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He Y, Wang B, Huang J, Zhang D, Yuan Y. Environmental pollutants and male infertility: Effects on CatSper. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2024; 277:116341. [PMID: 38653022 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Infertility is a growing health concern among many couples worldwide. Men account for half of infertility cases. CatSper, a sperm-specific Ca2+ channel, is expressed on the cell membrane of mammalian sperm. CatSper plays an important role in male fertility because it facilitates the entry of Ca2+ necessary for the rapid change in sperm motility, thereby allowing it to navigate the hurdles of the female reproductive tract and successfully locate the egg. Many pollutants present in the environment have been shown to affect the functions of CatSper and sperm, which is a matter of capital importance to understanding and solving male infertility issues. Environmental pollutants can act as partial agonists or inhibitors of CatSper or exhibit a synergistic effect. In this article, we briefly describe the structure, functions, and regulatory mechanisms of CatSper, and discuss the body of literature covering the effects of environmental pollutants on CatSper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin He
- Nanchang University Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Binhui Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Jian Huang
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Clinical Medical Experimental Center, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
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Wei J, Dai J, Shi X, Zhao R, Fu G, Li R, Xia C, Zhang L, Zhou T, Wang H, Shi Y. Cadmium disrupts spermatogenic cell cycle via piRNA-DQ717867/p53 pathway. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108554. [PMID: 38331007 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a harmful environmental pollutant that disrupts public health, including respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. In this study, male rats were exposed to CdCl2 at a dose of 3 mg/kg by oral for 28 days to investigate the impact on spermatogenesis. Testis tissue samples were collected after sacrifice, and piRNA expression levels were measured using piRNA microarray and qPCR. PiRNAs, specialized molecules involved in spermatogenesis, were examined. CdCl2 exposure led to disrupted piRNA expression, particularly in piRNA-DQ759395 in rats. This piRNA was found to have a binding site with p53, and a similar piRNA-DQ717867 was discovered in mice. In GC-2spd cells, CdCl2 exposure increased piRNA-DQ717867 expression, which resulted in cell cycle arrest and abnormal expression of cell cycle-related proteins. The activation of p53-related pathways and disruptions in cell cycle regulation were also observed. Antagomir-717867 transfections and PFT-a pretreatment in GC-2spd cells supported the involvement of piRNA-DQ717867 in regulating cell cycle-related proteins. This study suggests that Cd exposure induces abnormal expression of piRNA-DQ759395 in rat testis and that piRNA-DQ717867 may regulate p53, causing cell cycle abnormalities in GC-2spd cells. These findings help understand the mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity caused by Cd exposure and emphasize the role of piRNAs in cell cycle regulation and male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyang Wei
- School of Public Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Juan Dai
- Wuhan centers for Disease Prevention and Control, China
| | - Xiaofan Shi
- Qinghai centers for Disease Prevention and Control, China
| | - Ruixue Zhao
- School of Public Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, China
| | | | - Rui Li
- Central China Normal University, China
| | - Chao Xia
- Ezhou centers for Disease Prevention and Control, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- School of Public Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Ting Zhou
- School of Public Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, China
| | - Huaiji Wang
- Wuhan centers for Disease Prevention and Control, China.
| | - Yuqin Shi
- School of Public Health, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, China.
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Chen J, Chen X, Guo W, Tang W, Zhang Y, Tian X, Zou Y. Comparison of the gene expression profile of testicular tissue before and after sexual maturity in Qianbei Ma goats. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:92. [PMID: 38459496 PMCID: PMC10921700 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03932-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With long-term research on the reproductive ability of Qianbei Ma goat, we found that the puberty of the male goats comes at the age of 3 months and reaches sexual maturity at 4 months,the male goats are identified as physically mature at 9 months and able to mate. Compared with other kinds of breeds of goats, Qianbei Ma goat is featured with more faster growth and earlier sexual maturity.Therefore, in order to explore the laws of growth of Qianbei Ma goat before sexual maturity(3-month-old)and after sexual maturity (9-month-old). The testicular tissue was collected to explore their changes in morphology through HE staining, the serum was collected to detect the hormone content, and the mRNA expression profile of the testis was analyzed by transcriptomics. In this way, the effect of testicular development on the reproduction of Qianbei ma goats was further analyzed. RESULTS The results showed that the area and diameter of spermatogenic tubules were larger at 9 months than 3 months, and the number of spermatocytes, interstitial cells, spermatogonia and secondary spermatocytes in the lumen of the tubules showed a similar trend. The appearance of spermatozoa at age 3 months indicated that puberty had begun in Qianbei Ma goats. The Elasa test for testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone showed that the levels of these hormones in the serum at age 9 months were all highly significantly different than those at age 3 months (P < 0.01). There were 490 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the (|log2(fold change)| > 1 and p value < 0.05) 3-month-old and 9-month-old groups, of which 233 genes were upregulated and 257 genes were downregulated (3 months of age was used as the control group and 9 months of age was used as the experimental group). According to the GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of DEGs, PRSS58, ECM1, WFDC8 and LHCGR are involved in testicular development and androgen secretion, which contribute to the sexual maturation of Qianbei Ma goats. CONCLUSIONS Potential biomarker genes and relevant pathways involved in the regulation of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Qianbei Ma goats were identified, providing a theoretical basis and data support for later studies on the influence of testicular development and spermatogenesis before and after sexual maturity in Qianbei Ma goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Xiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Wei Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Wen Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Xingzhou Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
| | - Yue Zou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, China
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Wang P, Liu Z, Zhang X, Huo H, Wang L, Dai H, Yang F, Zhao G, Huo J. Integrated analysis of lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA expression profiles reveals regulatory pathways associated with pig testis function. Genomics 2024; 116:110819. [PMID: 38432498 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) are known to play pivotal roles in mammalian testicular function and spermatogenesis. However, their impact on porcine male reproduction has yet to be well unraveled. Here, we sequenced and identified lncRNA and miRNA expressed in the testes of Chinese indigenous Banna mini-pig inbred line (BMI) and introduced Western Duroc (DU) and Large White (LW) pigs. By pairwise comparison (BMI vs DU, BMI vs LW, and DU vs LW), we found the gene expression differences in the testes between Chinese local pigs and introduced Western commercial breeds were more striking than those between introduced commercial breeds. Furthermore, we found 1622 co-differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs), 122 co-differentially expressed lncRNAs (co-DELs), 39 co-differentially expressed miRNAs (co-DEMs) in BMI vs introduced commercial breeds (DU and LW). Functional analysis revealed that these co-DEGs and co-DELs/co-DEMs target genes were enriched in male sexual function pathways, including MAPK, AMPK, TGF-β/Smad, Hippo, NF-kappa B, and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways. Additionally, we established 10,536 lncRNA-mRNA, 11,248 miRNA-mRNA pairs, and 62 ceRNA (lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA) networks. The ssc-miR-1343 had the most interactive factors in the ceRNA network, including 20 mRNAs and 3 lncRNAs, consisting of 56 ceRNA pairs. These factors played extremely important roles in the regulation of testis function as key nodes in the interactive regulatory network. Our results provide insight into the functional roles of lncRNAs and miRNAs in porcine testis and offer a valuable resource for understanding the differences between Chinese indigenous and introduced Western pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Zhipeng Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- College of Life Science, Lyuliang University, Lvliang 033001, China
| | - Hailong Huo
- Yunnan Open University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Lina Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Hongmei Dai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Fuhua Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Guiying Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
| | - Jinlong Huo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
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Li C, Shen C, Xiong W, Ge H, Shen Y, Chi J, Zhang H, Tang L, Lu S, Wang J, Fei J, Wang Z. Spem2, a novel testis-enriched gene, is required for spermiogenesis and fertilization in mice. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:108. [PMID: 38421455 PMCID: PMC10904452 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05147-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is considered to be crucial for the production of haploid spermatozoa with normal morphology, structure and function, but the mechanisms underlying this process remain largely unclear. Here, we demonstrate that SPEM family member 2 (Spem2), as a novel testis-enriched gene, is essential for spermiogenesis and male fertility. Spem2 is predominantly expressed in the haploid male germ cells and is highly conserved across mammals. Mice deficient for Spem2 develop male infertility associated with spermiogenesis impairment. Specifically, the insufficient sperm individualization, failure of excess cytoplasm shedding, and defects in acrosome formation are evident in Spem2-null sperm. Sperm counts and motility are also significantly reduced compared to controls. In vivo fertilization assays have shown that Spem2-null sperm are unable to fertilize oocytes, possibly due to their impaired ability to migrate from the uterus into the oviduct. However, the infertility of Spem2-/- males cannot be rescued by in vitro fertilization, suggesting that defective sperm-egg interaction may also be a contributing factor. Furthermore, SPEM2 is detected to interact with ZPBP, PRSS21, PRSS54, PRSS55, ADAM2 and ADAM3 and is also required for their processing and maturation in epididymal sperm. Our findings establish SPEM2 as an essential regulator of spermiogenesis and fertilization in mice, possibly in mammals including humans. Understanding the molecular role of SPEM2 could provide new insights into future therapeutic treatment of human male infertility and development of non-hormonal male contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaojie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Haoyang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jun Chi
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hongxin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Lingyun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Shunyuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Jinjin Wang
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jian Fei
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200025, China.
