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Guo M, Chu Y, Zhu W, Sun M, Lv Q, Tang R, Jiang X, Zhao J, Tang Z, Ma T. Metabolomics combined with network pharmacology to investigate the pharmacodynamic components and potential mechanisms of the spermatogenic function of the Youjing granule. Biomed Chromatogr 2024; 38:e5967. [PMID: 39189519 DOI: 10.1002/bmc.5967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to identify potential efficacy-related biomarkers and investigate the mechanism of Youjing granule (YG) in improving spermatogenic function in rats based on metabolomics combined with network pharmacology. We obtained YG-containing serum from Sprague-Dawley rats, compared it with control group serum and analyzed it using gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy to identify potential biomarkers and investigate the mechanism of YG in improving spermatogenic function in rats. Six important differential biomarkers, comprising putrescine, amidine, arginine, d-fructose-6-phosphate, l-proline and galactose, were identified in the YG-containing serum and then used to explore the potential mechanisms. The ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry technology was adopted for the rapid separation, identification and analysis of chemical components of YG in blood. A total of 69 detected chromatographic peaks were revealed. The binding energy between core compounds and key proteins is low, among which dipsacoside B is the best. The outcomes suggest that YG may improve spermatogenic function in rats by facilitating the development of spermatogonial stem cells, counteracting oxidative stress and controlling cellular apoptosis. Youjing granule may also affect the energy required for sperm production or influence sperm growth and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxin Guo
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Yujiao Chu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Wenjiao Zhu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Miaomiao Sun
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Qiang Lv
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Ruijie Tang
- School of Medicine, School of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuping Jiang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Jiahao Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Zhian Tang
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
| | - Tieliang Ma
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Yixing Clinical School of Medical School of Yangzhou University, Yixing, China
- Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Yixing Hospital of Jiangsu University, Yixing, China
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Karabulut S, Camcı İY, Altun CE, Usta M, Yiğit P. Assessing the Impact of the Novel Sperm Selection Technique 'Annexin-V Coated Polystyrene Bead Technique' on Mouse Assisted Reproductive Techniques Outcomes: Preliminary Findings. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2794-2807. [PMID: 38874899 PMCID: PMC11393137 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01620-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
ICSI is one of the most commonly used techniques to treat infertility. The sperm selection for the procedure is done 'randomly' by the embryologist according to the motility and morphology parameters which is known not to reflect the potential of a sperm for fertilization, pregnancy and a healthy childbearing. Since the apoptosis rate is higher in sperm cells of infertile patients, it is more likely to choose an apoptotic sperm by the 'random selection method'. We recently introduced a novel sperm selection technique namely 'Annexin-V coated polystrene bead technique'(APB-Tech), for the selection of non-apoptotic sperm cells. The principal of the technique is based on the binding affinity of an apoptotic sperm to 'Annexin-V covered beads' enabling to distinguish a viable and a healthy sperm by light microscopy. The aim of the present study was to observe the effects of this technique on ICSI outcomes in mice. Sibling-oocyte trial was conducted and the outcome measures were compared with the results of traditional sperm selection method. Embryo and blastocyst qualities and blastocyst development rates were significantly increased in APB-Tech group, while the other parameters were not affected. Promising results obtained from the technique reflect its promising potential as a new and powerful tool for sperm selection and thus infertility techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye.
- Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye.
| | - İrem Yalım Camcı
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Gebze Technical University, Kocaeli, Türkiye
| | - Ceren Erdem Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Melek Usta
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul Medipol University, International School of Medicine, Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Pakize Yiğit
- Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Beykoz, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Bitan R, Kedem A, Avraham S, Youngster M, Yerushalmi G, Kaufman S, Umanski A, Hourvitz A, Gat I. Cryopreserved testicular spermatozoa among patients with azoospermia. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:2099-2105. [PMID: 38878197 PMCID: PMC11338998 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03167-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate cryopreserved testicular spermatozoa among patients with azoospermia. METHODS In this retrospective study spanning from October 1993 to December 2021, we examined men diagnosed with azoospermia who underwent testicular spermatozoa cryopreservation. Data from medical records included utilization and disposal of sperm samples, age at initial cryopreservation. We analyzed the data over 20 years using Kaplan-Meier curves, compared age with the log-rank test, and assessed hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS A total of 356 patients with a mean age of 32.1 ± 6 were included. Of these, 225 patients utilized thawed testicular sperm for fertility treatments, with 118 patients using all their frozen straws and 107 patients partially using their stored straws. Additionally, 29 patients opted for disposal (six patients partially used their testicular spermatozoa before disposal), resulting in 108 patients who neither used nor disposed of their straws. From a laboratory standpoint, nearly 90% of patients contributed a single testicular sample, which was subsequently divided and cryopreserved as straws, with a median of 4 straws per sample. Notably, in the older age group (> 35 years old), there were a significantly lower usage rate and a higher disposal rate compared to the younger age groups (p < 0.05 for both), corroborated by univariable Cox analysis. CONCLUSIONS This extensive study unveils unique patterns in the preservation and disposal of testicular spermatozoa among azoospermic patients. Most patients utilize a significant portion of their stored samples, while older patients tend to use their testicular spermatozoa less frequently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Bitan
- Sperm Bank & Andrology Unit, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel.
