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Hu X, Han X, Sun Y, Zhang X, Li Y, Wang L, Lv P, Liang C, Li J. Development and characterisation of a method for determining N-terminal heterogeneity in the human recombinant follitropin β-subunit. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2025; 261:116828. [PMID: 40139043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2025.116828] [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: 09/03/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2025] [Accepted: 03/15/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025]
Abstract
Recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (rhFSH) consists of α- and β subunits linked by non-covalent bonds. Both subunits exhibit N-terminal heterogeneity, with the β-subunit exhibiting heterogeneity to a greater extent. In this study, we developed a comprehensive method for assessing β-subunit N-terminal heterogeneity based on a previously developed peptide mapping approach. The new method, which includes optimised sample preparation and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, facilitated the separation of integrated (NSCELTNITIAIEK) βL1 and truncated (CELTNITIAIEK) βL1 forms. The identity of the separated integrated and truncated forms was confirmed via tandem mass spectrometry. Optimised sample preparation streamlined the process by simultaneously performing trypsin digestion (with calcium chloride enhancement) and PNGase F deglycosylation for a total preparation time of just 1 day. The enzymatic digestion and sample preparation processes underwent several evaluations, including scaled-up sample preparation, sample preparation variability assessment and extended incubation stability studies. The sample preparation process demonstrated excellent robustness in all evaluations. Results consistently showed approximately 50 % N-terminal truncation of two amino acids in the β-subunit across different manufacturers' samples, highlighting the utility of the method in assessing the batch-to-batch consistency and comparability of biosimilar products. This integrated approach combines peptide mapping and N-terminal heterogeneity analysis into a single, efficient workflow, thereby significantly enhancing quality control processes and enhancing the safety and efficacy of recombinant FSH products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Hu
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Xuezhi Han
- Gan & Lee Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Yue Sun
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhang
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Li
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Lvyin Wang
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Lv
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Chenggang Liang
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China.
| | - Jing Li
- National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China.
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Graziani A, Grande G, Scafa R, Selice R, Garolla A, Rocca MS, Vinanzi C, Ferlin A. Pharmacogenetics of follicle-stimulating hormone action in the male. Andrology 2025. [PMID: 40304702 DOI: 10.1111/andr.70053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2025] [Revised: 04/11/2025] [Accepted: 04/17/2025] [Indexed: 05/02/2025]
Abstract
Male factor infertility (MFI) is involved in half of the cases of couple infertility. The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) therapy is considered efficient to improve semen parameters and pregnancy rate in patients with idiopathic MFI, following the lesson learned from hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. However, while in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism FSH therapy, in combination with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is a well-established treatment, in patients with MFI the effects of the FSH therapy are variable and unpredictable. The FSH therapy in MFI should be a personalized treatment, tailored on the characteristics of the male patient and the couple. The pivotal aspect is the accurate identification of patients who might benefit from such treatment (responders) from those who might not (nonresponders). To date, selection of patients to be treated is based on history, physical examination, semen analysis, and hormonal assessment. However, these parameters cannot adequately identify a priori responder patients. Furthermore, tailored management should include pharmacological adaptation (dosage and duration of the therapy), as happens during ovarian hyperstimulation in assisted reproductive technologies. In a fully personalized therapy, pharmacogenetic factors must be considered. In this paper, we describe the evidence dealing with the pharmacogenetics of the FSH therapy in MFI, presenting the physiological and physiopathological basis and the pharmacogenetics studies dealing with effects of polymorphisms in the beta-subunit of FSH (FSHB) and the FSH receptor (FSHR) gene. According to the evidence so far available, genetic evaluation of FSHB and FSHR is recommended only for research purposes, since the data are not conclusive and even contrasting. Furthermore, the evidence so far is derived from quite small studies with different endpoints considered and relatively few cases. Better studies that consider the combined effect of several FSHB and FSHR gene polymorphisms, together with clinical, biochemical, seminal and testicular cytology, are necessary to develop an algorithm that might predict the response to the FSH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Grande
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Raffele Scafa
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Riccardo Selice
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Santa Rocca
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Cinzia Vinanzi
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Department of Systems Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Qi J, Sun Y, Chen Z, Gao R, Song M, Zou T, Gong X, Wang S, Zhang Q, Liu C, Xing S. Sodium butyrate promotes synthesis of testosterone and meiosis of hyperuricemic male mice. Sci Rep 2025; 15:14757. [PMID: 40295597 PMCID: PMC12037722 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-95846-6] [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: 12/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
Hyperuricemia (HUA) impaires spermatogenesis. This study was carried out, aiming to determine whether butyric acid (NaB) avoids the HUA-induced decline of sperm quality HUA mice were developed through intra-peritoneal injection of the potassium oxalate combined with intragastric uric acid (UA) and by tube feeding 300 mg·kg-1·d-1NaB. The effect of NaB on the reproduction of HUA male mice was determined by measuring sperm count, sperm motility and testosterone content. In addition, TM3 and GC-2 cells were treated with a solution containing 30 mg/dl UA and 1mM NaB. The effects of NaB on the sperm quality were evaluated with the expression level of the genes involving in LH/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway and meiosis, and that encoding OPRL1 receptor protein. Results showed that NaB improved sperm count, sperm motility, testosterone synthesis, and impaired spermatocyte meiosis via HUA. In addition, in vitro analysis showed that NaB activated the LH/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway of TM3 cells, promoted the synthesis of testosterone, up-regulated the content of pain-sensitive peptide receptor (OPRL1) on the surface of GC-2 cells, and promoted meiosis. NaB also promoted the utilization of ATP by GC-2 cells. We illustrated a close relationship between HUA and spermatogenesis defects. NaB-promoted the expression of the genes functioning in testis meiosis, and the testosterone content may aid to improving spermatogenesis quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaojiao Qi
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Zeqing Chen
- Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Qingdao, Qingdao, 266033, China
- Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, 266000, Shandong, China
- Medical Integration and Practice Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Ruipeng Gao
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Miao Song
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Tong Zou
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Xuelin Gong
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Chengyang Liu
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China
| | - Shichao Xing
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, College of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, P. R. China.
- Women and Children'S Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266075, P. R. China.
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Hu S, Song Y, Zhu J, Wang Z, Li X, He X, Li G, Hu J, Liu H, Li L, Wang J. Molecular mechanisms underlying the testicular developmental variations among different lines of Tianfu Nonghua duck. Poult Sci 2025; 104:104931. [PMID: 39985897 PMCID: PMC11904553 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2025.104931] [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: 10/04/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2025] [Accepted: 02/19/2025] [Indexed: 02/24/2025] Open
Abstract
The reproductive and economic performance of male poultry depends on the testicular development and semen quality. However, most previous studies on male duck reproduction have focused on environmental impacts or developmental dynamics within a single breed, so the mechanisms of duck testicular development remain poorly understood. In this study, by taking a total of 240 males from 3 different lines (GF1, BGF2, and MC) of Tianfu Nonghua duck during the first 24 post-hatch weeks as the experimental objects, we comprehensively analyzed the age-dependent variations in the testicular histomorphological characteristics, serum testosterone (T) contents, and hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis-related genes expression profiles, aiming to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying these observed variations. The histomorphological results showed that the testes of all duck lines developed in an age- and genetic line-dependent manner. Compared to MC and BGF2, GF1 exhibited significantly higher bilateral testicular organ index (BTOI) (P < 0.05), which significantly increased since week 8 (P < 0.05). Also, the duck testicular parenchymal-to-interstitial area ratio, the thickness of seminiferous epithelium, and the number of germ cells increased remarkably with age, while the primary spermatocytes (PSC) appeared earlier in GF1 than in MC and BGF2. A small number of spermatozoa were only observed in the testes of GF1 at week 24. Serum T levels of all duck lines exhibited similar developmental patterns of increasing early and decreasing later, reaching the highest during the period from week 8 to 16. However, there observed significantly lower serum T levels in BGF2 than in GF1 since week 8 (P < 0.05). In the hypothalamus, GnRH-Ⅰ expression was significantly higher in GF1 than in MC and BGF2 at week 24 (P < 0.05), while GnIH expression was significantly higher in GF1 at week 0 (P < 0.05). The pituitary LHβ expression in GF1 was significantly higher at weeks 4 and 8, while the testicular CYP17A1 expression in BGF2 was significantly higher at weeks 4, 8, and 24 (P < 0.05). Moreover, the testicular CYP17A1 expression was positively correlated with serum T levels (P < 0.05), and both the hypothalamic GnRH-Ⅰ and pituitary FSHβ expression showed significant positive correlations with the BTOI (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the testes of GF1 developed more rapidly than those of MC and BGF2. These developmental variations were attributed to consistently higher serum T levels in GF1, which were strongly positively associated with the age-dependent testicular CYP17A1 expression profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenqiang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China.
| | - Yang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Jiaran Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Zhujun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Xiaopeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Xiaoyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Guibi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Hehe Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Liang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
| | - Jiwen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Bioinformatics, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China
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5
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Stocks BT, Oppenheimer AG, Campbell KJ, Lindsey JP, Kohn TP, Alexander JM, Huang JB, Lipshultz LI. Optimal restoration of spermatogenesis after testosterone therapy using human chorionic gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone. Fertil Steril 2025; 123:607-615. [PMID: 39442683 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.10.019] [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: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 10/14/2024] [Accepted: 10/15/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study improvements in spermatogenesis in men with a history of testosterone therapy using a novel fertility treatment regimen. DESIGN A single-center retrospective cohort analysis. SUBJECTS Seventy-seven men with previous testosterone use seeking fertility treatment from January 2020 to March 2024. EXPOSURE A treatment regimen of 3,000 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and 75 IU of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) three times a week was used. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measured was change in sperm concentration during hCG/FSH therapy. The secondary outcome measured was whether concurrent testosterone therapy during hCG/FSH therapy affected recovery of spermatogenesis. RESULTS Within the entire cohort (n = 77), 74% of men demonstrated improvements in their sperm concentrations. There was not a significant difference in recovery of sperm concentration in men who stayed on testosterone therapy during hCG/FSH reboot (no testosterone therapy [n = 50], 74% improved, vs. concurrent testosterone therapy [n = 27], 74% improved). CONCLUSION We report optimal recovery of spermatogenesis with hCG/FSH therapy in men with infertility with a history of testosterone use. Concurrent testosterone therapy does not impede hCG/FSH-mediated spermatogenic recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Stocks
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Amelia G Oppenheimer
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Kevin J Campbell
- Department of Urology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - John P Lindsey
- Department of Urology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Taylor P Kohn
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Juliet M Alexander
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jason B Huang
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Division of Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
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Akhtar MF, Umar M, Chai W, Li L, Ahmad E, Wang C. Effect of Inhibin Immunization on Reproductive Hormones and Testicular Morphology of Dezhou Donkeys During the Non-Breeding Season. Animals (Basel) 2025; 15:813. [PMID: 40150342 PMCID: PMC11939279 DOI: 10.3390/ani15060813] [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: 01/26/2025] [Revised: 03/01/2025] [Accepted: 03/04/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025] Open
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the potential role of inhibin immunization on plasma hormone concentration and testicular histoarchitecture of Dezhou donkeys in the nonbreeding season (November-February). For this purpose, adult Dezhou donkeys (n = 30) were equally divided into groups A, B, and C. Group A was actively immunized with 3 mg inhibin, group B with (1.5 mg), and group C was immunized with Bovine serum albumin (BSA) and served as a control. All animals in groups A and B were given a primary dose of inhibin (INH) antigen, i.e., 3 mg and 1.5 mg on day 1, followed by a booster dose on the 23rd day of the experiment. Blood samples were collected on the 21st, 28th, 34th, and 40th days of the experiment. Primary and booster INH immunization (3 mg and 1.5 mg) slightly elevated the plasma hormone concentrations of FSH, LH, AMH, and Activin A. The number of spermatogonia was significantly higher in group A as compared to group C on the 28th day of the experiment. Inhibin immunization also caused apoptosis in testicular histoarchitecture. In conclusion, Inhibin immunization can potentially improve the reproductive efficiency of Dezhou donkeys in a nonbreeding season by elevating plasma hormone concentrations of FSH, LH, AMH, and Activin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Faheem Akhtar
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Muhammad Umar
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Science, Uthal 90150, Pakistan
| | - Wenqiong Chai
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Ejaz Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Changfa Wang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
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Ajiboye BO, Ayemoni FI, Famusiwa CD, Lawal OE, Falode JA, Onikanni SA, Akhtar MF, Gupta S, Oyinloye BE. Effect of Dalbergiella welwitschi alkaloid-rich leaf extracts on testicular damage in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. J Mol Histol 2025; 56:93. [PMID: 39976838 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-025-10366-x] [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: 12/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2025] [Indexed: 04/02/2025]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease affecting young and old, even though it can be managed with orthodox medicine, which has a series of side effects. Therefore, Dalbergiella welwitschi is one of the medicinal plants that is commonly used for the management of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Hence, this study was designed to assess the testicular-protective ability of alkaloid-rich leaf extract of D. welwitschi in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats D. welwitshii leaf alkaloid-rich extract was obtained using standard procedure. Streptozotocin was injected into the experimental animals intraperitoneally at a dose of 45 mg/kg body weight to induce type 2 diabetes mellitus. Prior to this, the animals were given 20% (w/v) fructose for one week. Thus, the animals were grouped into five (n = 8), comprising of un-induced rats (NC), diabetic control (DC), diabetic rats treated with low (50 mg/kg body weight) and high (100 mg/kg body weight) doses of D. welwitschi alkaloid-rich leaf extracts (i.e., DWL and DWH respectively) and 200 mg/kg body weight dose of metformin (MET). The animals were sacrificed on the 21st day, blood and testis were harvested and used for the determination of ions (Fe, Cu and Zn), sialic acid, some hormones (testosterone, luteinizing and follicle stimulating), oxidative stress biomarkers [malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and glutathione (GSH)] as well as histological examination. In addition, the results show that diabetic rats placed on DWL, and DWH significantly (p < 0.05) decreased ion levels (Fe, Cu and Zn) and ameliorated oxidative stress biomarkers such as MDA, SOD, CAT, GPx, GST, and GSH. These were supported by the histological examination by improving testicular-protective effects in diabetic rats administered DWL, and DWH. Therefore, it is that assume that the alkaloid-rich leaf extracts of D. welwitschi may offer potential benefits in the treatment of diabetic testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- B O Ajiboye
- Phytomedicine and Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.
