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Carrageta DF, Pereira SC, Ferreira R, Monteiro MP, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Signatures of metabolic diseases on spermatogenesis and testicular metabolism. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:477-494. [PMID: 38528255 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-024-00866-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Diets leading to caloric overload are linked to metabolic disorders and reproductive function impairment. Metabolic and hormonal abnormalities stand out as defining features of metabolic disorders, and substantially affect the functionality of the testis. Metabolic disorders induce testicular metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. The disruption of gastrointestinal, pancreatic, adipose tissue and testicular hormonal regulation induced by metabolic disorders can also contribute to a state of compromised fertility. In this Review, we will delve into the effects of high-fat diets and metabolic disorders on testicular metabolism and spermatogenesis, which are crucial elements for male reproductive function. Moreover, metabolic disorders have been shown to influence the epigenome of male gametes and might have a potential role in transmitting phenotype traits across generations. However, the existing evidence strongly underscores the unmet need to understand the mechanisms responsible for transgenerational paternal inheritance of male reproductive function impairment related to metabolic disorders. This knowledge could be useful for developing targeted interventions to prevent, counteract, and most of all break the perpetuation chain of male reproductive dysfunction associated with metabolic disorders across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F Carrageta
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara C Pereira
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mariana P Monteiro
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE & Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago Agra do Crasto, Aveiro, Portugal.
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2
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Parvin A, Erabi G, Mohammadpour D, Maleki-Kakelar H, Sadeghpour S, Pashaei MR, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H. Infertility: Focus on the therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100925. [PMID: 39018753 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Infertility is a well-known problem that arises from a variety of reproductive diseases. Until now, researchers have tried various methods to restore fertility, including medication specific to the cause, hormone treatments, surgical removals, and assisted reproductive technologies. While these methods do produce results, they do not consistently lead to fertility restoration in every instance. The use of exosome therapy has significant potential in treating infertility in patients. This is because exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, which are different types of vesicles, play a crucial role in transferring bioactive molecules that aid in cell-to-cell communication. Reproductive fluids can transport a variety of molecular cargos, such as miRNAs, mRNAs, proteins, lipids, and DNA molecules. The percentage of these cargos in the fluids can be linked to their physiological and pathological status. EVs are involved in several physiological and pathological processes and offer interesting non-cellular therapeutic possibilities to treat infertility. EVs (extracellular vesicles) transplantation has been shown in many studies to be a key part of regenerating different parts of the reproductive system, including the production of oocytes and the start of sperm production. Nevertheless, the existing evidence necessitates testifying to the effectiveness of injecting EVs in resolving reproductive problems among humans. This review focuses on the current literature about infertility issues in both females and males, specifically examining the potential treatments involving extracellular vesicles (EVs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Parvin
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Gisou Erabi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Donna Mohammadpour
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hadi Maleki-Kakelar
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Pashaei
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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3
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Bahmyari S, Khatami SH, Taghvimi S, Rezaei Arablouydareh S, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H, Farazmand T, Soltani Fard E, Solati A, Movahedpour A, Ghasemi H. MicroRNAs in Male Fertility. DNA Cell Biol 2024; 43:108-124. [PMID: 38394131 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2023.0314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Around 50% of all occurrences of infertility are attributable to the male factor, which is a significant global public health concern. There are numerous circumstances that might interfere with spermatogenesis and cause the body to produce abnormal sperm. While evaluating sperm, the count, the speed at which they migrate, and their appearance are the three primary characteristics that are analyzed. MicroRNAs, also known as miRNAs, are present in all physiological fluids and tissues. They participate in both physiological and pathological processes. Researches have demonstrated that the expression of microRNA genes differs in infertile men. These genes regulate spermatogenesis at various stages and in several male reproductive cells. Hence, microRNAs have the potential to act as useful indicators in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility and other diseases affecting male reproduction. Despite this, additional research is necessary to determine the precise miRNA regulation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Bahmyari
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Hossein Khatami
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sina Taghvimi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sahar Rezaei Arablouydareh
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Tooba Farazmand
- Departmant of Gynecology, School of Medicine, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Elahe Soltani Fard
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Arezoo Solati
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Sosnicki DM, Cohen R, Asano A, Nelson JL, Mukai C, Comizzoli P, Travis AJ. Segmental differentiation of the murine epididymis: identification of segment-specific, GM1-enriched vesicles and regulation by luminal fluid factors†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:864-877. [PMID: 37694824 PMCID: PMC10724454 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad120] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The murine epididymis has 10 distinct segments that provide the opportunity to identify compartmentalized cell physiological mechanisms underlying sperm maturation. However, despite the essential role of the epididymis in reproduction, remarkably little is known about segment-specific functions of this organ. Here, we investigate the dramatic segmental localization of the ganglioside GM1, a glycosphingolipid already known to play key roles in sperm capacitation and acrosome exocytosis. Frozen tissue sections of epididymides from adult mice were treated with the binding subunit of cholera toxin conjugated to AlexaFluor 488 to label GM1. We report that GM1-enriched vesicles were found exclusively in principal and clear cells of segment 2. These vesicles were also restricted to the lumen of segment 2 and did not appear to flow with the sperm into segment 3, within the limits of detection by confocal microscopy. Interestingly, this segment-specific presence was altered in several azoospermic mouse models and in wild-type mice after efferent duct ligation. These findings indicate that a lumicrine factor, itself dependent on spermatogenesis, controls this segmental differentiation. The RNA sequencing results confirmed global de-differentiation of the proximal epididymal segments in response to efferent duct ligation. Additionally, GM1 localization on the surface of the sperm head increased as sperm transit through segment 2 and have contact with the GM1-enriched vesicles. This is the first report of segment-specific vesicles and their role in enriching sperm with GM1, a glycosphingolipid known to be critical for sperm function, providing key insights into the segment-specific physiology and function of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Sosnicki