| | - Alon Kedem
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
- Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sarit Avraham
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
| | | | | | - Sarita Kaufman
- Sperm Bank & Andrology Unit, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Ana Umanski
- Sperm Bank & Andrology Unit, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
- Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Itai Gat
- Sperm Bank & Andrology Unit, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
- IVF Department, Shamir Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel
- Sackler Medical School, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Erthal-Michelato RP, Quadreli DH, Zaninelli TH, Verri WA, Fernandes GSA. Lower malathion concentrations reduce testosterone biosynthesis by Leydig TM3 cells in vitro by altering cellular redox profile and inducing oxidative damage. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 126:108595. [PMID: 38641014 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Malathion is an organophosphate pesticide used in agriculture and control of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. As previous reports have indicated the potential of malathion to compromise testosterone production in in vivo models, the objective of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the impairment of Leydig cell function, considering its critical role in male reproductive function. To this end, murine Leydig TM3 cells were exposed to concentrations of 1, 10, 100 or 1000 μM malathion for 24 h for evaluation of the compound on cell viability. Subsequently, concentrations of 1, 10, and 100 μM malathion were employed for a 24-h period to assess testosterone biosynthesis, levels of cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α, as well as the redox profile. Malathion exerted a concentration-dependent impact on cell viability. Notably, the lower concentrations of malathion (1 and 10 μM) were found to impair testosterone biosynthesis in TM3 cells. While there were changes in IL-1 and TNF-α levels at specific concentrations, no direct correlation with altered hormone production was established. Our investigation revealed that varied malathion concentrations induced oxidative stress by increase in superoxide anion and a compensatory rise in antioxidants. In conclusion, the observed changes in the oxidative profile of TM3 cells were linked to functional impairment, evidenced by reduced testosterone biosynthesis at lower malathion concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Pires Erthal-Michelato
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil; Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil.
| | - Débora Hipólito Quadreli
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Tiago Henrique Zaninelli
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Waldiceu Aparecido Verri
- Department of General Pathology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Glaura Scantamburlo Alves Fernandes
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid, PR 445, Londrina, Paraná 86057-970, Brazil
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Fietz D, Sgaier R, O’Donnell L, Stanton PG, Dagley LF, Webb AI, Schuppe HC, Diemer T, Pilatz A. Proteomic biomarkers in seminal plasma as predictors of reproductive potential in azoospermic men. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1327800. [PMID: 38654926 PMCID: PMC11035875 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1327800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Azoospermia, characterized by an absence of sperm in the ejaculate, represents the most severe form of male infertility. While surgical sperm retrieval in obstructive azoospermia (OA) is successful in the majority of cases, patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) show retrieval rates of only about 50% and thus frequently have unnecessary surgery. Surgical intervention could be avoided if patients without preserved spermatogenesis are identified preoperatively. This prospective study aimed to discover biomarkers in seminal plasma that could be employed for a non-invasive differential diagnosis of OA/NOA in order to rationalize surgery recommendations and improve success rates. Methods All patients signed written informed consent, underwent comprehensive andrological evaluation, received human genetics to exclude relevant pathologies, and patients with azoospermia underwent surgical sperm retrieval. Using label-free LC-MS/MS, we compared the proteomes of seminal plasma samples from fertile men (healthy controls (HC), n=8) and infertile men diagnosed with 1) OA (n=7), 2) NOA with successful sperm retrieval (mixed testicular atrophy (MTA), n=8), and 3) NOA without sperm retrieval (Sertoli cell-only phenotype (SCO), n=7). Relative abundance changes of two candidate markers of sperm retrieval, HSPA2 and LDHC, were confirmed by Western Blot. Results We found the protein expression levels of 42 proteins to be significantly down-regulated (p ≤ 0.05) in seminal plasma from SCO NOA patients relative to HC whereas only one protein was down-regulated in seminal plasma from MTA patients. Analysis of tissue and cell expression suggested that the testis-specific proteins LDHC, PGK2, DPEP3, and germ-cell enriched heat-shock proteins HSPA2 and HSPA4L are promising biomarkers of spermatogenic function. Western blotting revealed a significantly lower abundance of LDHC and HSPA2 in the seminal plasma of men with NOA (SCO and MTA) compared to controls. Discussion The results indicate that certain testis-specific proteins when measured in seminal plasma, could serve as indicators of the presence of sperm in the testis and predict the success of sperm retrieval. Used in conjunction with conventional clinical assessments, these proteomic biomarkers may assist in the non-invasive diagnosis of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Fietz
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Raouda Sgaier
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter G. Stanton
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura F. Dagley
- Advanced Technology and Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew I. Webb
- Advanced Technology and Biology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thorsten Diemer
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Zhang Y, Peng Y, Wang Y, Xu J, Yan H. Novel underlying genetic markers for asthenozoospermia due to abnormal spermatogenesis and reproductive organ inflammation. Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:146. [PMID: 38476923 PMCID: PMC10928817 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12434] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia, a male fertility disorder, has a complex and multifactorial etiology. Moreover, the effectiveness of different treatments for asthenozoospermia remains uncertain. Hence, by using bioinformatics techniques, the present study aimed to determine the underlying genetic markers and pathogenetic mechanisms associated with asthenozoospermia due to abnormal spermatogenesis and inflammation of the reproductive tract. GSE160749 dataset was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and the data were filtered to obtain 1336 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with asthenozoospermia. These DEGs were intersected with the epithelial mesenchymal transition datasets to yield 61 candidate DEGs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were performed, and the results revealed that these candidate DEGs were significantly enriched in the enzyme-linked receptor pathway and the thyroid hormone pathway. A protein-protein interaction network was constructed to identify the key genes of asthenozoospermia. A total of five key genes were identified, among which SOX9 was significantly upregulated, while HSPA4, SMAD2, HIF1A and GSK3B were significantly downregulated. These findings were validated by conducting reverse transcription-quantitative PCR for clinical semen samples. To determine the underlying molecular mechanisms, a regulatory network of transcription factors and miRNA-mRNA interactions was predicted. The expression levels of HSPA4, SMAD2 and GSK3B were positively associated with several related etiological genes of asthenozoospermia. In total, five key genes were closely associated with the level and type of immune cells; higher levels of activated B cells and CD8 T cells were observed in asthenozoospermia. Thus, the findings of the present study may provide clues to determine the underlying novel diagnostic genetic markers and treatment strategies for asthenozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaodong Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The 971st Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Qindao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Yun Peng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Yao Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Jian Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
| | - Hongli Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China
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Haeri F, Nouri M, Sadrmanesh O, Shirani M, Ghiasvand R. The relationship between the intake of dietary fatty acids and minerals with sperm parameters in infertile men. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 58:201-207. [PMID: 38057006 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Infertility has been increasing among Iranian couples. Some epidemiological studies have reported a relationship between infertility and lifestyle patterns, including dietary habits. Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between sperm parameters and the intake of dietary fatty acids and minerals among Iranian infertile men. METHODS This cross-sectional was performed on 400 newly diagnosed infertile men at Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute from July to December 2019. Men whose infertility was confirmed by an andrologist based on the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were selected. They delivered a semen sample and answered a 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. All data were analyzed using SPSS and STATA software. A p-value of less than 0.5 was considered significant. RESULTS In the adjusted model, a significant negative association between sperm motility and the 3rd quartile (Q) of poly-unsaturated fatty acids compared to the 1st quartile) P = 0.02). Also, in the adjusted model, total mobility was significantly increased in the second, third and last quartiles of omega-3 fatty acids compared to the first quartile (P < 0.001, P = 0.02, P < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, omega-6 fatty acid intake in the last quartile were positively associated with sperm motility (P = 0.01). Moreover, there was a significant association between omega-3 fatty acid intake in the second, third, and last quartiles and sperm normal morphology (P = 0.003, P = 0.018, and P = 0.005, respectively) compared with the first quartile. Further, we observed a significant association between omega-6 fatty acid intake and sperm normal morphology in the last quartile compared with the reference quartile (P = 0.04). Also, the findings showed a significant negative association between the second quartile of sodium and calcium intake and sperm volume compared with the first quartile (P = 0.04, for both) in the adjusted model. CONCLUSIONS We concluded that dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid, sodium, and calcium intake are related to sperm morphology, volume, and total motility in Iranian infertile men. However, more research is needed to confirm these relationships and provide evidence to exert these findings into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farahnaz Haeri
- Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Noncommunicable Diseases Research Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehran Nouri
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Omidreza Sadrmanesh
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahsa Shirani
- Student Research Committee, Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Ghiasvand
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Huang B, Wang Z, Kong Y, Jin M, Ma L. Global, regional and national burden of male infertility in 204 countries and territories between 1990 and 2019: an analysis of global burden of disease study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2195. [PMID: 37940907 PMCID: PMC10631182 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16793-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many countries and regions have experienced male fertility problems due to various influencing factors, especially in less developed countries. Unlike female infertility, male infertility receives insufficient attention. Understanding the changing patterns of male infertility in the world, different regions and different countries is crucial for assessing the global male fertility and reproductive health. METHODS We obtained data on prevalence, years of life lived with disability (YLD), age-standardized rates of prevalence (ASPR) and age-standardized YLD rate (ASYR) from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. We analyzed the burden of male infertility at all levels, including global, regional, national, age stratification and Socio-demographic Index (SDI). RESULTS In 2019, the global prevalence of male infertility was estimated to be 56,530.4 thousand (95% UI: 31,861.5-90,211.7), reflecting a substantial 76.9% increase since 1990. Furthermore, the global ASPR stood at 1,402.98 (95% UI: 792.24-2,242.45) per 100,000 population in 2019, representing a 19% increase compared to 1990. The regions with the highest ASPR and ASYR for male infertility in 2019 were Western Sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern Europe, and East Asia. Notably, the prevalence and YLD related to male infertility peaked in the 30-34 year age group worldwide. Additionally, the burden of male infertility in the High-middle SDI and Middle SDI regions exceeded the global average in terms of both ASPR and ASYR. CONCLUSION The global burden of male infertility has exhibited a steady increase from 1990 to 2019, as evidenced by the rising trends in ASPR and ASYR, particularly in the High-middle and Middle SDI regions. Notably, the burden of male infertility in these regions far exceeds the global average. Additionally, since 2010, there has been a notable upward trend in the burden of male infertility in Low and Middle-low SDI regions. Given these findings, it is imperative to prioritize efforts aimed at improving male fertility and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Huang
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Zhaojun Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yanxiang Kong
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Mengqi Jin
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Lin Ma
- The Reproductive Medical Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, No.628, Zhenyuan Rd, Shenzhen, 518107, China.