- Institute of Drug Research and Development, SE Bogoro Center, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria.
| | - F I Ayemoni
- Phytomedicine and Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - C D Famusiwa
- Phytomedicine and Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - O E Lawal
- Phytomedicine and Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - J A Falode
- Phytomedicine and Molecular Toxicology Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - S A Onikanni
- Laboratory of Experimental Endocrinology-LEEx, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, 360101, Ekiti State, Nigeria
| | - M F Akhtar
- Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Lahore Campus, Islamabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - S Gupta
- M.M. College of Pharmacy, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to Be University), Ambala, Haryana, India
| | - B E Oyinloye
- Institute of Drug Research and Development, SE Bogoro Center, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, 360101, Ekiti State, Nigeria
- Biotechnology and Structural Biology (BSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa, South Africa
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Guedes J, Pla I, Sanchez A, Marko-Varga G, Domont GB, Sahlin KB, Hazir B, Giwercman A, Sousa Nogueira FC, Malm J, Lundberg Giwercman Y. Short-term effects of follicle-stimulating hormone on immune function, lipid, and vitamin metabolism in transiently castrated men. Endocr Connect 2025; 14:e240587. [PMID: 39745472 PMCID: PMC11770401 DOI: 10.1530/ec-24-0587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2024] [Revised: 12/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2025] [Indexed: 01/24/2025]
Abstract
Background Prostate cancer therapy with surgical or chemical castration with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists has been linked to elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, which may contribute to secondary health disorders, including atherosclerosis and diabetes. Although recent findings suggest a role for FSH beyond the reproductive system, its metabolic impact remains unclear and difficult to disentangle from that of androgens. In this study, we examined the metabolic changes induced by FSH and distinguished them from those caused by testosterone. Methods Plasma samples from temporarily medically castrated young men (n = 33) treated with FSH and/or testosterone were characterized by proteomics and metabolomics approaches. All subjects received GnRH antagonists. Sixteen men were randomized to recombinant FSH (300 IU 3 times/week) for 5 weeks, while seventeen men served as controls. After 3 weeks, all men received 1000 mg intramuscular testosterone undecanoate. Blood samples were collected at the start, after 3 weeks and after 5 weeks. The proteome and metabolome signatures were characterized in all samples. Results FSH significantly upregulates key proteins involved in the modulation of inflammatory response and innate immune system (P ≤ 0.03) and dysregulates lipid metabolism, evidenced by downregulation of multiple apolipoproteins (P ≤ 0.04) and increased levels of cholesterol and glycerophospholipids (P ≤ 0.03). In addition, low FSH levels were correlated with a reduction in the active form of vitamin D (P < 0.02). These results highlight the short-term metabolic impacts of FSH in males. Conclusions and Clinical Implications Our findings underlined the FSH effect on extragonadal systems and its connection to metabolic disorders often seen as secondary effects of prostate cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Guedes
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Clinical Protein Science & Imaging, Biomedical Centre, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Indira Pla
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Clinical Protein Science & Imaging, Biomedical Centre, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Aniel Sanchez
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Clinical Protein Science & Imaging, Biomedical Centre, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gyorgy Marko-Varga
- Clinical Protein Science & Imaging, Biomedical Centre, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gilberto Barbosa Domont
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - K Barbara Sahlin
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Berk Hazir
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Skåne University Hospital Malmö, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Lund, Sweden
| | - Fábio César Sousa Nogueira
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Johan Malm
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Clinical Protein Science & Imaging, Biomedical Centre, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
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Zečević N, Kocić J, Perović M, Stojsavljević A. Detrimental effects of cadmium on male infertility: A review. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2025; 290:117623. [PMID: 39733596 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.117623] [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: 11/05/2024] [Revised: 12/24/2024] [Accepted: 12/24/2024] [Indexed: 12/31/2024]
Abstract
Infertility has become a serious health and socio-economic-psychological problem globally. The harmful role of trace metals in male infertility is recognized but still not sufficiently explained. Herein, a comprehensive review was conducted to elucidate the detrimental role of cadmium (Cd) on male infertility, particularly on infertility with unknown (idiopathic) causes. Peer-reviewed studies from 2000 to 2024 dealing with seminal plasma and blood Cd levels of fertile and infertile men were retrieved were interrogated with regard to strict inclusion/exclusion criteria, and then were thoroughly reviewed and analyzed. Another aim of this review was to indicate the potential effects of Cd on changes in seminogram findings. A median range of seminal plasma Cd levels from 0.2 to 1.5 µg/L can be considered safe for men's fertility. This review strongly implies that Cd levels were notably higher in seminal plasma of infertile cases than controls. The review's data also indicate that exposure to tobacco smoke is a major source of elevated seminal and blood Cd levels in infertile men. Newer research points to the importance of Cd in lower levels from the environment on changes in seminogram findings, primarily count, motility of spermatozoa, and their morphology. Overall, this review implies that seminal plasma Cd levels could be a good indicator of semen quality. However, new, in-depth studies are needed to confirm or reject the causal relationship of Cd with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nebojša Zečević
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics "Narodni front", Kraljice Natalije 62, Belgrade, Serbia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Doktora Subotića 8, Belgrade, Serbia; Special Hospital Belgrade, Human Reproduction Center, Antifašističke borbe 2a, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Kocić
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics "Narodni front", Kraljice Natalije 62, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Perović
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics "Narodni front", Kraljice Natalije 62, Belgrade, Serbia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Doktora Subotića 8, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Stojsavljević
- Innovative Centre of the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia.
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Rocca MS, Pannella M, Bayraktar E, Marino S, Bortolozzi M, Di Nisio A, Foresta C, Ferlin A. Extragonadal function of follicle-stimulating hormone: Evidence for a role in endothelial physiology and dysfunction. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 594:112378. [PMID: 39332467 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a fundamental role in reproduction stimulating ovarian folliculogenesis, Sertoli cells function and spermatogenesis. However, the recent identification of FSH receptor (FSHR) also in extra-gonadal tissues has suggested that FSH activity may not be limited only to fertility regulation, with conflicting results on the possible role of FSH in endothelial cells. The aim of this study was to investigate FSH role on endothelial function in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs). RESULTS Endothelial Nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression, eNOS phosphorylation and Nitric Oxide (NO) production resulted increased after the stimulation of HUVEC with recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) at 3.6x103 ng/ml, with increasing Calcium release from intracellular stores. Furthermore, IP3 production increased after rhFSH stimulation despite PTX treatment and NFAT1 was observed prevalently in nucleus. We observed a statistical difference between untreated cells and cells stimulated with 0.36x103 ng/ml and between cells stimulated with 0.36x103 ng/ml and cells stimulated with 1.8x103 ng/ml at 4 and 8 h by Wound healing assay, respectively. Furthermore, a higher cellular permeability was observed in stimulated cells, with atypical VE-cadherin distribution, as well as filamentous actin. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that FSH at high concentrations elicits a signalling that could compromise the endothelial membrane. Indeed, VE-cadherin anomalies may severely affect the endothelial barrier, resulting in an increased membrane permeability. Although NO is an important vasodilatation factor, probably an excessive production could impact on endothelial functionality, partially explaining the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases in menopausal women and men with hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Santa Rocca
- University Hospital of Padua, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Erva Bayraktar
- University of Padua, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei", Padua, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Via Orus 2, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Saralea Marino
- University of Padua, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei", Padua, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Via Orus 2, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Mario Bortolozzi
- University of Padua, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei", Padua, Italy; Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Via Orus 2, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- University of Padua, Department of Medicine, Padua, Italy; Department of Wellbeing, Nutrition and Sport, Pegaso Telematic University, Centro Direzionale Isola F2, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- University of Padua, Department of Medicine, Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- University Hospital of Padua, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Padua, Italy; University of Padua, Department of Medicine, Padua, Italy.
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11
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Mbiydzenyuy NE, Qulu LA. Stress, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and aggression. Metab Brain Dis 2024; 39:1613-1636. [PMID: 39083184 PMCID: PMC11535056 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-024-01393-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 11/05/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and aggression. It provides a detailed overview of the physiology and functioning of these axes, as well as the implications for aggressive behavior. The HPA axis, responsible for the stress response, is activated in response to various stressors and can influence aggressive behavior. Glucocorticoids, such as cortisol, play a crucial role in stress-induced activation of the HPA axis and have been implicated in aggressive tendencies. Chronic stress can dysregulate the HPA axis, leading to alterations in cortisol levels and potentially contributing to aggressive behavior. The HPG axis, particularly the androgen hormone testosterone, is also closely linked to aggression. Animal and human studies have consistently shown a positive association between testosterone levels and aggression. The androgen receptors in the brain's neural circuitry play a critical role in modulating aggressive behavior. Interactions between the HPA and HPG axes further contribute to the regulation of aggression. Feedback mechanisms and crosstalk between these axes provide a complex system for the modulation of both stress and reproductive functions, which can impact aggressive behavior. Additionally,the influence of stress on reproductive functions, particularly the role of androgens in stress-induced aggression, adds further complexity to this relationship. The review also discusses the future directions and implications for clinical interventions. Understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying aggression requires integrating molecular, cellular, and circuit-level approaches. Translational perspectives, including animal models and human studies, can bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. Finally, therapeutic strategies for aggression-related disorders are explored, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions based on a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between the HPA and HPG axes. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the physiological and neurobiological mechanisms underlying aggression, with a specific focus on the interplay between the HPA and HPG axes. By elucidating the complex interactions between stress, hormones, and aggressive behavior, this research paves the way for future investigations and potential therapeutic interventions for aggression-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngala Elvis Mbiydzenyuy
- Basic Science Department, School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, P.O Box 71191, Ndola, Zambia
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lihle-Appiah Qulu
- Division of Medical Physiology, Biomedical Science Research Institute, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Wang L, Han Q, Liu Y, Ma X, Han H, Yan L, Shen Z, Ji P, Wang B, Liu G. Activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor protein promotes testosterone synthesis to alleviate abnormal spermatogenesis caused by cholestasis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 282:136478. [PMID: 39393744 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.136478] [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: 07/26/2024] [Revised: 09/29/2024] [Accepted: 10/08/2024] [Indexed: 10/13/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we have investigated potential roles of cholestasis played in spermatogenesis in the cholestatic animal model generated by giving the mice DDC diet. The data showed that cholestasis jeopardized the testicular structure and function by downregulating the expressions of genes related to the androgen's synthesis. Mechanistically, the cholestasis disturbers the liver's tryptophan metabolism and its metabolites. These tryptophan metabolites including serotonin, 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid, 4-(2-Aminophenyl)-2,4-dioxobutanoic acid and Quinoline-4,8-diol were significantly reduced in the cholestatic mice model compared to their controlled counterparts. These tryptophan metabolites are the endogenous ligands of AHR and their levels are positively correlated to the expressions of genes related to the androgen's synthesis and AHR. Notably, supplementation of AHR ligand ITE promoted the expression of genes related to the testosterone synthesis and alleviated abnormal spermatogenesis. In addition, the bacteria that disturbed the tryptophan metabolism in cholestatic mice were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing and Spearman correlation analysis. Briefly, we have identified a cholestasis associated gut microbiota-testis axis. This axis is responsible for the cholestasis induced abnormal spermatogenesis and male reproductive dysfunction. Breaking vicious cycle of this axis may be a suitable strategy to prevent and treat the cholestasis associated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Likai Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Qi Han
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Yunjie Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Xiao Ma
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Huigang Han
- College of Animal Science, Xinjiang Agricultural University, China
| | - Laiqing Yan
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Zixia Shen
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Pengyun Ji
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China
| | - Bingyuan Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China.
| | - Guoshi Liu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agricultural, State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Frontiers Science Center for Molecular Design Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, China.