- Shanghai Engineering and Technology Research Center for Model Animals, Shanghai Model Organisms Center, Inc, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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OLUWOLE DT, EBIWONJUMI O, AJAYI LO, ALABI OD, AMOS V, AKANBI G, ADEYEMI WJ, AJAYI AF. Disruptive consequences of monosodium glutamate on male reproductive function: A review. Curr Res Toxicol 2024; 6:100148. [PMID: 38287921 PMCID: PMC10823071 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is one of the most extensively used flavour enhancers worldwide. Although it is widely regarded as a safe food additive with no recommended daily dosage, its over-consumption has been associated with notably pathophysiological events in various tissues and organs of the body. Previous studies have reported of the neuro- cardio- and hepato- toxic effects of its excessive exposure. Moreover, the food additive instigates metabolic dysfunction. It has been established that MSG damages male reproductive accessory organs like prostate glands and epididymis. In addition, it impairs serum enzymatic activities and serum levels of testosterone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone and cholesterol. Reduced sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology, and sperm viability, imbalances in male reproductive hormones, alongside alteration in the histoarchitecture of the testes and other male reproductive tissues have also been connected with excessive exposure to MSG. Literature reports affirm the link between the over-consumption of MSG and reproductive organ weight and male sexual behaviour. This review article addresses the multi-systemic effects of exposure to MSG and the possible mechanism of action of the compound with a focus on the negative implications of the food additive on male reproductive functions and the possible role of natural antioxidants in male reproductive functions. carefully selected keywords were used during the literature search to gather credible and up-to-date information about the subject matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Tolulope OLUWOLE
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Lydia Oluwatoyin AJAYI
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Olubunmi Dupe ALABI
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Victor AMOS
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Grace AKANBI
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Ayodeji Folorunsho AJAYI
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Zhang P, Zhang Y, Li P, Tu D, Zheng X. Effects of the adsorption behavior of polyamide microplastics on male reproductive health by reduction of testosterone bioavailability. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2024; 269:115747. [PMID: 38070415 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are global environmental pollutants with potential toxicity concerns, and their effects on the reproductive system have attracted increasing attention. This study investigated the interaction between MPs and mammalian biomolecules, focusing on the relationship between the testosterone adsorption behavior of MPs and male reproductive health. The adsorption capacity of different types of MPs for testosterone was evaluated in vitro experiments. Polyamide (PA)-MPs exhibited stronger adsorption, while polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)-MPs displayed the weakest adsorption. Sorption equilibrium between PA-MPs and testosterone was achieved within 6 h, fitting the Pseudo-2nd-order model and Langmuir isotherm. The effects of MPs on male reproduction in mice was determined in vivo experiments. Male mice were treated with 0.1 and 0.5 mg/d PA-MPs/PMMA-MPs by gavage once per day for 28 days. The results showed that only 0.5 mg/d PA-MP exposure induced decreased serum testosterone levels, increased testicular testosterone levels compared to the control, and more severe damage to seminiferous tubule structure, sperm motility and sperm morphology compared to the PMMA-MPs group. Meanwhile, PA-MPs could reduce intracellular nuclear translocation of androgen receptor (AR) mediated by testosterone, while PMMA-MPs had no impact. The study revealed that PA-MP adsorption reduced testosterone bioavailability and caused sperm quality to decline, offering new insights into the combined toxicity mechanism of MPs in male mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiqi Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Veterinary Drugs, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Veterinary Drugs, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Pishun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Veterinary Drugs, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China
| | - Di Tu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Veterinary Drugs, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China; Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Veterinary Drugs, Hunan Agricultural University, Furong District, Changsha, Hunan 410000, China.
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Xu H, Zhang S, Duan Q, Lou M, Ling Y. Comprehensive analyses of 435 goat transcriptomes provides insight into male reproduction. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 255:127942. [PMID: 37979751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
A systematic analysis of genes related to reproduction is crucial for obtaining a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that underlie male reproductive traits in mammals. Here, we utilized 435 goat transcriptome datasets to unveil the testicular tissue-specific genes (TSGs), allele-specific expression (ASE) genes and their uncharacterized transcriptional features related to male goat reproduction. Results showed a total of 1790 TSGs were identified in goat testis, which was the most among all tissues. GO enrichment analyses suggested that testicular TSGs were mainly involved in spermatogenesis, multicellular organism development, spermatid development, and flagellated sperm motility. Subsequently, a total of 95 highly conserved TSGs (HCTSGs), 508 middle conserved TSGs (MCTSGs) and 42 no conserved TSGs (NCTSGs) were identified in goat testis. GO enrichment analyses suggested that the HCTSGs and MCTSGs has a more important association with male reproduction than NCTSGs. Additionally, we identified 644 ASE genes, including 88 tissue-specific ASE (TS-ASE) genes (e.g., FSIP2, TDRD9). GO enrichment analyses indicated that both ASE genes and TS-ASE genes were associated with goat male reproduction. Overall, this study revealed an extensive gene set involved in the regulation of male goat reproduction and their dynamic transcription patterns. Data reported here provide valuable insights for a further improvement of the economic benefits of goats as well as future treatments for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Sihuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Qin Duan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Mengyu Lou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China
| | - Yinghui Ling
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resource Conservation and Bio-Breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, Anhui, China.
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9
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Yahyavi SK, Boisen IM, Cui Z, Jorsal MJ, Kooij I, Holt R, Juul A, Blomberg Jensen M. Calcium and vitamin D homoeostasis in male fertility. Proc Nutr Soc 2023:1-14. [PMID: 38072394 DOI: 10.1017/s002966512300486x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Calcium and vitamin D have well-established roles in maintaining calcium balance and bone health. Decades of research in human subjects and animals have revealed that calcium and vitamin D also have effects on many other organs including male reproductive organs. The presence of calcium-sensing receptor, vitamin D receptor, vitamin D activating and inactivating enzymes and calcium channels in the testes, male reproductive tract and human spermatozoa suggests that vitamin D and calcium may modify male reproductive function. Functional animal models have shown that vitamin D deficiency in male rodents leads to a decrease in successful mating and fewer pregnancies, often caused by impaired sperm motility and poor sperm morphology. Human studies have to a lesser extent validated these findings; however, newer studies suggest a positive effect of vitamin D supplementation on semen quality in cases with vitamin D deficiency, which highlights the need for initiatives to prevent vitamin D deficiency. Calcium channels in male reproductive organs and spermatozoa contribute to the regulation of sperm motility and capacitation, both essential for successful fertilisation, which supports a need to avoid calcium deficiency. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D, as a regulator of calcium homoeostasis, influences calcium influx in the testis and spermatozoa. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and male infertility, although further investigation is needed to establish a definitive causal relationship. Understanding the interplay between vitamin D, calcium and male reproductive health may open new avenues for improving fertility outcomes in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Kafai Yahyavi
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ida Marie Boisen
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Zhihui Cui
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Joon Jorsal
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ireen Kooij
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rune Holt
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin Blomberg Jensen
- Division of Translational Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark
- Group of Skeletal, Mineral, and Gonadal Endocrinology, Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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10
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Thacharodi A, Hassan S, Acharya G, Vithlani A, Hoang Le Q, Pugazhendhi A. Endocrine disrupting chemicals and their effects on the reproductive health in men. Environ Res 2023; 236:116825. [PMID: 37544467 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are harmful compounds that enter the environment naturally or through anthropogenic activities and disrupt normal endocrine functions in humans, adversely affecting reproductive health. Among the most significant sources of EDC contaminants are the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and packaging industries. EDCs have been identified to have a deteriorating effect on male reproductive system, as evidenced by the increasing number of male infertility cases. A large number of case studies have been published in which men exposed to EDCs experienced testicular cancer, undescended testicles, a decrease in serum testosterone levels, and poor semen quality. Furthermore, epidemiological evidence suggested a link between prenatal EDC exposure and cryptorchidism or undescended testicles, hypospadias, and decreased anogenital distance in infants. The majority of these findings, however, are incongruent due to the lack of long-term follow-up studies that would demonstrate EDCs to be associated with male reproductive disorders. This review aims to provide an overview on recent scientific progress on the association of EDCs to male reproductive health with special emphasis on its toxicity and possible mechanism of EDCs that disrupt male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswin Thacharodi
- Dr. Thacharodi's Laboratories, Department of Research and Development, Puducherry, 605005, India
| | - Saqib Hassan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio and Chemical Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600119, India; American Society for Microbiology, Washington, 20036, USA
| | - Gururaj Acharya
- Department of Civil Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, NITTE (Deemed to be university), Karnataka, 574110, India
| | - Avadh Vithlani
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Quynh Hoang Le
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam
| | - Arivalagan Pugazhendhi
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
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11
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Pérez PA, Toledo J, Vitellini F, Cuello VN, Cantarelli V, Ponzio M, Mukdsi JH, Gutiérrez S. Environmentally relevant DEHP exposure during gestational and lactational period inhibits filamin a testicular expression. J Mol Histol 2023; 54:509-520. [PMID: 37572267 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-023-10144-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxicological studies have revealed that DEHP exposure during pregnancy may induce developmental disorders, especially in male offspring, leading to morphological and functional alterations in the reproductive system by mechanisms that should be investigated. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze the testicular toxicity induced by an environmentally relevant DEHP dose during development and its impact on FLNA, a protein that participates in the blood-testis barrier assembly. We used male Wistar rats exposed to DEHP during pregnancy and lactation. The results showed that DEHP exposure during development and lactation increased body weight, decreased gonadal weight and shortened anogenital distance. This phthalate induced morphological changes in the testis, suggestive of hypospermatogenesis. DEHP exposure decreased the number of FLNA positive cells and the expression of FLNA and claudin-1 in prepubertal testes. Furthermore, DEHP inhibited FLNA and claudin-1 protein expression in adult male rats. These results indicated that exposure to DEHP during gestation and lactation perturbed testis development and suggested that FLNA is a target protein of DEHP, possibly contributing to the phthalate-induced damage on BTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo A Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jonathan Toledo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Facundo Vitellini
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Victoria Navall Cuello
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Verónica Cantarelli
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Marina Ponzio
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Instituto de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jorge H Mukdsi
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Silvina Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Córdoba, Argentina.
- Centro de Microscopía Electrónica, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.
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Ma J, Bi J, Sun B, Li H, Li Y, Wang S. Zinc Improves Semen Parameters in High-Fat Diet-Induced Male Rats by Regulating the Expression of LncRNA in Testis Tissue. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023; 201:4793-4805. [PMID: 36600170 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03550-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to identify differentially expressed LncRNAs in testis tissue of male rats induced by high-fat diet and their changes after zinc supplementation, by constructing a high-fat feeding rat model, and then supplemented with zinc, and observed the expression of LncRNA in three groups of normal, high-fat fed, and zinc-intervened rats. Experimental studies show that the semen parameters of male rats with high-fat diet were decreased but recovered after zinc supplementation, and the related LncRNA also changed. Zinc may improve the high-fat diet-induced reduction of semen parameters by changing the expression of related LncRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ma
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Street, Shijiazhuang, 050071, Xinhua District, China
| | - Jiajie Bi
- Graduate School of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Bo Sun
- Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Huanhuan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Street, Shijiazhuang, 050071, Xinhua District, China
| | - Yuejia Li
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Shusong Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Street, Shijiazhuang, 050071, Xinhua District, China.
- Graduate School of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, China.
- Graduate School of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
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13
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. A review on immunological aspects in male reproduction: An immune cells and cytokines. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 158:103984. [PMID: 37390629 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
The male reproductive system, particularly the male gamete, offers a unique barrier to the immune system. The growing germ cells in the testis need to be shielded from autoimmune damage. Hence the testis has to establish and sustain an immune-privileged milieu. Sertoli cells create this safe space, protected by the blood-testis barrier. Cytokines are a type of immune reaction that can positively and negatively affect male reproductive health. Inflammation, disease, and obesity are just a few physiological conditions for which cytokines mediate signals. They interact with steroidogenesis, shaping the adrenals and testes to produce the hormones needed for survival. In particular pathological condition, including autoimmune disorders, contains high levels of the same cytokines in semen that play an essential role in the immunomodulation of the male gonad. This review focuses on understanding the immunological role of cytokines in the control and development of male reproduction. Also, in maintaining male reproductive health and diseases linked with their aberrant function in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014, India.
