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Duma-Pauta JM, Juárez-López NO, Gutiérrez-Pérez O, Córdova-Izquierdo A, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Juárez-Mosqueda MDL. Cryopreservation, in addition to protein tyrosine phosphorylation, alters the distribution of phosphatidyl inositol bisphosphate and the localization of cytoskeletal and signaling proteins (gelsolin, tyrosine kinase c-SRC and phospholipase C-ζ) in the perinuclear theca of boar sperm. Cryobiology 2023; 113:104589. [PMID: 37778407 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104589] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of boar spermatozoa affects the perinuclear theca (PT) and involves several proteins and molecules that play important roles during capacitation and the acrosomal reaction. The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether the deleterious effects of cryopreservation in addition to protein tyrosine phosphorylation are accompanied by changes in the distribution of phosphatidyl inositol bisphosphate (PIP2) and the localization of cytoskeletal and signaling proteins in the perinuclear theca of cryopreserved boar spermatozoa. For this purpose, by immunocytochemistry (IC) the changes in localization of phosphorylated proteins in tyrosine residues, gelsolin, c-SRC kinase and PLC-ζ, as well as in the distribution of phosphatidyl inositol bisphosphate were analyzed in thawed spermatozoa (T) non capacitated (NC), capacitated (C) and in those with acrosomal reaction (AR) and compared with fresh spermatozoa (F) under the same physiological status. Western blotting (WB) and co-immunoprecipitation were performed to confirm the presence of these proteins in PT and to determine the interaction between these molecules. IC showed that immunostaining for phosphorylated proteins significantly increased in the acrosomal region and flagellum in TNC spermatozoa (p < 0.05). The proportion of cells displaying immunolabeling for gelsolin in the acrosomal region decreased after capacitation in cryopreserved spermatozoa; the same change was found (p < 0.05) in the proportion of spermatozoa immunoreactive to PIP2 in the sperm head. c-SRC was observed in the equatorial segment and acrosomal region, subdomains that coincide with the site where phosphorylated proteins were detected. PLC-ζ immunolocalization in fresh spermatozoa underwent changes after capacitation and acrosomal reaction, with a significant increase in the equatorial segment and post-acrosomal region in cryopreserved spermatozoa (p < 0.05). WB analysis indicated the presence of gelsolin, c-SRC and PLC-ζ in PT; besides, we confirmed that gelsolin co-immunoprecipitated with c-SRC and PLC-ζ, which changes according to the physiological state of spermatozoa. As a conclusion, cryopreservation together with increased immunodetection of tyrosine phosphorylated proteins decreases the detection of PIP2 and alters the immunolocalization patterns of gelsolin, c-SRC and PLC-ζ in the PT in boar spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Mauricio Duma-Pauta
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Departamento de Morfología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, Ciudad de México, CP, 04510, Mexico; Universidad de Cuenca, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Avda. 12 de octubre, EC101205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Noé Orlando Juárez-López
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Departamento de Genética y Bioestadística, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, Ciudad deMéxico, CP, 04510, Mexico.
| | - Oscar Gutiérrez-Pérez
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Centro de Enseñanaza de Investigación y Extensión en Producción Porcina, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, Ciudad de México, CP. 04510, México.
| | - Alejandro Córdova-Izquierdo
- Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Xochimilco, Departamento de Agricultura y Producción Animal, Calzada del hueso 1100, Ciudad de México, CP, 04960, Mexico.
| | - Rosa María Vigueras-Villaseñor
- Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Subdirección de Medicina Experimental, Av. Insurgentes Sur 3700-C, Ciudad de México, CP, 04530, Mexico
| | - María de Lourdes Juárez-Mosqueda
- Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Departamento de Morfología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Ciudad Universitaria No. 3000, Ciudad de México, CP, 04510, Mexico.
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Zafar MI, Lu S, Li H. Sperm-oocyte interplay: an overview of spermatozoon's role in oocyte activation and current perspectives in diagnosis and fertility treatment. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:4. [PMID: 33407934 PMCID: PMC7789549 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00520-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The fertilizing spermatozoon is a highly specialized cell that selects from millions along the female tract until the oocyte. The paternal components influence the oocyte activation during fertilization and are fundamental for normal embryo development; however, the sperm-oocyte interplay is in a continuous debate. This review aims to analyze the available scientific information related to the role of the male gamete in the oocyte activation during fertilization, the process of the interaction of sperm factors with oocyte machinery, and the implications of any alterations in this interplay, as well as the advances and limitations of the reproductive techniques and diagnostic tests. At present, both PLCζ and PAWP are the main candidates as oocyte activated factors during fertilization. While PLCζ mechanism is via IP3, how PAWP activates the oocyte still no clear, and these findings are important to study and treat fertilization failure due to oocyte activation, especially when one of the causes is the deficiency of PLCζ in the sperm. However, no diagnostic test has been developed to establish the amount of PLCζ, the protocol to treat this type of pathologies is broad, including treatment with ionophores, sperm selection improvement, and microinjection with PLCζ protein or RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ishraq Zafar
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jeifang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China. .,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, 128 Sanyang Road, Wuhan, 430013, People's Republic of China.