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Roy Cohen
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Atsushi Asano
- University of Tsukuba, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, Tsukuba, Japan
| | | | - Chinatsu Mukai
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Department of Reproductive Sciences, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Cornell University, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
- Cornell University, Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, Ithaca, NY, USA
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5
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Yunaini L, Pujianto DA. Conditioned medium and secretome from epididymal epithelial cell cultures improve sperm kinetics and capacitation. Vet World 2023; 16:1325-1332. [PMID: 37577187 PMCID: PMC10421547 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.1325-1332] [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: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Sperm maturation occurs in the epididymis through interactions with existing molecules inside the lumen. However, the mechanism of epididymis molecular transfer is currently unclear. This study was aimed to determine the necessity of the epididymal epithelial cells (EECs) in the process of sperm maturation in terms of sperm kinetics and tyrosine phosphorylation. Materials and Methods A true experimental research design was used in this study. The medium tested was a primary culture of mice caput epididymal cells (cells and culture medium), conditioned medium (CM) (supernatant of EECs), and secretome (CM filtered at 0.22 μm). Sperm was cocultured in EEC culture, CM, and secretome for 1, 2, 3, or 4 h. The original culture medium was used as the control. Sperm kinetic analysis was performed after the indicated times using computer-assisted sperm analysis, and tyrosine phosphorylation was detected using the Western blot technique. Results A primary culture of caput EECs was successfully generated. The results showed increased sperm motility and progressive movement after 3 h of incubation (p < 0.05). There was a significant decrease in the average path velocity (VAP) values after 4 h of incubation (p < 0.05), but there was no significant change in the 1, 2, and 3 h incubation groups. The EEC culture-CM and secretome groups showed a significant increased progressivity and VAP percentage values compared with the control medium (p < 0.05). In terms of percentage motility, the culture and CM groups were significantly different from the control medium, but the secretome group was not. Conclusion The sperm kinetics of sperm cultured in CM, secretome, and EEC were significantly increased after 3 h of incubation, suggesting that CM and secretome can be used to replace EECs, especially when analyzing molecules secreted by the epididymal epithelium during sperm maturation. The results of this study highlight the potential of CM and secretome as therapy mediums for sperm kinetic abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luluk Yunaini
- Doctoral Program for Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
| | - Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta 10430, Indonesia
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Ali W, Deng K, Bian Y, Liu Z, Zou H. Spectacular role of epididymis and bio-active cargo of nano-scale exosome in sperm maturation: A review. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 164:114889. [PMID: 37209627 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is responsible for post-testicular sperm maturation as it provides a favorable environment for spermatozoa to gain the ability for movement and fertilization. The recent evidence has shown that, the spermatozoa are vulnerable to dynamic variations driven by various cellular exposure mechanisms mediated by epididymosomes. Exosomes provide new insight into a mechanism of intercellular communication because they provide direct evidence for the transfer of several important bio-active cargo elements (proteins, lipid, DNA, mRNA, microRNA, circular RNA, long noncoding RNA) between epididymis and spermatozoa. In broad sense, proteomic analysis of exosomes from epididymis indicates number of proteins that are involved in sperm motility, acrosomal reaction, prevent pre-mature sperm capacitation and male infertility. Pinpointing, how reproductive disorders are associated with bio-active cargo elements of nano-scale exosome in the male reproductive tract. Therefore, the current review presents evidence regarding the distinctive characteristics and functions of nano-scale exosome in the male reproductive tract in both pathological and physiological developments, and argue that these vesicles serve as an important regulator of male reproduction, fertility, and disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waseem Ali
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Kai Deng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Yusheng Bian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, PR China.
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Expression of SPAG7 and its regulatory microRNAs in seminal plasma and seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles of patients with subfertility. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3645. [PMID: 36871032 PMCID: PMC9985644 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30744-3] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma contains a variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that deliver RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) molecules. However, the roles of these EVs along with their delivered RNAs and their interactions with male infertility are not clear. Sperm-associated antigen 7 (SPAG 7) is expressed in male germ cells and plays a crucial role in several biological functions associated with sperm production and maturation. In this study, we aimed to identify the post-transcriptional regulation of SPAG7 in seminal plasma (SF-Native) and seminal plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (SF-EVs) collected from 87 men undergoing infertility treatment. Among the multiple binding sites for miRNAs within its 3'UTR of SPAG7, we identified the binding of four miRNAs (miR-15b-5p, miR-195-5p, miR-424-5p, and miR-497-5p) to the 3'UTR of SPAG7 by the dual luciferase assays. Analyzing sperm, we found reduced mRNA expression levels of SPAG7 in SF-EVs and SF-Native samples from oligoasthenozoospermic men. By contrast, two miRNAs (miR-424-5p and miR-497-5p) form the SF-Native samples, and four miRNAs (miR-195-5p, miR-424-5p, miR-497-5p, and miR-6838-5p) from the SF-EVs samples showed significantly higher expression levels in oligoasthenozoospermic men. The expression levels of miRNAs and SPAG7 were significantly correlated with basic semen parameters. These findings contribute significantly to our understanding of regulatory pathways in male fertility by showing a direct link between upregulated miRNA, notably miR-424, and downregulated SPAG7 both in seminal plasma and in plasma-derived EVs likely contributing to oligoasthenozoospermia.