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14
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Ajayi AF, Onaolapo MC, Omole AI, Adeyemi WJ, Oluwole DT. Mechanism associated with changes in male reproductive functions during ageing process. Exp Gerontol 2023; 179:112232. [PMID: 37315721 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is a natural process with physiological changes in different body parts and has been associated with decreased reproductive capacity. Factors such as imbalance in the antioxidant defence system, vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, accessory reproductive glands infection, obesity as well as buildup of toxic substances play a role in age-related male reproductive malfunction. Age is inversely proportional to volume of semen, sperm count, sperm progressive motility, sperm viability, normal sperm morphology. The observed negative correlation between ageing and semen indices contributes to male infertility and reproductive decline. Normal levels of ROS, plays crucial role in facilitating sperm function, such as capacitation, hyper-activation, acrosome reaction as well as sperm-oocyte fusion; however, a substantial elevation in the endogenous level of ROS, especially in reproductive tissues, usually instigates destruction of sperm cells and heightened male infertility. Contrarily, antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and micronutrients like zinc and folate, have been found by researchers to facilitate normal semen quality and male reproductive function. Furthermore, the role of hormonal imbalance as a result of the compromised hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, Sertoli and Leydig cells disorder, and nitric oxide-medicated erectile dysfunction during ageing cannot be undermined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria.
| | | | - Ayomide Isaac Omole
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - David Tolulope Oluwole
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria; Department of Physiology, Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun-State, Nigeria
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15
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Dias FCR, Matta SLP, Lima GDA, Souza ACF, Menezes TP, Melo FCSA, Otoni WC, Neves MM, Gomes MLM. Pfaffia glomerata polyploid accession compromises male fertility and fetal development. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 314:116680. [PMID: 37230282 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen has traditionally been used as a tonic and a stimulant by the Brazilian population. It shows higher biomass accumulation and production of secondary compounds, such as the phytosterol 20-hydroxyecdysone. AIMS The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of the root of tetraploid P. glomerata (BGEt) on testicular parenchyma, and its implications on fertility. MATERIAL AND METHODS Adult Swiss mice were divided as: control (water) and sildenafil citrate (7 mg/kg), BGEt at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, and BGEtD 200 mg/kg (treated with BGE every three days). Males (n = 4/group) were mated with normal untreated adult females to assess fertility rates, while other animals (n = 6/group) were euthanized for testis, epididymis, and oxidative stress analyses. RESULTS Increase in tubule diameter and epithelium height in the discontinuous group, in addition to an increase in the proportion of tubules with moderate pathologies was observed. The pre-implantation loss was lower in all treated groups. The post-implantation loss was significantly increased in all treated groups, except for the lowest BGEt dose. BGEt intake caused a decrease in daily sperm production, along with the number and quality of sperm in the epididymis. Changes were observed in protein carbonylation and hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide levels, characterizing oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS The hydroalcoholic extract of P. glomerata tetraploid altered sperm and testicular parameters, compromising embryonic development after implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C R Dias
- Department of Structural Biology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil.
| | - Sérgio L P Matta
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | - Graziela D A Lima
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | - Ana Cláudia F Souza
- Department of Animal Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Tatiana P Menezes
- Department of General Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | - Fabiana C S A Melo
- Department of Animal Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | - Wagner C Otoni
- Department of Plant Biology, Federal University of Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
| | | | - Marcos L M Gomes
- Department of Structural Biology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil.
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16
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Yang P, Deng LJ, Xie JY, Li XJ, Wang XN, Sun B, Meng TQ, Xiong CL, Huang YC, Wang YX, Pan A, Chen D, Yang Y. Phthalate exposure with sperm quality among healthy Chinese male adults: The role of sperm cellular function. Environ Pollut 2023; 331:121755. [PMID: 37142207 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Adverse male reproduction caused by phthalate ester (PAE) exposure has been well documented in vivo. However, existing evidence from population studies remains inadequate to demonstrate the impact of PAE exposure on spermatogenesis and underlying mechanisms. Our present study aimed to explore the potential link between PAE exposure and sperm quality and the possible mediation by sperm mitochondrial and telomere in healthy male adults recruited from the Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank, China. Nine PAEs were determined in one pooled urine sample prepared from multiple collections during the spermatogenesis period from the same participant. Sperm telomere length (TL) and mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) were determined in sperm samples. The sperm concentration and count per quartile increment in mixture concentrations were -4.10 million/mL (-7.12, -1.08) and -13.52% (-21.62%, -4.59%), respectively. We found one quartile increase in PAE mixture concentrations to be marginally associated with sperm mtDNAcn (β = 0.09, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.19). Mediation analysis showed that sperm mtDNAcn significantly explained 24.6% and 32.5% of the relationships of mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP) with sperm concentration and sperm count (β = -0.44 million/mL, 95% CI: -0.82, -0.08; β = -1.35, 95% CI: -2.54, -0.26, respectively). Our study provided a novel insight into the mixed effect of PAEs on adverse semen quality and the potential mediation role of sperm mtDNAcn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Yang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China; Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230032, PR China
| | - Lang-Jing Deng
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Jin-Ying Xie
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Jie Li
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Xiao-Na Wang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Bin Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Tian-Qing Meng
- Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Cheng-Liang Xiong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Yi-Chao Huang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, PR China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - An Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, PR China
| | - Da Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong Province, PR China
| | - Yan Yang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Jieyang Branch of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Jieyang, 515200, Guangdong, PR China; Synergy Innovation Institute of GDUT, Shantou, 515041, PR China.
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17
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Guo X, Hao Y, Ma H, Li H, Li L, Yan F, Huang J, Li L. The mechanism of monobutyl phthalate -induced ferroptosis via TNF/IL6/STAT3 signal pathway in TM-3 cells. J Toxicol Sci 2023; 48:299-310. [PMID: 37121744 DOI: 10.2131/jts.48.299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
As a common environmental endocrine disruptor, monobutyl phthalate (MBP) has been connected to reports of ROS accumulation, sperm destruction and reproductive damage. However, the specific mechanism of reproductive injury caused by MBP remains uncertain. Ferroptosis is a non-apoptotic, controlled oxidative damage-related cell death that is usually connected with reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation. In this work, to evaluate the mechanism of MBP-induced ferroptosis in reproductive damage, bioinformation analysis and experimental validation were used. Based on bioinformatics analysis, the interleukin-6 (IL-6) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) genes may be involved in the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling pathway, which controls inflammation. Experimental study validated the significance of IL6 and STAT3 in MBP-induced ferroptosis. Western blotting and quantitative real-time PCR revealed that Acyl-CoA Synthetase Long Chain Family Member 4 (ACSL4), Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL6, and STAT3 were all elevated with treatment of MBP, but Glutathione peroxidase 4 was significantly decreased. To determine the participation of IL6/STAT3, we added the ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrastain-1 (Fer-1) and the IL6/STAT3 pathway inhibitor Angoline. In conclusion, we found that MBP induced ferroptosis in TM3 cells to damage male reproductive system through the TNF/IL6/STAT signal pathway, resulting in lipid peroxidation and iron metabolite degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Guo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Anyue County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, China
| | - Yu Hao
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Huiying Ma
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Hai Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, China
- College of Clinical Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Liping Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Fengmei Yan
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
| | - Ling Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Chronic Disease Control, School of Public Health and Management, Ningxia Medical University, China
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18
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Leiber-Caspers C. Why Is There Still No "Pill for Men"? Current Developments in Hormonal and Nonhormonal Medical Contraception for Men. Eur Urol Focus 2023; 9:25-27. [PMID: 36443200 DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2022.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although hormonal contraception has been available to women for more than 60 yr, the only contraceptive options for men are still either a condom or vasectomy. This review presents current developments in hormonal and nonhormonal medical contraception for men, and perspectives for the future. Although a lot of scientific effort has been spent in identifying hormonal male contraception options in the past 40 yr, insufficient effectiveness and possible side effects mean that no official approvals have been obtained to date. Against this background, nonhormonal options for male contraception are the new field of interest. PATIENT SUMMARY: This review describes attempts to develop a reliable medical contraceptive for men, explains why there is still no "pill for men", and highlights how the future of medical contraception for men might look. For many reasons, there is an urgent need for male contraception in Europe and around the world.
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19
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Carrageta DF, Guerra-Carvalho B, Spadella MA, Yeste M, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Animal models of male reproductive ageing to study testosterone production and spermatogenesis. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1341-1360. [PMID: 35604584 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09726-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Ageing is the time-dependent gradual decline of the functional characteristics in an organism. It has been shown that it results in the loss of reproductive health and fertility. The age-dependent decline of fertility is a potential issue as the parenthood age is increasing in Western countries, mostly due to socioeconomic factors. In comparison to women, for whom the consequences of ageing are well documented and general awareness of the population is extensively raised, the effects of ageing for male fertility and the consequences of advanced paternal age for the offspring have not been widely studied. Studies with humans are welcome but it is hard to implement relevant experimental approaches to unveil the molecular mechanisms by which ageing affects male reproductive potential. Animal models have thus been extensively used. These models are advantageous due to their reduced costs, general easy maintenance in laboratory facilities, rigorous manipulation tools, short lifespan, known genetic backgrounds, and reduced ethical constraints. Herein, we discuss animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing. The most well-known and studied reproductive ageing models are rodents and non-human primates. The data collected from these models, particularly studies on testicular ageing, steroidogenesis, and genetic and epigenetic changes in spermatogenesis are detailed. Notably, some species challenge the currently accepted ageing theories and the concept of senescence itself, which renders them interesting animal models for the study of male reproductive ageing.
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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, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, QOPNA & LAQV, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, UMIB - Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS - School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003, Girona, Spain.
