fertilisation and embryo development are conditioned by the sperm metabolic status. Interestingly, glycolysis appears to be the preferred catabolic pathway of the sperm giving rise to greater percentages of embryos at day 6. In conclusion, this study shows that the basal metabolic activity of sperm influences their function, even beyond fertilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Francisco Madrid-Gambin
- Applied Metabolomics Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), ES-08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Llavanera
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Alex Gomez-Gomez
- Applied Metabolomics Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), ES-08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Noemí Haro
- Applied Metabolomics Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), ES-08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oscar J Pozo
- Applied Metabolomics Research Group, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), ES-08003, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), ES-08010, Barcelona, Spain.
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29
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Stanishevskaya OI, Silyukova Y, Fedorova E, Pleshanov N, Kurochkin A, Tereshina VM, Ianutsevich E. Effects of Trehalose Supplementation on Lipid Composition of Rooster Spermatozoa Membranes in a Freeze/Thaw Protocol. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061023. [PMID: 36978564 PMCID: PMC10044598 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The plasma membrane of spermatozoa plays an important role in the formation and maintenance of many functions of spermatozoa, including during cryopreservation. As a result of chromatographic analysis, the content of lipids and fatty acids in the membranes of spermatozoa of roosters of two breeds was determined under the influence of cryoprotective media containing trehalose LCM-control (0 mM), Treh20 (9.5 mM), and Treh30 (13.4 mM). The use of the cryoprotective diluent Treh20 made it possible to maintain a dynamic balance between the synthesis and degradation of phospholipids and sterols in the plasma membranes of frozen/thawed spermatozoa, close to that of native spermatozoa. This contributed to an increase in the preservation of frozen/thawed spermatozoa membranes from 48.3% to 52.2% in the egg breed and from 30.0% to 35.1% in the meat- and-egg breed. It was also noted that their kinetic apparatus (mobility indicators) remained at the level of 45.6% (egg breed) and 52.4% (meat-and-egg breed). An increase in the concentration of trehalose to 13.4 mM in a cryoprotective diluent for rooster sperm resulted in a decrease in the morphofunctional parameters of frozen/thawed spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga I. Stanishevskaya
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding—Branch of the LK Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Moskovskoe Shosse, 55a, Pushkin, 196625 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Yulia Silyukova
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding—Branch of the LK Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Moskovskoe Shosse, 55a, Pushkin, 196625 St. Petersburg, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Elena Fedorova
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding—Branch of the LK Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Moskovskoe Shosse, 55a, Pushkin, 196625 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Nikolai Pleshanov
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding—Branch of the LK Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Moskovskoe Shosse, 55a, Pushkin, 196625 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anton Kurochkin
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding—Branch of the LK Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Moskovskoe Shosse, 55a, Pushkin, 196625 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vera M. Tereshina
- Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119071 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Ianutsevich
- Winogradsky Institute of Microbiology, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119071 Moscow, Russia
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30
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Mondal S, Bandyopadhyay A. From oxidative imbalance to compromised standard sperm parameters: Toxicological aspect of phthalate esters on spermatozoa. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 98:104085. [PMID: 36841271 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The exponential rise in global male infertility and subfertility-related issues raises severe concern. One of the major contributors is phthalate esters, typical endocrine disruptors affecting millions of lives. The inevitable exposure to phthalates due to their universal application as plasticizers leaves the human population vulnerable to this silent threat. This review explicitly deals with the spermiotoxic effects of different phthalate esters on in vivo and in vitro models and on surveyed human populations to find the most plausible link between global usage of phthalates and poor sperm health. As the free radicals in spermatozoa are prerequisites for their standard structure and functioning, the precise regulation and phthalate-mediated impairment of pro-oxidant:anti-oxidant balance with subsequent loss of structural and functional integrity have also been critically discussed. Furthermore, we also provided future directives, which, if addressed, will fill the still-existing lacunae in phthalate-mediated male reproductive toxicity research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirsha Mondal
- Department of Zoology, Govt College Dhimarkheda (Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya), Katni, Madhya Pradesh 483332, India.
| | - Arindam Bandyopadhyay
- Department of Zoology, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh 211002, India.