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Gong J, Wang P, Liu JC, Li J, Zeng QX, Yang C, Li Y, Yu D, Cao D, Duan YG. Integrative Analysis of Small RNA and mRNA Expression Profiles Identifies Signatures Associated With Chronic Epididymitis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:883803. [PMID: 35634321 PMCID: PMC9130659 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.883803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic epididymitis (CE) refers to a long-lasting inflammatory condition of the epididymis, which is considered the most common site of intrascrotal inflammation and an important aetiological factor of male infertility. Recent studies demonstrate that small RNAs secreted from epididymal epithelium modulate embryo development and offspring phenotypes via sperm transmission, and the resulting modifications may lead to transgenerational inheritance. However, to date, the genome-wide analysis of small RNA together with the transcriptomic expression profiles of human epididymis and CE is still lacking. In this study, we facilitated next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics to comprehensively analyze the small RNA and mRNA in an integrative way and identified signatures associated with CE. Both of the small RNA and mRNA expression data demonstrated relatively larger molecular differences among the segmental region of the epididymides, including caput, corpus, and cauda, than that of the inflammatory conditions. By comparing the inflamed caputs to the controls, a total of 1727 genes (1220 upregulated and 507 downregulated; 42 most significant genes, adjusted P <0.05) and 34 miRNAs (23 upregulated and 11 downregulated) were identified as differentially expressed. In silico functional enrichment analysis showed their roles in regulating different biological activities, including leukocyte chemotaxis, extracellular milieu reconstruction, ion channel and transporter-related processes, and nervous system development. Integrative analysis of miRNA and mRNA identified a regulatory network consisting of 22 miRNAs and 31 genes (miRNA-mRNA) which are strong candidates for CE. In addition, analysis about other species of small RNA, including (miRNA), piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA), tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), Y RNA, and rsRNA identified the distinct expression pattern of tsRNA in CE. In summary, our study performed small RNA and miRNA profiling and integrative analysis in human CE. The findings will help to understand the role of miRNA-mRNA in the pathogenesis of CE and provide molecular candidates for the development of potential biomarkers for human CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialei Gong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin-Chuan Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jianlin Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qun-Xiong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yanfeng Li
- Department of Urology, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Di Yu
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, Australia
| | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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Shum W, Zhang BL, Cao AS, Zhou X, Shi SM, Zhang ZY, Gu LY, Shi S. Calcium Homeostasis in the Epididymal Microenvironment: Is Extracellular Calcium a Cofactor for Matrix Gla Protein-Dependent Scavenging Regulated by Vitamins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:827940. [PMID: 35252193 PMCID: PMC8893953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.827940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, the epididymis is an essential organ for sperm maturation, in which sperm cells acquire mobility and the ability to fertilize oocytes while being stored in a protective microenvironment. Epididymal function involves a specialized luminal microenvironment established by the epithelial cells of epididymal mucosa. Low-calcium concentration is a unique feature of this epididymal luminal microenvironment, its relevance and regulation are, however, incompletely understood. In the rat epididymis, the vitamin D-related calcium-dependent TRPV6-TMEM16A channel-coupler has been shown to be involved in fluid transport, and, in a spatially complementary manner, vitamin K2-related γ-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX)-dependent carboxylation of matrix Gla protein (MGP) plays an essential role in promoting calcium-dependent protein aggregation. An SNP in the human GGCX gene has been associated with asthenozoospermia. In addition, bioinformatic analysis also suggests the involvement of a vitamin B6-axis in calcium-dependent MGP-mediated protein aggregation. These findings suggest that vitamins interact with calcium homeostasis in the epididymis to ensure proper sperm maturation and male fertility. This review article discusses the regulation mechanisms of calcium homeostasis in the epididymis, and the potential role of vitamin interactions on epididymal calcium homeostasis, especially the role of matrix calcium in the epididymal lumen as a cofactor for the carboxylated MGP-mediated scavenging function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Reproduction and Development Institution, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert Shang Cao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Meng Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze Yang Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lou Yi Gu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Shi
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Small Noncoding RNAs in Reproduction and Infertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121884. [PMID: 34944700 PMCID: PMC8698561 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been reported as one of the most common reproductive impairments, affecting nearly one in six couples worldwide. A large proportion of infertility cases are diagnosed as idiopathic, signifying a deficit in information surrounding the pathology of infertility and necessity of medical intervention such as assisted reproductive therapy. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are well-established regulators of mammalian reproduction. Advanced technologies have revealed the dynamic expression and diverse functions of sncRNAs during mammalian germ cell development. Mounting evidence indicates sncRNAs in sperm, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are sensitive to environmental changes and mediate the inheritance of paternally acquired metabolic and mental traits. Here, we review the critical roles of sncRNAs in mammalian germ cell development. Furthermore, we highlight the functions of sperm-borne sncRNAs in epigenetic inheritance. We also discuss evidence supporting sncRNAs as promising biomarkers for fertility and embryo quality in addition to the present limitations of using sncRNAs for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
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11
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An Update on Semen Physiology, Technologies, and Selection Techniques for the Advancement of In Vitro Equine Embryo Production: Section I. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113248. [PMID: 34827983 PMCID: PMC8614440 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Male fertility is often estimated by simple sperm assessment, and therefore, it is crucial to establish species-specific baselines for normal sperm parameters. In this paper, sperm physiology, function, and common abnormalities in stallions will be reviewed. Abstract As the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and in vitro embryo production (IVP) expand in the equine industry, it has become necessary to further our understanding of semen physiology as it applies to overall fertility. This segment of our two-section review will focus on normal sperm parameters, beginning with development and extending through the basic morphology of mature spermatozoa, as well as common issues with male factor infertility in IVP. Ultimately, the relevance of sperm parameters to overall male factor fertility in equine IVP will be assessed.
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Tourzani DA, Battistone MA, Salicioni AM, Breton S, Visconti PE, Gervasi MG. Caput Ligation Renders Immature Mouse Sperm Motile and Capable to Undergo cAMP-Dependent Phosphorylation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910241. [PMID: 34638585 PMCID: PMC8549708 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must undergo two post-testicular processes to become fertilization-competent: maturation in the male epididymis and capacitation in the female reproductive tract. While caput epididymal sperm are unable to move and have not yet acquired fertilization potential, sperm in the cauda epididymis have completed their maturation, can move actively, and have gained the ability to undergo capacitation in the female tract or in vitro. Due to the impossibility of mimicking sperm maturation in vitro, the molecular pathways underlying this process remain largely unknown. We aimed to investigate the use of caput epididymal ligation as a tool for the study of sperm maturation in mice. Our results indicate that after seven days of ligation, caput sperm gained motility and underwent molecular changes comparable with those observed for cauda mature sperm. Moreover, ligated caput sperm were able to activate pathways related to sperm capacitation. Despite these changes, ligated caput sperm were unable to fertilize in vitro. Our results suggest that transit through the epididymis is not required for the acquisition of motility and some capacitation-associated signaling but is essential for full epididymal maturation. Caput epididymal ligation is a useful tool for the study of the molecular pathways involved in the acquisition of sperm motility during maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darya A. Tourzani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Science Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (D.A.T.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Maria A. Battistone
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.A.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Ana M. Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Science Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (D.A.T.); (A.M.S.)
| | - Sylvie Breton
- Program in Membrane Biology, Nephrology Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.A.B.); (S.B.)
| | - Pablo E. Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Science Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (D.A.T.); (A.M.S.)