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Yamase K, Tanigawa Y, Yamamoto Y, Tanaka H, Komiya T. Mouse TMCO5 is localized to the manchette microtubules involved in vesicle transfer in the elongating spermatids. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220917. [PMID: 31393949 PMCID: PMC6687282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
As a result of a high-throughput in situ hybridization screening for adult mouse testes, we found that the mRNA for Tmco5 is expressed in round and elongating spermatids. Tmco5 belongs to the Tmco (Transmembrane and coiled-coil domains) gene family and has a coiled-coil domain in the N-terminal and a transmembrane domain in the C-terminal region. A monoclonal antibody raised against recombinant TMCO5 revealed that the protein is expressed exclusively in the elongating spermatids of step 9 to 12 and is localized to the manchette, a transiently emerging construction, which predominantly consists of cytoskeleton microtubules and actin filaments. This structure serves in the transport of Golgi-derived non-acrosomal vesicles. Moreover, induced expression of TMCO5 in CHO cells resulted in the co-localization of TMCO5 with β-tubulin besides the reorganization of the Golgi apparatus. Judging from the results and considering the domain structure of TMCO5, we assume that Tmco5 may have a role in vesicle transport along the manchette.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenya Yamase
- Department of Biological Function, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoko Tanigawa
- Department of Biological Function, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Yamamoto
- Department of Biological Function, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Tanaka
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tohru Komiya
- Department of Biological Function, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi, Osaka, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Haghighat S, Tavalaee M, Kouhkan A, Zakeri Z, Noureddini M, Shahverdi AH, Nasr Esfahani MH. Reduction of truncated Kit Expression in Men with Abnormal Semen Parameters, Globozoospermia and History of Low or Fertilization Failure. CELL JOURNAL 2019; 21:314-321. [PMID: 31210438 PMCID: PMC6582429 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2019.6112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Objective Phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCζ) is one of the main sperm factor involved in oocyte activation and other
factors may assist this factor to induce successful fertilization. Microinjection of recombinant tr-kit, a truncated form of
c-kit receptor, into metaphase II-arrested mouse oocytes initiate egg activation. Considering the potential roles of tr-
KIT during spermiogenesis and fertilization, we aimed to assess expression of tr-KIT in sperm of men with normal and
abnormal parameters and also in infertile men with previous failed fertilization and globozoospermia.
Materials and Methods This experimental study was conducted from September 2015 to July 2016 on 30
normozoospermic and 20 abnormozoospermic samples for experiment one, and also was carried out on 10
globozoospermic men, 10 men with a history low or failed fertilization and 13 fertile men for experiment two. Semen
parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation were assessed according to WHO protocol, and TUNEL assay. Sperm tr-
KIT was evaluated by flow cytometry, immunostaining and western blot.
Results The results show that tr-KIT mainly was detected in post-acrosomal, equatorial and tail regions. Percentage
of tr-KIT-positive spermatozoa in abnormozoospermic men was significantly lower than normozoospermic men. Also
significant correlations were observed between sperm tr-KIT with sperm count (r=0.8, P<0.001), motility (r=0.31, P=0.03)
and abnormal morphology (r=-0.6, P<0.001). Expression of tr-KIT protein was significantly lower in infertile men with low/
failed fertilization and globozoospermia compared to fertile men. The significant correlation was also observed between
tr-KIT protein with fertilization rate (r=-0.46, P=0.04). In addition, significant correlations were observed between sperm
DNA fragmentation with fertilization rate (r=-0.56, P=0.019) and tr-KIT protein (r=-0.38, P=0.04).