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31
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Li Z, Sun J, Li K, Qin J, Sun Y, Zeng J, El-Ashram S, Zhao Y. Metabolomic analysis reveals spermatozoa and seminal plasma differences between Duroc and Liang guang Small-spotted pig. Front Vet Sci 2023; 9:1078928. [PMID: 36686181 PMCID: PMC9853278 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1078928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The Liang guang Small-spotted pig is a well-known Chinese indigenous pig that is valued for its exceptional meat quality. However, the Liang guang Small-spotted pig has a lower semen storage capacity, shorter storage time and worse semen quality compared to Duroc. Pig sperm used for artificial insemination (AI) loses part of vitality and quality when being stored in commercial solutions. Serious vitality losses and short shelf life of the semen are particularly prominent in Liang guang Small-spotted pig. In this study, the metabolites in seminal plasma and spermatozoa of Duroc and Liang guang Small-spotted pigs were identified using UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS technology. The findings indicated forty distinct metabolites concentrating on energy metabolic substrates and antioxidant capacity in Liang guang Small-spotted pig and Duroc seminal plasma, including D-Fructose, succinate, 2-dehydro-3-deoxy-d-gluconate, alanine betaine, citrate, carnitine, acetylcarnitine and so on. Seventeen different metabolites were explored, with a focus on glycerophospholipid metabolism in Liang guang Small-spotted pig and Duroc spermatozoa, primarily including glycerol 3-phosphate, acetylcarnitine, phosphatidylcholine (PC) 16:0/16:0, palmitoyl sphingomyelin, acetylcholine, choline, glycerophosphocholine, betaine, L-carnitine, creatinine and others. This study reveals the metabolite profile of spermatozoa and seminal plasma among different pig breeds and might be valuable for understanding the mechanisms that lead to sperm storage capacity. Metabolites involved in energy metabolism, antioxidant capacity and glycerophospholipid metabolism might be key to the poor sperm storage capacity in Liang guang Small-spotted pig.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Jingshuai Sun
- College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kebiao Li
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Jiali Qin
- Guangxi Yangxiang Co., Ltd., Guigang, China
| | - Yanmei Sun
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China
| | - Jianhua Zeng
- Guangdong YIHAO Food Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Yunxiang Zhao
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China,Guangxi Yangxiang Co., Ltd., Guigang, China,*Correspondence: Yunxiang Zhao ✉
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32
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Nixon B, Schjenken JE, Burke ND, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Hart HM, De Iuliis GN, Martin JH, Lord T, Bromfield EG. New horizons in human sperm selection for assisted reproduction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1145533. [PMID: 36909306 PMCID: PMC9992892 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1145533] [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: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a commonly encountered pathology that is estimated to be a contributory factor in approximately 50% of couples seeking recourse to assisted reproductive technologies. Upon clinical presentation, such males are commonly subjected to conventional diagnostic andrological practices that rely on descriptive criteria to define their fertility based on the number of morphologically normal, motile spermatozoa encountered within their ejaculate. Despite the virtual ubiquitous adoption of such diagnostic practices, they are not without their limitations and accordingly, there is now increasing awareness of the importance of assessing sperm quality in order to more accurately predict a male's fertility status. This realization raises the important question of which characteristics signify a high-quality, fertilization competent sperm cell. In this review, we reflect on recent advances in our mechanistic understanding of sperm biology and function, which are contributing to a growing armory of innovative approaches to diagnose and treat male infertility. In particular we review progress toward the implementation of precision medicine; the robust clinical adoption of which in the setting of fertility, currently lags well behind that of other fields of medicine. Despite this, research shows that the application of advanced technology platforms such as whole exome sequencing and proteomic analyses hold considerable promise in optimizing outcomes for the management of male infertility by uncovering and expanding our inventory of candidate infertility biomarkers, as well as those associated with recurrent pregnancy loss. Similarly, the development of advanced imaging technologies in tandem with machine learning artificial intelligence are poised to disrupt the fertility care paradigm by advancing our understanding of the molecular and biological causes of infertility to provide novel avenues for future diagnostics and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Brett Nixon,
| | - John E. Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Nathan D. Burke
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Hanah M. Hart
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Geoffry N. De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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Karanwal S, Pal A, Chera JS, Batra V, Kumaresan A, Datta TK, Kumar R. Identification of protein candidates in spermatozoa of water buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) bulls helps in predicting their fertility status. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1119220. [PMID: 36891514 PMCID: PMC9986327 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1119220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is an indispensable part of the Indian dairy sector and in several instances, the farmers incur economic losses due to failed pregnancy after artificial insemination (AI). One of the key factors for the failure of conception is the use of semen from the bulls of low fertilizing potential and hence, it becomes important to predict the fertility status before performing AI. In this study, the global proteomic profile of high fertile (HF) and low fertile (LF) buffalo bull spermatozoa was established using a high-throughput LC-MS/MS technique. A total of 1,385 proteins (≥1 high-quality PSM/s, ≥1 unique peptides, p < 0.05, FDR < 0.01) were identified out of which, 1,002 were common between both the HF and LF groups while 288 and 95 proteins were unique to HF and LF groups respectively. We observed 211 and 342 proteins were significantly high (log Fc ≥ 2) and low abundant (log Fc ≤ 0.5) in HF spermatozoa (p < 0.05). Gene ontology analysis revealed that the fertility associated high abundant proteins in HF were involved in spermatogenesis, sperm motility, acrosome integrity, zona pellucida binding and other associated sperm functions. Besides this, the low abundant proteins in HF were involved in glycolysis, fatty acid degradation and inflammation. Furthermore, fertility related differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) on sperm viz., AKAP3, Sp17, and DLD were validated through Western blotting and immunocytochemistry which was in coherence with the LC-MS/MS data. The DAPs identified in this study may be used as potential protein candidates for predicting fertility in buffaloes. Our findings provide an opportunity in mitigating the economic losses that farmers incur due to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Karanwal
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Ankit Pal
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Jatinder Singh Chera
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenelogy Laboratory, SRS of National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Tirtha K Datta
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
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Composition of Fatty Acids and Localization of SREBP1 and ELOVL2 Genes in Cauda Epididymides of Hu Sheep with Different Fertility. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233302. [PMID: 36496823 PMCID: PMC9738327 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an organ that transports, matures and stores sperm, and has functions such as secretion and absorption. Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) compositions in sperm membrane were changed during the process of epididymis maturation and influence the male fertility. This study aimed to investigate differences in crude fat and fatty acid content in cauda epididymis between high and low fertility of Hu sheep. One hundred and seventy-nine Hu ram lambs were fed from 56 days to 6 months under the same environment. After the feeding trial, all rams were slaughtered, and the body weight, testicular weight, epididymal weight and sperm density were measured. Pearson correlation analysis showed significantly moderate positive correlation between epididymal weight and sperm density and testicular weight. Eighteen rams were selected and divided into the high fertility group (H, n = 9) and low fertility group (L, n = 9) according to the epididymal weight, sperm density and histomorphology. The crude fat content, fatty acid profile and genes related to fatty acid metabolism were detected. The crude fat content, total fatty acid, total n-3 PUFA and docosahexaenoic acid (C22:6n-3, DHA) content of cauda epididymis in high fertility group was significantly higher than those in low fertility group (p < 0.05). However, the ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA was significantly lower than that in group L (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry results showed that SREBP1 and ELOVL2 were expressed in pseudostratified columnar ciliated epithelium and smooth muscle cells. The mRNA expression of SREBP1 (p = 0.09) and ELOVL2 (p < 0.05) in the high fertility group were increased. In conclusion, the high expression of SREBP1 and ELOVL2 may contribute to high n-3 PUFA content in cauda epididymis of high-fertility Hu sheep.
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α/β-Hydrolase D16B Truncation Results in Premature Sperm Capacitation in Cattle. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147777. [PMID: 35887122 PMCID: PMC9316559 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147777] [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: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently it was shown that a specific form of male infertility in Holstein cattle was caused by a nonsense variant in the α/β-hydrolase domain-containing 16B (ABHD16B) gene resulting in a protein truncation at amino acid position 218 (p.218Q*) and loss of function. Lipidomics showed that the absence of ABHD16B influenced the content of phosphatidylcholine (PC), ceramide (Cer), diacylglycerol (DAG), and sphingomyelin (SM) in variant carrier sperm membranes. However, the exact cause of infertility in affected sires has remained unclear until now. To elucidate the cause of infertility, we analyzed (i) standard sperm parameters (i.e., total sperm number, morphological intact sperm, total sperm motility), (ii) in vitro fertilizability and effects on early embryonic development, and (iii) sperm survival rates (i.e., capacitation time). The affected spermatozoa showed no changes in the usual sperm parameters and were also capable of fertilization in vitro. Furthermore, the absence of ABHD16B did not affect early embryonic development. Based on these results, it was concluded that the affected spermatozoa appeared to be fertilizable per se. Consequently, the actual cause of the inability to fertilize could only be due to a time- and/or place-dependent process after artificial insemination and before fertilization. A process fundamental to the ability to fertilize after insemination is capacitation. Capacitation is a biochemical maturation process that spermatozoa undergo in the female genital tract and is inevitable for the successful fertilization of the oocyte. It is known that the presence and concentration of certain sperm membrane lipids are essential for the correct course of capacitation. However, precisely these lipids are absent in the membrane of spermatozoa affected by the ABHD16B truncation. Since all other causes of fertilization inability were excluded in the previous experiments, consequently, the only remaining hypothesis was that the loss of function of ABHD16B leads to a capacitation disruption. We were able to show that heterozygous and homozygous affected spermatozoa exhibit premature capacitation and therefore decay before fertilization. This effect of the loss of function of ABHD16B has not been described before and our studies now revealed why sires harboring the variant in the ABHD16B gene are infertile.