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20
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Ermler S, Kortenkamp A. Systematic review of associations of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) exposure with declining semen quality in support of the derivation of reference doses for mixture risk assessments. Environ Health 2022; 21:94. [PMID: 36217156 PMCID: PMC9552438 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-022-00904-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mixture risk assessments require reference doses for common health endpoints of all the chemicals to be considered together. In support of a mixture risk assessment for male reproductive health, we conducted a systematic review of the literature on associations between exposures to Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and declines in semen quality. PCBs can act as Aryl-hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR)-agonists and Androgen Receptor (AR)-antagonists, both mechanisms which can affect sperm parameters. PCBs and other AR-antagonists can produce additive combination effects. Based on these observations our objective was to systematically gather data from animal and human studies to derive a reference dose for declines in semen quality for individual PCB. METHODS We systematically reviewed and evaluated the evidence in human epidemiological and experimental animal studies on associations between PCBs and deteriorations in semen quality. Human data and findings from animal studies with PCB mixtures were considered as supporting evidence. Information for individual congeners from animal studies was required for inclusion in mixture risk assessment. Using a robust confidence rating approach, we identified suitable studies to derive reference doses for individual PCB congeners. RESULTS Evaluation of human epidemiological studies revealed several reports of adverse effects on sperm parameters linked to PCB exposures, although some studies reported improved semen quality. Our review of experimental animal studies found that treatments with PCBs affected semen quality, in most cases adversely. We found robust evidence that PCB-118 and -169 were linked to declines in semen quality. Evidence for adverse effects of PCB-126, -132, -149, and -153 was moderate, whereas for PCB-77 it was slight and for PCB-180 indeterminate. Using widely accepted risk assessment procedures, we estimated reference dose values of 0.0029 µg/kg/day for PCB-118 and 0.00533 µg/kg/day for PCB-169. In addition, we derived values for PCB-126: 0.000073 µg/kg/day, PCB-132: 0.0228 µg/kg/day, PCB-149: 0.656 µg/kg/day, and PCB-153: 0.0058 µg/kg/day. CONCLUSIONS We found robust evidence for links between PCB exposure and deteriorations in semen quality, and derived reference doses for a set of congeners. We intend to use these values in combination with congener-specific exposure data in a mixture risk assessment for declines in semen quality, involving several other antiandrogenic chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibylle Ermler
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, UK.
| | - Andreas Kortenkamp
- College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, Brunel University London, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, UK
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21
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Bao J, Guo Z, He J, Leng T, Wei Z, Wang C, Chen F. Semen parameters and sex hormones as affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection: A systematic review. Prog Urol 2022; 32:1431-1439. [PMID: 36153222 PMCID: PMC9468308 DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2022.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Impaired semen quality and reproductive hormone levels were observed in patients during and after recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which raised concerns about negative effects on male fertility. Therefore, this study systematically reviews available data on semen parameters and sex hormones in patients with COVID-19. Methods Systematic search was performed on PubMed and Google Scholar until July 18th, 2022. We identified relevant articles that discussed the effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on male fertility. Results A total number of 1,684 articles were identified by using a suitable keyword search strategy. After screening, 26 articles were considered eligible for inclusion in this study. These articles included a total of 1,960 controls and 2,106 patients. When all studies were considered, the results showed that the semen parameters and sex hormone levels of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibited some significant differences compared with controls. Fortunately, these differences gradually disappear as patients recover from COVID-19. Conclusion While present data show the negative effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male fertility, this does not appear to be long-term. Semen quality and hormone levels will gradually increase to normal as patients recover.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bao
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - Z Guo
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - J He
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - T Leng
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - Z Wei
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - C Wang
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
| | - F Chen
- Jining Medical University, 133, Hehua Road, 272067 Jining, China.
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22
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Birch MR, Johansen M, Skakkebæk NE, Andersson AM, Rehfeld A. In vitro investigation of endocrine disrupting effects of pesticides on Ca 2+-signaling in human sperm cells through actions on the sperm-specific and steroid-activated CatSper Ca 2+-channel. Environ Int 2022; 167:107399. [PMID: 35853389 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ca2+-signaling controls sperm cell functions necessary for successful fertilization. Multiple endocrine disrupting chemicals have been found to interfere with normal Ca2+-signaling in human sperm cells through an activation of the sperm-specific CatSper Ca2+-channel, which is vital for normal male fertility. OBJECTIVES We investigated 53 pesticides for their ability to interfere with CatSper mediated Ca2+-signaling and function in human sperm cells. METHODS Effects of the pesticides on Ca2+-signaling in human sperm cells were evaluated using a Ca2+-fluorometric assay. Effects via CatSper were assessed using the specific CatSper inhibitor RU1968. Effects on human sperm function and viability were assessed using an image cytometry-based acrosome reaction assay and the modified Kremer's sperm-mucus penetration assay. RESULTS 28 of 53 pesticides were found to induce Ca2+-signals in human sperm cells at 10 µM. The majority of these 28 active pesticides induced Ca2+-signals through CatSper and interfered with subsequent Ca2+-signals induced by the two endogenous CatSper ligands progesterone and prostaglandin E1. Multiple active pesticides were found to affect Ca2+-mediated sperm functions and viability at 10 µM. Low nM dose mixtures of the active pesticides alone or in combination with other environmental chemicals were found to significantly induce Ca2+-signals and inhibit Ca2+-signals induced subsequently by progesterone and prostaglandin E1. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that pesticides, both alone and in low nM dose mixtures, interfere with normal Ca2+-signaling in human sperm cells in vitro in low nM concentrations. Biomonitoring of the active pesticides in relevant matrices such as blood and reproductive fluids is very limited and the effects of real time human pesticide exposure on human sperm cells and fertility thus remains largely unknown. To which extent human pesticide exposure affects the chances of a successful fertilization in humans in vivo needs further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michala R Birch
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mathias Johansen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels E Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Rehfeld
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark; International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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23
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Chai Z, Zhang G, Ling X, Dong T, Wang J, Zhang Y, Zou P, Yang H, Zhou N, Chen Q, Zheng Y, Liu J, Cao J, Ao L. Low-level and combined exposure to environmental metal elements affects male reproductive outcomes: Prospective MARHCS study in population of college students in Chongqing, China. Sci Total Environ 2022; 828:154395. [PMID: 35276165 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male fertility has shown a continuously declining tendency for decades. Over exposure to metal/metalloid elements has been proposed as associated with reproductive impairment. However, the hazard profile remained unclear in general public experiencing low-level and combined metal exposure. METHODS Based on the MARHCS cohort in Chongqing, China, 796 college students were recruited from June 2013 and 666 subjects were followed up next year. At each phase, semen and blood samples were collected for an assessment of semen quality and six sex hormones levels. Eighteen urinary metal/metalloid elements were quantified by ICP-MS as internal exposure biomarkers. Cluster analysis was conducted to characterize reproductive outcomes in the subgroups for different overall estimated exposure levels. Effects of each metal/metalloid element were analyzed using multiple statistical strategies: single-element mixed model, multiple-elements model and self before-after comparison design. RESULTS The urine concentration for 18 metal/metalloid elements was at a typically lower level (far away from the exposure limits) and positively associated with each other. After adjustment of the potential confounders, a decrease of 11.53% (95% CI: -18.61, -3.84%) and 10.84% (95% CI: -17.93, -3.14%) in spermatid morphology was observed in the highest quantile groups of vanadium (V) and nickel (Ni), respectively. Urinary silver (Ag) was dose-dependent associated with an increase in total sperm number (6.91%, 95% CI: 1.14, 13.00%), sperm concentration (16.38%, 95% CI: 5.15, 28.81%) and semen volume (23.73%, 95% CI: 10.46, 38.60%). Further, hormone testosterone presented a significant decrease in subgroup with higher overall estimated exposure and a stable negative association with lithium (Li). The above relationships remained significant across different statistical strategies (all p values <0.05). CONCLUSION Our study provided new evidences that exposure to metal/metalloid elements potentially exert bidirectional influences on semen quality at a relatively low level. And serum testosterone appears as a vulnerable index for metal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Chai
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Xi Ling
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Tingting Dong
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jingrong Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Biomaterial Research, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin 300192, China
| | - Yanqi Zhang
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Peng Zou
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Niya Zhou
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Qing Chen
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- School of Public Health, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Jinyi Liu
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Jia Cao
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Lin Ao
- Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
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Liu R, Cai D, Li X, Liu B, Chen J, Jiang X, Li H, Li Z, Teerds K, Sun J, Bai W, Jin Y. Effects of Bisphenol A on reproductive toxicity and gut microbiota dysbiosis in male rats. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2022; 239:113623. [PMID: 35567931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental endocrine disruptor. Recent studies have shown an association between decreased spermatogenesis and gut microbiota alteration. However, the potential associations and mechanisms of BPA exposure on spermatogenesis, hormone production, and gut microbiota remain unknown. This study aims to investigate BPA-induced male reproductive toxicity and the potential link with gut microbiota dysbiosis. Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to BPA at different doses by oral gavage for thirty consecutive days. The extent of testicular damage was evaluated by basic parameters of body weight and hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining. Next, we determined the mRNA levels and protein levels of apoptosis, histone-related factors, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in testes. Finally, 16 S rDNA sequencing was used to analyze gut microbiota composition after BPA exposure. BPA exposure damaged testicular histology, significantly decreased sperm count, and increased sperm abnormalities. In addition, BPA exposure caused oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in testes. The levels of histone (H2A, H3) were significantly increased, while ubiquitin histone H2A (ub-H2A) and ubiquitin histone H2B (ub-H2B) were markedly reduced. Furthermore, BPA activated the PI3K and AKT expression, but the protein expressions of mTOR and 4EBP1 in testes were inhibited significantly. Additionally, the relative abundance of class Gammaproteobacteria, and order Betaproteobacteriales was significantly higher when treated with a high dose of BPA compared to the control group, which was negatively correlated with testosterone level. This study highlights the relationship between BPA-induced reproductive toxicity and gut microbiota disorder and provides new insights into the prevention and treatment of BPA-induced reproductive damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijing Liu
- Key Laboratory for Bio-Based Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, PR China
| | - Dongbao Cai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Xusheng Li
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Boping Liu
- Key Laboratory for Bio-Based Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, PR China
| | - Jiali Chen
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Xinwei Jiang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Haiwei Li
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Jinan University, Zhuhai 519070, PR China
| | - Katja Teerds
- Department of Animal Sciences, Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jianxia Sun
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Weibin Bai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, PR China.
| | - Yulong Jin
- Key Laboratory for Bio-Based Materials and Energy of Ministry of Education, College of Materials and Energy, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510630, PR China.