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Karabulut S, Camcı İY, Atambay C, Yiğit P, Keskin İ. Sperm selection with Annexin-V coated polystrene bead technique (APB-Tech): A novel and reliable method for the microscopic selection of viable and non-apoptotic sperm to be used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Theriogenology 2022; 194:92-103. [PMID: 36209549 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a growing health problem that affects 20% of couples who want to conceive. 'Intracytoplasmic sperm injection' (ICSI) is a commonly used assisted reproduction treatment technique that offers the couples to overcome a wide variety of infertility reasons, including female, male and unexplained infertility. A crucial step in ICSI is choosing the correct sperm with the highest potential to form a healthy embryo and thus a healthy offspring. The sperm selection strategies aim to obtain a sperm population with better motility and morphology, which are insufficient to predict a sperm's reproductive potential. The elimination of apoptotic sperms, which is shown to be higher in infertile males and which is shown to affect embryo development and reproductive cohort significantly should also be included in the selection strategies. Among all sperm selection methods, there are only a few which can eliminate apoptotic sperm, but because they need extra types of equipments, a long training period, and high costs, they couldn't find place in the most commonly used techniques in an IVF lab. Selecting the non-apoptotic sperm cells will help us choose a sperm that is more likely to be chosen by the natural selection mechanisms and thus will help to mimic the natural conception more. The study aimed to develop a novel, easy and a harmless individual sperm selection technique to enable choosing non-apoptotic viable sperm cells via light microscopy without any need for extra equipment, education and cost to be used for ''ICSI'. The technique is based on the binding ability of Annexin-V covered polystrene beads to the externalized phosphatidylserine at the outer leaflet of an apoptotic sperm's plasma membrane. After Annexin-V covered polystyrene beads were prepared, beads obtained were attached to BALB-c mice sperm, and the technique is optimized to obtain the most efficient attachment conditions. The results are then compared with the results of four well-known reliable apoptosis detection techniques to test the validity and sperm survival test to test the toxicity of the technique. The method is proven to be '''reliable' by comparing it with the results of well-known techniques, including TUNEL and SCSA (sperm chromatin structure assay), and '''safe' by showing its non-toxicity via sperm survival test (SST). In addition, the method enables the selection of sperm cells more closer to naturally-chosen ones from a pool of sperm that should not be allowed to be randomly chosen during microinjection. To date, it was impossible to distinguish a non-apoptotic sperm without harming it or without needing additional equipment other than a routine IVF lab and extra training other than routine andrology work. The technique is named as 'Annexin-V coated polystyrene bead technique (APB-Tech)'. Based on our results, further studies on APB-Tech should be focused on the possible improvement of ICSI outcomes and, thus, success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İrem Yalım Camcı
- Gebze Technical University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Can Atambay
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Pakize Yiğit
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İlknur Keskin
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
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10
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Talebi S, Arab A, Sorraya N. The Association Between Dietary Antioxidants and Semen Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Iranian Infertile Men. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 200:3957-3964. [PMID: 34741245 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-021-03007-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to explore the relationship between intakes of food-derived antioxidants (zinc, vitamin E, β-carotene, and selenium) and semen parameters in an infertile male population. This is a cross-sectional study among infertile men (> 18 years) referred to Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center in Iran from March 2019 to October 2019. The main outcome measures were semen volume, sperm count, concentration, total motility, and morphology. Micronutrients considered in this analysis were zinc, selenium, β-carotene, and vitamin E. A total of 350 infertile men with a mean (SE) age of 34.77 (0.42) were included in this study. Selenium intake tended to be positively associated with higher semen volume (β = 0.79; 95% CI: - 0.01, 1.59) and sperm total motility after adjustment for main confounders (β = 2.64; 95% CI: - 3.61, 8.89). Intake of β-carotene was only associated with higher sperm total motility (β = 5.46; 95% CI: - 0.84, 11.77). No significant association was detected between intakes of zinc and vitamin E and semen parameters.In a population of infertile adult men, selenium intake was associated with higher sperm total motility and semen volume, and in the case of β-carotene, better sperm total motility. Further, prospective studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shokoofeh Talebi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Arman Arab
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nasim Sorraya
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
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11
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Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Improves Normal Fertilization Rate and Clinical Pregnancy Rate in Male Infertility. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2022; 2022:1522636. [PMID: 35965625 PMCID: PMC9357718 DOI: 10.1155/2022/1522636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) on the normal fertilization rate of oocytes and the clinical pregnancy rate of cycles in male infertility. Eighty cases of male infertility patients attending our hospital from March 2020 to March 2021 were selected and divided into observation group and control group using the random number table method, with 40 cases in each group. The control group was treated with in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the observation group was treated with ICSI. The normal fertilization rate of oocytes and the clinical pregnancy rate of the cycle were compared between the two groups, and the adverse pregnancy outcome and obstetric and perinatal complications were compared between the two groups The rate of normal fertilization and clinical pregnancy in the cycle was higher in the observation group (P < 0.05). The differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05) when comparing adverse pregnancy outcomes between the two groups. The difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05) when comparing obstetrics (5.41%, 10.34%) and perinatal complications (8.33%, 14.81%) between the two groups. ICSI in male infertility is significantly effective in improving the rate of normal oocyte fertilization and the clinical pregnancy rate of the cycle. It also has a low impact on adverse pregnancy outcomes and obstetric and perinatal complications and has a high safety profile.