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13
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Drechsel KCE, Broer SL, van Breda HMK, Stoutjesdijk FS, van Dulmen-den Broeder E, Beishuizen A, Wallace WH, Körholz D, Mauz-Körholz C, Hasenclever D, Cepelova M, Uyttebroeck A, Ronceray L, Twisk JWR, Kaspers GJL, Veening MA. Semen analysis and reproductive hormones in boys with classical Hodgkin lymphoma treated according to the EuroNet-PHL-C2 protocol. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:2411-2422. [PMID: 39256932 PMCID: PMC11532607 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae204] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the impact of the EuroNet-PHL-C2 treatment for boys with classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) on semen parameters? SUMMARY ANSWER More than half of the patients (52%, n = 16/31) had oligozoospermia or azoospermia at 2 years from cHL diagnosis; particularly boys treated for advanced-stage cHL had low sperm counts and motility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the inguinal region or testes can impair spermatogenesis and result in reduced fertility. The EuroNet-PHL-C2 trial aims to minimize radiotherapy in standard childhood cHL treatment, by intensifying chemotherapy. The present study aims to assess the (gonadotoxic) impact of this treatment protocol on semen parameters and reproductive hormones in boys aged ≤18 years. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This international, prospective, multi-centre cohort study was an add-on study to the randomized phase-3 EuroNet-PHL-C2 trial, where the efficacy of standard cHL treatment with OEPA-COPDAC-28 (OEPA: vincristine, etoposide, prednisone, and doxorubicin; COPDAC-28: cyclophosphamide, vincristine, prednisone, and dacarbazine) was compared to intensified OEPA-DECOPDAC-21 chemotherapy (DECOPDAC-21: COPDAC with additional doxorubicin and etoposide and 25% more cyclophosphamide). Patients were recruited between January 2017 and September 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Eligibility criteria included male patients, diagnosed with classical HL before or at the age of 18 years, and treated according to the EuroNet-PHL-C2 protocol in any of the 18 participating sites in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, Czech Republic, and Austria. Sperm parameters (sperm concentration, progressive motility, sperm volume, and calculated total motile sperm count) were assessed at diagnosis and 2 years after diagnosis in (post)pubertal boys. Laboratory measurements (serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and inhibin B) were performed in samples drawn at diagnosis, during treatment (2-3 times), and at 2 years post-diagnosis, and (age-adjusted) analyses were conducted separately for pre-pubertal and (post)pubertal boys. Outcomes were compared between the treatment levels (TL1, TL2, and TL3) and consolidation treatment schemes (COPDAC-28 and DECOPDAC-21). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In total, 101 boys were included in the present analysis: 73 were (post)pubertal (median age 15.4 years, (IQR 14.4; 16.6), 10 TL1, 29 TL2, 34 TL3, 62% of TL2/3 patients received COPDAC-28) and 28 boys were pre-pubertal (median age 9.6 years (IQR 6.6; 11.4), 4 TL1, 7 TL2, 17 TL3, 38% of TL2/3 patients received COPDAC-28). The study included six boys who had received pelvic radiotherapy; none were irradiated in the inguinal or testicular area. At diagnosis, 48 (post)pubertal boys delivered semen for cryopreservation; 19 (40%) semen samples were oligospermic and 4 (8%) were azoospermic. Low sperm concentration (<15 mil/ml) appeared to be related to the HL disease itself, with a higher prevalence in boys who presented with B symptoms (76% vs 26%, aOR 2.3 (95% CI 1.0; 3.8), P = 0.001) compared to those without such symptoms. At 2 -years post-diagnosis, 31 boys provided semen samples for analysis, of whom 12 (39%) boys had oligozoospermia and 4 (13%) had azoospermia, while 22 boys (71%) had low total motile sperm counts (TMSC) (<20 mil). Specifically, the eight boys in the TL3 group treated with DECOPDAC-21 consolidation had low sperm counts and low progressive motility after 2 years (i.e. median sperm count 1.4 mil/ml (IQR <0.1; 5.3), n = 7 (88%), low sperm concentration, low median progressive motility 16.5% (IQR 0.0; 51.2), respectively). Age-adjusted serum FSH levels were significantly raised and inhibin B levels (and inhibin B:FSH ratios) were decreased during chemotherapy in (post)pubertal boys, with subsequent normalization in 80% (for FSH) and 60% (for inhibin B) of boys after 2 years. Only 4 out of the 14 (post)pubertal boys (29%) with low sperm concentrations after 2 years had elevated FSH (>7.6 IU/l), while 7 (50%) had low inhibin B levels (<100 ng/l). In pre-pubertal boys, reproductive hormones were low overall and remained relatively stable during chemotherapy. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The present analyses included sperm and laboratory measurements up to 2 years post-diagnosis. Long-term reproductive outcomes and potential recovery of spermatogenesis remain unknown, while recovery was reported up to 5- or even 10-year post-chemotherapy in previous studies.Boys who were pre-pubertal at diagnosis were still too young and/or physically not able to deliver semen after 2 years and we could not assess a potential difference in gonadotoxicity according to pubertal state at the time of treatment. Overall, the statistical power of the analyses on sperm concentration and quality after 2 years was limited. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Results of the semen analyses conducted among the 31 boys who had provided a semen sample at 2 years post-treatment were generally poor. However, additional long-term and adequately powered data are crucial to assess the potential recovery and clinical impact on fertility. The participating boys will be invited to deliver a semen sample after 5 years. Until these data become available, benefits of intensified chemotherapy in cHL treatment to reduce radiotherapy and lower risk for development of secondary tumours should be carefully weighed against potentially increased risk of other late effects, such as diminished fertility due to the increased chemotherapy burden. Boys with newly diagnosed cHL should be encouraged to deliver sperm for cryopreservation whenever possible. However, patients and clinicians should also realize that the overall state of disease and inflammatory milieu of cHL can negatively affect sperm quality and thereby reduce chance of successful fertility preservation. Furthermore, the measurement of FSH and inhibin B appears to be of low value in predicting low sperm quality at two years from cHL treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Dutch charity foundation KiKa (project 257) that funds research on all forms of childhood cancer. C.M.-K., D.K., W.H.W., D.H., MC, A.U., and A.B. were involved in the development of the EuroNet-PHL-C2 regimen. The other authors declare no potential conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C E Drechsel
- Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Paediatric Haemato-Oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treament and quality of life, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S L Broer
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - H M K van Breda
- Department of Urology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - F S Stoutjesdijk
- Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E van Dulmen-den Broeder
- Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Beishuizen
- Department of Paediatric Haemato-Oncology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Erasmus MC—Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - W H Wallace
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, UK
| | - D Körholz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Giessen—Zentrum für Kinderheilkunde und Jugendmedizin, Giessen, Germany
| | - C Mauz-Körholz
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Giessen und Marburg GmbH, Standort Giessen—Zentrum für Kinderheilkunde und Jugendmedizin, Giessen, Germany
| | - D Hasenclever
- Institut für Medizinische Informatik, Statistik und Epidemiologie, Universität Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - M Cepelova
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Motol and 2nd Medical Faculty Charles University, Prague 5, Czech Republic
| | - A Uyttebroeck
- Paediatric Haemato-Oncology, University Hospitals of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - L Ronceray
- Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, St. Anna Children’s Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - J W R Twisk
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G J L Kaspers
- Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treament and quality of life, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M A Veening
- Pediatric Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Treament and quality of life, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Odeyemi AJ, Shittu OO, Odeyemi AY, Adelusi OO, Ojo VOA, Smith OF, Aderinboye RY, Sobayo RA. Evaluation of male reproductive hormones of Kalahari Red and Kalawad goat bucks as affected by age and season under tropical conditions. Trop Anim Health Prod 2024; 56:364. [PMID: 39466348 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-024-04215-4] [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: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 10/30/2024]
Abstract
Comprehensive understanding of reproductive hormones and environmental cues with their relationship is essential for efficient production in livestock sectors involving either assisted or natural reproductive methods. This study evaluated the effects of age and seasonal-associated changes in the blood concentrations of testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) of male Kalahari Red (KR) and Kalawad (KW)-crossbred goats. Based on a 2 × 3 × 4 factorial arrangement, a total of 42 bucks (KR n = 21 and KW n = 21) were allotted into three age groups (> 1 ≤ 2 years, > 2 ≤ 3 years and > 3 ≤ 4 years) with seven KR bucks and seven KW bucks each per age group; reared under different seasons (early rainy, late rainy, early dry and late dry). The animals were managed semi-intensively, kept in an open-ventilated pen and subjected to same nutritional regime throughout the one-year experimental period. Follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone concentrations were analyzed in serum samples. Data obtained reproductive hormones were subjected to three-way Analysis of Variance using SAS 1999. Results show that breed had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on both serum FSH and testosterone concentrations. The highest FSH (0.49 ± 0.02 ng/mL, 0.45 ± 0.01 ng/mL, 0.41 ± 0.1 ng/mL and 0.47 ± 0.07 ng/mL) mean values (P > 0.05) were observed in KR in September, October, November and May, respectively while the highest (2.6 ± 0.02 ng/mL) testosterone concentration in KW (p < 0.05) was obtained in December. Testosterone had irregular patterns between breeds and months of sampling. FSH was at peak (p > 0.05) in KR during the late rainy season at all ages while the values of FSH concentration in KW were not significantly different at all ages and seasons. The highest (2.05 ± 0.11 ng/mL) serum testosterone mean value in KW peaked (p < 0.05) age > 3 ≤ 4 years during the late rainy season. Testosterone concentration was lower and steady at all ages during rainy seasons in KR but started fluctuating during the early dry season. The least mean (0.62 ± 0.07 ng/mL and 0.68 ± 0.05 ng/mL) were recorded (p > 0.05) in KW during the late dry season at age > 2 ≤ 3 and > 3 ≤ 4 years respectively. In KR and KW goat breeds raised under tropical condition, the high seasonal variations were responsible for the fluctuations in the reproductive hormones which resultantly altered or lowered the sexual activity of the animals at certain season(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Odeyemi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria.
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria.