- Correspondence: (P.E.V.); (M.G.G.); Tel.: +1-413-545-5565 (P.E.V.)
| | - Maria G. Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Integrated Science Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA; (D.A.T.); (A.M.S.)
- Correspondence: (P.E.V.); (M.G.G.); Tel.: +1-413-545-5565 (P.E.V.)
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Xu YW, Ou NJ, Song YX, Wang XH, Kang JQ, Yang YJ, Chen YG, Liu XQ. Seminal plasma miR-210-3p induces spermatogenic cell apoptosis by activating caspase-3 in patients with varicocele. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:513-518. [PMID: 31670279 PMCID: PMC7523610 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_114_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the role of seminal plasma miR-210-3p in the impairment of semen quality caused by varicocele. This study included 102 patients whose semen quality was normal when they were diagnosed with varicocele. A 2-year follow-up for included patients was performed, and they were divided into Group A (semen quality became abnormal) and Group B (semen quality remained normal) according to the results of semen analysis during the follow-up. Semen parameters and seminal plasma miR-210-3p expression were investigated by semen analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. In vitro experiments with GC-2 cells were performed to explore the role of miR-210-3p in spermatogenic cells. The results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that the level of seminal plasma miR-210-3p in Group A was higher than that in Group B both after 2-year follow-up and when they were diagnosed with varicocele (both P < 0.01). Apoptosis and proliferation assays showed that miR-210-3p induces apoptosis of spermatogenic cells by promoting caspase-3 activation. In conclusion, our study indicated that seminal plasma miR-210-3p induces spermatogenic cell apoptosis by activating caspase-3 in patients with varicocele. Seminal plasma miR-210-3p may be a potential biomarker for predicting impaired semen quality caused by varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Wei Xu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Ning-Jing Ou
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Song
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xian-Hao Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Jia-Qi Kang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Yong-Jiao Yang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Ye-Gang Chen
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Institute of Urology, The Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
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Wu L, Ding Y, Han S, Wang Y. Role of Exosomes in the Exchange of Spermatozoa after Leaving the Seminiferous Tubule: A Review. Curr Drug Metab 2021; 21:330-338. [PMID: 32433001 DOI: 10.2174/1389200221666200520091511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from cells upon fusion of an intermediate endocytic compartment with the plasma membrane. They refer to the intraluminal vesicles released from the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the plasma membrane. The contents and number of exosomes are related to diseases such as metabolic diseases, cancer and inflammatory diseases. Exosomes have been used in neurological research as a drug delivery tool and also as biomarkers for diseases. Recently, exosomes were observed in the seminal plasma of the one who is asthenozoospermia, which can affect sperm motility and capacitation. OBJECTIVE The main objective of this review is to deeply discuss the role of exosomes in spermatozoa after leaving the seminiferous tubule. METHODS We conducted an extensive search of the literature available on relationships between exosomes and exosomes in spermatozoa on the bibliographic database. CONCLUSION This review thoroughly discussed the role that exosomes play in the exchange of spermatozoa after leaving the seminiferous tubule and its potential as a drug delivery tool and biomarkers for diseases as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luming Wu
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo,The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuan Ding
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo,The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shiqiang Han
- Linxia Hui Autonomous Prefecture Maternity and Childcare Hospital, Linxia, China
| | - Yiqing Wang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryo,The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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de Lima AO, Afonso J, Edson J, Marcellin E, Palfreyman R, Porto-Neto LR, Reverter A, Fortes MRS. Network Analyses Predict Small RNAs That Might Modulate Gene Expression in the Testis and Epididymis of Bos indicus Bulls. Front Genet 2021; 12:610116. [PMID: 33995471 PMCID: PMC8120238 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.610116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis relies on complex molecular mechanisms, essential for the genesis and differentiation of the male gamete. Germ cell differentiation starts at the testicular parenchyma and finishes in the epididymis, which has three main regions: head, body, and tail. RNA-sequencing data of the testicular parenchyma (TP), head epididymis (HE), and tail epididymis (TE) from four bulls (three biopsies per bull: 12 samples) were subjected to differential expression analyses, functional enrichment analyses, and co-expression analyses. The aim was to investigate the co-expression and infer possible regulatory roles for transcripts involved in the spermatogenesis of Bos indicus bulls. Across the three pairwise comparisons, 3,826 differentially expressed (DE) transcripts were identified, of which 384 are small RNAs. Functional enrichment analysis pointed to gene ontology (GO) terms related to ion channel activity, detoxification of copper, neuroactive receptors, and spermatogenesis. Using the regulatory impact factor (RIF) algorithm, we detected 70 DE small RNAs likely to regulate the DE transcripts considering all pairwise comparisons among tissues. The pattern of small RNA co-expression suggested that these elements are involved in spermatogenesis regulation. The 3,826 DE transcripts (mRNAs and small RNAs) were further subjected to co-expression analyses using the partial correlation and information theory (PCIT) algorithm for network prediction. Significant correlations underpinned the co-expression network, which had 2,216 transcripts connected by 158,807 predicted interactions. The larger network cluster was enriched for male gamete generation and had 15 miRNAs with significant RIF. The miRNA bta-mir-2886 showed the highest number of connections (601) and was predicted to down-regulate ELOVL3, FEZF2, and HOXA13 (negative co-expression correlations and confirmed with TargetScan). In short, we suggest that bta-mir-2886 and other small RNAs might modulate gene expression in the testis and epididymis, in Bos indicus cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andressa O de Lima
- Department of Production and Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araçatuba, Brazil
| | - Juliana Afonso
- Department of Animal Science, University of São Paulo/ESALQ, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Janette Edson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Esteban Marcellin
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Robin Palfreyman
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN), The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Laercio R Porto-Neto
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Antonio Reverter
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Marina R S Fortes
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
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Adipocyte, Immune Cells, and miRNA Crosstalk: A Novel Regulator of Metabolic Dysfunction and Obesity. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051004. [PMID: 33923175 PMCID: PMC8147115 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity is characterized as a complex and multifactorial excess accretion of adipose tissue (AT) accompanied with alterations in the immune response that affects virtually all age and socioeconomic groups around the globe. The abnormal accumulation of AT leads to several metabolic diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disorder (NAFLD), low-grade inflammation, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular disorders (CVDs), and cancer. AT is an endocrine organ composed of adipocytes and immune cells, including B-Cells, T-cells and macrophages. These immune cells secrete various cytokines and chemokines and crosstalk with adipokines to maintain metabolic homeostasis and low-grade chronic inflammation. A novel form of adipokines, microRNA (miRs), is expressed in many developing peripheral tissues, including ATs, T-cells, and macrophages, and modulates the immune response. miRs are essential for insulin resistance, maintaining the tumor microenvironment, and obesity-associated inflammation (OAI). The abnormal regulation of AT, T-cells, and macrophage miRs may change the function of different organs including the pancreas, heart, liver, and skeletal muscle. Since obesity and inflammation are closely associated, the dysregulated expression of miRs in inflammatory adipocytes, T-cells, and macrophages suggest the importance of miRs in OAI. Therefore, in this review article, we have elaborated the role of miRs as epigenetic regulators affecting adipocyte differentiation, immune response, AT browning, adipogenesis, lipid metabolism, insulin resistance (IR), glucose homeostasis, obesity, and metabolic disorders. Further, we will discuss a set of altered miRs as novel biomarkers for metabolic disease progression and therapeutic targets for obesity.
