Understanding the impact of nanoplastics on reproductive health: Exposure pathways, mechanisms, and implications

Microplastic pollution is a pressing global environmental concern with particular urgency surrounding the issue of nanoplastic particles. Plastic products exhibit a remarkable persistence in natural ecosystems, resisting easy degradation. Nanoplastics, characterized by their diminutive size, possess distinct properties when compared to their larger counterparts, which could potentially render them more ecologically detrimental. Microplastics themselves serve as carriers for toxic and hazardous substances, such as plastic additives, that enter and persist in the environmental cycle. Importantly, nanoplastics exhibit enhanced bioavailability upon entering the food chain. Notably, studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of nanoplastics on the reproductive function of aquatic organisms, and evidence of micro- and nanoplastics have emerged within human reproductive organs, including the placenta. However, a knowledge gap persists regarding the impacts of nanoplastics on the reproductive systems of mammals and, indeed, humans. This paper aims to elucidate the less frequently discussed sources and distribution of nanoplastics in the environment, along with the pathways of human exposure. We also emphasize the extent to which nanoplastics accumulate within the reproductive systems of organisms. Subsequently, we present an in-depth analysis of the effects of nanoplastics and their associated contaminants on mammalian and human reproductive health. The mechanisms through which nanoplastics contribute to reproductive disorders are comprehensively explored, highlighting their potential to disrupt endocrine levels in mammals and humans. Additionally, we scrutinize and discuss studies on biotoxicity of nanoplastics, offering insights into potential areas for future research.

Enhanced glutathione production protects against zearalenone-induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis in female reproductive system

Zearalenone (ZEN, a widespread fusarium mycotoxin) causes evoked oxidative stress in reproductive system, but little is known about whether this is involved in ferroptosis. Melatonin, a well-known antioxidant, has demonstrated unique anti-antioxidant properties in several studies. Here, this study was aimed to investigate whether ZEN-induced oxidative stress in female pig's reproductive system was involved in ferroptosis, and melatonin was then supplemented to protect against ZEN-induced abnormalities in vitro cell models [human granulosa cell (KGN) and mouse endometrial stromal cell (mEC)] and in vivo mouse model. According to the results from female pig's reproductive organs, ZEN-induced abnormalities in vulvar swelling, inflammatory invasion and pathological mitochondria, were closely linked with evoked oxidative stress. Using RNA-seq analysis, we further revealed that ZEN-induced reproductive toxicity was due to activated ferroptosis. Mechanistically, by using in vitro cell models (KGN and mEC) and in vivo mouse model, we observed that ZEN exposure resulted in oxidative stress and ferroptosis in a glutathione-dependent manner. Notably, these ZEN-induced abnormalities above were alleviated by melatonin supplementation through enhanced productions of glutathione peroxidase 4 and glutathione. Herein, the present results suggest that potential strategies to improve glutathione production protect against ZEN-induced reproductive toxicity, including oxidative stress and ferroptosis.

Research progress on reproductive system damage caused by high altitude hypoxia

PURPOSE

The high altitude area is characterized by low pressure and hypoxia, and rapidly entering the high altitude area will cause a series of damage to the body. Some studies have shown that hypoxia can cause damage to the reproductive system. In recent years, researchers have been paying attention to the effects of hypoxia on hormone level, ovarian reserve, embryonic development, testicular development, sperm motility level, and have begun to explore its injury mechanism, but its mechanism is not clear. In this paper, the mechanism of hypoxia on the reproductive system is reviewed, which is expected to provide a new idea for solving the problem of the low fertility rate of humans and animals at high altitudes.

METHODS

A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted, selecting all relevant peer-reviewed English papers published before January 2022. Other relevant papers were selected from the list of references.

RESULTS

Studies have shown that the complete fertility rate of people living at low altitudes is 7.7, and the complete fertility rate of people living at high altitudes is 4.77, and the hypoxic environment at high altitudes reduces fertility. At the same time, high-altitude, low-oxygen environments are associated with increased infant mortality and post-neonatal mortality. To date, most studies seem to point to a correlation between anoxic exposure at high altitudes and low fertility in humans and animals.