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA.
| | - O O Shittu
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - A Y Odeyemi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - O O Adelusi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - V O A Ojo
- Department of Pasture and Range Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - O F Smith
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - R Y Aderinboye
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - R A Sobayo
- Department of Animal Physiology, Federal University of Agriculture, (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, P.M.B 2240, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Production and Health, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Nutrition, FUNAAB, Abeokuta, Nigeria
- Department of Animal Sciences, Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
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15
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Gong J, Lv Y, Meng Y, Zhang W, Jiang X, Xiao M. Effects of prenatal stress on reproductive function of male offspring through the KISS1 system. Endocr Connect 2024; 13:e240027. [PMID: 39140811 PMCID: PMC11466243 DOI: 10.1530/ec-24-0027] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal stress can lead to the programming of the neuroendocrine system in male offspring, disrupting the hypothalamic testicular axis and adversely affecting the reproductive health of male offspring. This study aimed to determine the long-term effects of prenatal stress on the KISS1 system in male offspring and the effects on reproductive function in male offspring. Sixteen pregnant females were divided into a prenatal control group (PC, n = 8) and a prenatal stress group (PS, n = 8). The PS group was modeled with chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) from day 1 of gestation to full-term delivery. Differences between the two groups in various maternal parameters, including glucocorticoid secretion, litter size, and the effects of male offspring birth weight, the KISS1 system, and reproductive function, were determined. Male offspring of PS dams had lower birth weights compared to prenatal controls.KISS1 gene expression is reduced at birth and in adult PS offspring, and its receptor KISS1-R protein is similarly reduced in PS offspring at birth and adulthood. In adulthood, PS male offspring show significantly reduced sex hormone production, altered testicular morphology, reduced maturation of their supporting cells, and decreased expression of connexin 43 (CX43), leading to an altered sperm microenvironment and reduced sperm quality. In conclusion, prenatal stress leads to adverse changes in the KISS1 system in male offspring and decreased reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Gong
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yinjuan Lv
- School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuhao Meng
- Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | | | | | - Min Xiao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
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16
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Rotimi DE, Acho MA, Falana BM, Olaolu TD, Mgbojikwe I, Ojo OA, Adeyemi OS. Oxidative Stress-induced Hormonal Disruption in Male Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2943-2956. [PMID: 39090335 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01662-0] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Research into the impacts of oxidative stress (OS), and hormonal balance on reproductive potential has increased over the last 40 years possibly due to rising male infertility. Decreased antioxidant levels and increased OS in tissues result from hormonal imbalance, which in turn leads to male infertility. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in seminal plasma has been linked to many lifestyle factors such as alcohol and tobacco use, toxicant exposure, obesity, varicocele, stress, and aging. This article provides an overview of the crosslink between OS and gonadal hormone disruption, as well as a potential mode of action in male infertility. Disrupting the equilibrium between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense mechanism in the male reproductive system may affect key hormonal regulators of male reproductive activities. Unchecked ROS production may cause direct injury on reproductive tissues or could disrupt normal regulatory mechanisms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and its interaction with other endocrine axes, both of which have negative effects on male reproductive health and can lead to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare Emmanuel Rotimi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria.
| | - Marvellous A Acho
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Michael Falana
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agricultural Sciences, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Tomilola Debby Olaolu
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Ifunaya Mgbojikwe
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
| | - Oluyomi Stephen Adeyemi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
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17
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Cannarella R, Leanza C, Crafa A, Aversa A, Condorelli RA, Calogero AE, La Vignera S. Effects of Switching FSH Preparations on Sperm Parameters and Pregnancy: A Prospective Controlled Study. J Clin Med 2024; 13:5666. [PMID: 39407726 PMCID: PMC11477313 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13195666] [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: 08/05/2024] [Revised: 09/14/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To study the effect of switching to a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) preparation other than that to which infertile male patients have not had an effective response. Patients and methods: Seventy-four normogonadotropinemic, non-obstructive, oligozoospermic patients who were poor responders to the administration of highly purified FSH (hpFSH) (Group 1 (n = 22) and Group 3 (n = 15)) or to recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) (Group 2 (n = 22) and Group 4 (n = 15)) were selected for this prospective study. After 3 months of washout from treatment with the first FSH preparation of choice, rhFSH was administered to patients in Groups 1 and 4 and hpFSH to those in Groups 2 and 3. Serum luteinizing hormone, FSH, total testosterone levels, conventional sperm parameters, testicular volume, and the number of pregnancies were evaluated at study entry and after the first and second treatment cycles. Results: Comparing treatment groups, the greatest improvement in sperm parameters was recorded in the groups of patients prescribed the switch in FSH preparation. Group 1 had the greatest benefit from therapy, with the highest pregnancy rate after the second treatment cycle. Indeed, eight couples achieved pregnancy (36.4%), compared to Groups 2 (n = 4; 18.2%), 3 (n = 1; 6.7%), and 4 (n = 2; 13.3%) (p = 0.04). Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that a therapeutic scheme involving the "switching" of the FSH preparation yields better results than a protocol using the same FSH preparation for six months. These findings, if confirmed by further studies, will help us better design a treatment strategy with FSH for infertile patients with oligozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
- Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Claudia Leanza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Rosita A. Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.C.); (C.L.); (R.A.C.); (A.E.C.); (S.L.V.)
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18
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Hao J, Ren J, Chang B, Xu H, Wang H, Ji L. Transcriptome and proteomic analysis reveal the protective mechanism of acupuncture on reproductive function in mice with asthenospermia. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36664. [PMID: 39286182 PMCID: PMC11403502 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Acupuncture is an integral component of complementary and alternative medicine that has been reported to enhance sperm motility, improve semen quality, and consequently augment male fertility. However, the precise mechanisms of action and the underlying molecular pathways remain unclear. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the potential mechanisms through which acupuncture improves reproductive function in a mouse model of cyclophosphamide-induced asthenozoospermia. We collected sperm from the epididymis for semen analysis, collected serum to determine gonadotropin and oxidative stress marker levels, conducted histological examination of testicular tissue using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, and observed mitochondrial morphology using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We also assessed oxidative stress levels and total iron content in testicular tissue and validated the proteomic and transcriptomic analysis results of testicular tissue using real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), protein imprinting analysis, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Our results indicate that acupuncture enhances sperm quality in asthenozoospermic mice; increases serum testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels; and attenuates oxidative damage, iron accumulation, and mitochondrial injury in mouse testicular tissues. Through protein and transcriptomic analyses, we identified 21 key genes, of which cytochrome b-245 heavy chain (CYBB), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 1 (ACSL1), and ferritin mitochondria (FTMT) were closely associated with ferroptosis. RT-qPCR, protein imprinting, and immunofluorescence (IF) analyses collectively indicated that acupuncture reduced ACSL1 and CYBB expression, and increased GPX4 and FTMT expression. Overall, the ferroptosis pathway associated with ACSL1/CYBB/FTMT/GPX4 represents a potential strategy through which acupuncture can improve the reproductive function in asthenozoospermic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianheng Hao
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Jia Ren
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Boya Chang
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Huichao Xu
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Haijun Wang
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
| | - Laixi Ji
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
- The Second Clinical College, Shanxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, 030619, China
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19
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Melendez J, Sung YJ, Orr M, Yoo A, Schindler S, Cruchaga C, Bateman R. An interpretable machine learning-based cerebrospinal fluid proteomics clock for predicting age reveals novel insights into brain aging. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14230. [PMID: 38923730 PMCID: PMC11488306 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Machine learning can be used to create "biologic clocks" that predict age. However, organs, tissues, and biofluids may age at different rates from the organism as a whole. We sought to understand how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) changes with age to inform the development of brain aging-related disease mechanisms and identify potential anti-aging therapeutic targets. Several epigenetic clocks exist based on plasma and neuronal tissues; however, plasma may not reflect brain aging specifically and tissue-based clocks require samples that are difficult to obtain from living participants. To address these problems, we developed a machine learning clock that uses CSF proteomics to predict the chronological age of individuals with a 0.79 Pearson correlation and mean estimated error (MAE) of 4.30 years in our validation cohort. Additionally, we analyzed proteins highly weighted by the algorithm to gain insights into changes in CSF and uncover novel insights into brain aging. We also demonstrate a novel method to create a minimal protein clock that uses just 109 protein features from the original clock to achieve a similar accuracy (0.75 correlation, MAE 5.41). Finally, we demonstrate that our clock identifies novel proteins that are highly predictive of age in interactions with other proteins, but do not directly correlate with chronological age themselves. In conclusion, we propose that our CSF protein aging clock can identify novel proteins that influence the rate of aging of the central nervous system (CNS), in a manner that would not be identifiable by examining their individual relationships with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Melendez
- Tracy Family SILQ CenterWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of NeurologyWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Yun Ju Sung
- Department of PsychiatryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of BiostatisticsWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Miranda Orr
- Department of Internal MedicineWake Forest School of Medicine Section of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine Medical Center BoulevardWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Andrew Yoo
- Department of Developmental BiologyWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Suzanne Schindler
- Department of NeurologyWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Carlos Cruchaga
- Department of NeurologyWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of PsychiatryWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
| | - Randall Bateman
- Tracy Family SILQ CenterWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
- Department of NeurologyWashington University in St. LouisSt. LouisMissouriUSA
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20
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Dimmick H, Kumar TR. Follicle-stimulating hormone. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024; 35:848-849. [PMID: 39255754 PMCID: PMC11387984 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2024.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Dimmick
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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21
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Burke S. Hypoxia, NSAIDs, and autism: A biocultural analysis of stressors in gametogenesis. Am J Hum Biol 2024; 36:e24042. [PMID: 38282542 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cultural and generational trends have increasingly favored "anti-inflammatory" action, innovating a new class of analgesic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the 20th century. The modern human body has been molded over evolutionary time and while acknowledging inflammation can be pathologically entwined, it also serves an important role in healthy folliculogenesis and ovulation, shaping cues that drive needed vascular change. This review argues that because of anti-inflammatory action, the cultural invention of NSAIDs represents a particular stressor on female reproductive-age bodies, interacting with natural, underlying variation and placing limits on healthy growth and development in the follicles, creating potential autism risk through hypoxia and mutagenic or epigenetic effects. Since testes are analogs to ovaries, the biological grounding extends naturally to spermatogenesis. This review suggests the introduction of over-the-counter NSAIDs in the 1980s failed to recognize the unique functioning of reproductive-age bodies, challenging the cyclical inflammation needed for healthy gamete development. NSAIDs are framed as one (notable) stressor in an anti-inflammatory era focused on taming the risks of inflammation in modern human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie Burke
- Department of Anthropology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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22
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Grande G, Graziani A, Scafa R, Garolla A, Santi D, Ferlin A. FSH Therapy in Male Factor Infertility: Evidence and Factors Which Might Predict the Response. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:969. [PMID: 39202711 PMCID: PMC11355377 DOI: 10.3390/life14080969] [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: 05/25/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administration is applied in the management of subjects affected by hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Whilst this application is widely recognized and established alone or in combination with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a similar strategy is empirically advocated in idiopathic male factor infertility (MFI). In this setting, FSH therapy has been used to increase sperm quantity, quality, and pregnancy rate when FSH plasma concentrations are below 8 IU/L and when the seminal tract is not obstructed. In the literature, several studies suggested that giving FSH to patients with idiopathic MFI increases sperm count and motility, raising the overall pregnancy rate. However, this efficacy seems to be limited, and about 10-18 men should be treated to achieve one pregnancy. Thus, several papers suggest the need to move from a replacement approach to an overstimulating approach in the management of FSH therapy in idiopathic MFI. To this aim, it is imperative to determine some pharmacologic markers of FSH efficacy. Furthermore, it should be useful in clinical practice to distinguish, before starting the treatment, among patients who might respond or not to FSH treatment. Indeed, previous studies suggest that infertile men who have normal levels of gonadotropins in plasma might not respond to FSH treatment and about 50% of patients might be defined as "non-responders". For these reasons, identifying predictive markers of FSH action in spermatogenesis and clinical markers of response to FSH treatment is a fascinating area of study that might lead to new developments with the aim of achieving personalization of the treatment of male infertility. From this perspective, seminal parameters (i.e., spermatid count), testicular cytology, genetic assessment, and miRNA or protein markers in the future might be used to create a tailored FSH therapy plan. The personalization of FSH treatment is mandatory to minimize side effects, to avoid lost time with ineffective treatments, and to improve the efficacy, predicting the most efficient dose and the duration of the treatment. This narrative review's objective is to discuss the role of the different putative factors which have been proposed to predict the response to FSH treatment in idiopathic infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grande
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.G.); (R.S.); (A.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Andrea Graziani
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.G.); (R.S.); (A.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Raffaele Scafa
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.G.); (R.S.); (A.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.G.); (R.S.); (A.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (A.G.); (R.S.); (A.G.); (A.F.)