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12
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Dong Y, Zheng Y, Zhu L, Li T, Guan Y, Zhao S, Wang Q, Wang J, Li L. Hua-Tan-Sheng-Jing Decoction Treats Obesity With Oligoasthenozoospermia by Up-Regulating the PI3K-AKT and Down-Regulating the JNK MAPK Signaling Pathways: At the Crossroad of Obesity and Oligoasthenozoospermia. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:896434. [PMID: 35559247 PMCID: PMC9086321 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.896434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Oligoasthenozoospermia is the leading cause of male infertility, seriously affecting men's health and increasing the societal medical burden. In recent years, obesity-related oligoasthenozoospermia has attracted increased attention from researchers to find a cure. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Hua-Tan-Sheng-Jing decoction (HTSJD) in treating obesity with oligoasthenozoospermia, determine its active ingredients and identify its mechanism of action. Methods: The ingredients of HTSJD were determined by combining the ultra-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) and systems pharmacology approach. The common pathogenesis of obesity and oligoasthenozoospermia and the potential mechanism of HTSJD against obesity with oligoasthenozoospermia were obtained through target fishing, network construction, and enrichment analyses. Further, molecular docking of the key ingredients with the upstream receptors of the key signaling pathways of the potential mechanism was used to predict their affinity. Finally, high-fat-induced obesity with oligoasthenozoospermia rat model was constructed to determine the effects of HTSJD on semen concentration, sperm motility, body weight, and serum lipid metabolism. The key proteins were validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results: A total of 70 effective components and 847 potential targets of HTSJD (H targets) were identified, of which 743 were common targets related to obesity and oligoasthenozoospermia (O-O targets) mainly enriched in the pathways related to inflammation, oxidative stress and hormone regulation. Finally, 143 common targets (H-O-O targets) for HTSJD against obesity with oligoasthenozoospermia were obtained. Combining the hub genes and the results of Gene Ontology (GO) functional and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis of H-O-O targets, PI3K-AKT and MAPK signaling pathways were identified as the key pathways. Molecular docking results showed that Diosgenin, Kaempferol, Quercetin, Hederagenin, Isorhamnetin may act on the related pathways by docking EGFR, IGF1R and INSR. The animal-based in vivo experiments confirmed that HTSJD improves the sperm quality of high-fat diet-fed rats by reducing their body weight and blood lipid levels, influencing the PI3K-AKT and MAPK signaling pathways and altering the corresponding protein expressions. Conclusion: HTSJD treats obesity with oligoasthenozoospermia by up-regulating the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway and down-regulating the MAPK signaling pathway, which are at the crossroad of obesity and oligoasthenozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Dong
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Linghui Zhu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tianxing Li
- Institute of Basic Theory for Chinese Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Guan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.,National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shipeng Zhao
- Graduate School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Wang
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ji Wang
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Concepción-Zavaleta M, Paz Ibarra JL, Ramos-Yataco A, Coronado-Arroyo J, Concepción-Urteaga L, Roseboom PJ, Williams CA. Assessment of hormonal status in male infertility. An update. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102447. [PMID: 35272174 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2022.102447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The prevalence and incidence of infertility are increasing worldwide; they are associated with a significant economic and social impact. Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sex. In recent times, the male factor has gained importance and currently it contributes to approximately 50% of infertility cases. Multiple etiologies are stated, such as metabolic, anatomical, genetic or even idiopathic causes; however, the main cause is semen abnormalities. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a complete review of hormonal assessment of male infertility, as well as to review the physiology and pathophysiology related to the male gonadal axis. METHODS This study is a narrative abstract carried out on basis of systematic bibliographic review, using articles indexed in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase and Scielo, which were published during the last 20 years. RESULTS The cornerstone of the evaluation of the hormonal status is semen analysis. Clinicians must rule out hypogonadism in those patients who present oligospermia and azoospermia, by determining levels of testosterone and gonadotropins, which provide the functionality status of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. Evaluation of the adrenal, thyroid, and lactotroph axis are indicated in those patients with central hypogonadism. CONCLUSIONS Despite advances in the diagnosis of male infertility, some causes are not fully understood, therefore, it is crucial to perform a timely hormonal evaluation of the male factor in infertile couples, in order to provide adequate treatment and improve fertility rates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Luis Paz Ibarra
- Division of Endocrinology, National Hospital Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Julia Coronado-Arroyo
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Hospital Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Pela J Roseboom
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Regional Academic Hospital of Trujillo, Trujillo, Peru
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Yuan Y, Tan Y, Qiu X, Luo H, Li Y, Li R, Yang X. Sperm telomere length as a novel biomarker of male infertility and embryonic development: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1079966. [PMID: 36714598 PMCID: PMC9875015 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1079966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telomeres have an essential role in maintaining the integrity and stability of the human chromosomal genome and preserving essential DNA biological functions. Several articles have been published on the association of STL with male semen parameters and clinical pregnancy. The results, however, are either inconclusive or inconsistent. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to systematically assess the accuracy and clinical value of sperm telomere length (STL) as a new marker for diagnosing male infertility and predicting the quality of embryonic development. METHODS We performed a comprehensive systematic search for relevant publications in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and Ovid, from database build to August 2022. All experimental studies exploring the association of STL with male semen quality, male infertility, or embryonic development were included. RESULTS Overall, Twelve prospective observational cohort studies (1700 patients) were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed a positive linear correlation between STL and semen parameters. The optimal cut-off value for STL diagnosing male infertility was 1.0, with a sensitivity and specificity of 80%. Regarding STL and embryonic development, the clinical pregnancy rate was associated with longer STL, and there was no significant difference between the two groups regarding fertilization rate. CONCLUSION Our study showed that STL has good diagnostic and predictive value for male fertility and clinical pregnancy and could be used as a new biomarker for diagnosing male infertility and predicting embryonic development. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022303333.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yacheng Yuan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yangyang Tan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaolong Qiu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hengfeng Luo