CONCLUSION

Although the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood, the effects of hypoxia at high altitude on hormonal level, ovarian reserve, embryonic development, testicular development, and sperm motility and levels require further research to investigate this complex topic.

Unraveling the threat: Microplastics and nano-plastics' impact on reproductive viability across ecosystems

Plastic pollution pervades both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, fragmenting over time into microplastics (MPs) and nano-plastics (NPs). These particles infiltrate organisms via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption, predominantly through the trophic interactions. This review elucidated the impacts of MPs/NPs on the reproductive viability of various species. MPs/NPs lead to reduced reproduction rates, abnormal larval development and increased mortality in aquatic invertebrates. Microplastics cause hormone secretion disorders and gonadal tissue damage in fish. In addition, the fertilization rate of eggs is reduced, and the larval deformity rate and mortality rate are increased. Male mammals exposed to MPs/NPs exhibit testicular anomalies, compromised sperm health, endocrine disturbances, oxidative stress, inflammation, and granulocyte apoptosis. In female mammals, including humans, exposure culminates in ovarian and uterine deformities, endocrine imbalances, oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, and tissue fibrogenesis. Rodent offspring exposed to MPs experience increased mortality rates, while survivors display metabolic perturbations, reproductive anomalies, and weakened immunity. These challenges are intrinsically linked to the transgenerational conveyance of MPs. The ubiquity of MPs/NPs threatens biodiversity and, crucially, jeopardizes human reproductive health. The current findings underscore the exigency for comprehensive research and proactive interventions to ameliorate the implications of these pollutants.

Scutellarin targets Wnt5a against zearalenone-induced apoptosis in mouse granulosa cells in vitro and in vivo

Zearalenone (ZEA) poses severe reproductive toxicity to both humans and animals. Scutellarin has been demonstrated to rescue ZEA-induced apoptosis in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), but its specific targets remain unclear. In the present study, the potential targets of scutellarin were determined to clarify the mechanisms of scutellarin against ZEA-induced ovarian damage. 287 targets of scutellarin in mouse ovarian GCs were obtained by magnetic nano-probe-based fishing assay and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Wnt5a had the lowest binding free energy with scutellarin at - 8.3 kcal/mol. QRT-PCR and western blot showed that scutellarin significantly increased the Wnt5a and β-catenin expression compared with the ZEA-treated group, and cleaved-caspase-3 expression was significantly increased in the scutellarin-treated group after interfering with the expression of Wnt5a. The affinity constant (KD) of Wnt5a and scutellarin was 1.7 × 10-5 M. The pull-down assay also demonstrated that scutellarin could specifically bind to Wnt5a protein. Molecular docking results showed that scutellarin could form hydrogen bonds with TRY52, GLN56, and SER90 on Wnt5a protein, and western blot assay confirmed SER90 was an important site for the binding. Scutellarin significantly increased Wnt5a and β-catenin expression and decreased cleaved-caspase-3 expression in ovarian tissues of mice. In conclusion, scutellarin exerted anti-apoptotic effects on ZEA-induced mouse ovarian GCs by targeting Wnt5a.

Interaction effect of mutations in the genes (piwi and aub) of the Argonaute family and hobo transposons on the integral survival parameters of Drosophila melanogaster

The Argonaute family genes (piwi and aub) involved in the production of small RNAs are responsible for the regulation of many cellular processes, including the suppression of genome instability, modulation of gene activity, and transposable elements. Dysfunction of these genes and the associated activation of transposable elements adversely affect reproductive development and quality of life. The role of transposons in contrast to retrotransposons and their interaction with genes of the Argonaute family in aging processes have not been studied. This study considers a scenario in which the piwi and aub genes in the presence of functional hobo transposons can modify the effects from the level of DNA damage to lifespan. The simultaneous presence of mutation (piwi or aub) and hobo (regardless of size) in the genome has practically no effect or (less often) leads to a decrease in the level of DNA damage in ovarian cells. A high level of sterility and low ovarian reserve were noted mainly with a combination of mutations and full-sized hobo elements. The combination of these two genetic factors negatively affects the fertility of young females and embryonic survival. Isolated cases of restoration of reproductive functions with age were noted but only in females that had low fertility in the early period of life. The presence of hobo transposons contributed to an increase in the lifespan of both mutant and non-mutant females. Dysfunction of the piwi and aub genes (without hobo) can reduce the lifespan of both sexes. Together, each mutation and hobo transposons act antagonistically/additively (in females) and synergistically/antagonistically (in males) to change the lifespan. In parameters of locus-specific instability, hobo activation was more pronounced in piwi gene dysfunction. The results obtained complement data on the study of new functions of Argonaute family genes and their interactions with transposable elements in the aging process.