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23
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Zhankina R, Zhanbyrbekuly U, Askarov M, Zare A, Jafari N, Saipiyeva D, Sherkhanov R, Akhmetov D, Hashemi A, Farjam M, Tanideh N, Aflatoonian B, Mussin NM, Kaliyev AA, Sultangereyev Y, Baneshi H, Shirazi R, Mahdipour M, Bakhshalizadeh S, Rahmanifar F, Tamadon A. Improving Fertility in Non-obstructive Azoospermia: Results from an Autologous Bone Mar-row-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cell Phase I Clinical Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2024; 18:60-70. [PMID: 39033372 PMCID: PMC11263852 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.2005045.1480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this phase I clinical trial, our primary objective was to develop an innovative therapeutic approach utilizing autologous bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (BM-MSCs) for the treatment of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Additionally, we aimed to assess the feasibility and safety of this approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited 80 participants in this non-randomized, open-label clinical trial, including patients undergoing NOA treatment using autologous BM-MSCs (n=40) and those receiving hormone therapy as a control group (n=40). Detailed participant characteristics, such as age, baseline hormonal profiles, etiology of NOA, and medical history, were thoroughly documented. Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network was achieved using microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (microTESE). Semen analysis and hormonal assessments were performed both before and six months after treatment. Additionally, we conducted an in-silico analysis to explore potential protein-protein interactions between exosomes secreted from BM-MSCs and receptors present in human seminiferous tubule cells. RESULTS Our results revealed significant improvements following treatment, including increased testosterone and inhibin B levels, elevated sperm concentration, and reduced levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin. Notably, in nine patients (22.5%) previously diagnosed with secondary infertility and exhibiting azoospermia before treatment, the proposed approach yielded successful outcomes, as indicated by hormonal profile changes over six months. Importantly, these improvements were achieved without complications. Additionally, our in-silico analysis identified potential binding interactions between the protein content of BM-MSC-derived exosomes and receptors integral to spermatogenesis. CONCLUSION Autotransplantation of BM-MSCs into the testicular network using microTESE in NOA patients led to the regeneration of seminiferous tubules and the regulation of hormonal profiles governing spermatogenesis. Our findings support the safety and effectiveness of autologous BM-MSCs as a promising treatment modality for NOA, with a particular focus on the achieved outcomes in patients with secondary infertility (registration number: IRCT20190519043634N1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rano Zhankina
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | | | | | - Afshin Zare
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nazanin Jafari
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Dana Saipiyeva
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Ravil Sherkhanov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Daniyar Akhmetov
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Astana Medical University, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - Alireza Hashemi
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Farjam
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Nader Tanideh
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
- Stem Cells Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Behrouz Aflatoonian
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Nadiar Maratovich Mussin
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Asset Askerovich Kaliyev
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Yerlan Sultangereyev
- Department of General Surgery, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
- Department of Surgery and Transplantation, Aktobe Medical Center, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Hanieh Baneshi
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Shirazi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shabnam Bakhshalizadeh
- Reproductive Development, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Farhad Rahmanifar
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amin Tamadon
- Department of R&D Research, PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Natural Sciences, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan.
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Norioun H, Jamal Moshtaghian S, Alavian F, Khombi Shooshtari M, Alipour G, Ghiasvand S. Impact of chronic opioid on cognitive function and spermatogenesis in rat: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2024; 22:579-592. [PMID: 39355314 PMCID: PMC11441285 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v22i7.16971] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Opioid analgesics like morphine and methadone are widely used for managing severe pain; however, concerns over their potential misuse and adverse effects on the brain and reproductive system are significant. Objective We aimed to investigate their impacts on spermatogenesis and cognitive function in male Norway rats. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 36 male Norway rats (250-300 gr, 6 months old) were divided into 6 groups: low-dose morphine, high-dose morphine, low-dose methadone, high-dose methadone, positive control (received normal saline at 5 mg/kg), and negative control (received no treatment). Morphine and methadone were administered intraperitoneally over 30 days at doses of 3 mg/kg and 7 mg/kg, respectively. Behavioral assessments evaluated anxiety, stress, and short- and long-term memory. Sperm parameters (viability, motility, morphology), hormonal analysis (testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol), and gene expressions (Tp53, CatSper1) were assessed. Results A significant reduction in rat weight was observed in the high-dose morphine group (p = 0.0045), while testicular weights remained unchanged. Sperm abnormalities were observed with high doses of methadone and morphine. High-dose methadone significantly reduced offspring count (p = 0.0004). Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estradiol varied significantly across treatment groups. Gene expression was altered in response to treatments (p < 0.05). Conclusion Prolonged exposure to methadone and morphine resulted in memory dysfunction, chronic stress, hormonal disturbances, altered gene expression, and fertility complications. These effects were more pronounced at higher doses, highlighting the importance of careful dosage management in opioid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Norioun
- Medical Genetics Department, Institute of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Jamal Moshtaghian
- Department of Plant and Animal Biology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Firoozeh Alavian
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khombi Shooshtari
- Chronic Renal Failure Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Golnaz Alipour
- Microbiology Department, Medical Faculty, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Ghiasvand
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Malayer, Malayer, Iran
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Yang D, Xu K, Wang W, Chen P, Liu C, Liu S, Xu W, Xiao W. Protective effects of L-theanine and dihydromyricetin on reproductive function in male mice under heat stress. Food Funct 2024; 15:7093-7107. [PMID: 38873879 DOI: 10.1039/d4fo00208c] [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: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Heat stress can impair the male reproductive function. L-Theanine and dihydromyricetin have biological activities against heat stress; however, their effects on reproductive function in heat-stressed males are unclear. In this study, male mice were given L-theanine, dihydromyricetin, or a combination of both for 28 days, followed by 2 h of heat stress daily for 7 days. All interventions alleviated heat stress-induced testicular damage, improving the testicular organ index, sperm density, acrosome integrity, sperm deformity rate, and hormone levels. Treatment increased the antioxidant enzyme activity and decreased the markers of oxidative and inflammatory stress in the testes. A combination dose of 200 + 200 mg kg-1 d-1 showed the best protective effect. The potential mechanism involves the regulation of HSP27 and HSP70, which regulate the levels of reproductive hormones through the StAR/Cyp11a1/Hsd3b1/Cyp17a1/Hsd17b3 pathway, alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress through the P38/NF-κB/Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and regulate the Bcl-2/Fas/Caspase3 apoptotic pathway. Overall, L-theanine and dihydromyricetin may play a protective role against heat stress-induced reproductive dysfunction, suggesting their potential use in heat stress-resistant foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Difei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Functional Plant Components Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Kaihang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Functional Plant Components Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Wenmao Wang
- Zhangjiajie Qiankun Berry Tea Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhangjiajie 427000, China
- Hunan Qiankun Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Zhangjiajie 427000, China
| | - Peijian Chen
- Zhangjiajie Qiankun Berry Tea Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhangjiajie 427000, China
- Hunan Qiankun Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Zhangjiajie 427000, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Zhangjiajie Qiankun Berry Tea Engineering Technology Research Center, Zhangjiajie 427000, China
- Hunan Qiankun Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Zhangjiajie 427000, China
| | - Sha Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Functional Plant Components Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Functional Plant Components Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Wenjun Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Tea Science, Ministry of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China.
- National Engineering Research Center of Functional Plant Components Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
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26
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Esteves SC, Humaidan P, Ubaldi FM, Alviggi C, Antonio L, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Jørgensen N, Pacey AA, Simoni M, Santi D. APHRODITE criteria: addressing male patients with hypogonadism and/or infertility owing to altered idiopathic testicular function. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103647. [PMID: 38367592 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can a novel classification system of the infertile male - 'APHRODITE' (Addressing male Patients with Hypogonadism and/or infeRtility Owing to altereD, Idiopathic TEsticular function) - stratify different subgroups of male infertility to help scientists to design clinical trials on the hormonal treatment of male infertility, and clinicians to counsel and treat the endocrinological imbalances in men and, ultimately, increase the chances of natural and assisted conception? DESIGN A collaboration between andrologists, reproductive urologists and gynaecologists, with specialization in reproductive medicine and expertise in male infertility, led to the development of the APHRODITE criteria through an iterative consensus process based on clinical patient descriptions and the results of routine laboratory tests, including semen analysis and hormonal testing. RESULTS Five patient groups were delineated according to the APHRODITE criteria; (1) Hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (acquired and congenital); (2) Idiopathic male infertility with lowered semen analysis parameters, normal serum FSH and normal serum total testosterone concentrations; (3) A hypogonadal state with lowered semen analysis parameters, normal FSH and reduced total testosterone concentrations; (4) Lowered semen analysis parameters, elevated FSH concentrations and reduced or normal total testosterone concentrations; and (5) Unexplained male infertility in the context of unexplained couple infertility. CONCLUSION The APHRODITE criteria offer a novel and standardized patient stratification system for male infertility independent of aetiology and/or altered spermatogenesis, facilitating communication among clinicians, researchers and patients to improve reproductive outcomes following hormonal therapy. APHRODITE is proposed as a basis for future trials of the hormonal treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil.; Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil.; Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark..
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Fertility Clinic at Skive Regional Hospital, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Filippo M Ubaldi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Leen Antonio
- Department of Endocrinology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Medicine Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan A Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Core Technology Facility, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.; Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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27
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Mancini F, Di Nicuolo F, Teveroni E, Vergani E, Bianchetti G, Bruno C, Grande G, Iavarone F, Maulucci G, De Spirito M, Urbani A, Pontecorvi A, Milardi D. Combined evaluation of prolactin-induced peptide (PIP) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) as new sperm biomarkers of FSH treatment efficacy in normogonadotropic idiopathic infertile men. J Endocrinol Invest 2024; 47:455-468. [PMID: 37480475 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-023-02161-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nearly, 40% of the causes of male infertility remain idiopathic. The only suggested treatment in idiopathic oligo- and/or asthenozoospermia in normogonadotropic patients is the FSH. In the current clinical practice, efficacy is exclusively assessable through semen analysis after 3 months of treatment. No molecular markers of treatment efficacy are appliable in clinical practice. The aim of the present work is to evaluate the combination of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) 1 and 2 and prolactin inducible peptide (PIP) as potential markers of idiopathic infertility and FSH treatment efficacy. METHODS Western blot and confocal microscopy were performed to analyze the modulation of PIP and ERK1/2 in idiopathic infertile patients (IIP) sperm cells. Taking advantage of mass spectrometry analysis, we identified these proteins unequivocally in sperm cells. RESULTS We demonstrated a significant decrease of both PIP protein and of ERK1/2 levels in spermatozoa obtained from IIP in comparison to healthy fertile patients (HFP). Conversely, we reported a significant increase of these markers comparing infertile patients before and after 3 months of FSH treatment. Importantly, this correlated with an increase in total number of sperm and sperm motility after FSH treatment. Finally, we identified of PIP and ERK2 proteins in sperm samples by proteomic analysis. CONCLUSIONS The combined evaluation of ERK1/2 and PIP proteins might represent a useful molecular marker to tailor FSH treatment in the management of male normogonadotropic idiopathic infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Mancini
- International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - F Di Nicuolo
- International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - E Teveroni
- International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - E Vergani
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bianchetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Biophysics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - C Bruno
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Grande
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - F Iavarone
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - G Maulucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Biophysics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - M De Spirito
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Biophysics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Urbani
- Department of Laboratory and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - A Pontecorvi
- International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - D Milardi
- International Scientific Institute Paul VI, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Division of Endocrinology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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28
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Liu XY, Deng YL, Chen PP, Liu C, Miao Y, Zhang M, Cui FP, Zeng JY, Wu Y, Li CR, Liu CJ, Zeng Q. Self-Rated Health and Semen Quality in Men Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2353877. [PMID: 38289600 PMCID: PMC10828918 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.53877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Numerous studies have documented the association of self-rated health (SRH) with chronic diseases. However, few studies have investigated its association with semen quality. Objective To examine the association of SRH with semen quality among men undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) in China. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study recruited male partners in couples undergoing ART treatment at the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, China. A total of 1262 men underwent 2 semen examinations and completed a questionnaire on SRH between December 2018 and January 2020. Data analysis was performed from November 20, 2022, to March 24, 2023. Exposure SRH, including overall physical and mental health, as well as reproductive-related physical and mental health specifically, were reported at baseline recruitment. Main Outcomes and Measures Sperm concentration, sperm progressive motility, sperm motility, and sperm count as semen quality parameters. Results The study included 1262 men with a mean (SD) age of 32.79 (5.25) years and body mass index of 24.37 (3.68). Men with poorer SRH had lower semen quality (eg, sperm concentration among poor vs very good overall physical health: percentage variation, -14.67%; 95% CI, -23.62% to -4.66%). Among 4 components of SRH, a greater reduction in semen quality was estimated for reproductive-related SRH compared with overall SRH, whereas the greatest reduction was observed for reproductive-related physical SRH. In comparison with men with very good reproductive-related physical SRH, men with poor reproductive-related physical SRH had differences of -24.78% (95% CI, -32.71% to -15.93%) and -25.61% (95% CI, -33.95% to -16.22%) in sperm count and concentration, respectively, and regression coefficients of -9.38 (95% CI, -12.01 to -6.76) and -9.24 (95% CI, -11.82 to -6.66) for sperm motility and sperm progressive motility, respectively. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of Chinese men, poorer SRH was associated with lower semen quality, and reproductive-related physical SRH was the most pronounced indicator. Our findings suggest that SRH, especially reproductive-related physical SRH, was a good indicator of semen quality, which should inform public and clinical regulatory decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ying Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yan-Ling Deng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Pan-Pan Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Chong Liu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yu Miao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Fei-Peng Cui