Conclusion tr-KIT may play a direct or indirect role in fertilization. Therefore, to increase our insight regarding the role
of tr-KIT in fertilization further research is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Haghighat
- Physiology Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Kouhkan
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Zakeri
- Department of Biology, Queens College and Graduate Center of the City University of New York, Flushing, NY, USA
| | - Mahdi Noureddini
- Physiology Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.Electronic Address:
| | - Abdol Hossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Medicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.Electronic Address:.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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The role and mechanism of action of sperm PLC-zeta in mammalian fertilisation. Biochem J 2017; 474:3659-3673. [PMID: 29061915 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20160521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
At mammalian fertilisation, the fundamental stimulus that triggers oocyte (egg) activation and initiation of early embryonic development is an acute rise of the intracellular-free calcium (Ca2+) concentration inside the egg cytoplasm. This essential Ca2+ increase comprises a characteristic series of repetitive Ca2+ oscillations, starting soon after sperm-egg fusion. Over the last 15 years, accumulating scientific and clinical evidence supports the notion that the physiological stimulus that precedes the cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations is a novel, testis-specific phospholipase C (PLC) isoform, known as PLC-zeta (PLCζ). Sperm PLCζ catalyses the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate triggering cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations through the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate signalling pathway. PLCζ is the smallest known mammalian PLC isoform with the most elementary domain organisation. However, relative to somatic PLCs, the PLCζ isoform possesses a unique potency in stimulating Ca2+ oscillations in eggs that is attributed to its novel biochemical characteristics. In this review, we discuss the latest developments that have begun to unravel the vital role of PLCζ at mammalian fertilisation and decipher its unique mechanism of action within the fertilising egg. We also postulate the significant potential diagnostic and therapeutic capacity of PLCζ in alleviating certain types of male infertility.
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Xu YR, Yang WX. Calcium influx and sperm-evoked calcium responses during oocyte maturation and egg activation. Oncotarget 2017; 8:89375-89390. [PMID: 29179526 PMCID: PMC5687696 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Under the guidance and regulation of hormone signaling, large majority of mammalian oocytes go through twice cell cycle arrest-resumption prior to the fertilized egg splits: oocyte maturation and egg activation. Cytosolic free calcium elevations and endoplasmic reticulum calcium store alternations are actively involved in triggering the complex machineries and events during oogenesis. Among these, calcium influx had been implicated in the replenishment of endoplasmic reticulum store during oocyte maturation and calcium oscillation during egg activation. This process also drove successful fertilization and early embryo development. Store-operated Ca2+ entry, acts as the principal force of calcium influx, is composed of STIM1 and Orai1 on the plasma membrane. Besides, transient receptor potential channels also participate in the process of calcium inwards. In this review, we summarize the recent researches on the spatial-temporal distribution of store-operated calcium entry components and transient receptor potential channels. Questions about how these channels play function for calcium influx and what impacts these channels have on oocytes are discussed. At the time of sperm-egg fusion, sperm-specific factor(s) diffuse and enable eggs to mount intracellular calcium oscillations. In this review, we also focus on the basic knowledge and the modes of action of the potential sperm factor phospholipase C zeta, as well as the downstream receptor, type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. From the achievement in the previous several decades, it is easy to find that there are too many doubtful points in the field that need researchers take into consideration and take action in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ru Xu
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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8
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Tavalaee M, Kiani-Esfahani A, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Relationship between Potential Sperm Factors Involved in Oocyte Activation and Sperm DNA Fragmentation with Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection Clinical Outcomes. CELL JOURNAL 2016; 18:588-596. [PMID: 28042543 PMCID: PMC5086337 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2016.4725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective The present study aimed to simultaneously evaluate the association between expression of three potential factors [post-acrosomal sheath WW domain-binding protein (PAWP), phospholipase Cζ (PLCζ), and truncated form of the kit receptor
(TR-KIT)] as candidates of oocyte activation with fertilization rate and early embryonic development.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, semen samples were collected
from 35 intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) candidates and analyzed according to World Health Organization criteria (2010). Each sample was divided into two
parts. The first part was processed for insemination by density-gradient centrifugation (DGC) and the second part was prepared for assessment of sperm morphology (Papanicolaou staining), DNA fragmentation [transferase dUTP nick end labeling
(TUNEL)], and three Sperm-borne oocyte-activating factor (s) (SOAFs)-PLCζ, PAWP,
and TR-KIT.
Results Significant positive correlations existed between the percentages of PLCζ,
PAWP, and TR-KIT with fertilization rate. In addition, significant negative correlations
existed between the percentage of DNA fragmentation with the percentages of PLCζ
and PAWP. We did not find a relationship between percentages of PLCζ, PAWP, and
TR-KIT with embryo quality and pregnancy rate (P>0.05). There was a significant
negative correlation between percentage of DNA fragmentation with fertilization and
embryo quality.