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Svingen T, Schwartz CL, Rosenmai AK, Ramhøj L, Johansson HKL, Hass U, Draskau MK, Davidsen N, Christiansen S, Ballegaard ASR, Axelstad M. Using alternative test methods to predict endocrine disruption and reproductive adverse outcomes: do we have enough knowledge? Environ Pollut 2022; 304:119242. [PMID: 35378198 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a matter of great concern. They are ubiquitous in the environment, are considered harmful to humans and wildlife, yet remain challenging to identify based on current international test guidelines and regulatory frameworks. For a compound to be identified as an EDC within the EU regulatory system, a plausible link between an endocrine mode-of-action and an adverse effect outcome in an intact organism must be established. This requires in-depth knowledge about molecular pathways regulating normal development and function in animals and humans in order to elucidate causes for disease. Although our knowledge about the role of the endocrine system in animal development and function is substantial, it remains challenging to predict endocrine-related disease outcomes in intact animals based on non-animal test data. A main reason for this is that our knowledge about mechanism-of-action are still lacking for essential causal components, coupled with the sizeable challenge of mimicking the complex multi-organ endocrine system by methodological reductionism. Herein, we highlight this challenge by drawing examples from male reproductive toxicity, which is an area that has been at the forefront of EDC research since its inception. We discuss the importance of increased focus on characterizing mechanism-of-action for EDC-induced adverse health effects. This is so we can design more robust and reliable testing strategies using non-animal test methods for predictive toxicology; both to improve chemical risk assessment in general, but also to allow for considerable reduction and replacement of animal experiments in chemicals testing of the 21st Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Louise Ramhøj
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Ulla Hass
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Monica Kam Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Nichlas Davidsen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Sofie Christiansen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Marta Axelstad
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
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26
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Xie Y, Mirzaei M, Kahrizi MS, Shabestari AM, Riahi SM, Farsimadan M, Roviello G. SARS-CoV-2 effects on sperm parameters: a meta-analysis study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1555-1563. [PMID: 35716338 PMCID: PMC9206101 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02540-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim The rapid outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic posed challenges across different medical fields, especially reproductive health, and gave rise to concerns regarding the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male infertility, owing to the fact that the male reproductive system indicated to be extremely vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Only a small number of studies have investigated the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male reproduction, but the results are not consistent. So, we performed this meta-analysis to draw a clearer picture and evaluate the impacts of COVID-19 on male reproductive system. Method We searched Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases to identify the potentially relevant studies. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was applied to assess the relationship. Heterogeneity testing, sensitivity analysis, and publication bias testing were also performed. Results A total of twelve studies including 7 case control investigations and 5 retrospective cohort studies were found relevant and chosen for our research. Our result showed that different sperm parameters including semen volume [SMD = − 0.27 (− 0.46, − 1.48) (p = 0.00)], sperm concentration [SMD = − 0.41 (− 0.67, − 0.15) (p = 0.002)], sperm count [SMD = − 0.30 (− 0.44, − 0.17) (p = 0.00)], sperm motility [SMD = − 0.66 (− 0.98, − 0.33) (p = 0.00)], and progressive motility [SMD = − 0.35 (− 0.61, − 0.08) (p = 0.01)] were negatively influenced by SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, sperm concentration (p = 0.07) and progressive motility (p = 0.61) were not found to be significantly associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in case control studies. No publication bias was detected. Conclusion The present study revealed the vulnerability of semen quality to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our data showed a strong association of different sperm parameters with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The results suggested that SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients may negatively influence their fertility potential in a short-term period, but more studies are needed to decide about the long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanzhi Xie
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Mina Mirzaei
- Department of Chemistry, Roudehen Branch, Islamic Azad University, Roudehen, Iran
| | | | | | - Seyed Mohammad Riahi
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Marziye Farsimadan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
| | - Giandomenico Roviello
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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Awang-Junaidi AH, Fayaz MA, Goldstein S, Honaramooz A. Using a testis regeneration model, FGF9, LIF, and SCF improve testis cord formation while RA enhances gonocyte survival. Cell Tissue Res 2022; 389:351-370. [PMID: 35596812 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-022-03641-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Implantation of testis cell aggregates from various donors under the back skin of recipient mice results in de novo formation of testis tissue. We used this implantation model to study the putative in vivo effects of six different growth factors on testis cord development. Recipient mice (n = 7/group) were implanted with eight neonatal porcine testis cell aggregates that were first exposed to a designated growth factor: FGF2 at 1 µg/mL, FGF9 at 5 µg/mL, VEGF at 3.5 µg/mL, LIF at 5 µg/mL, SCF at 3.5 µg/mL, retinoic acid (RA) at 3.5 × 10-5 M, or no growth factors (control). The newly developed seminiferous cords (SC) were classified based on their morphology into regular, irregular, enlarged, or aberrant. Certain treatments enhanced implant weight (LIF), implant cross-sectional area (SCF) or the relative cross-sectional area covered by SC within implants (FGF2). RA promoted the formation of enlarged SC and FGF2 led to the highest ratio of regular SC and the lowest ratio of aberrant SC. Rete testis-like structures appeared earlier in implants treated with FGF2, FGF9, or LIF. These results show that even brief pre-implantation exposure of testis cells to these growth factors can have profound effects on morphogenesis of testis cords using this implantation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awang Hazmi Awang-Junaidi
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada.,Department of Veterinary Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Amin Fayaz
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Savannah Goldstein
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Ali Honaramooz
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada.
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He H, Chen W, Wei Y, Zhang T, Geng W, Zhai J. Effects of perinatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the reproductive system of F3 generation male rodents: a meta-analysis. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2022; 29:33218-33229. [PMID: 35022983 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-18338-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
To explore the relationship between perinatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and the male reproductive system of F3 generation, and to evaluate the toxicological effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the reproductive system of F3 generation male rodents. PubMed and Web of Science databases were searched to obtain the studies; overall risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used to evaluate the relationship between exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and reproductive system damage in F3 generation male rodents. Nine studies were included for analysis. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are significantly associated with the reproductive system of male rodents of F3 generation, especially the testis (RR = 3.13, 95% CI: 2.05, 4.76), prostate (RR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.27, 4.00), and kidney (RR = 2.83, 95% CI: 1.77, 4.52), but the current analysis does not prove that EDCs are the adverse factors for puberty abnormalities. The results indicated that the overall associations between atrazine (RR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.10, 8.51, P = 0.032), DDT (RR = 6.26, 95% CI: 1.56, 25.08, P = 0.010), pesticide and insect repellent mixture (permethrin and DEET) (RR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.34, 3.69, P = 0.002), and vinclozolin (RR = 4.71, 95% CI: 2.74, 8.10, P = 0.000) and reproductive system damage in F3 generation male rodents were statistically significant. Our study indicated that EDCs have an atavistic effect on the male reproductive system, and we should pay attention to the long-term effects of environmental exposure to endocrine disruptors in future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan He
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Wenjing Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yu Wei
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Taifa Zhang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Wenfeng Geng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Jinxia Zhai
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Meishan Rd 81, Hefei, 230032, China.
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Yuan G, Ma Y, Zeng Y, Pan H, Liu P, Liu Y, Liu G, Cheng J, Guo Y. Associations between low-dose triclosan exposure and semen quality in a Chinese population. Environ Pollut 2022; 299:118926. [PMID: 35101560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The antimicrobial agent triclosan (TCS) has attracted much attention worldwide because of its pervasive existence in the human body and environment. TCS exposure has been reported to be associated with decreased male reproductive function. However, few studies have investigated these associations in humans. OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between TCS in urine and male semen quality. METHODS A total of 406 men from a reproductive clinic were enrolled in this study. Urinary TCS concentrations were determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Sixteen semen parameters were assessed according to the guidelines of World Health Organization (WHO), including parameters for volume, count, motility, and motion. We used multivariate linear regression models and restricted cubic splines to estimate the linear and non-linear associations between TCS exposure and semen parameters, respectively. Logistical regression models were further applied to explore the associations with abnormal semen quality. RESULTS TCS was detected in 74.6% of urine specimens. The monotonous trend of TCS tertiles and continuous TCS levels with all semen quality parameters were not observed in multivariate linear regression models (p > 0.05). However, compared with those in the lowest tertile, subjects in the second tertile showed significantly higher linearity and wobble (p < 0.05), indicating potential effects on sperm motion. In the models using restricted cubic splines with 3-5 knots, there were no significant non-linear associations between TCS exposure and any semen quality parameter. In addition, TCS tertiles were not associated with the risk of abnormal semen quality (i.e., count and motility) in the logistical regression models. CONCLUSION Our results revealed that low-level TCS exposure may have limited (none or modest) effects on male semen quality, potentially inducing some fluctuations. Further mechanistic studies on low levels of exposure are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanxiang Yuan
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuxing Zeng
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Haibin Pan
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Peiyi Liu
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China; Affiliated Shenzhen Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, No. 3012 Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518028, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Shenzhen People's Hospital, Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guihua Liu
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jinquan Cheng
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yinsheng Guo
- Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen, China.
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Choy KHK, Chan SY, Lam W, Jin J, Zheng T, Law TYS, Yu SS, Wang W, Li L, Xie G, Yim HCH, Chen H, Fok EKL. The repertoire of testicular extracellular vesicle cargoes and their involvement in inter-compartmental communication associated with spermatogenesis. BMC Biol 2022; 20:78. [PMID: 35351114 PMCID: PMC8966158 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01268-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spermatogenesis is regulated by a complex network of intercellular communication processes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are one of the important mediators in intercellular communication. Previous reports have demonstrated the involvement of EVs from the epididymis and prostate in sperm maturation and function. However, the presence of EVs in the testis and their potential involvement in spermatogenesis has not been explored. Here, we have established a testis dissociation protocol that allows the isolation and characterization of testicular EVs. Results We show that testicular EVs are specifically and efficiently taken up by somatic cells and germ cells, including the spermatozoa in the interstitial space and the seminiferous tubule compartments. We profiled the proteome of testicular EVs and probed the cell types that release them, revealing the potential contributions from the Leydig cells and testicular macrophages. Moreover, we sequenced the small RNA cargoes of testicular EVs and identified sets of small non-coding RNAs that were overlooked in the testis transcriptome. Selected miRNA candidates in testicular EVs were found in sperm RNA payload and demonstrated specific resistance towards ribonuclease A independent of the vesicle membrane. Small molecule inhibition of EV secretion perturbed spermatogenesis via inter-compartmental communication. Conclusions Together, our study provides a valuable resource on the repertoire of cargoes carried by testicular EVs and uncovers a physiological function of testicular EVs in inter-compartmental communication associated to spermatogenesis. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01268-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Hoi Kei Choy
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sze Yan Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - William Lam
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Jing Jin
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Tingting Zheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Tin Yu Samuel Law
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Sidney Siubun Yu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Weiping Wang
- Dr. Li Dak-Sum Research Centre, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Linxian Li
- Ming Wai Lau Centre for Reparative Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Gangcai Xie
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China
| | - Howard Chi Ho Yim
- Microbiome Research Centre, St George and Sutherland Clinical School, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hao Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ellis Kin Lam Fok
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China. .,Sichuan University-The Chinese University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, West China Second University Hospital, Chengdu, People's Republic of China.