Regulatory effects of hydrogen sulfide on the female reproductive system

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a colorless exhaust gas, has been traditionally considered an air pollutant. However, recent studies have revealed that H2S functions as a novel gas signaling molecule, exerting diverse biological effects on various systems, including the cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous systems. Thus, H2S is involved in various pathophysiological processes. As H2S affects reproductive function, it has potential therapeutic implications in reproductive system diseases. This review examined the role of H2S in various female reproductive organs, including the ovary, fallopian tube, vagina, uterus, and placenta. Additionally, the regulatory function of H2S in the female reproductive system has been discussed to provide useful insights for developing clinical therapeutic strategies for reproductive diseases.

Application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of tuberous vas deferens tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

To assess the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the diagnosis of tuberous vas deferens tuberculosis (VD TB) and improve the positive diagnostic rate of VD TB.

METHODS

CEUS and routine ultrasound (US) images of 17 patients with tuberous VD TB confirmed by surgery, pathology, or laboratory semen examination were retrospectively analyzed and summarized, and the positive rates of both imaging techniques were compared.

RESULTS

The 19 VD lesions of the 17 patients were divided into two types according to the CEUS findings: Type I and Type II, and type II was divided into Types IIa, IIb, and IIc. Of the nodules with transverse diameters > 1 cm, 100% presented as type II. Of the nodules with transverse diameters < 1 cm, 37.5% (3/8) presented as type I and 62.5% (5/8) presented as type II. The sonographic manifestations of tuberous VD TB were hypoechoic and mixed echoic. The positive diagnostic rate was 89.5% for CEUS and 68.4% for US, but the difference was not significant (χ2 = 2.533; P = 0.111).

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS was able to show the blood supply characteristics of tuberous VD TB, the internal necrosis of nodules was more easily observed by CEUS than by routine US, which is helpful for the diagnosis of tuberous VD TB.

Multi-omics Investigations in Endocrine Systems and Their Clinical Implications

Innovative techniques such as the "omics" can be a powerful tool for the understanding of intracellular pathways involved in homeostasis maintenance and identification of new potential therapeutic targets against endocrine-metabolic disorders. Over the last decades, proteomics has been extensively applied in the study of a wide variety of human diseases, including those involving the endocrine system. Among the most endocrine-related disorders investigated by proteomics in humans are diabetes mellitus and thyroid, pituitary, and reproductive system disorders. In diabetes, proteins implicated in insulin signaling, glucose metabolism, and β-cell activity have been investigated. In thyroid diseases, protein expression alterations were described in thyroid malignancies and autoimmune thyroid illnesses. Additionally, proteomics has been used to investigate the variations in protein expression in adrenal cancers and conditions, including Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease. Pituitary tumors and disorders including acromegaly and hypopituitarism have been studied using proteomics to examine changes in protein expression. Reproductive problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis are two examples of conditions where alterations in protein expression have been studied using proteomics. Proteomics has, in general, shed light on the molecular underpinnings of many endocrine-related illnesses and revealed promising biomarkers for both their detection and treatment. The capacity of proteomics to thoroughly and objectively examine complex protein mixtures is one of its main benefits. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a widely used method that identifies and measures proteins based on their mass-to-charge ratio and their fragmentation pattern. MS can perform the separation of proteins according to their physicochemical characteristics, such as hydrophobicity, charge, and size, in combination with liquid chromatography. Other proteomics techniques include protein arrays, which enable the simultaneous identification of several proteins in a single assay, and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE), which divides proteins depending on their isoelectric point and molecular weight. This chapter aims to summarize the most relevant proteomics data from targeted tissues, as well as the daily rhythmic variation of relevant biomarkers in both physiological and pathophysiological conditions within the involved endocrine system, especially because the actual modern lifestyle constantly imposes a chronic unentrained condition, which virtually affects all the circadian clock systems within human's body, being also correlated with innumerous endocrine-metabolic diseases.