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuxiang Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruijie Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, China
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xukai Yang
- Department of Urology, The 940 Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese PLA, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xukai Yang,
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15
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Shan M, Zhang X, Fang X, Tian J, Song L, Chen Y, Qiu Z, Zhu D, Luo H, Wang Z. Structural analysis of Panax ginseng glycoproteins and its anti-oligoasthenozoospermia effect in vivo. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 193:778-788. [PMID: 34743938 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.10.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A component from ginseng in which sugars and proteins are covalently bound is named Panax ginseng glycoproteins (PGG). The contents of neutral carbohydrate, acid carbohydrate, and protein were 45.4%, 4.3% and 51.1%. The average molecular weight was 12,690 Da. The structure analysis showed that PGG had more than 1100 glycoproteins with molecular weight between 308.13 Da and 9991.52 Da, it was divided into two parts: long chain structure and short chain structure. These two parts were compared in molecular mass, number of amino acids, theoretical pI, instability index, aliphatic index and GRAVY. The in vivo distribution test of mice showed that PGG was enriched in mice testis, testicular tissue sections showed strong fluorescence signal expression on the surface of seminiferous tubules. We used cyclophosphamide (CP) to establish a mice model of oligoasthenozoospermia to investigate the anti-oligoasthenozoospermic effect of PGG. The results showed that PGG increased the levels of sex hormones T, FSH, PRL and sperm quality. Histopathology demonstrated that PGG promoted the differentiation process. The organ coefficient indicated that PGG had no obvious toxic and side effects. And the mechanism may be to affect the expression of protein levels such as p-ERK/ERK, p-AKT/AKT, Caspase-3, Bcl-2 and Bax. Therefore, PGG has the potential to develop into drugs for improving spermatogenic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyao Shan
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; The first hospital of Jilin university, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Xiaoying Zhang
- The first hospital of Jilin university, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Xiaoxue Fang
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Effective Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Jianming Tian
- Jilin Academy of Chinese Medicine and Material Medica Science, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Lianlian Song
- Jilin Academy of Chinese Medicine and Material Medica Science, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Yinghong Chen
- Jilin Academy of Chinese Medicine and Material Medica Science, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Zhidong Qiu
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Effective Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Difu Zhu
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Effective Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
| | - Haoming Luo
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Effective Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China.
| | - Zhe Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China; Key Laboratory of Effective Components of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun 130117, China
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Satish M, Kumari S, Deeksha W, Abhishek S, Nitin K, Adiga SK, Hegde P, Dasappa JP, Kalthur G, Rajakumara E. Structure-based redesigning of pentoxifylline analogs against selective phosphodiesterases to modulate sperm functional competence for assisted reproductive technologies. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12293. [PMID: 34112881 PMCID: PMC8192908 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91636-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, such as pentoxifylline (PTX), are used as pharmacological agents to enhance sperm motility in assisted reproductive technology (ART), mainly to aid the selection of viable sperm in asthenozoospermic ejaculates and testicular spermatozoa, prior to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). However, PTX is reported to induce premature acrosome reaction (AR) and, exert toxic effects on oocyte function and early embryo development. Additionally, in vitro binding studies as well as computational binding free energy (ΔGbind) suggest that PTX exhibits weak binding to sperm PDEs, indicating room for improvement. Aiming to reduce the adverse effects and to enhance the sperm motility, we designed and studied PTX analogues. Using structure-guided in silico approach and by considering the physico-chemical properties of the binding pocket of the PDEs, designed analogues of PTX. In silico assessments indicated that PTX analogues bind more tightly to PDEs and form stable complexes. Particularly, ex vivo evaluation of sperm treated with one of the PTX analogues (PTXm-1), showed comparable beneficial effect at much lower concentration-slower AR, higher DNA integrity and extended longevity of spermatozoa and superior embryo quality. PTXm-1 is proposed to be a better pharmacological agent for ART than PTX for sperm function enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mutyala Satish
- Macromolecular Structural Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502285, India
| | - Sandhya Kumari
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Waghela Deeksha
- Macromolecular Structural Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502285, India
| | - Suman Abhishek
- Macromolecular Structural Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502285, India
| | - Kulhar Nitin
- Macromolecular Structural Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502285, India
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Padmaraj Hegde
- Department of Urology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | | | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India.
| | - Eerappa Rajakumara
- Macromolecular Structural Biology Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, Sangareddy, Telangana, 502285, India.
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Torres-Arce E, Vizmanos B, Babio N, Márquez-Sandoval F, Salas-Huetos A. Dietary Antioxidants in the Treatment of Male Infertility: Counteracting Oxidative Stress. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:241. [PMID: 33804600 PMCID: PMC8003818 DOI: 10.3390/biology10030241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Infertility affects about 15% of the population and male factors only are responsible for ~25-30% of cases of infertility. Currently, the etiology of suboptimal semen quality is poorly understood, and many environmental and genetic factors, including oxidative stress, have been implicated. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals, or reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the capacity of the body to counteract their harmful effects through neutralization by antioxidants. The purpose of this review, by employing the joint expertise of international researchers specialized in nutrition and male fertility areas, is to update the knowledge about the reproductive consequences of excessive ROS concentrations and oxidative stress on the semen quality and Assisted Reproduction Techniques (ART) clinical outcomes, to discuss the role of antioxidants in fertility outcomes, and finally to discuss why foods and dietary patterns are more innocuous long term solution for ameliorating oxidative stress and therefore semen quality results and ART fertility outcomes. Since this is a narrative review and not a systematic/meta-analysis, the summarized information in the present study should be considered cautiously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Torres-Arce
- Center of Health Sciences, Institute of Translational Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, Universidad de Guadalajara, 44340 Guadalajara, Mexico; (E.T.-A.); (B.V.)