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Ermler S, Kortenkamp A. Declining semen quality and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs): Review of the literature to support the derivation of a reference dose for a mixture risk assessment. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 242:113953. [PMID: 35334436 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
To support a mixture risk assessment for chemicals that interfere with male reproductive health, we reviewed the literature to identify studies of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and poor semen quality. Several epidemiological studies have shown associations of PBDE exposures with declining semen quality, non-descending testes and penile malformations. In rodent studies, poor semen quality, changes in testosterone levels and reproductive tissues have been observed. In vitro studies with reporter gene constructs show PBDE congeners as androgen receptor antagonists, and mixture studies in these systems have demonstrated that PBDE congeners act together with other androgen receptor antagonists. These observations led us to attempt the estimation of reference doses for specific PBDE congeners that can be used in a future mixture risk assessment for deteriorations of semen quality. While epidemiological studies provide support for such associations, they were uninformative for derivations of reference doses, due to the incompatibility of dose metrics used in exposure assessments. We therefore based our estimates on animal studies. Using a rigorous confidence rating approach, we found robust evidence that BDE-47 produced reductions in semen quality. We identified only one high confidence study of BDE-99 and accordingly evaluated the strength of evidence as moderate. One high confidence, and several medium confidence experimental studies observed declines in semen quality after BDE-209 exposure. Using established risk assessment procedures, we estimated that BDE-47 exposures below 0.15 μg/kg/d are unlikely to lead to reductions in semen quality. The corresponding exposures for BDE-99 and BDE-209 are 0.003 μg/kg/d and 1000 μg/kg/d. It is planned to use these estimates as reference doses in a mixture risk assessment of deteriorations in semen quality, involving multiple other chemicals also contributing to poor semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibylle Ermler
- Brunel University London, Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom.
| | - Andreas Kortenkamp
- Brunel University London, Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, United Kingdom
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Huang T, Zhang W, Lin T, Liu S, Sun Z, Liu F, Yuan Y, Xiang X, Kuang H, Yang B, Zhang D. Maternal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics during gestation and lactation induces hepatic and testicular toxicity in male mouse offspring. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 160:112803. [PMID: 34990788 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2021.112803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics have raised considerable concerns since their ubiquity in the environment and potential hazard to health. It has been proven that polystyrene nanoparticles (PS-NPs) can be maternally transferred to the offspring. In this study, mice were exposed gestationally and lactationally to PS-NPs (size 100 nm) at different doses (0.1, 1 and 10 mg/L) to investigate the trans-generational poisonousness. Our data illustrated that maternal PS-NPs exposure in pregnancy and lactation resulted in a decline in birth and postnatal body weight in offspring mice. Furthermore, high-dose PS-NPs reduced liver weight, triggered oxidative stress, caused inflammatory cell infiltration, up-regulated proinflammatory cytokine expression, and disturbed glycometabolism in the liver of male offspring mice. In addition, pre- and postnatal PS-NPs exposure diminished testis weight, disrupted seminiferous epithelium and decreased sperm count in mouse offspring. Moreover, PS-NPs induced testicular oxidative injury, as presented by increased malondialdehyde generation and altered superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in the testis of offspring mice. These findings declared that maternal exposure to PS-NPs in pregnancy and lactation can cause hepatic and testicular toxicity in male mouse pups, which put forward new understanding into the detrimental effects of nanoplastics on mammalian offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Huang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Tingting Lin
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Shujuan Liu
- Reproductive Hospital, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, 330004, PR China
| | - Zhangbei Sun
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Fangming Liu
- Nursing School of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Yangyang Yuan
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Xiting Xiang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Haibin Kuang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Bei Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China
| | - Dalei Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, PR China.
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Ma X, Wang B, Li Z, Ding X, Wen Y, Shan W, Hu W, Wang X, Xia Y. Effects of glufosinate-ammonium on male reproductive health: Focus on epigenome and transcriptome in mouse sperm. Chemosphere 2022; 287:132395. [PMID: 34597628 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Glufosinate-ammonium (GLA) is a widely used herbicide with emerging concern over its neural and reproductive toxicity. To uncover potential effects of GLA on male reproductive health in mammals, adult male C57BL/6J mice were administered 0.2 mg/kg·d GLA for 5 weeks. After examination on fertility, testis histology and semen quality in the GLA group, we performed deep sequencing to identify repressive epigenetic marks including DNA methylation and histone modifications (H3K27me3 and H3K9me3), together with mRNA transcript levels in sperm. Then, we integrated multi-omics sequencing data to comprehensively explore GLA-induced epigenetic and transcriptomic alterations. We found no significant difference either on fertility, testis histology or semen quality-related indicators. As for epigenome, the protein level of H3K27me3 was significantly increased in GLA sperm. Next generation sequencing showed alterations of these epigenetic marks and extensive transcription inhibition in sperm. These differential repressive marks were mainly distributed at intergenic regions and introns. According to results by Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, both differentially methylated and expressed genes were mainly enriched in pathways related to synapse organization. Subtle differences in genomic imprinting were also observed between the two groups. These results suggested that GLA predominantly impaired sperm epigenome and transcriptome in mice, with little effect on fertility, testis histology or semen quality. Further studies on human sperm using similar strategies need to be conducted for a better understanding of the male reproductive toxicity of GLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Bingqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhe Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xingwang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Ya Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Wenqi Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Weiyue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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Sayed TS, Balasinor NH, Nishi K. Diverse role of endocannabinoid system in mammalian male reproduction. Life Sci 2021; 286:120035. [PMID: 34637799 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is known for its modulatory role in numerous physiological processes in the body. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous lipid molecules which function both centrally and peripherally. The ECS is best studied in the central nervous system (CNS), immune system as well as in the metabolic system. The role of ECS in male reproductive system is emerging and the presence of a complete enzymatic machinery to synthesize and metabolize eCBs has been demonstrated in male reproductive tract. Endocannabinoid concentrations and alterations in their levels have been reported to affect the functioning of spermatozoa. A dysfunctional ECS has also been linked to the development of prostate cancer, the leading cause of cancer related mortality among male population. This review is an attempt to provide an insight into the significant role of endocannabinoids in male reproduction and further summarize recent findings that demonstrate the manner in which the endocannabinoid system impacts male sexual behavior and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen S Sayed
- Department of Biotechnology, R.D. and S.H. National College and S.W.A Science College, Mumbai 400050, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Kumari Nishi
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
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Alcantara-Zapata DE, Llanos AJ, Nazzal C. High altitude exposure affects male reproductive parameters: Could it also affect the prostate?†. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:385-396. [PMID: 34725677 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Living at high altitudes and living with prostatic illness are two different conditions closely related to a hypoxic environment. People at high altitudes exposed to acute, chronic, or intermittent hypobaric hypoxia turn on several mechanisms at the system, cellular and molecular level to cope with oxygen atmosphere scarcity maintaining the oxygen homeostasis. This exposure affects the whole organism and function of many systems, such as cardiovascular, respiratory, and reproductive. On the other hand, malignant prostate is related to the scarcity of oxygen in the tissue microenvironment due to its low availability and high consumption due to the swift cell proliferation rates. Based on the literature, this similarity in the oxygen scarcity suggests that hypobaric hypoxia, and other common factors between these two conditions, could be involved in the aggravation of the pathological prostatic status. However, there is still a lack of evidence in the association of this disease in males at high altitudes. This review aims to examine the possible mechanisms that hypobaric hypoxia might negatively add to the pathological prostate function in males who live and work at high altitudes. More profound investigations of hypobaric hypoxia's direct action on the prostate could help understand this exposure's effect and prevent worse prostate illness impact in males at high altitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aníbal J Llanos
- Laboratorio de Fisiología y Fisiopatología del Desarrollo, Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Centro Internacional de Estudios Andinos (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Nazzal
- Department of Epidemiology. School of Public Health. Faculty of Medicine. University of Chile
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Lei H, Rao M. The role of humanin in the regulation of reproduction. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2021; 1866:130023. [PMID: 34626748 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2021.130023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Humanin, a mitochondria-derived peptide, has been found to exert variously protective function in many tissues, especially in the nervous tissues. However, relatively limited studies have focused on the role of humanin in the regulation of reproduction. Current observations indicate that humanin plays an important role in regulating the response of the cell to oxidative stress and apoptosis in ovaries and testes via the modulation of several signaling pathways, especially when the body is in an abnormal state. Even so, the detailed mechanism of humanin function needs to be explored urgently. In this passage, we demonstrate how humanin exerts its protective role in female and male reproduction and raise several questions that need further investigations. Given humanin's new frontier for the design of novel therapeutic approaches for male infertility, male contraception, female infertility, and glucose metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome, it is worthy of further study on its protective effects and clinical applications in reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lei
- Gynecology Department, Taikang Tongji (Wuhan) Hospital, Wuhan 430000, China
| | - Meng Rao
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650032, China.
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Jorgensen A, Svingen T, Miles H, Chetty T, Stukenborg JB, Mitchell RT. Environmental Impacts on Male Reproductive Development: Lessons from Experimental Models. Horm Res Paediatr 2021; 96:190-206. [PMID: 34607330 DOI: 10.1159/000519964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male reproductive development in mammals can be divided into a gonadal formation phase followed by a hormone-driven differentiation phase. Failure of these processes may result in Differences in Sex Development (DSD), which may include abnormalities of the male reproductive tract, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, infertility, and testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC). These disorders are also considered to be part of a testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) in males. Whilst DSDs are considered to result primarily from genetic abnormalities, the development of TDS disorders is frequently associated with environmental factors. SUMMARY In this review, we will discuss the development of the male reproductive system in relation to DSD and TDS. We will also describe the experimental systems, including studies involving animals and human tissues or cells that can be used to investigate the role of environmental factors in inducing male reproductive disorders. We will discuss recent studies investigating the impact of environmental chemicals (e.g., phthalates and bisphenols), lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking) and pharmaceuticals (e.g., analgesics) on foetal testis development. Finally, we will describe the evidence, involving experimental and epidemiologic approaches, for a role of environmental factors in the development of specific male reproductive disorders, including cryptorchidism, hypospadias, and TGCC. Key Messages: Environmental exposures can impact the development and function of the male reproductive system in humans. Epidemiology studies and experimental approaches using human tissues are important to translate findings from animal studies and account for species differences in response to environmental exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Jorgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Terje Svingen
- Division of Diet, Disease Prevention and Toxicology, National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Harriet Miles
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Tarini Chetty
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Yang Z, Xu R, Wang Q, Fan Z, Wang Y, Liu T, Xu L, Shi C, Duan Y, Zhang X, Liu Y. Association of exposure to residential greenness with semen quality: A retrospective longitudinal study of sperm donation volunteers in Guangdong province, China. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021; 220:112396. [PMID: 34098427 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to residential greenness has been associated with benefits on certain reproductive health outcomes. However, its potential benefits on semen quality remain unknown. OBJECTIVES To quantitatively explore the association between exposure to residential greenness and semen quality. METHODS We investigated 9142 sperm donation volunteers who underwent 38,682 semen examinations at Guangdong provincial human sperm bank in China during 2016-2019. Exposure to residential greenness was assessed using mean daily Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) at each subject's residential address with a 400 m buffer during 0-90 days before each semen collection. Multivariate linear mixed models and linear regression models were used to assess the association between exposure to residential greenness and semen quality. RESULTS An interquartile range increase in exposure to residential greenness was significantly associated with a 0.034 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.005, 0.063) ml, 4.06 (95% CI: 0.76, 7.37) × 106, and 0.32% (95% CI: 0.22%, 0.41%) increase in semen volume, total sperm number, and normal forms, respectively; similar trends were observed across quartiles of exposure to residential greenness (all p-values for liner trend <0.05 except for semen volume). The association of greenness exposure with semen volume and total sperm number was stronger in subjects 18-25 years, while the association with normal forms was stronger in subjects 26 years or older. The association for sperm concentration, total sperm number, and normal forms were stronger in cool season, while the association for semen volume was stronger in warm season. CONCLUSION We found that exposure to residential greenness was significantly associated with higher semen quality. Further studies are warranted to determine the causality of the association and its underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyu Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China; Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Ruijun Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Qiling Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Zhaoyu Fan
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Yaqi Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Luxi Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China
| | - Chunxiang Shi
- National Meteorological Information Center, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yonggang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Centre of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Xinzong Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
| | - Yuewei Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, China.