Ovary organization and ultrastructure in six species of Amynthas and Metaphire earthworms (Annelida, Crassiclitellata, Megascolecidae)

Ovaries in earthworms belonging to the family Megascolecidae are paired structures attached to the septum in the anterior part of the XIII segment. They are fan to rosette shaped with numerous rows of growing oocytes, known as egg strings, radiating from the ovary center towards the segmental cavity. The histological and ultrastructural ovary organization in megascolecids and the course of oogenesis remain unknown. The paper presents the results of light and electron microscopy analyses of ovaries in six megascolecid species, three from the genus Amynthas and three from Metaphire. Both parthenogenetic and sexually reproducing species were included in the study. The organization and ultrastructure of ovaries in all studied species are broadly similar. Considering the histological organization of ovaries, they could be divided into two zones. Zone I (proximal, close to the connection with the septum) is tightly packed with germline and somatic cells. Germ cells are interconnected via intercellular bridges and thin strands of the central cytoplasm (known as cytophore) and form syncytial cysts. Cysts unite oogonia, early meiotic cells (till diplotene), and clustering cells develop synchronously. During diplotene, interconnected cells lose developmental synchrony; most probably, one cell per cyst grows faster than others, detaches from the cysts, and becomes an oocyte. The remaining cells grow slightly and are still interconnected via the thin and reticular cytophore; these cells are considered nurse cells. Zone II has a form of egg strings where growing oocytes are isolated one from another by thin somatic cells and form short cords. We present the ultrastructural details of germline and somatic cells. We propose the term "Amynthas" type of ovaries for this ovary organization. We suppose that such ovaries are characteristic of other megascolecids and related families.

Effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine on Testicular Tissue in Busulfan-Induced Dysfunction in the Male Reproductive System

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) as an antioxidant on busulfan-induced testicular dysfunction in mice and elucidate its possible mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=8/group) as follows: (1) control group (oral administration of saline [0.1 mL daily] for 35 days); (2) NAC group (oral administration of NAC [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days); (3) busulfan group (double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg); and (4) busulfan+NAC group (after double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg, NAC administration [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days). The testes were removed, weighed, and subjected to sperm parameter analysis and morphology assessment. Reproductive hormone, serum/testicular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers were evaluated. The testicular expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 was examined using RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Busulfan treatment significantly decreased testicular weight, sperm count, and serum testosterone levels. Atrophy and degeneration of germinal epithelium were observed in the busulfan group. NAC administration after busulfan treatment partially attenuated the deterioration of testis weight, sperm quality, serum hormones, histomorphometric changes, and oxidative and antioxidative status. NAC treatment resulted in a considerable improvement in Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA expression levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides compelling evidence that NAC as a potent antioxidant has significant protective effects against busulfan-induced male reproductive impairment possibly through modification of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

The Effects of Clove and Its Constituents on Reproductive System: a Comprehensive Review

Clove with the scientific name of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry is an evergreen tree in which its buds are used for medicinal purposes. Traditional medicine manuscripts as well as recent studies reported its effects on male and female reproductive systems. The aim of this study is to investigate the reported contradictory effects of clove and its phytochemicals on the reproductive system of both males and females. All types of in vitro, animal, and human studies of clove and its main constituents in the field of reproductive systems were collected via searching electronic databases including PubMed and Scopus from the onset till 2021. In this review, 76 articles were included, of which 25 were related to male reproduction, 32 were related to female reproduction, and 19 were related to reproductive malignancies. Analysis of the literature indicates the effects of clove and its constituents especially eugenol and β-caryophyllene on the level of sex hormones, fertility, sperm abnormalities, endometriosis, menstrual cycle, as well as gynecological infections, and reproductive tumors. The main mechanism of clove has not been understood yet but it seems that different parameters affect its pharmacological activity including the type of extract, dose, and duration of administration as well as the primary cause of the disorder. According to the effects of clove on different parts of the reproductive system, it seems that it can be a suitable candidate for related disorders, provided that more and more detailed studies are done on it.