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jia-Yue Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Cheng-Ru Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Chang-Jiang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing, PR China
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Mohd-Zainurian NFN, Esah HD, Mohamad-Fauzi N, Hashim NH, Mazlishah MSH, Shamsuddin SAA, Mohd-Yusuf Y, Aziz NAA. Effects of supplementation with mature coconut water on oxidative stress, semen quality, reproductive hormone levels, and sexual behavior in Boer bucks. Anim Sci J 2024; 95:e70005. [PMID: 39552140 DOI: 10.1111/asj.70005] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/29/2024] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
Mature coconut water (MCW) has been demonstrated to contain bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. In vivo research showed that MCW supplementation increased semen quality in rats, suggesting that it may boost reproductive performance. This study investigated the impact of MCW on the reproduction of Boer bucks. Two groups of 12 sexually mature bucks were given either plain water (control) or MCW at 5 mL/kg of body weight daily for 60 days. Sexual behaviors were studied using the focal observation technique, whereas semen was collected for quality assessment. Oxidative stress markers, namely, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), along with reproductive hormones, specifically luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone, were quantified in blood serum samples via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The oxidative stress analysis showed elevated GSH and reduced MDA levels, accompanied by enhanced sperm quality, including superior motility, concentration, viability, and fewer morphological abnormalities (p < 0.05), in the group receiving MCW. Moreover, there was a rise in LH, FSH, and testosterone levels with improved sexual behaviors (p < 0.05), including a reduced latency to the first mount, increased mount attempts, higher libido, and prolonged kicking and sniffing durations. In conclusion, MCW may improve reproductive health and fertility in Boer bucks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Faizah Nadia Mohd-Zainurian
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
- Centre for Foundation Studies in Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Haizal Danial Esah
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
- Centre for Foundation Studies in Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nuradilla Mohamad-Fauzi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
| | - Noor Hashida Hashim
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
| | | | - Shamsul Azlin Ahmad Shamsuddin
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
| | - Yusmin Mohd-Yusuf
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
| | - Nor Azlina Abd Aziz
- Glami Lemi Biotechnology Research Center, Universiti Malaya, Jelebu, Malaysia
- Centre for Foundation Studies in Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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30
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Santi D, Lotti F, Sparano C, Rastrelli G, Isidori AM, Pivonello R, Barbonetti A, Salonia A, Minhas S, Krausz C, Vignozzi L, Maggi M, Corona G. Does an increase in adipose tissue 'weight' affect male fertility? A systematic review and meta-analysis based on semen analysis performed using the WHO 2010 criteria. Andrology 2024; 12:123-136. [PMID: 37226894 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obesity negatively impact on the metabolism of sex hormones, leading to reduced testosterone serum levels. However, how the obesity could negatively impact on the overall gonadal function, particularly on male fertility, remained unclear so far. OBJECTIVE To systematically review evidences regarding the influence of body weight excess on the sperm production. METHODS A meta-analysis was conducted, searching all prospective and retrospective observational studies reporting male subjects older than 18 years old, with body weight excess from overweight to severe obesity were considered. Only studies using the V edition of the World Health Organization (WHO) manual for semen analysis interpretation were considered. No specific interventions were considered. Search was focused on studies comparing overweight/obese to normal weight subjects. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies were considered. Total sperm count and sperm progressive motility were significantly lower in overweight compared to normal weight subjects. Meta-regression analyses demonstrated that patients' age impacted on sperm parameters. Similarly, obese men showed lower sperm concentration, total sperm number, progressive and total motilities, and normal morphology lower than normal weight subjects. Reduced sperm concentration in obese men was influenced by age, smoking habit, varicocele, and total testosterone serum levels at meta-regression analyses. CONCLUSIONS The male potential fertility is reduced in subjects with increased body weight, compared to normal weight men. The higher was the increased body weight, the worst was the sperm quantity/quality. This result comprehensively included obesity among non-communicable risk factor for male infertility, shedding new lights on the negative impact of increased body weight on overall gonadal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, AziendaOspedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi Hospital, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clotilde Sparano
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi Hospital, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Centre for Rare Diseases (Endo-ERN accredited), Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Unità di Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione e della Sessualità Maschile e Femminile, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
- UNESCO, Chair for Health Education and Sustainable Development, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Imperial College NHS Healthcare, London, UK
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi Hospital, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Center for Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infertility, Careggi Hospital, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Qin XY, Ha SY, Chen L, Zhang T, Li MQ. Recent Advances in Folates and Autoantibodies against Folate Receptors in Early Pregnancy and Miscarriage. Nutrients 2023; 15:4882. [PMID: 38068740 PMCID: PMC10708193 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234882] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Though firstly identified in cerebral folate deficiency, autoantibodies against folate receptors (FRAbs) have been implicated in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage; however, the underlying mechanism needs to be further elaborated. FRAbs can be produced via sensitization mediated by folate-binding protein as well as gene mutation, aberrant modulation, or degradation of folate receptors (FRs). FRAbs may interfere with folate internalization and metabolism through blocking or binding with FRs. Interestingly, different types of FRs are expressed on trophoblast cells, decidual epithelium or stroma, and macrophages at the maternal-fetal interface, implying FRAbs may be involved in the critical events necessary for a successful pregnancy. Thus, we propose that FRAbs may disturb pregnancy establishment and maintenance by modulating trophoblastic biofunctions, placental development, decidualization, and decidua homeostasis as well as the functions of FOLR2+ macrophages. In light of these findings, FRAbs may be a critical factor in pathological pregnancy, and deserve careful consideration in therapies involving folic acid supplementation for pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yun Qin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Si-Yao Ha
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
| | - Lu Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Tao Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China; (X.-Y.Q.); (S.-Y.H.)
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
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Romeo M, Donno V, Spaggiari G, Granata ARM, Simoni M, La Marca A, Santi D. Gonadotropins in the Management of Couple Infertility: Toward the Rational Use of an Empirical Therapy. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:258-266. [PMID: 38158195 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777837] [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: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Although epidemiology shows that both men and woman can experience infertility, the female partner usually experiences most of the diagnostic and therapeutic burden. Thus, management of couple infertility is a unique example of gender inequality. The use of exogenous gonadotropins in assisted reproductive technology (ART) to induce multifollicular growth is well consolidated in women, but the same is not done with the same level of confidence and purpose in infertile men. Indeed, the treatment of idiopathic male infertility is based on an empirical approach that involves administration of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in dosages within the replacement therapy range. This treatment has so far been attempted when the endogenous FSH serum levels are within the reference ranges. According to the most recent evidence, a "substitutive" FSH administration may not be effective enough, while a stimulatory approach could boost spermatogenesis over its basal levels without adverse extragonadal effects. This article aims to describe the rationale behind the empirical application of gonadotropins in couple infertility, highlighting the need for a change in the therapeutic approach, especially for the male partner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilina Romeo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Valeria Donno
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio R M Granata
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical Specialties, Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Rizzuti A, Alvarenga C, Stocker G, Fraga L, Santos HO. Early Pharmacologic Approaches to Avert Anabolic Steroid-induced Male Infertility: A Narrative Review. Clin Ther 2023; 45:e234-e241. [PMID: 37806813 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2023.09.003] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the impact of testosterone and other androgenic-anabolic steroids (AASs) on male fertility, exploring potential drugs that can be used to preserve or restore male fertility upon AAS use or prior contact. METHODS A review was performed to provide a unifying clinical link between drugs used to preserve or restore male fertility (ie, clomiphene citrate, human chorionic gonadotropin, selective estrogen receptor modulators, recombinant luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones, and human menopausal gonadotrophin) in the context of AAS-induced infertility and related aspects. FINDINGS Human chorionic gonadotropin (125-500 IU every other day), clomiphene citrate (12.5-50 mg/d), recombinant luteinizing hormone (125-500 IU every other day), recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (75-150 IU 1-3×/wk), and human menopausal gonadotrophin (75-150 IU 1-3×/wk) are promising early pharmacologic approaches to avert AAS-induced male infertility. Additionally, a full partner assessment is crucial to the success of a couple planning to have children. The partner's age and gynecopathies must be considered. Egg or sperm cryopreservation can also be alternatives for future fertility. Reinforcing AAS cessation is imperative to achieving better success in misusers. IMPLICATIONS The exponential increase in AAS misuse raises concerns about the impact on male fertility. This review suggests that gonadotropin analogs and selective androgen receptor modulators (clomiphene citrate) are viable approaches to early preserve or restore fertility in men on AAS use or with previous contact. However, proper standardization of doses and combinations is required and hence physicians should also be aware of patients' and partners' fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Rizzuti
- School of Medicine, Estácio de Sá University (UNESA), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Conrado Alvarenga
- School of Medicine, Department of Urology, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Stocker
- School of Medicine, University Center Assis Gurgacz Foundation (FAG), Cascavel, PR, Brazil
| | - Lucas Fraga
- School of medicine, Santa Casa da misericordia de Vitorica (EMESCAM), Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Heitor O Santos
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Uberlandia (UFU), Uberlandia, MG, Brazil.
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Facondo P, Delbarba A, Pezzaioli LC, Ferlin A, Cappelli C. Osteoporosis in men with hypogonadism because of ApoA-I Leu75Pro amyloidosis under long-term testosterone therapy. Andrology 2023; 11:1077-1085. [PMID: 36624081 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13376] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apo A-I Leu75Pro amyloidosis is a rare systemic hereditary disease, whose hallmark and earliest involvement is testicular impairment, characterized by hypogonadism and macrorchidism; renal and hepatic involvement are the other characteristics. OBJECTIVE To evaluate for the first time the prevalence of osteopenia, osteoporosis and vertebral fractures (VFs) in men with this form of amyloidosis affected by hypogonadism and under long-term testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Retrospective study on 50 men >50 years (median age 64.5) with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), hormonal, and biochemical data available at least 3 years after the start of TRT. Serum gonadal hormones and bone markers, lumbar and femoral DXA-scan with morphometric assay for evaluation of VFs were assessed. RESULTS At 7.5 years from start of TRT, lumbar and/or femoral osteopenia and osteoporosis were found in 54% and 10% of patients, respectively. Of the men who had the morphometric assay performed, five of 34 (14.7%) had VFs. Compared to patients with normal bone mineral density, men with osteopenia and osteoporosis were older, had lower body mass index, higher sex hormone binding globulin and showed more frequently renal involvement. Multiorgan involvement, without different TRT dosage, was associated with lower testosterone levels. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Men with hypogonadism because of Apo A-I Leu75Pro amyloidosis under long-term TRT had a high burden of low bone mass (64%) and VFs (almost 15%). Osteopenia-osteoporosis was more frequently observed in older patients with multi-organ disease, which might contribute to impair bone health beyond hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Facondo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Delbarba
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Brescia, Italy
| | - Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, ASST Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy
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Zhang W, Tian Z, Qi X, Chen P, Yang Q, Guan Q, Ye J, Yu C. Switching from high-fat diet to normal diet ameliorate BTB integrity and improve fertility potential in obese male mice. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14152. [PMID: 37644200 PMCID: PMC10465505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41291-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a prominent risk factor for male infertility, and a high-fat diet is an important cause of obesity. Therefore, diet control can reduce body weight and regulate blood glucose and lipids, but it remains unclear whether it can improve male fertility and its mechanism. This study explores the effects of switching from a high-fat diet (HFD) to a normal diet (ND) on the fertility potential of obese male mice and its related mechanisms. In our study, male mice were separated into three groups: normal diet group (NN), continuous high-fat diet group (HH), and return to normal diet group (HN). The reproductive potential of mice was tested through cohabitation. Enzymatic methods and ELISA assays were used to measure metabolic indicators, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and intratesticular testosterone levels. Transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence with biotin tracers assessed the integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were inspected for the assessment of oxidative stress. The expression and localization of BTB-related proteins were detected through the immunoblot and immunofluorescence. The mice in the high-fat diet group indicated increased body weight and epididymal fat weight, elevated serum TC, HDL, LDL, and glucose, decreased serum FSH, and dramatic lipid deposition in the testicular interstitium. Analysis of fertility potential revealed that the fertility rate of female mice and the number of pups per litter in the HH group were significantly reduced. After the fat intake was controlled by switching to a normal diet, body weight and epididymal fat weight were significantly reduced, serum glucose and lipid levels were lowered, serum FSH level was elevated and the deposition of interstitial lipids in the testicles was also decreased. Most significantly, the number of offspring of male mice returning to a normal diet was significantly increased. Following further mechanistic analysis, the mice in the sustained high-fat diet group had disrupted testicular BTB integrity, elevated levels of oxidative stress, and abnormal expression of BTB-related proteins, whereas the restoration of the normal diet significantly ameliorated the above indicators in the mice. Our study confirms diet control by switching from a high-fat diet to a normal diet can effectively reduce body weight, ameliorate testicular lipotoxicity and BTB integrity in male mice, and improve fertility potential, providing an effective treatment option for obese male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Xiangyu Qi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Pengcheng Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China
| | - Jifeng Ye
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Second People's Hospital of Liaocheng, Shandong, 252601, China.