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Rahman MS, Pang WK, Ryu DY, Park YJ, Ryu BY, Pang MG. Multigenerational impacts of gestational bisphenol A exposure on the sperm function and fertility of male mice. J Hazard Mater 2021; 416:125791. [PMID: 33839502 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that developmental exposure to bisphenol A (BPA)-a synthetic endocrine disruptor-causes atypical reproductive phenotypes that may persist for generations. However, the precise mechanism(s) by which BPA causes these adverse consequences is unclear. Here, pregnant female mice were orally exposed to 50 μg, 5 mg, and 50 mg BPA/kg body weight (bw)/day from 7 to 14 days of gestation. Corn oil treatments were used as control. The first filial generation (F1) and F2 males were used to generate F3 by mating them with unexposed females. High BPA doses impaired F1 and/or F1-F2 (multigenerational effect) male reproduction (i.e., disrupted testicular germ cell organization and spermatogenesis, altered sperm biochemical properties, and decreased sperm count, motility, and fertility) but not that of F3 males (transgenerational effect). Moreover, the observed multigenerational transmission of the abnormal reproductive traits was associated with alterations in the sperm DNA methylation patterns of specific male generations, with substantial proteomic changes in F1-F3 at the highest BPA dose. Given that the proteins related to male fertility and epigenetic modification are highly conserved among vertebrates, our findings may shed light on how exposure to environmental factors during pregnancy affects fertility in future generations in both humans and the other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Ki Pang
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Yeal Ryu
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Park
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Buom-Yong Ryu
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Geol Pang
- Department of Animal Science & Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do 17546, Republic of Korea.
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Sudirman S, Su CY, Tsou D, Lee MC, Kong ZL. Hippocampus kuda protein hydrolysate improves male reproductive dysfunction in diabetic rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111760. [PMID: 34052566 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The global prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rapidly increasing. This disease is associated with many complications including male reproductive dysfunctions and infertility. Seahorse ( Hippocampus kuda) is a marine teleost fish well known for its beneficial effects on the reproductive system in traditional Chinese medicine books. Recently, several studies have been shown that the enzymatic hydrolysate of seahorse has multiple pharmacological activities. This study aimed to investigate the seahorse peptide hydrolysate (SH) ameliorative effects on the diabetic-induced male reproductive dysfunction in rat models. The in vivo studies were carried out with three different doses of SH (4, 8, and 20 mg/kg) and the diabetes condition was induced by administrating with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg) and fed a 40% high-fat diet. Seahorse hydrolysate (20 mg/kg) inhibited lipid peroxidation, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and restored seminiferous tubules morphology in testis. Moreover, it improved reproductive dysfunction by increasing the level of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, sperm count, and motility. According to these results, we suggested that SH exhibited amelioration effects on the reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabri Sudirman
- Fisheries Product Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya, Indralaya 30862, Indonesia.
| | - Chieh-Yu Su
- Department of Food Science; National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City 20224, Taiwan.
| | - David Tsou
- Department of Food Science; National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City 20224, Taiwan.
| | - Meng-Chou Lee
- Department of Aquaculture, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City 20224, Taiwan.
| | - Zwe-Ling Kong
- Department of Food Science; National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City 20224, Taiwan.
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Maistrelli C, Hüneke H, Langeheine M, Keuling O, Siebert U, Brehm R. Precocious puberty in male wild boars: a possible explanation for the dramatic population increase in Germany and Europe. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11798. [PMID: 34322327 PMCID: PMC8300498 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The wild boar population in Europe is steadily growing, one of the reasons for this increase probably being the high reproductive potential of this large mammal. Population management is important to stabilise wild boar numbers and a great deal of attention is focusing on the reasons, which might contribute to the high reproductive rates. Understanding the timing of puberty attainment provides information required for proper management practices. Knowledge of the earliest expected time of sexual maturation in male wild boars is limited, research being mostly focused on females. Previous hunting references indicate that sexual maturity in males occurs in the second year after birth. In contrast, male domestic pigs become sexually mature from about seven months of age. Thus, aims of this study were to investigate (1) whether there is a physiological ability for reproduction also in male wild boars of a younger age and (2) whether the body weight of wild boar males has a more important role than age in driving the maturation of the testis. Methods Male wild boar individuals were sampled during hunting drives in the eastern part of Lower Saxony in Germany. Testes with epididymides from 74 males were collected and prepared for histological examination and immunohistochemistry. The reproductive status could be ascertained based on development/occurrence of different germ cell populations using histology and based on the immunohistochemical detection of the anti-Müllerian hormone and androgen receptor. Results In this study, male wild boars aged nine to ten months already passed puberty and were able to reproduce if they had reached the appropriate body condition of about 29 kg dressed weight. Immunopositivity to the anti-Müllerian hormone in Sertoli cells was evident only in prepubertal animals and decreased with the onset of puberty. No immunoreaction was evident at postpuberty. The androgen receptor was detected in Sertoli cells, peritubular cells and Leydig cells, surprisingly already in Sertoli cells of prepubertal wild boars as well depending on body weight. Moreover, two-thirds of young males aged about ten months were precociously reproductively mature, showing histologically the presence of spermatozoa in testes and epididymides. Conclusions As piglets are mostly born in spring, also these young male individuals could target the heat of female wild boars in the winter months, resulting in the observed population increase. Therefore, a reduction in wild boar numbers should also focus on piglets of both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Maistrelli
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hanna Hüneke
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Langeheine
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Oliver Keuling
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ursula Siebert
- Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ralph Brehm
- Institute for Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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Oberska P, Michałek K. Aquaporins: New markers for male (in)fertility in livestock and poultry? Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 231:106807. [PMID: 34303091 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Improving the methods utilized to facilitate reproduction is associated with a constant need to search for new factors that not only significantly affect reproductive processes, but also create new possibilities when assessing male reproductive potential. Aquaporins (AQPs) belong to a family of small (28-30 kDa) proteins that facilitate the transport of water and other small molecules. There have been 13 AQPs (AQP0-AQP12) discovered in mammals, and these proteins are present in a wide range of cell types. Almost all AQPs, except AQP6 and AQP12 are present in the male reproductive organs and sperm of mammals and birds. Increasing evidence suggests that these proteins are involved in a number of processes responsible for the optimal functioning of the male reproductive system. This review presents the current state of knowledge regarding the abundance and distribution of AQPs in the male reproductive organs and sperm of various livestock and poultry species, including buffalo, cattle, sheep, horses, pigs, turkeys and goose. Furthermore, the possible physiological and pathophysiological significance of AQPs in male reproduction, as well as hormonal regulation of quantities are discussed. It can be concluded from the studies analyzed in this paper that abundance patterns of AQPs may be considered in the future as specific and universal biomarkers of male fertility and infertility in animal husbandry.
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Moshrefi M, Ghasemi-Esmailabad S, Ali J, Findikli N, Mangoli E, Khalili MA. The probable destructive mechanisms behind COVID-19 on male reproduction system and fertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1691-1708. [PMID: 33977466 PMCID: PMC8112744 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study aims to summarize the current understanding of probable mechanisms and claims of adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male fertility potential. METHODS Our search was including original articles, reviews, guidelines, letters to the editor, comments on guidelines, and editorials, regarding the male reproductive system. We used the words SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, "2019 ncov," testis, sperm, male factor infertility, fertility treatment, semen, assisted reproductive technology (ART), sexual transmission, and ACE2. RESULTS Data showed coronavirus affects men more than women because of more expression of 2019 nCoV receptors (ACE2 and TMPRSS2) in testicular cells. Also, "Bioinformatics Analysis" suggests that sperm production may be damaged, since "Pseudo Time Analysis" has shown disruption in spermatogenesis. "Gene Ontology" (GO) showed an increase in viral reproduction and a decrease in sperm production-related terms. Recently, SARS-COV-2 mRNA and protein were detected in the semen of patients that had recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, the probable disruption of blood-testis barrier (BTB) in febrile diseases is suspected in the acute phase of the disease enabling viral entry into the testes. Not only is spermatogenesis disturbed, but also disturbs gonadotropin, androgens, and testosterone secretion during SARS-CoV-2 infection. No sexual transmission has been reported yet; however, detection of the virus in semen still makes the sexual transmission an open question. CONCLUSION There is a concern that male fertility may be disturbed after the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, follow-up of the reproductive functions and male fertility may be necessary in recovered cases, especially in aged men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Moshrefi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Medical Nanotechnology & Tissue Engineering Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Jaffar Ali
- Synbios Media, www.synbiosmedia.com, P.O. Box 02042, GPO, Shah Alam, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Necati Findikli
- Bahceci Fulya Assisted Reproduction Center, Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Bioengineering, Beykent University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esmat Mangoli
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Souza MR, Mazaro-Costa R, Rocha TL. Can nanomaterials induce reproductive toxicity in male mammals? A historical and critical review. Sci Total Environ 2021; 769:144354. [PMID: 33736249 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The nanotechnology enabled the development of nanomaterials (NMs) with a variety of industrial, biomedical, and consumer applications. However, the mechanism of action (MoA) and toxicity of NMs remain unclear, especially in the male reproductive system. Thus, this study aimed to perform a bibliometric and systematic review of the literature on the toxic effects of different types of NMs on the male reproductive system and function in mammalian models. A series of 236 articles related to the in vitro and in vivo reproductive toxicity of NMs in mammalian models were analyzed. The data concerning the bioaccumulation, experimental conditions (types of NMs, species, cell lines, exposure period, and routes of exposure), and the MoA and toxicity of NMs were summarized and discussed. Results showed that this field of research began in 2005 and has experienced an exponential increase since 2012. Revised data confirmed that the NMs have the ability to cross the blood-testis barrier and bioaccumulate in several organs of the male reproductive system, such as testis, prostate, epididymis, and seminal vesicle. A similar MoA and toxicity were observed after in vitro and in vivo exposure to NMs. The NM reproductive toxicity was mainly related to ROS production, oxidative stress, DNA damage and apoptosis. In conclusion, the NM exposure induces bioaccumulation and toxic effects on male reproductive system of mammal models, confirming its potential risk to human and environmental health. The knowledge concerning the NM reproductive toxicity contributes to safety and sustainable use of nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maingredy Rodrigues Souza
- Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil; Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Renata Mazaro-Costa
- Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Thiago Lopes Rocha
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiás, Brazil.