Detection and characterization of microplastics in the human testis and semen

The health risk of microplastics (MPs) is a growing global concern. Evidence of reproductive health damage caused by the accumulation of MPs in males is still lacking. In the present study, 6 testis and 30 semen samples were collected, and MPs were detected using both pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) and laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LD-IR). The results showed that MPs were detected in both testis and semen, with an average abundance of 0.23 ± 0.45 particles/mL in semen and 11.60 ± 15.52 particles/g in testis. Microplastics in the testis were composed of polystyrene (PS) with 67.7 %, while polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were the predominant polymers in semen. Compared to fragments, fiber, and film detected in semen, the fragment was the main shape the in testis. The sizes of these microplastics ranged from 21.76 μm to 286.71 μm, and most (67 % and 80.6 %) were 20-100 μm in semen and testis. In summary, this study revealed for the first time that MPs pollute the human male reproductive system and that various MP characteristics appear in different regions, which provides critical information and basic data for the risk assessment of MPs to human health.

Effect of long-term hypoxia on the reproductive systems of female and male yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco)

This study investigated the effects of different levels of hypoxia on the reproductive system of yellow catfish. Yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) were exposed to three dissolved oxygen concentration levels: normoxia (6.5 ± 0.2 mg/L), moderate hypoxia (MH, 3.8 ± 0.3 mg/L) and severe hypoxia (SH, 1.9 ± 0.2 mg/L) for 30 days. The gonadosomatic index of males, not females, significantly decreased in the SH group. In the SH group, for the females, the ratio of vitellogenic follicles significantly decreased, whereas the number of atretic follicles significantly increased. In male fish, a significantly reduced number of spermatozoa was observed in both the MH and SH groups. Elevated apoptosis levels in the testes and ovaries were observed only in the SH group. Serum 17β-estradiol and vitellogenin levels in females and testosterone levels in males significantly decreased in the SH group. The concentration of 11-ketotestosterone in males significantly decreased in both the MH and SH groups. In female fish, dysregulated expression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, steroidogenesis genes, and hepatic genes related to vitellogenesis were observed only in the SH group. However, in male fish, moderate hypoxia altered the expression of HPG genes, including gnrh1, lhcgr, and amh. Moreover, the MH group significantly altered the expression of steroidogenesis genes like star, 17β-hsd, and cyp17a1. The results of this study suggest that severe hypoxia can cause reproductive defects in female and male yellow catfish. Moreover, the reproductive system of male yellow catfish is more sensitive to moderate hypoxia than that of female catfish. Our findings contribute to our understanding of the response of the teleost reproductive system to long-term hypoxia.

Review: Role and regulatory mechanism of inhibin in animal reproductive system

Inhibin (INH) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the gonads that inhibit the synthesis and secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Increasing evidence indicates that INH plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system including follicle development, ovulation rate, corpus luteum formation and ablation, steroid hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis, subsequently affecting the reproductive capacity of animals such as litter size and egg production. There are currently three main views on how INH inhibits FSH synthesis and secretion: influencing the activity of adenylate cyclase, the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor or gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the competition system of inhibin-activin. This review discusses the current findings on the structure, function, and mechanism of action of INH in the reproductive system of animals.

Is lactational sertraline exposure safe for maternal health and the reproductive/neurobehavioral development of the descendants? A study in rats

Although sertraline is considered one of the safest antidepressants in the lactation period, there are still few studies that assess its impact on child development. Therefore, this experimental study aimed to clarify the effect of sertraline on the neurobehavioral and reproductive development of male rats. Thus, 30 lactating rats were divided into 3 experimental groups (n = 10/group): CO- received filtered water, S10 and S20 groups that received, respectively, 10 and 20 mg/kg/day of sertraline. Treatment was performed by gavage, from postnatal days (PND) 1-20. During this period, the reflex and somatic development of rats were observed, as well as maternal behavior. On PND 21, mothers were euthanized and the organs were weighed. On PND 21, 45, and 100, one male from each litter was euthanized for histological and immunohistochemical (PCNA and WT1) analysis of the reproductive organs. The growth of body weight, the anogenital distance (AGD), the time to puberty, sperm quality, sexual behavior, neurobehavior, and natural fertility were also verified. Statistical analysis: One-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test (p ≤ 0.05). The results showed that mothers in the S20 group had an increase in thyroid weight. The male offspring exposed to sertraline had lower body weight (PND 7), lower AGD (PND 7 and 14), and delay in reflex development, in addition to histological alterations in the testis (PND 21). In adulthood, sperm quality was altered, without compromising natural fertility. Therefore, the present study found important alterations in the reflex and reproductive development of male rats exposed to sertraline during lactation.