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Barbara Vizmanos
- Center of Health Sciences, Institute of Translational Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, Universidad de Guadalajara, 44340 Guadalajara, Mexico; (E.T.-A.); (B.V.)
| | - Nancy Babio
- Human Nutrition Unit, Biochemistry and Biotechnology Department, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43201 Reus, Spain;
- Institut d’Investigació Sanitària Pere i Virgili, 43204 Reus, Spain
- Consorcio CIBER, M.P., Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (ciBeRobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fabiola Márquez-Sandoval
- Center of Health Sciences, Institute of Translational Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, Universidad de Guadalajara, 44340 Guadalajara, Mexico; (E.T.-A.); (B.V.)
| | - 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
- Consorcio CIBER, M.P., Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (ciBeRobn), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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18
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Le MT, Tran NQT, Nguyen ND, Nguyen QHV. The Prevalence and Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Men from Infertile Couples and Its Relation on Semen Analysis. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2021; 14:1453-1463. [PMID: 33824599 PMCID: PMC8018567 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s302575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been reported as a deleterious factor in male fertility potential, associated with hypogonadism, impaired spermatogenesis, decreased sperm concentration and motility, and increased sperm DNA damage. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS in men from infertile couples and evaluate its effect on semen analysis (SA). PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed in men from infertile couples diagnosed based on the World Health Organization 2010 criteria and treated at the Hue Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Vietnam. General information included medical history, lifestyle, MetS factors, SA, and sperm DNA fragmentation test were collected. Based on the diagnostic criteria of the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute for Asian men, the study population was divided into two groups: MetS and non-MetS groups. The outcomes were analyzed for any relationship between MetS and the SA index and the DNA fragmentation index (DFI). RESULTS A total of 534 men from infertile couples were included in this study. The prevalence of MetS was 23.4%, and abnormal semen analysis accounted for 93.8%. Age, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), hepatitis B and total cholesterol were related to the occurrence of MetS in infertile men (p <0.05). MetS did not reveal any impact on the parameters of SA. There was a positive correlation between waist circumference (WC), WHR, WHtR, and systolic blood pressure (BP) with abnormal sperm head and DFI (p <0.05). CONCLUSION Although the prevalence of MetS was remarkable in men from infertile couples, there was no association between MetS and semen quality. However, WC, WHR, WHtR, and systolic BP were found to be significantly associated with abnormal sperm head and DFI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Tam Le
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
- Department of OBGYN, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
- Correspondence: Minh Tam Le Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue, VietnamTel +84 989 228 779Fax +84 234 3822 173 Email
| | - Nhu Quynh Thi Tran
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Dac Nguyen
- Center for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Quoc Huy Vu Nguyen
- Department of OBGYN, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
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Zhang X, Zhang J, Cai Z, Wang X, Lu W, Li H. Effect of unilateral testicular torsion at different ages on male fertility. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060520918792. [PMID: 32314623 PMCID: PMC7175056 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520918792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of early-life unilateral testicular torsion on adult male fertility. Methods Clinical information was collected for 122 patients who had experienced unilateral testicular torsion at a median age of 15.5 years. The recent pregnancy rate and time to pregnancy experienced by the patients’ female partners were assessed by structured interviews. Data were analyzed by the chi-squared test and Student’s t-test. Results Seventy-two patients with testicular torsion met the criteria for inclusion in our analyses; 49 had undergone orchiectomy, while 23 had undergone surgical repositioning/orchiopexy. The pregnancy rate and median time to pregnancy were 83.67% (41/49) and 1.6 years, respectively, in the orchiectomy group, whereas they were 91.30% (21/23) and 0.75 years, respectively, in the repositioning/orchiopexy group. The recent pregnancy rate was higher in patients with torsion in childhood than in patients with torsion in adolescence; it was lowest in patients with torsion in adulthood. Surgical repositioning/orchiopexy yielded a significantly better recent pregnancy rate among the three groups, based on age at the time of torsion, and a shorter time to pregnancy than orchiectomy in patients with torsion in adolescence. Conclusion Onset of unilateral testicular torsion early in life has a negligible effect on adult male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Urology, The Sixth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianzhong Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhonglin Cai
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiyou Wang
- Department of Urology, The Sixth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wenhong Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Health, National Research Institute for Family Planning & WHO Collaborating Center for Research in Human Reproduction, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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20
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Oxidative Stress in Male Infertility: Causes, Effects in Assisted Reproductive Techniques, and Protective Support of Antioxidants. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9040077. [PMID: 32290152 PMCID: PMC7235998 DOI: 10.3390/biology9040077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly specialized cell, whose main function is the transport of the intact male genetic material into the oocyte. During its formation and transit throughout male and female reproductive tracts, sperm cells are internally and externally surrounded by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are produced from both endogenous and exogenous sources. While low amounts of ROS are known to be necessary for crucial physiological sperm processes, such as acrosome reaction and sperm-oocyte interaction, high levels of those species underlie misbalanced antioxidant-oxidant molecules, generating oxidative stress (OS), which is one of the most damaging factors that affect sperm function and lower male fertility potential. The present work starts by reviewing the different sources of oxidative stress that affect sperm cells, continues by summarizing the detrimental effects of OS on the male germline, and discusses previous studies addressing the consequences of these detrimental effects on natural pregnancy and assisted reproductive techniques effectiveness. The last section is focused on how antioxidants can counteract the effects of ROS and how sperm fertilizing ability may benefit from these agents.