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Williams RS, Curnick DJ, Brownlow A, Barber JL, Barnett J, Davison NJ, Deaville R, Ten Doeschate M, Perkins M, Jepson PD, Jobling S. Polychlorinated biphenyls are associated with reduced testes weights in harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena). Environ Int 2021; 150:106303. [PMID: 33454091 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2020.106303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are highly toxic and persistent aquatic pollutants that are known to bioaccumulate in a variety of marine mammals. They have been associated with reduced recruitment rates and population declines in multiple species. Evidence to date documents effects of PCB exposures on female reproduction, but few studies have investigated whether PCB exposure impacts male fertility. Using blubber tissue samples of 99 adult and 168 juvenile UK-stranded harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) collected between 1991 and 2017, here we show that PCBs exposures are associated with reduced testes weights in adults with good body condition. In animals with poor body condition, however, the impact of PCBs on testes weights was reduced, conceivably due to testes weights being limited by nutritional stress. This is the first study to investigate the relationship between PCB contaminant burden and testes weights in cetaceans and represents a substantial advance in our understanding of the relationship between PCB exposures and male reproductive biology in cetaceans. As testes weight is a strong indicator of male fertility in seasonally breeding mammals, we suggest the inclusion of such effects in population level impact assessments involving PCB exposures. Given the re-emergent PCB threat our findings are globally significant, with potentially serious implications for long-lived mammals. We show that more effective PCB controls could have a substantial impact on the reproductive health of coastal cetacean species and that management actions may need to be escalated to ensure adequate protection of the most vulnerable cetacean populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosie S Williams
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK; Department of Life Sciences, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK.
| | - David J Curnick
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Andrew Brownlow
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, SRUC Veterinary Services, Drummondhill, Inverness IV2 4JZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Jonathan L Barber
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS), Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - James Barnett
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Falmouth, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Nicholas J Davison
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, SRUC Veterinary Services, Drummondhill, Inverness IV2 4JZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Robert Deaville
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Mariel Ten Doeschate
- Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, SRUC Veterinary Services, Drummondhill, Inverness IV2 4JZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Matthew Perkins
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Paul D Jepson
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Susan Jobling
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute of Environment, Health and Societies, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, UK
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Azhar NA, Paul BT, Jesse FFA, Chung ELT, Isa KM, Lila MAM, Haron AW. Responses of testosterone hormone and important inflammatory cytokines in bucks after challenge with Mannheimia haemolytica A2 and its LPS endotoxin. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 53:242. [PMID: 33811523 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-02683-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that Mannheimia haemolytica A2 is the principal microorganism causing pneumonic mannheimiosis, a major bacterial respiratory disease among sheep and goats. The effect of this bacteria on the respiratory system is well-established. However, its effect on the reproductive physiology remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the alterations in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and testosterone hormone post-inoculation with M. haemolytica serotype A2 and its lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin which were hypothesized to affect the reproductive functions of bucks. Twelve clinically healthy adult male goats were divided equally into three groups. Goats in group 1 were treated with 2 ml of sterile phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) pH 7.0 intranasally (negative control), group 2 with 2 ml of 109 colony-forming unit (CFU) of M. haemolytica serotype A2 intranasally (positive control), and group 3 were treated with 2 ml of lipopolysaccharide extracted from 109 CFU of M. haemolytica serotype A2 intravenously. Following inoculation, blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture into plain tubes at pre-determined intervals for serum collection to determine the concentration of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and testosterone hormone by using commercial ELISA test kits. Results from this study demonstrated that the inoculation of M. haemolytica A2 and its LPS increases the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines but decreases the concentration of testosterone hormone in challenged animals at most time points throughout the 56 days experimental period (p < 0.05). This study suggests that the M. haemolytica A2 and its LPS could alter the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines and testosterone hormone, which in turn, may negatively affect the reproductive functions of bucks.
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Loganathan C, Kannan A, Panneerselvam A, Mariajoseph-Antony LF, Kumar SA, Anbarasu K, Prahalathan C. The possible role of sirtuins in male reproduction. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:2857-2867. [PMID: 33738675 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04116-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Global influence of male infertility is increasing in recent decades. Proper understanding of genetics, anatomy, physiology and the intricate interrelation of male reproductive system are much needed for explaining the etiology of male infertility; and a detailed study on the epigenetics, indeed, will reveal the molecular mechanism behind its etiology. Sirtuins, the molecular sensors, are NAD+ dependent histone deacetylases and ADP- ribosyl transferases, participate in the chief events of epigenetics. In mammals, sirtuin family comprises seven members (SIRT1-SIRT7), and they all possess a conserved NAD+ binding catalytic domain, termed the sirtuin core domain which is imperative for their activity. Sirtuins exert a pivotal role in cellular homeostasis, energy metabolism, apoptosis, age-related disorders and male reproductive system. However, their exact role in male reproduction is still obscure. This article specifically reviews the role of mammalian sirtuins in male reproductive function, thereby, prompting further research to discover the restorative methods and its implementation in reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chithra Loganathan
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India
| | - Arun Kannan
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India
| | - Antojenifer Panneerselvam
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India
| | - Lezy Flora Mariajoseph-Antony
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India
| | | | - Kumarasamy Anbarasu
- Microbial Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India
| | - Chidambaram Prahalathan
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India. .,Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Centre for Excellence in Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620 024, India.
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Hess RA, Sharpe RM, Hinton BT. Estrogens and development of the rete testis, efferent ductules, epididymis and vas deferens. Differentiation 2021; 118:41-71. [PMID: 33441255 PMCID: PMC8026493 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen has always been considered the female hormone and testosterone the male hormone. However, estrogen's presence in the testis and deleterious effects of estrogen treatment during development have been known for nearly 90 years, long before estrogen receptors (ESRs) were discovered. Eventually it was learned that testes actually synthesize high levels of estradiol (E2) and sequester high concentrations in the reproductive tract lumen, which seems contradictory to the overwhelming number of studies showing reproductive pathology following exogenous estrogen exposures. For too long, the developmental pathology of estrogen has dominated our thinking, even resulting in the "estrogen hypothesis" as related to the testicular dysgenesis syndrome. However, these early studies and the development of an Esr1 knockout mouse led to a deluge of research into estrogen's potential role in and disruption of development and function of the male reproductive system. What is new is that estrogen action in the male cannot be divorced from that of androgen. This paper presents what is known about components of the estrogen pathway, including its synthesis and target receptors, and the need to achieve a balance between androgen- and estrogen-action in male reproductive tract differentiation and adult functions. The review focuses on what is known regarding development of the male reproductive tract, from the rete testis to the vas deferens, and examines the expression of estrogen receptors and presence of aromatase in the male reproductive system, traces the evidence provided by estrogen-associated knockout and transgenic animal models and discusses the effects of fetal and postnatal exposures to estrogens. Hopefully, there will be enough here to stimulate discussions and new investigations of the androgen:estrogen balance that seems to be essential for development of the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rex A Hess
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, IL, 61802 USA and Epivara, Inc., Research Park, 60 Hazelwood Dr., Suite 230G, Champaign, IL, 61820, USA.
| | - Richard M Sharpe
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - Barry T Hinton
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
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Choubey M, Ranjan A, Krishna A. Adiponectin/AdipoRs signaling as a key player in testicular aging and associated metabolic disorders. Vitam Horm 2021; 115:611-34. [PMID: 33706964 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2020.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Aging undergoes serious worsening of peripheral organs and vital physiological processes including reproductive performances. Altered white adipose tissue and adipocyte functioning during aging results in ectopic lipid storage/obesity or metabolic derangements, leading to insulin resistance state. Eventually, accelerating cellular senescence thereby enhancing the high risk of age-associated metabolic alterations. Such alterations may cause derangement of numerous physiologically active obesity hormones, known as "adipokines." Specifically, adiponectin exhibits insulin sensitizing action causing anti-aging and anti-obesity effects via activation of adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs). The male reproductive physiology from reproductive mature stage to advanced senescent stage undergoes insidious detrimental changes. The mechanisms by which testicular functions decline with aging remain largely speculative. Adiponectin has also recently been shown to regulate metabolism and longevity signaling thus prolonging lifespan. Therefore, the strategy for activating adiponectin/AdipoRs signaling pathways are expected to provide a solid basis for the prevention and treatment of aging and obesity-associated reproductive dysfunctions, as well as for ensuring healthy reproductive longevity in humans.
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Kinoshita K, Indo Y, Tajima T, Kuze N, Miyakawa E, Kobayashi T, Nakamura T, Ogata M, Okumura F, Hayakawa T, Morimura N, Mori Y, Okamoto M, Ozaki Y, Hirata S. Comparative analysis of sperm motility in liquid and seminal coagulum portions between Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) and chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes). Primates 2021; 62:467-473. [PMID: 33462771 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-020-00887-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Coagulum in the semen of some primates plays different roles, depending on the species. In the present study, we examined sperm motility in the coagulum and liquid portions of semen collected from captive individuals from two great ape species: two adult Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) (n = 27) and three adult chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) (n = 14). The results revealed that orangutan sperm remained motile for significantly longer in the coagulum than in the liquid portion (> 18 h). By contrast, chimpanzee sperm motility did not differ significantly over time between the two portions of the semen, although motility was slightly higher in the liquid portion than in the coagulum. The evolution of the seminal coagulum is thought to be related to postcopulatory sperm competition; however, functions of seminal coagulum have not been completely elucidated. Our data from the orangutan semen suggest that in this species, seminal coagulum may strengthen own-sperm survival. This report is the first to provide evidence for this distinctive function of the seminal coagulum. This unique property of orangutan seminal coagulum might be attributable to their reproductive traits, e.g., difficulty in predicting ovulation due to a lack of genital swelling during estrus. The orangutan is a Critically Endangered species, and captive breeding, including artificial insemination (AI), is expected. However, worldwide, only one case of orangutan AI has been successful. Our findings may contribute to an understanding of their basic semen characteristics and help improve the AI method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kodzue Kinoshita
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan.
| | - Yoriko Indo
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-8506, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Tajima
- Human Evolution Studies, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
| | - Noko Kuze
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Chiyoda, Tokyo, 102-0083, Japan.,The National Museum of Nature and Science, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0005, Japan
| | - Etsuko Miyakawa
- Kanazawa Zoological Gardens, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0042, Japan
| | - Toshio Kobayashi
- Zoorasia Yokohama Zoological Gardens, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 241-0001, Japan
| | | | - Mitsuaki Ogata
- Preservation and Research Center, The City of Yokohama, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 241-0001, Japan
| | | | - Takashi Hayakawa
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-8506, Japan.,Japan Monkey Centre, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-0081, Japan.,Current address: Faculty of Environmental Earth Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0810, Japan
| | - Naruki Morimura
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan.,Kumamoto Sanctuary, Kyoto University, Uki, Kumamoto, 869-3201, Japan
| | - Yusuke Mori
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan.,Kumamoto Sanctuary, Kyoto University, Uki, Kumamoto, 869-3201, Japan
| | - Munehiro Okamoto
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi, 484-8506, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Ozaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya City University, Nagoya, Aichi, 467-8601, Japan
| | - Satoshi Hirata
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan. .,Kumamoto Sanctuary, Kyoto University, Uki, Kumamoto, 869-3201, Japan.
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