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Yanai R, Yamashita Y, Umezu K, Hiradate Y, Hara K, Tanemura K. Expression and localization of alpha-tubulin N-acetyltransferase 1 in the reproductive system of male mice. J Reprod Dev 2020; 67:59-66. [PMID: 33390366 PMCID: PMC7902212 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2020-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The structure of microtubules is essential for the fertilizing ability of spermatozoa. Acetylation of α-tubulin plays an important role in flagellar elongation
and spermatozoa motility. Previous reports have suggested that alpha-tubulin N-acetyltransferase 1 (ATAT1) is the main acetyltransferase involved in the
acetylation of α-tubulin. Although ATAT1 is reported to express in the testis, no information is available regarding its expression in elongated spermatids,
epididymis, and mature spermatozoa. Hence, it remains unclear whether ATAT1 is involved in spermatozoa maturation and capacitation. Therefore, we evaluated the
expression of ATAT1 in the mouse male reproductive system using immunostaining and western blotting. Our results showed that ATAT1 was expressed in spermatids
during spermiogenesis in mouse testes, but its expression varied according to the seminiferous tubule stage. We observed ATAT1 in the cytoplasm of round
spermatids, the flagella of elongated spermatids, and in the cytoplasm of step 16 spermatids, just before its release into the lumen. In addition, ATAT1 was
expressed in epithelial cells of the epididymis. In spermatozoa of the cauda epididymis, ATAT1 expression was primarily observed in the midpiece of the
spermatozoa. The localization of ATAT1 protein in the male germline was observed during spermiogenesis as well as during spermatozoa maturation. Our results
suggest that ATAT1 may be involved in the formation of flagella and in the acetylation process, which has attracted attention in recent years regarding male
infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rin Yanai
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
| | - Yudai Yamashita
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
| | - Yuuki Hiradate
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
| | - Kenshiro Hara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
| | - Kentaro Tanemura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Development, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Miyagi 980-8572, Japan
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18
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Alves MBR, Celeghini ECC, Belleannée C. From Sperm Motility to Sperm-Borne microRNA Signatures: New Approaches to Predict Male Fertility Potential. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:791. [PMID: 32974342 PMCID: PMC7471662 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the paternal genome, spermatozoa carry several intrinsic factors, including organelles (e.g., centrioles and mitochondria) and molecules (e.g., proteins and RNAs), which are involved in important steps of reproductive biology such as spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, oocyte fertilization and embryo development. These factors constitute potential biomarkers of "viable sperm" and male fertility status and may become major assets for diagnosing instances of idiopathic male infertility in both humans and livestock animals. A better understanding of the mechanism of action of these sperm intrinsic factors in the regulation of reproductive and developmental processes still presents a major challenge that must be addressed. This review assembles the main data regarding morpho-functional and intrinsic sperm features that are associated with male infertility, with a particular focus on microRNA (miRNA) molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maíra Bianchi Rodrigues Alves
- CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Animal Reproduction, Universidade de São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | | | - Clémence Belleannée
- CHU de Québec Research Center (CHUL), Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
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James ER, Carrell DT, Aston KI, Jenkins TG, Yeste M, Salas-Huetos A. The Role of the Epididymis and the Contribution of Epididymosomes to Mammalian Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E5377. [PMID: 32751076 PMCID: PMC7432785 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well-established that testicular spermatozoa are immature and acquire motility and fertilization capabilities during transit throughout the epididymis. The epididymis is a duct-like organ that connects the testis to the vas deferens and is comprised of four anatomical regions: the initial segment, caput, corpus, and cauda. Sperm maturation occurs during epididymal transit by the interaction of sperm cells with the unique luminal environment of each epididymal region. In this review we discuss the epididymis as an essential reproductive organ responsible for sperm concentration, maturation (including sperm motility acquisition and fertilizing ability), protection and storage. Importantly, we also discuss specific characteristics and roles of epididymal-derived exosomes (epididymosomes) in establishing sperm competency within the intricate process of reproduction. This review suggests that an increasing body of evidence is working to develop a complete picture of the role of the epididymis in male reproduction, offspring health, and disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma R. James
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Douglas T. Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Kenneth I. Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
| | - Timothy G. Jenkins
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84604, USA;
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA; (E.R.J.); (D.T.C.); (K.I.A.)