Conclusion Oocyte activation was associated with the studied sperm factors (PAWP,
PLCζ, and TR-KIT). These factors might hold the potential to be considered as diagnostic
factors in the assessment of semen samples to evaluate their potential to induce oocyte
activation. In addition, we observed a significant association between DNA fragmentation
with fertilization, as well as embryo quality and expression of PAWP and PLCζ, which
indicated that men with high degrees of DNA fragmentation might require artificial oocyte
activation. Whether such action should take place, and its cost and benefits should be
evaluated in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Abbas Kiani-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Janghorban-Laricheh E, Ghazavi-Khorasgani N, Tavalaee M, Zohrabi D, Abbasi H, Nasr-Esfahani MH. An association between sperm PLCζ levels and varicocele? J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1649-1655. [PMID: 27612872 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0802-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to compare the expression of phospholipase C ζ (PLCζ), as one of the main sperm factors involved in oocyte activation, at both RNA and protein levels in fertile men and those with varicocele. METHODS This study included 35 individuals with male factor infertility presenting primary infertility with grade II and III unilateral varicocele and 20 fertile men without varicocele. Semen parameters were assessed according to WHO 2010. Sperm DNA fragmentation, relative expression of PLCζ at messenger RNA, and protein levels were evaluated by sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), real-time PCR, and Western blot analysis, respectively. RESULTS The results of this study reveal that the mean relative expression of PLCζ was significantly lower in individuals with varicocele compared to fertile men at both transcription and translation levels. In addition, the percentage of DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in infertile men with varicocele compared to fertile men. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the present study illustrate that one of the etiologies of reduced fertility associated with varicocele is the low expression of PLCζ. This effect could subsequently reduce the sperm ability to induce oocyte activation. Therefore, these results hold promise to modify our understanding of reproductive physiology of varicocele state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Janghorban-Laricheh
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Biology, Nourdanesh Institute of Higher Education, Meymeh, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nasim Ghazavi-Khorasgani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Biology, Nourdanesh Institute of Higher Education, Meymeh, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Dina Zohrabi
- Department of Biology, Nourdanesh Institute of Higher Education, Meymeh, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad H Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran. .,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran.
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Kamali-Dolat Abadi M, Tavalaee M, Shahverdi A, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Evaluation of PLCζ and PAWP Expression in Globozoospermic Individuals. CELL JOURNAL 2016; 18:438-45. [PMID: 27602326 PMCID: PMC5011332 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2016.4572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Objective Globozoospermia is a rare type of teratozoospermia with incidence of 0.1%
among infertile individuals. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) and postacrosomal sheath WW
domain binding protein (PAWP) are the main candidates in sperm taking responsibility for
oocyte activation during fertilization. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the expression of
these two genes at RNA and protein levels in globozoospermic individuals and compare
the results with fertile individuals.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, semen samples of 21 infertile
men with globozoospermia and 25 fertile men were collected. Expression of PLCζ
and PAWP at RNA and protein levels were assessed and compared between two
groups by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot,
respectively.
Results Expression of both PLCζ and PAWP were significantly reduced at RNA and protein levels in infertile men with globozoospermia compared to fertile men.