Inhibition of alternative oxidase disrupts the development and oviposition of Biomphalaria glabrata snails

BACKGROUND

Biomphalaria glabrata is one of the main intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni, the most widespread species of Schistosoma. Our previous studies proved that alternative oxidase (AOX), the terminal oxidase in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, widely exists in several species of intermediate host snails of Schistosoma. Meanwhile, inhibition of AOX activity in Oncomelania hupensis snails could dramatically enhance the molluscicidal effect of niclosamide. As a hermaphroditic aquatic mollusc, the high fecundity and population density of B. glabrata increase the difficulty of snail control, which is one of the critical strategies for schistosomiasis elimination. The present study aimed to investigate the possible role of AOX in the development and fecundity of B. glabrata snail, which could be manipulated more manageable than other species of intermediate host snails of Schistosoma.

METHODS

The dynamic expression of the AOX gene was investigated in different developmental stages and tissues of B. glabrata, with morphological change and oviposition behaviour observed from juvenile to adult snails. Furtherly, dsRNA-mediated knockdown of BgAOX mRNA and the AOX protein activity inhibiting was performed to investigate the effect of AOX on the development and oviposition of snails.

RESULTS

The BgAOX gene expression profile is highly related to the development from late juveniles to adults, especially to the reproductive system of snails, with a positive correlation of 0.975 between egg production and BgAOX relative expression in ovotestis of snails. The inhibition of BgAOX at the transcriptional level and AOX activity could efficiently inhibit snail growth. However, the interference at the BgAOX protein activity level led to more severe tissue damage and more significant inhibition of oviposition than at the transcriptional level. This inhibition of growth and oviposition decreased gradually with the increase in the snail size.

CONCLUSIONS

The inhibition of AOX could efficiently disrupt the development and oviposition of B. glabrata snails, and the intervention targeting AOX at the juvenile stage is more effective for snails. This investigation explored the role of AOX in the growth and development of snails. It would benefit snail control in the future by providing a potential target while using molluscicides more efficiently.

Wild fish responses to wastewater treatment plant upgrades in the Grand River, Ontario

Municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent is one of several point sources of contaminants (nutrients, pharmaceuticals, estrogens, etc.) which can lead to adverse responses in aquatic life. Studies of WWTP effluent impacts on rainbow darter (Etheostoma caeruleum) collected downstream of WWTPs in the Grand River, Ontario have reported disruption at multiple levels of biological organization, including altered vitellogenin gene expression, lower levels of in vitro steroid production, and high frequency of intersex. However, major upgrades have occurred at treatment plants in the central Grand River over the last decade. Treatment upgrades to the Waterloo WWTP were initiated in 2009 but due to construction delays, the upgrades came fully on-line in 2017/2018. Responses in rainbow darter have been followed at sites associated with the outfall consistently over this entire time period. The treatment plant upgrade resulted in nitrification of effluent, and once complete there was a major reduction in effluent ammonia, selected pharmaceuticals, and estrogenicity. This study compared several key responses in rainbow darter associated with the Waterloo WWTP outfall prior to and post upgrades. Stable isotopes signatures in fish were used to track exposure to effluent and changed dramatically over time, corresponding to the effluent quality. Disruptions in in vitro steroid production and intersex in the darters that had been identified prior to the upgrades were no longer statistically different from the upstream reference sites after the upgrades. Although annual variations in water temperature and flow can potentially mask or exacerbate the effects of the WWTP effluent, major capital investments in wastewater treatment targeted at improving effluent quality have corresponded with the reduction of adverse responses in fish in the receiving environment.

Aquaporins in Reproductive System

AQP0-12, a total of 13 aquaporins are expressed in the mammalian reproductive system. These aquaporins mediate the transport of water and small solutes across biofilms for maintaining reproductive tract water balance and germ cell water homeostasis. These aquaporins play important roles in the regulation of sperm and egg cell production, maturation, and fertilization processes. Impaired AQP function may lead to diminished male and female fertility. This review focuses on the distribution, function, and regulation of AQPs throughout the male and female reproductive organs and tracts. Their correlation with reproductive success, revealing recent advances in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in the reproductive system.