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Wang W, Liang K, Chang Y, Ran M, Zhang Y, Ali MA, Dai D, Qazi IH, Zhang M, Zhou G, Yang J, Angel C, Zeng C. miR-26a is Involved in Glycometabolism and Affects Boar Sperm Viability by Targeting PDHX. Cells 2020; 9:E146. [PMID: 31936222 PMCID: PMC7016825 DOI: 10.3390/cells9010146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
miR-26a is associated with sperm metabolism and can affect sperm motility and apoptosis. However, how miR-26a affects sperm motility remains largely unknown. Our previous study indicated that the PDHX gene is predicted to be a potential target of miR-26a, which is responsible for pyruvate oxidative decarboxylation which is considered as a key step for connecting glycolysis with oxidative phosphorylation. In this study, we first reported a potential relationship between miR-26a and PDHX and their expressions in fresh, frozen-thawed, and epididymal boar sperm. Then, sperm viability and survival were determined after transfection of miR-26a. mRNA and protein expression level of PDHX in the liquid-preserved boar sperm after transfection were also determined by RT-qPCR and Western Blot (WB). Our results showed that expression level of PDHX was significantly increased during sperm transit from epididymal caput to corpus and cauda. Similarly, expression of PDHX was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in fresh sperm as compared to epididymal cauda and frozen-thawed sperm. However, the expression of miR-26a in epididymal corpus sperm was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of caput and cauda sperm. Furthermore, after transfection of boar sperm with miR-26a mimic and inhibitor under liquid storage, the lowest and highest sperm viability was observed in miR-26a mimic and inhibitor treatment (P < 0.05), respectively. The protein levels of PDHX, after 24 and 48 h of transfection of miR-26a mimics and inhibitor, were notably decreased and increased (P < 0.05), respectively, as compared to negative control (NC) group. In conclusion, the novel and enticing findings of our study provide a reasonable evidence that miR-26a via PDHX, a link between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, could regulate the glycometabolic pathway which eventually affect boar sperm viability and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencan Wang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Kai Liang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Yu Chang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Mingxia Ran
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Malik Ahsan Ali
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
- Department of Theriogenology, Riphah College of Veterinary Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Dinghui Dai
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Izhar Hyder Qazi
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Histology, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand 67210, Pakistan
| | - Ming Zhang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Guangbin Zhou
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Jiandong Yang
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
| | - Christiana Angel
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China;
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand 67210, Pakistan
| | - Changjun Zeng
- College of Animal Sciences and Technology, and Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; (W.W.); (K.L.); (Y.C.); (M.R.); (Y.Z.); (M.A.A.); (D.D.); (I.H.Q.); (M.Z.); (G.Z.); (J.Y.)
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21
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Browne JA, Leir SH, Eggener SE, Harris A. Region-specific microRNA signatures in the human epididymis. Asian J Androl 2019; 20:539-544. [PMID: 30058558 PMCID: PMC6219309 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_40_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelium of the human epididymis maintains an appropriate luminal environment for sperm maturation that is essential for male fertility. Regional expression of small noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs contributes to segment-specific gene expression and differentiated functions. MicroRNA profiles were reported in human epididymal tissues but not specifically in the epithelial cells derived from those regions. Here, we reveal miRNA signatures of primary cultures of caput, corpus, and cauda epididymis epithelial cells and of the tissues from which they were derived. We identify 324 epithelial cell-derived microRNAs and 259 tissue-derived microRNAs in the epididymis, some of which displayed regionalized expression patterns in cells and/or tissues. Caput cell-enriched miRNAs included miR-573 and miR-155. Cauda cell-enriched miRNAs included miR-1204 and miR-770. Next, we determined the gene ontology pathways associated with in silico predicted target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs. The effect of androgen receptor stimulation on miRNA expression was also investigated. These data show novel epithelial cell-derived miRNAs that may regulate the expression of important gene networks that are responsible for the regionalized gene expression and function of the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Browne
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.,Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shih-Hsing Leir
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.,Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Scott E Eggener
- Section of Urology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ann Harris
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.,Human Molecular Genetics Program, Lurie Children's Research Center, Chicago, IL 60614, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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22
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Chen H, Liu T, Holt WV, Yang P, Zhang L, Zhang L, Han X, Bian X, Chen Q. Advances in understanding mechanisms of long-term sperm storage-the soft-shelled turtle model. Histol Histopathol 2019; 35:1-23. [PMID: 31290136 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Long-term sperm storage is a special reproductive strategy, which can extend the time window between mating and fertilization in some animal species. Spermatozoa of the soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, can be stored in the epididymis and oviduct for at least six months and one year, respectively. How spermatozoa can be stored in vivo for such a prolonged period is yet to be explained. We analyze the mechanisms that contribute to long-term sperm storage in P. sinensis, and compare them with other species from three different perspectives: the spermatozoon itself, the storage microenvironment and the interaction between the spermatozoon and microenvironment. Characteristics of soft-shelled turtle spermatozoa itself, such as the huge cytoplasmic droplet with its content of several large lipid droplets (LDs) and onion-like mitochondira, facilitate long-term sperm storage. The microenvironment of reproductive tract, involving in the secretions, structural barriers, exosomes, androgen receptors, Toll-like receptors and survival factor Bcl-2, are important for the maintenance of spermatozoa long-term storage. Sperm heads are always embedded among the oviductal cilia and even intercalate into the apical hollowness of the ciliated cells, indicating that the ciliated cells support the stored spermatozoa. RNA seq is firstly used to detect the molecular mechanism of sperm storage, which shows that autophagy, apoptosis and immune take part in the long-term sperm storage in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Linli Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Li Zhang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiangkun Han
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xunguang Bian
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
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23
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Khawar MB, Mehmood R, Roohi N. MicroRNAs: Recent insights towards their role in male infertility and reproductive cancers. Bosn J Basic Med Sci 2019; 19:31-42. [PMID: 30599090 DOI: 10.17305/bjbms.2018.3477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a tightly controlled, multi-step process in which mature spermatozoa are produced. Disruption of regulatory mechanisms in spermatogenesis can lead to male infertility, various diseases of male reproductive system, or even cancer. The spermatogenic impairment in infertile men can be associated with different etiologies, and the exact molecular mechanisms are yet to be determined. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a type of non-protein coding RNAs, about 22 nucleotides long, with an essential role in post-transcriptional regulation. miRNAs have been recognized as important regulators of various biological processes, including spermatogenesis. The aim of this review is to summarize the recent literature on the role of miRNAs in spermatogenesis, male infertility and reproductive cancers, and to evaluate their potential in diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of disease. Experimental evidence shows that aberrant expression of miRNAs affects spermatogenesis at multiple stages and in different cell types, most often resulting in infertility. In more severe cases, dysregulation of miRNAs leads to cancer. miRNAs have enormous potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers as well as therapeutic targets in male infertility and reproductive system diseases. However, to exploit this potential fully, we need a better understanding of miRNA-mediated regulation of spermatogenesis, including the characterization of yet unidentified miRNAs and related regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- Molecular Physiology/Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan State Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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24