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Key Laboratory of Endocrine Glucose and Lipids Metabolism and Brain Aging (Shandong First Medical University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
- Shandong Engineering Laboratory of Prevention and Control for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
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Uğurlu AK, Bideci A, Demirel AM, Kaplanoğlu GT, Dayanır D, Gülbahar Ö, Bulut TSD, Döğer E, Çamurdan MO. Is blue light exposure a cause of precocious puberty in male rats? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1190445. [PMID: 37409230 PMCID: PMC10319012 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1190445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Our study aimed to examine the effects of blue light exposure on prepubertal male rats' puberty and testis tissue. Methods Eighteen 21-day-old male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups consisting of six rats in each group: Control Group (CG), Blue Light-6 hours (BL-6), and Blue Light-12 hours (BL-12). CG rats were maintained with 12/12-hour light-dark cycles. The rats of BL-6 and BL-12 were exposed to blue light (450-470nm/irradiance level 0.03uW/cm2) for 6 hours and 12 hours, respectively. Rats were exposed to blue light until the first signs of puberty. The ELISA method was used to analyze the serum levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, DHEA-S, leptin, ghrelin, melatonin, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde. Testes were dissected for histomorphological examination. Results The medians of the pubertal entry days of the CG, BL-6, and BL-12 were 38th, 30th, and 28th days, respectively. (p:0.001) The FSH, LH, and testosterone concentrations of all groups were similar. The FSH concentration increased as the LH concentration increased (r: 0.82 p: 0.001). The serum LH concentration increased as serum testosterone, and DHEAS decreased, respectively (r: -0.561, p: 0.01) (r:-0.55 p:0.01). Testicular lengths and weights of the BL groups were smaller compared to CG (p: 0.03),(p: 0.04). GPx was higher for BL-6 and BL-12 than the CG (p:0.021, p:0.024). Testis tissue was compatible with the pubertal period in all groups. As the blue light exposure time increased, spermatogenesis was suppressed, and capillary dilatation and edema in the testis tissue increased. Conclusion Our study is the first to show the effects of blue light exposure on male rats' puberty process. And we showed that exposure to blue light and the duration of exposure lead to precocious puberty in male rats. The blue light exposure suppressed spermatogenesis, marked vasodilatation in the interstitial area of the testis, and disrupted the integrity of the basement membrane. These findings intensified with increasing exposure time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aysun Bideci
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Ayşe Mürşide Demirel
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory Animals Breeding and Experimental Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Gülnur Take Kaplanoğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Duygu Dayanır
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Özlem Gülbahar
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | | | - Esra Döğer
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Mahmut Orhun Çamurdan
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Ankara, Türkiye
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Ijaz MU, Najam S, Hamza A, Azmat R, Ashraf A, Unuofin JO, Lebelo SL, Simal-Gandara J. Pinostrobin alleviates testicular and spermatological damage induced by polystyrene microplastics in adult albino rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114686. [PMID: 37044025 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) have become major environmental pollutants that adversely effects multiple organs specifically testicles. Pinostrobin (PN) is an important flavonoid which, shows several pharmacological potentials. PURPOSE The current study was designed to elucidate the mitigative effects of PN against PS-MPs induced testicular toxicities in rats. METHODS 48 male albino rats were randomly distributed into 4 groups, control, PS-MPs group (0.01 mg/kg), PS-MPs + PN group (0.01 mg/kg of PS-MPs; 40 mg/kg of PN) and PN group (40 mg/kg). RESULTS PS-MPs intoxication substantially lessened the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR), superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with catalase (CAT) while, raised the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additionally, PS-MPs reduced luteinizing hormone (LH), plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration, sperm motility, sperm count, expression of steroidogenic enzymes and Bcl-2 (anti-apoptotic protein) along with the count of spermatogenic cells. While, dead sperm count, sperm abnormalities (tail, neck and head), Bax and caspase-3 (apoptotic proteins) expression along with histopathological anomalies were elevated. Moreover, PS-MPs exposure increased the level of inflammatory markers. However, PN treatment considerably decreased oxidative stress (OS) by reducing ROS as well as increased sperm motility and alleviated all the damages induced by the PS-MPs. CONCLUSION Therefore, it is concluded that PN may prove a potential therapeutic candidate to restore all the PS-MPs-induced testicular toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Umar Ijaz
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Saira Najam
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Hamza
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rabia Azmat
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Asma Ashraf
- Department of Zoology, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - Jeremiah Oshiomame Unuofin
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X06, Florida 1710, South Africa
| | - Sogolo Lucky Lebelo
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X06, Florida 1710, South Africa
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Universidade de Vigo, Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical Chemistry and Food Science Department, Faculty of Science, Ourense E32004, Spain.
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Spaziani M, Carlomagno F, Tenuta M, Sesti F, Angelini F, Bonaventura I, Ferrari D, Tarantino C, Fiore M, Petrella C, Tarani L, Gianfrilli D, Pozza C. Extra-Gonadal and Non-Canonical Effects of FSH in Males. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:813. [PMID: 37375761 PMCID: PMC10300833 DOI: 10.3390/ph16060813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is commonly used for the treatment of female infertility and is increasingly being used in males as well, as recommended by notable guidelines. FSH is composed of an α subunit, shared with other hormones, and a β subunit, which confers specificity of biological action by interacting with its surface receptor (FSHR), predominantly located in granulosa and Sertoli cells. However, FSHRs also exist in extra-gonadal tissues, indicating potential effects beyond male fertility. Emerging evidence suggests that FSH may have extra-gonadal effects, including on bone metabolism, where it appears to stimulate bone resorption by binding to specific receptors on osteoclasts. Additionally, higher FSH levels have been associated with worse metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes, suggesting a possible impact on the cardiovascular system. FSH has also been implicated in immune response modulation, as FSHRs are expressed on immune cells and may influence inflammatory response. Furthermore, there is growing interest in the role of FSH in prostate cancer progression. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the literature on the extra-gonadal effects of FSH in men, with a focus on the often-conflicting results reported in this field. Despite the contradictory findings, the potential for future development in this area is substantial, and further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and their clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Spaziani
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Francesco Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Marta Tenuta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Francesco Angelini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bonaventura
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Davide Ferrari
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Chiara Tarantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC-CNR), Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Petrella
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC-CNR), Department of Sensory Organs, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy
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Peserico A, Barboni B, Russo V, Nardinocchi D, Turriani M, Cimini C, Bernabò N, Parolini O, Silini AR, Antonucci I, Stuppia L, Berardinelli P, Falanga I, Perruzza D, Valbonetti L, Mauro A. AEC and AFMSC Transplantation Preserves Fertility of Experimentally Induced Rat Varicocele by Expressing Differential Regenerative Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108737. [PMID: 37240083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108737] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells are regarded as a promising stem cell source for developing regenerative medicine techniques, although they have never been tested on male infertility diseases such as varicocele (VAR). The current study aimed to examine the effects of two distinct cell sources, human Amniotic Fluid Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (hAFMSCs) and amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs), on male fertility outcomes in a rat induced VAR model. To explain cell-dependent enhancement of reproductive outcomes in rats transplanted with hAECs and hAFMSCs, insights on testis morphology, endocannabinoid system (ECS) expression and inflammatory tissue response have been carried out alongside cell homing assessment. Both cell types survived 120 days post-transplantation by modulating the ECS main components, promoting proregenerative M2 macrophages (Mφ) recruitment and a favorable anti-inflammatory IL10 expression pattern. Of note, hAECs resulted to be more effective in restoring rat fertility rate by enhancing both structural and immunoresponse mechanisms. Moreover, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that hAECs contributed to CYP11A1 expression after transplantation, whereas hAFMSCs moved towards the expression of Sertoli cell marker, SOX9, confirming a different contribution into the mechanisms leading to testis homeostasis. These findings highlight, for the first time, a distinct role of amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells in male reproduction, thus proposing innovative targeted stem-based regenerative medicine protocols for remedying high-prevalence male infertility conditions such as VAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Peserico
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Delia Nardinocchi
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Maura Turriani
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Rosa Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Ivana Antonucci
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Medline Srl, Via Galileo Ferraris 1, 84018 Scafati, Italy
| | - Davide Perruzza
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, S.I.S.Me.R., Via Mazzini 12, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Chen Z, Li P, Lyu Y, Wang Y, Gao K, Wang J, Lan F, Chen F. Molecular genetics and general management of androgen insensitivity syndrome. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2023; 12:71-77. [PMID: 37287652 PMCID: PMC10242393 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2023.01024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the male reproductive system in individuals with a 46,XY karyotype. In addition to physical impacts, patients with AIS may face psychological distress and social challenges related to gender identity and acceptance. The major molecular etiology of AIS results from hormone resistance caused by mutations in the X-linked androgen receptor (AR) gene. Depending on the severity of androgen resistance, the wide spectrum of AIS can be divided into complete AIS (CAIS), partial AIS (PAIS), or mild AIS (MAIS). Open issues in the treatment and management of AIS include decisions about reconstructive surgery, genetic counseling, gender assignment, timing of gonadectomy, fertility and physiological outcomes. Although new genomic approaches have improved understanding of the molecular causes of AIS, identification of individuals with AIS can be challenging, and molecular genetic diagnosis is often not achievable. The relationship between AIS genotype and phenotype is not well established. Therefore, the optimal management remains uncertain. The objective of this review is to outline the recent progress and promote understanding of AIS related to the clinical manifestation, molecular genetics and expert multidisciplinary approach, with an emphasis on genetic etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongzhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Clinical Research Center for Hypospadias Pediatric College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Urogenital Development Research Center, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pin Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiqing Lyu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaping Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Kexin Gao
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fuying Lan
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Clinical Research Center for Hypospadias Pediatric College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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41
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Matuszewska A, Kowalski K, Jawień P, Tomkalski T, Gaweł-Dąbrowska D, Merwid-Ląd A, Szeląg E, Błaszczak K, Wiatrak B, Danielewski M, Piasny J, Szeląg A. The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Men with Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:6492. [PMID: 37047464 PMCID: PMC10094807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder with a chronic, progressive course. The etiology of this condition is linked to the interactions of multiple genes and environmental factors. The earlier age of onset of schizophrenia, the higher frequency of negative symptoms in the clinical presentation, and the poorer response to antipsychotic treatment in men compared to women suggests the involvement of sex hormones in these processes. This article aims to draw attention to the possible relationship between testosterone and some clinical features in male schizophrenic patients and discuss the complex nature of these phenomena based on data from the literature. PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched to select the papers without limiting the time of the publications. Hormone levels in the body are regulated by many organs and systems, and take place through the neuroendocrine, hormonal, neural, and metabolic pathways. Sex hormones play an important role in the development and function of the organism. Besides their impact on secondary sex characteristics, they influence brain development and function, mood, and cognition. In men with schizophrenia, altered testosterone levels were noted. In many cases, evidence from available single studies gave contradictory results. However, it seems that the testosterone level in men affected by schizophrenia may differ depending on the phase of the disease, types of clinical symptoms, and administered therapy. The etiology of testosterone level disturbances may be very complex. Besides the impact of the illness (schizophrenia), stress, and antipsychotic drug-induced hyperprolactinemia, testosterone levels may be influenced by, i.a., obesity, substances of abuse (e.g., ethanol), or liver damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Matuszewska
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Kowalski
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Jawień
- Department of Biostructure and Animal Physiology, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, C.K. Norwida 25/27, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Tomkalski
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Internal Medicine, Tadeusz Marciniak Lower Silesia Specialist Hospital–Centre for Medical Emergency, A.E. Fieldorfa 2, 54-049 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Gaweł-Dąbrowska