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Mostafa S, Nader N, Machaca K. Lipid Signaling During Gamete Maturation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:814876. [PMID: 36204680 PMCID: PMC9531329 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.814876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell lipids are differentially distributed in distinct organelles and within the leaflets of the bilayer. They can further form laterally defined sub-domains within membranes with important signaling functions. This molecular and spatial complexity offers optimal platforms for signaling with the associated challenge of dissecting these pathways especially that lipid metabolism tends to be highly interconnected. Lipid signaling has historically been implicated in gamete function, however the detailed signaling pathways involved remain obscure. In this review we focus on oocyte and sperm maturation in an effort to consolidate current knowledge of the role of lipid signaling and set the stage for future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif Mostafa
- Medical Program, WCMQ, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nancy Nader
- Calcium Signaling Group, Research Department, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar (WCMQ), Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Khaled Machaca
- Calcium Signaling Group, Research Department, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar (WCMQ), Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Khaled Machaca,
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Perspectives on Potential Fatty Acid Modulations of Motility Associated Human Sperm Ion Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073718. [PMID: 35409078 PMCID: PMC8998313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Human spermatozoan ion channels are specifically distributed in the spermatozoan membrane, contribute to sperm motility, and are associated with male reproductive abnormalities. Calcium, potassium, protons, sodium, and chloride are the main ions that are regulated across this membrane, and their intracellular concentrations are crucial for sperm motility. Fatty acids (FAs) affect sperm quality parameters, reproductive pathologies, male fertility, and regulate ion channel functions in other cells. However, to date the literature is insufficient to draw any conclusions regarding the effects of FAs on human spermatozoan ion channels. Here, we aimed to discern the possible effects of FAs on spermatozoan ion channels and direct guidance for future research. After investigating the effects of FAs on characteristics related to human spermatozoan motility, reproductive pathologies, and the modulation of similar ion channels in other cells by FAs, we extrapolated polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs) to have the highest potency in modulating sperm ion channels to increase sperm motility. Of the PUFAs, the ω-3 unsaturated fatty acids have the greatest effect. We speculate that saturated and monounsaturated FAs will have little to no effect on sperm ion channel activity, though the possible effects could be opposite to those of the PUFAs, considering the differences between FA structure and behavior.
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Differential Expression and Localization of EHBP1L1 during the First Wave of Rat Spermatogenesis Suggest Its Involvement in Acrosome Biogenesis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010181. [PMID: 35052860 PMCID: PMC8773523 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification and characterization of new proteins involved in spermatogenesis is fundamental, considering that good-quality gametes are basic in ensuring proper reproduction. Here, we further analyzed the temporal and spatial localization during the first spermatogenic wave of rat testis of EHBP1L1, which is involved in vesicular trafficking due to the CH and bMERB domains, which bind to actin and Rab8/10, respectively. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses showed that EHBP1L1 protein expression started at 21 days post-partum (dpp) concomitantly with the appearance of primary spermatocytes (I SPC). In subsequent stages, EHBP1L1 specifically localized together with actin in the perinuclear cytoplasm close to the acrosomal and Golgian regions of spermatids (SPT) during the different phases of acrosome biogenesis (AB). Moreover, it was completely absent in elongated SPT and in mature spermatozoa, suggesting that its role was completed in previous stages. The combined data, also supported by our previous report demonstrating that EHBP1L1 mRNA was expressed by primary (I) and secondary (II) SPC, lead us to hypothesize its specific role during AB. Although these results are suggestive, further studies are needed to better clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms of AB, with the aim to use EHBP1L1 as a potential new marker for spermatogenesis.
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Sperm Selection for ICSI: Do We Have a Winner? Cells 2021; 10:cells10123566. [PMID: 34944074 PMCID: PMC8700516 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In assisted reproductive technology (ART), the aim of sperm cells’ preparation is to select competent spermatozoa with the highest fertilization potential and in this context, the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) represents the most applied technique for fertilization. This makes the process of identifying the perfect spermatozoa extremely important. A number of methods have now been developed to mimic some of the natural selection processes that exist in the female reproductive tract. Although many studies have been conducted to identify the election technique, many doubts and disagreements still remain. In this review, we will discuss all the sperm cell selection techniques currently available for ICSI, starting from the most basic methodologies and continuing with those techniques suitable for sperm cells with reduced motility. Furthermore, different techniques that exploit some sperm membrane characteristics and the most advanced strategy for sperm selection based on microfluidics, will be examined. Finally, a new sperm selection method based on a micro swim-up directly on the ICSI dish will be analyzed. Eventually, advantages and disadvantages of each technique will be debated, trying to draw reasonable conclusions on their efficacy in order to establish the gold standard method.
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