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Morgan CP, Chan JC, Bale TL. Driving the Next Generation: Paternal Lifetime Experiences Transmitted via Extracellular Vesicles and Their Small RNA Cargo. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 85:164-171. [PMID: 30580777 PMCID: PMC6309802 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies provide strong evidence for the impact of diverse paternal life experiences on offspring neurodevelopmental disease risk. While these associations are well established, the molecular mechanisms underlying these intergenerational transmissions remain elusive, though recent studies focusing on the influence of paternal experience before conception have implicated germ cell epigenetic programming. Any model accounting for the germline transfer of nongenetic information from sire to offspring must include certain components, such as 1) a vector to carry any signal from the paternal compartment to the maternal reproductive tract and future embryo; 2) a molecular signal, encoded by a paternal experience, to carry this memory and enact downstream responses; and 3) a target cell or tissue to receive the signal and convert it into an effect on embryonic development. We explore the current understanding of the potential processes and candidate factors that may serve as these components. We specifically discuss the growing appreciation for the importance of extracellular vesicles in these processes, beginning with their known role in delivering potential signals, including small RNAs, to sperm, the prototypical vector, during their posttesticular maturation. Finally, we explore the possibility that paternal extracellular vesicles could themselves serve as vectors, delivering signals not only to gametes or the zygote but also to tissues of the maternal reproductive tract to influence fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Morgan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer C Chan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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25
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Reza AMMT, Choi YJ, Han SG, Song H, Park C, Hong K, Kim JH. Roles of microRNAs in mammalian reproduction: from the commitment of germ cells to peri-implantation embryos. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2018; 94:415-438. [PMID: 30151880 PMCID: PMC7379200 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are active regulators of numerous biological and physiological processes including most of the events of mammalian reproduction. Understanding the biological functions of miRNAs in the context of mammalian reproduction will allow a better and comparative understanding of fertility and sterility in male and female mammals. Herein, we summarize recent progress in miRNA‐mediated regulation of mammalian reproduction and highlight the significance of miRNAs in different aspects of mammalian reproduction including the biogenesis of germ cells, the functionality of reproductive organs, and the development of early embryos. Furthermore, we focus on the gene expression regulatory feedback loops involving hormones and miRNA expression to increase our understanding of germ cell commitment and the functioning of reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on male and female reproductive failure, and provide perspectives for future studies on this topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Musa Md Talimur Reza
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun-Jung Choi
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Gu Han
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Chankyu Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwonho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Humanized Pig Research Centre (SRC), Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea
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26
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Gervasi MG, Visconti PE. Molecular changes and signaling events occurring in spermatozoa during epididymal maturation. Andrology 2017; 5:204-218. [PMID: 28297559 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
After leaving the testis, spermatozoa have not yet acquired the ability to move progressively and are unable to fertilize oocytes. To become fertilization competent, they must go through an epididymal maturation process in the male, and capacitation in the female tract. Epididymal maturation can be defined as those changes occurring to spermatozoa in the epididymis that render the spermatozoa the ability to capacitate in the female tract. As part of this process, sperm cells undergo a series of biochemical and physiological changes that require incorporation of new molecules derived from the epididymal epithelium, as well as post-translational modifications of endogenous proteins synthesized during spermiogenesis in the testis. This review will focus on epididymal maturation events, with emphasis in recent advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - P E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
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27
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Chen H, Yang P, Chu X, Huang Y, Liu T, Zhang Q, Li Q, Hu L, Waqas Y, Ahmed N, Chen Q. Cellular evidence for nano-scale exosome secretion and interactions with spermatozoa in the epididymis of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. Oncotarget 2017; 7:19242-50. [PMID: 26992236 PMCID: PMC4991379 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.8092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is the location of sperm maturation and sperm storage. Recent studies have shown that nano-scale exosomes play a vital role during these complicated processes. Our aim was to analyze the secretory properties of epididymal exosomes and their ultrastructural interaction with maturing spermatozoa in the Chinese soft-shelled turtle. The exosome marker CD63 was primarily localized to the apices of principal cells throughout the epididymal epithelium. Identification of nano-scale exosomes and their secretory processes were further investigated via transmission electron microscopy. The epithelium secreted epididymal exosomes (50~300 nm in diameter) through apocrine secretion and the multivesicular body (MVB) pathway. Spermatozoa absorbed epididymal exosomes through endocytosis or membrane fusion pathways. This study shows, for the first time, that nano-scale exosomes use two secretion and two absorption pathways in the reptile, which may be contribute to long-term sperm storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ping Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaoya Chu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Tengfei Liu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Quanfu Li
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lisi Hu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yasir Waqas
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Nisar Ahmed
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- Laboratory of Animal Cell Biology and Embryology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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28
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MicroRNA Signaling in Embryo Development. BIOLOGY 2017; 6:biology6030034. [PMID: 28906477 PMCID: PMC5617922 DOI: 10.3390/biology6030034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) is essential for embryonic development and serves important roles in gametogenesis. miRNAs are secreted into the extracellular environment by the embryo during the preimplantation stage of development. Several cell types secrete miRNAs into biological fluids in the extracellular environment. These fluid-derived miRNAs have been shown to circulate the body. Stable transport is dependent on proper packaging of the miRNAs into extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes. These vesicles, which also contain RNA, DNA and proteins, are on the forefront of research on cell-to-cell communication. Interestingly, EVs have been identified in many reproductive fluids, such as uterine fluid, where their miRNA content is proposed to serve as a mechanism of crosstalk between the mother and conceptus. Here, we review the role of miRNAs in molecular signaling and discuss their transport during early embryo development and implantation.