- Department of Population Health, Division of Public Health, Wroclaw Medical University, Bujwida 44, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Anna Merwid-Ląd
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Szeląg
- Department of Maxillofacial Orthopaedics and Orthodontics, Wroclaw Medical University, Krakowska 26, 50-425 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Błaszczak
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Benita Wiatrak
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Danielewski
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Janusz Piasny
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Adam Szeląg
- Department of Pharmacology, Wroclaw Medical University, J. Mikulicza-Radeckiego 2, 50-345 Wroclaw, Poland
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42
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Caroppo E, Colpi GM. Male Infertility: A Review of Key Papers Appearing in the Reproductive Medicine and Andrology Section of the Journal of Clinical Medicine. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062366. [PMID: 36983371 PMCID: PMC10057583 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility accounts for 30% of infertility cases and its prevalence in the general population approximately ranges between 9 and 15%, according to the available surveys [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Ettore Caroppo
- ASL Bari, Reproductive Unit, Andrology Outpatients Clinic, Conversano, 70014 Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni M. Colpi
- Andrology Unit, Procrea Institute, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
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43
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Horvath-Pereira BDO, Almeida GHDR, da Silva Júnior LN, do Nascimento PG, Horvath Pereira BDO, Fireman JVBT, Pereira MLDRF, Carreira ACO, Miglino MA. Biomaterials for Testicular Bioengineering: How far have we come and where do we have to go? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1085872. [PMID: 37008920 PMCID: PMC10060902 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1085872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional therapeutic interventions aim to restore male fertile potential or preserve sperm viability in severe cases, such as semen cryopreservation, testicular tissue, germ cell transplantation and testicular graft. However, these techniques demonstrate several methodological, clinical, and biological limitations, that impact in their results. In this scenario, reproductive medicine has sought biotechnological alternatives applied for infertility treatment, or to improve gamete preservation and thus increase reproductive rates in vitro and in vivo. One of the main approaches employed is the biomimetic testicular tissue reconstruction, which uses tissue-engineering principles and methodologies. This strategy pursues to mimic the testicular microenvironment, simulating physiological conditions. Such approach allows male gametes maintenance in culture or produce viable grafts that can be transplanted and restore reproductive functions. In this context, the application of several biomaterials have been proposed to be used in artificial biological systems. From synthetic polymers to decellularized matrixes, each biomaterial has advantages and disadvantages regarding its application in cell culture and tissue reconstruction. Therefore, the present review aims to list the progress that has been made and the continued challenges facing testicular regenerative medicine and the preservation of male reproductive capacity, based on the development of tissue bioengineering approaches for testicular tissue microenvironment reconstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pedro Gabriel do Nascimento
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Angelica Miglino
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Rotimi OA, De Campos OC, Adelani IB, Olawole TD, Rotimi SO. Early-life AFB1 exposure: DNA methylation and hormone alterations. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 122:237-252. [PMID: 36863796 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2022.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxins are secondary metabolites of mold that contaminate food and feedstuff. They are found in various food including grains, nuts, milk and eggs. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most poisonous and commonly found of the various types of aflatoxins. Exposures to AFB1 start early in life viz. in utero, during breastfeeding, and during weaning through the waning foods which are mainly grain based. Several studies have shown that early-life exposures to various contaminants may have various biological effects. In this chapter, we reviewed the effects of early-life AFB1 exposures on changes in hormone and DNA methylation. In utero AFB1 exposure results in alterations in steroid and growth hormones. Specifically, the exposure results in a reduction in testosterone levels later in life. The exposure also affects the methylation of various genes that are significant in growth, immune, inflammation, and signaling pathways.
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45
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Romeo M, Spaggiari G, Nuzzo F, Granata ARM, Simoni M, Santi D. Follicle-stimulating hormone effectiveness in male idiopathic infertility: What happens in daily practice? Andrology 2023; 11:478-488. [PMID: 36424882 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) administration in male idiopathic infertility in a clinical setting. METHODS A retrospective real-world study was carried out, including all consecutive FSH-treated infertile men attending the Andrology Unit of Modena (Italy) from June 2015 to May 2022. Medical history, physical and andrological examinations, hormonal and seminal parameters, therapeutic management and pregnancy data were collected. The primary endpoint was the number of pregnancies obtained after FSH administration, whereas semen parameters change was the secondary outcome. RESULTS A total of 194 of 362 (53.6%) infertile men, eligible according to the Italian Health System regulations, were treated with FSH (mean age 37.9 ± 6.1 years). Following FSH administration (mean therapy duration 9.1 ± 7.1 months), 43 pregnancies were recorded (27.6%), of which 22 occurred naturally and 21 after assisted reproduction. A significant increase in sperm concentration (9.9 ± 12.2 vs. 18.9 ± 38.9 million/mL, p = 0.045) was detected after treatment, together with a significant increase in normozoospermia (from 1.0% to 5.1%, p = .044) and a reduction in azoospermia rate (from 9.8% to 7%, p = 0.044). Dividing the cohort in FSH-responders and non-responders, in terms of pregnancy achieved, higher sperm concentrations (15.7 ± 26.6 vs. 22.2 ± 25.7 million/mL, p = 0.033) and progressive sperm motility (18.0 ± 18.2 vs. 27.3 ± 11.3, p = 0.044) were found in pregnancy group. CONCLUSION Our experience suggests that FSH, empirically administered to men with idiopathic infertility, leads to pregnancy in one out of four patients and increases sperm concentration. Although the expected limits because of a real-world data study, the number of FSH-treated patients required to achieve one pregnancy seems to be lower in clinical setting if compared to previously published data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilina Romeo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Nuzzo
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio R M Granata
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy.,Unit of Andrology and Sexual Medicine of the Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero - Universitaria of Modena, Modena, Italy
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46
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Male infertility and gonadotropin treatment: What can we learn from real-world data? Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 86:102310. [PMID: 36682942 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.102310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin therapy to treat specific male infertility disorders associated with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism is evidence-based and effective in restoring spermatogenesis and fertility. In contrast, its use to improve fertility in men with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia remains controversial, despite being widely practiced. The existence of two major inter-related pathways for spermatogenesis, including FSH and intratesticular testosterone, provides a rationale for empiric hormone stimulation therapy in both eugonadal and hypogonadal males with idiopathic oligozoospermia or nonobstructive azoospermia. Real-world data (RWD) on gonadotropin stimulating for these patient subsets, mainly using human chorionic gonadotropin and follicle-stimulating hormone, accumulated gradually, showing a positive therapeutic effect in some patients, translated by increased sperm production, sperm quality, and sperm retrieval rates. Although more evidence is needed, current insights from RWD research indicate that selected male infertility patients might be managed more effectively using gonadotropin therapy, with potential gains for all parties involved.
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Chao HH, Zhang Y, Dong PY, Gurunathan S, Zhang XF. Comprehensive review on the positive and negative effects of various important regulators on male spermatogenesis and fertility. Front Nutr 2023; 9:1063510. [PMID: 36726821 PMCID: PMC9884832 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1063510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increasing global incidence of infertility, the influence of environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and nutrients on reproductive health has gradually attracted the attention of researchers. The quantity and quality of sperm play vital roles in male fertility, and both characteristics can be affected by external and internal factors. In this review, the potential role of genetic, environmental, and endocrine factors; nutrients and trace elements in male reproductive health, spermatozoa function, and fertility potency and the underlying mechanisms are considered to provide a theoretical basis for clinical treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu-He Chao
- Development Center for Medical Science and Technology, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Pei-Yu Dong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China,*Correspondence: Xi-Feng Zhang ✉ ; ✉
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Samir H, El-Shalofy AS, El-Sherbiny HR. Effects of a single dose of long-acting FSH on testicular blood flow, testicular echotexture, and circulating testosterone, estradiol, and nitric oxide in rams during the non-breeding season. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2023; 82:106765. [PMID: 36219897 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2022.106765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the effect of a single administration of long-acting follicle simulation hormone (FSH) on testicular blood perfusion as measured by pulsed-wave Doppler ultrasonography, testicular echotexture, and circulating testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and nitric oxide (NO) in the plasma of rams in the non-breeding season. Twelve Ossimi rams were subjected to either a single administration of long-acting FSH subcutaneously (FSH group; n = 6) or the vehicle (control group; n = 6). Assessment of testicular hemodynamics at the level of the supratesticular artery was performed just before administration (0 h), and at 4, 24, 48, 72, 96, and 168 h after FSH or the vehicle administrations. Testicular volume (TV), and echotexture of testicular parenchyma including pixel intensity and heterogeneity were derived by the computer analysis software. Concentrations of T, E2, and NO were measured using commercial kits. Results revealed significant decreases (P ˂ 0.05) in the values of Doppler indices (resistive index: RI and pulsatility index: PI), especially at 48 h after administration of FSH (RI: 0.42 ± 0.02, PI: 0.56 ± 0.04) compared to their values in the control group (RI: 0.54 ± 0.03, PI: 0.77 ± 0.04). FSH administration induced significant decreases (P ˂ 0.05) in the pixel intensity of testicular parenchyma. Testicular volume and T concentrations were not significantly changed (P ˃ 0.05). Concentrations of E2 increased significantly (P ˂ 0.05) at 48 h and 72 h after FSH administration. (30.07 ± 5.23 pg/ml, 29.93 ± 1.44 pg/ml, respectively) compared to their values before FSH administration (14.63 ± 1.37 pg/ml). Concentrations of NO increased significantly (P ˂ 0.05) in the FSH group between 4 h to 48 h compared to the values in the control one. In conclusion, a single administration of long-acting FSH enhanced testicular blood perfusion as measured by pulsed Doppler ultrasonography in rams during the non-breeding season. Concurrently, significant increases in the concentrations of E2 and NO were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Samir
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
| | - A S El-Shalofy
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - H R El-Sherbiny
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Morini D, Melli B, Dalla Valentina L, Aguzzoli L, Simoni M, Villani MT. Which sperm parameter limits could really guide the clinical decision in assisted reproduction? Andrology 2023; 11:143-154. [PMID: 36251334 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The predictive role of sperm motility and morphology was recently detected in a large sample of more than 20000 assisted reproductive technology (ART) fresh cycles. However, the complete ART procedure consisted of both fresh and frozen-embryos transfers and only a comprehensive evaluation of the entire process could really confirm if these parameters really predict the ART success. The aim of the study was to evaluate which sperm parameter could predict the success of ART. METHODS A retrospective, real-world data analysis was performed, enrolling all couples attending ART from 2008 to 2021, including both fresh and frozen cycles and both in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) procedures. RESULTS Fresh cycles success (considering live birth rate) was predicted by female age (1.04 [1.02-1.06]), injected oocytes (0.96 [0.93-0.99]), embryo number (0.79 [0.75-0.83]) and progressive sperm motility (0.98 [0.97-0.99]). On the contrary, frozen cycle outcomes were predicted only by sperm motility (0.97 [0.95-0.99]). This prediction was confirmed in IVF but not in ICSI cycles. CONCLUSION Both female and male parameters predicted the ART success considering the entire path. However, frozen cycle success was predicted only by progressive sperm motility in IVF cycles, suggesting that the potential amelioration of this male parameter is relevant to improve ART success. Those couples expected to obtain the highest embryos after fertilization (low female age and better semen parameters) will have more attempts with frozen cycles and thus would benefit from a potential treatment focused to improve sperm parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy
| | - Daria Morini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Beatrice Melli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Leonardo Dalla Valentina
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Aguzzoli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Ospedale Civile of Baggiovara, Modena, Italy.,Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Centre, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
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Smajdor J, Paczosa-Bator B, Piech R. Advances on Hormones and Steroids Determination: A Review of Voltammetric Methods since 2000. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:1225. [PMID: 36557132 PMCID: PMC9782681 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12121225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article presents advances in the electrochemical determination of hormones and steroids since 2000. A wide spectrum of techniques and working electrodes have been involved in the reported measurements in order to obtain the lowest possible limits of detection. The voltammetric and polarographic techniques, due to their sensitivity and easiness, could be used as alternatives to other, more complicated, analytical assays. Still, growing interest in designing a new construction of the working electrodes enables us to prepare new measurement procedures and obtain lower limits of detection. A brief description of the measured compounds has been presented, along with a comparison of the obtained results.
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