Conclusion This is the first study that simultaneously assessing the respective factors in
a large population of globozoospermia, suggested that intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection
(ICSI) along with artificial oocyte activation may rescue failed fertilization in routine ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Kamali-Dolat Abadi
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran; Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Tosti E, Ménézo Y. Gamete activation: basic knowledge and clinical applications. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:420-39. [PMID: 27278231 PMCID: PMC4917743 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The first clues to the process of gamete activation date back to nearly 60 years ago. The mutual activation of gametes is a crucial event during fertilization. In the testis and ovaries, spermatozoa and oocytes are in a state of meiotic and metabolic quiescence and require reciprocal signals in order to undergo functional changes that lead to competence for fertilization. First, the oocyte activates sperm by triggering motility, chemoattraction, binding and the acrosome reaction, culminating with the fusion of the two plasma membranes. At the end of this cascade of events, collectively known as sperm capacitation, sperm-induced oocyte activation occurs, generating electrical, morphological and metabolic modifications in the oocyte. Objective and rationale The aim of this review is to provide the current state of knowledge regarding the entire process of gamete activation in selected specific animal models that have contributed to our understanding of fertilization in mammals, including humans. Here we describe in detail the reciprocal induction of the two activation processes, the molecules involved and the mechanisms of cell interaction and signal transduction that ultimately result in successful embryo development and creation of a new individual. Search methods We carried out a literature survey with no restrictions on publication date (from the early 1950s to March 2016) using PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar and Web of Knowledge by utilizing common keywords applied in the field of fertilization and embryo development. We also screened the complete list of references published in the most recent research articles and relevant reviews published in English (both animal and human studies) on the topics investigated. Outcomes Literature on the principal animal models demonstrates that gamete activation is a pre-requisite for successful fertilization, and is a process common to all species studied to date. We provide a detailed description of the dramatic changes in gamete morphology and behavior, the regulatory molecules triggering gamete activation and the intracellular ions and second messengers involved in active metabolic pathways in different species. Recent scientific advances suggest that artificial gamete activation may represent a novel technique to improve human IVF outcomes, but this approach requires caution. Wider implications Although controversial, manipulation of gamete activation represents a promising tool for ameliorating the fertilization rate in assisted reproductive technologies. A better knowledge of mechanisms that transform the quiescent oocyte into a pluripotent cell may also provide new insights for the clinical use of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Tosti
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Naples 80121, Italy
| | - Yves Ménézo
- London Fertility Associates, 104 Harley Street, London WIG7JD, UK
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Anifandis G, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Daponte A, Messinis IE. Sperm contributions to oocyte activation: more that meets the eye. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:313-316. [PMID: 26780328 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0653-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that for successful fertilization, oocyte activation is required, which involves a signal transduction cascade leading to the conversion of the oocyte to a diploid embryo. During oocyte activation, intracellular calcium levels oscillate repetitively causing exocytosis of cortical granules, the enzymes which the latter contain are released into the perivitelline space, leading to modifications of the zona pellucida (ZP), which prevent the penetration of the ZP by further spermatozoa. The necessary element that initiates oocyte activation is apparently the release of intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) stored in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The exact mechanism via which Ca(2+) is released within the oocyte has not been yet clarified, and has been a matter of an ongoing debate. Today, the sperm factor hypothesis has gained general acceptance, according to which a sperm molecule, either phospholipase C (PLCζ) or a post-acrosomal sheath WW domain-binding protein (PAWP), diffuses into the ooplasm initiating a molecular cascade involving mainly the phosphoinositide pathway. Mounting evidence now indicates that these calcium oscillations are caused by a testis-specific PLC termed PLCζ, released into the oocyte following gamete fusion. Also, recently, PAWP has been proposed as an alternative sperm factor candidate. These different sperm candidates have led to a significant debate. This raises important questions as regards to the relative importance of these two proteins as diagnostic tools in reproductive medicine with therapeutic potential, indicating the need for further research. In the present mini review, the phenomenon of oocyte activation during fertilization as well as the existing controversy will be highlighted and the possible mechanisms that are involved in this process will be discussed. Finally, an explanation of the existing debate will be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
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Machaty Z. Signal transduction in mammalian oocytes during fertilization. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 363:169-183. [PMID: 26453398 PMCID: PMC4700098 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2291-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian embryo development begins when the fertilizing sperm triggers a series of elevations in the oocyte's intracellular free Ca(2+) concentration. The elevations are the result of repeated release and re-uptake of Ca(2+) stored in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Ca(2+) release is primarily mediated by the phosphoinositide signaling system of the oocyte. The system is stimulated when the sperm causes the hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) into inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG); IP3 then binds its receptor on the surface of the endoplasmic reticulum that induces Ca(2+) release. The manner in which the sperm generates IP3, the Ca(2+) mobilizing second messenger, has been the subject of extensive research for a long time. The sperm factor hypothesis has eventually gained general acceptance, according to which it is a molecule from the sperm that diffuses into the ooplasm and stimulates the phosphoinositide cascade. Much evidence now indicates that the sperm-derived factor is phospholipase C-zeta (PLCζ) that cleaves PIP2 and generates IP3, eventually leading to oocyte activation. A recent addition to the candidate sperm factor list is the post-acrosomal sheath WW domain-binding protein (PAWP), whose role at fertilization is currently under debate. Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane is also important as, in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+), the oscillations run down prematurely. In pig oocytes, the influx that sustains the oscillations seems to be regulated by the filling status of the stores, whereas in the mouse other mechanisms might be involved. This work summarizes the current understanding of Ca(2+) signaling in mammalian oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoltan Machaty
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 915 W. State Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA.
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