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29
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Primate-specific Long Non-coding RNAs and MicroRNAs. GENOMICS PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2017; 15:187-195. [PMID: 28602844 PMCID: PMC5487532 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2017.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are critical regulators of gene expression in essentially all life forms. Long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) are two important RNA classes possessing regulatory functions. Up to date, many primate-specific ncRNAs have been identified and investigated. Their expression specificity to primate lineage suggests primate-specific roles. It is thus critical to elucidate the biological significance of primate or even human-specific ncRNAs, and to develop potential ncRNA-based therapeutics. Here, we have summarized the studies regarding regulatory roles of some key primate-specific lncRNAs and miRNAs.
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30
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Qing X, Shi J, Dong T, Wu C, Hu L, Li H. Dysregulation of an X-linked primate-specific epididymal microRNA cluster in unexplained asthenozoospermia. Oncotarget 2017; 8:56839-56849. [PMID: 28915635 PMCID: PMC5593606 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.18076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthenoszoopermia, characterized by reduced sperm motility, is one of the primary forms of male infertility. Whereas most cases were diagnosed into unexplained asthenozoospermia (UA) because the etiology cannot be identified. In animal models, epigenetic dysregulation in epididymis can impair sperm maturation and result in asthenozoospermia. However, researches of epididymal epigenetic regulation on humans are impeded by the difficulty in obtaining epididymal tissues. We previously identified cell-free seminal microRNAs predominately derived from epididymis in human ejaculate. In the present study, these microRNAs were used to screen and validate the microRNA dysregulation in men with UA, which were divided into screening set and validation set. The expression of five miRNAs (miR-891b, miR-892b, miR-892a, miR-888 and miR-890) was found and confirmed to be dysregulated in men with UA. Interestingly, these five miRNAs belong to a primate-specific miRNA cluster located on the X chromosome with epididymis specific expression. Moreover, obvious coherent dysregulation of these miRNAs were observed in 13% men with UA. Regression analysis demonstrated that levels of these miRNAs were significantly correlated with progressive sperm motility. Functions and pathways of predicted target genes of this cluster suggested its role in sperm maturation. Dysregulation of this miRNA cluster might be an epigenetic basis for some patients with UA. We also showed a noninvasive and feasible approach to get epigenetic information of human epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingrong Qing
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jian Shi
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Dong
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tengzhou Central People's Hospital, Tengzhou, China
| | - Chunlin Wu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Center of Reproductive Medicine, The No.1 Hospital of Wuhan, Wuhan, China
| | - Lian Hu
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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31
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Boissière A, Gala A, Ferrières-Hoa A, Mullet T, Baillet S, Petiton A, Torre A, Hamamah S. Cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids: new non-invasive biomarkers to explore male infertility. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:7. [PMID: 28439417 PMCID: PMC5399401 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a devastating problem that affects many couples worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms and causes of idiopathic male infertility remain unclear. Circulating cell-free nucleic acids have an important role in human physiology and emerging evidence suggests that they play a role in male infertility. This review summarizes recent results on cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids in male infertility and discusses their potential use as biomarkers of male infertility in the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Boissière
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Anna Gala
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Ferrières-Hoa
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Tiffany Mullet
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Baillet
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Amaël Petiton
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Antoine Torre
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Samir Hamamah
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
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32
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Cui SF, Wang C, Yin X, Tian D, Lu QJ, Zhang CY, Chen X, Ma JZ. Similar Responses of Circulating MicroRNAs to Acute High-Intensity Interval Exercise and Vigorous-Intensity Continuous Exercise. Front Physiol 2016; 7:102. [PMID: 27047388 PMCID: PMC4796030 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
High-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) has been reported to be more beneficial for physical adaptation than low-to-moderate exercise intensity. Recently, it is becoming increasingly evident that circulating miRNAs (c-miRNAs) may distinguish between specific stress signals imposed by variations in the duration, modality, and type of exercise. The aim of this study is to investigate whether or not HIIE is superior to vigorous-intensity continuous exercise (VICE), which is contributing to develop effective fitness assessment. Twenty-six young males were enrolled, and plasma samples were collected prior to exercise and immediately after HIIE or distance-matched VICE. The miRNA level profiles in HIIE were initially determined using TaqMan Low Density Array (TLDA). And the differentially miRNAs levels were validated by stem-loop quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (RT-qPCR). Furthermore, these selective c-miRNAs were measured for VICE. Our results showed that some muscle-related miRNAs levels in the plasma, such as miR-1, miR-133a, miR-133b, and miR-206 significantly increased following HIIE or VICE compared to those at rest (P < 0.05), and there was only a significant reduction in miR-1 level for HIIE compared to VICE (P < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed for other muscle-related miRNAs between both exercises (P > 0.05). In addition, some tissue-related or unknown original miRNA levels, such as miR-485-5p, miR-509-5p, miR-517a, miR-518f, miR-520f, miR-522, miR-553, and miR-888, also significantly increased (P < 0.05) in both exercises compared to rest. However, no significant differences were found between both exercises (P > 0.05). Overall, endurance exercise assessed in this study both led to significant increases in selective c-miRNAs of comparable magnitude, suggesting that both types of endurance exercise have general stress processes. Accordingly, the similar responses to both acute exercises likely indicate both exercises can be used interchangeably. Further work is needed to reveal the functional significance and signaling mechanisms behind changes in c-miRNA turnover during exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu F Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing UniversityNanjing, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jinling HospitalNanjing, China
| | - Xin Yin
- The Lab of Military Conditioning and Motor Function Assessment, The PLA University of Science and Technology Nanjing, China
| | - Dong Tian
- The Lab of Military Conditioning and Motor Function Assessment, The PLA University of Science and Technology Nanjing, China
| | - Qiu J Lu
- The Lab of Military Conditioning and Motor Function Assessment, The PLA University of Science and Technology Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Y Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University Nanjing, China
| | - Xi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University Nanjing, China
| | - Ji Z Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Collaborative Innovation Center of Chemistry for Life Sciences, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, NJU Advanced Institute for Life Sciences (NAILS), School of Life Sciences, Nanjing UniversityNanjing, China; The Lab of Military Conditioning and Motor Function Assessment, The PLA University of Science and TechnologyNanjing, China
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Cooper TG. Looking both ways: new research on old theories. Asian J Androl 2015; 17:764-6. [PMID: 26208399 PMCID: PMC4577586 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.160265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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