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21
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Chiancone F, Fabiano M, Langella N, Sannino S, Fedelini P. Direct gunshot wound to the testicular artery: A rare case report. IBNOSINA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijmbs.ijmbs_90_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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22
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Klinke M, Elrod J, Stiel C, Ghadban T, Wenskus J, Herrmann J, Junge CM, Reinshagen K, Boettcher M. The BAL-Score Almost Perfectly Predicts Testicular Torsion in Children: A Two-Center Cohort Study. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:601892. [PMID: 33365292 PMCID: PMC7750324 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.601892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Testicular torsion (TT) is a common emergency that warrants immediate exploration to prevent infertility or testicular loss. To improve diagnostic reliability, various scoring systems have been published. The aim of this study was to evaluate and validate different testicular torsion scores in a large cohort of children with acute scrotum. Methods: Retrospective analysis of all male children that were admitted for acute scrotum at the Pediatric Surgery Department of the Altonaer Kinderkrankenhaus and University medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf from 01/2013 to 03/2019. Two testicular torsion scores (Boettcher Alert Score, Testicular Workup for Ischemia and Suspected Torsion Score) were applied to all data sets. Furthermore, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based score was developed and compared to the two current scores. Results: In total, 460 boys were included in the study. Of those, 48 (10.4%) had TT. Children with TT suffered most often from short duration of pain, nausea and vomiting, high riding testicle and absent cremasteric reflex. The BALS and the AI-based score had excellent predictive values and all patients with TT would have been detected. Conclusion: The BAL and the AI score show excellent predictive capabilities and may be used to identify all cases of TT in a pediatric population. The scores are easy to apply. As the BALS was slightly better, we advocate to use this score but to validate our findings in prospective multicenter studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Klinke
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Elrod
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carolin Stiel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tarik Ghadban
- Department of General, Visceral and Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Wenskus
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jochen Herrmann
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Section of Pediatric Radiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carl-Martin Junge
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Altonaer Kinderkrankenhaus, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Konrad Reinshagen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Boettcher
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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23
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Wang J, Liu C, Fujino M, Tong G, Zhang Q, Li XK, Yan H. Stem Cells as a Resource for Treatment of Infertility-related Diseases. Curr Mol Med 2019; 19:539-546. [PMID: 31288721 PMCID: PMC6806537 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190709172636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, infertility affects 8-12% of couples of reproductive age and has become a common problem. There are many ways to treat infertility, including medication, intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization. In recent years, stem-cell therapy has raised new hope in the field of reproductive disability management. Stem cells are self-renewing, self-replicating undifferentiated cells that are capable of producing specialized cells under appropriate conditions. They exist throughout a human’s embryo, fetal, and adult stages and can proliferate into different cells. While many issues remain to be addressed concerning stem cells, stem cells have undeniably opened up new ways to treat infertility. In this review, we describe past, present, and future strategies for the use of stem cells in reproductive medicine
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chi Liu
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Masayuki Fujino
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,AIDS Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Guoqing Tong
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinxiu Zhang
- Department of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao-Kang Li
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hua Yan
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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24
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Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, La Vignera S, Bellucci C, Luca G, Calafiore R, Calogero AE. IGF2 and IGF1R mRNAs Are Detectable in Human Spermatozoa. World J Mens Health 2019; 38:545-551. [PMID: 31496145 PMCID: PMC7502314 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Oligozoospermia is highly prevalent worldwide. Studies have reported a lower methylation rate in the H19 differentially methylated region at the sperm level in oligozoospermic patients than in controls. IGF2/H19 are the best-known pair of imprinted genes. However, no studies have yet evaluated whether they are transcribed in human sperm. To assess whether IGF2 and IGF1R mRNAs are present in human sperm and if their levels are correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count. Materials and Methods Sperm samples (n=22) underwent reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction using specific primers to detect IGF2 and IGF1R mRNA levels. They were then correlated with patients' conventional sperm parameters using the Spearman (τ) and Kendall (ρ) rank correlation coefficients. Results Statistically significant positive correlations were found between IGF2 mRNA levels and sperm concentration (τ=0.403, p<0.01; ρ=0.587, p<0.005) and total sperm count (τ=0.347, p<0.024; ρ=0.509, p<0.015). IGF1R mRNA levels were positively correlated with sperm concentration (τ=0.595, p<0.001; ρ=0.774, p<0.001) and total sperm count (τ=0.547, p<0.001; ρ=0.701, p<0.001). Apart from IGF1R mRNA and sperm morphology (τ=0.325, p<0.05; ρ=0.461, p<0.05), no additional correlations were found between the levels of these transcripts and other conventional sperm parameters. Conclusions IGF2 and IGF1R mRNAs were found to be present in human spermatozoa and their transcription levels were positively correlated with sperm concentration and total sperm count. Spermatozoa are the only source of IGF2 mRNA since IGF2 is a paternally-inherited gene. Further studies are needed to evaluate its role in human fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Catia Bellucci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Riccardo Calafiore
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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