Zearalenone disturbs the reproductive-immune axis in pigs: the role of gut microbial metabolites

BACKGROUND

Exposure to zearalenone (ZEN, a widespread Fusarium mycotoxin) causes reproductive toxicity and immunotoxicity in farm animals, and it then poses potential threats to human health through the food chain. A systematic understanding of underlying mechanisms on mycotoxin-induced toxicity is necessary for overcoming potential threats to farm animals and humans. The gastrointestinal tract is a first-line defense against harmful mycotoxins; however, it remains unknown whether mycotoxin (e.g., ZEN)-induced toxicity on the reproductive-immune axis is linked to altered gut microbial metabolites. In this study, using pigs (during the three phases) as an important large animal model, we investigated whether ZEN-induced toxicity on immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis was involved in altered gut microbial-derived metabolites. Moreover, we observed whether the regulation of gut microbial-derived metabolites through engineering ZEN-degrading enzymes counteracted ZEN-induced toxicity on the gut-reproductive-immune axis.

RESULTS

Here, we showed ZEN exposure impaired immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis of pigs during phase 1/2. This impairment was accompanied by altered gut microbial-derived metabolites [e.g., decreased butyrate production, and increased lipopolysaccharides (LPS) production]. Reduction of butyrate production impaired the intestinal barrier via a GPR109A-dependent manner, and together with increased LPS in plasma then aggravated the systemic inflammation, thus directly and/or indirectly disturbing immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis. To validate these findings, we further generated recombinant Bacillus subtilis 168-expressing ZEN-degrading enzyme ZLHY-6 (the Bs-Z6 strain) as a tool to test the feasibility of enzymatic removal of ZEN from mycotoxin-contaminated food. Notably, modified gut microbial metabolites (e.g., butyrate, LPS) through the recombinant Bs-Z6 strain counteracted ZEN-induced toxicity on the intestinal barrier, thus enhancing immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis of pigs during phase-3. Also, butyrate supplementation restored ZEN-induced abnormalities in the porcine small intestinal epithelial cell.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, these results highlight the role of gut microbial-derived metabolites in ZEN-induced toxicity on the gut-reproductive-immune axis. Importantly, targeting these gut microbial-derived metabolites opens a new window for novel preventative strategies or therapeutic interventions for mycotoxicosis associated to ZEN.

in the reproductive system of female moths and mating induced changes and possible transmission

BACKGROUND

The microbiome in the insect reproductive tract is poorly understood. Our previous study demonstrated the presence of Lactobacillus spp. in female moths, but their distribution and function remain unclear. Lactobacillus spp. are known as the 'healthy' vaginal microbiome in humans.

RESULTS

Here, we studied the microbiome in the reproductive system (RS) and gut of Spodoptera frugiperda using 16S rDNA sequences. The obtained 4315 bacterial OTUs were classified into 61 phyla and 642 genera, with Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidota being the top three dominant phyla and Enterococcus and Asaia being dominant genera in most samples. Mating dramatically increased the abundance of pathogens or pathogenic functions in the gut, while in the RS, the change range was trivial. Taxonomy assignment identified thirteen Lactobacillus spp. in S. frugiperda, with Lactobacillus crustorum and Lactobacillus murinus showing high abundance. Three species found in S. frugiperda, namely L. reuteri, L. plantarum and L. brevis, have also been identified as human 'healthy' vaginal bacterial species. Lactobacillus spp. showed higher abundance in the RS of virgin females and lower abundance in the RS of virgin males and the gut of virgin females. Mating reduced their abundance in the RS of females but increased their abundance in the RS of males, especially in males mated with multiple females. The RS of virgin females and of multiple mated males were very similar in terms of composition and abundance of Lactobacillus species, with Lactobacillus crustorum showing much higher abundance in both tissues, potentially due to sexual transmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacillus spp. showed high abundance and diversity in the RS of female moths. The higher abundance of Lactobacillus spp. in the RS of female moths and the similarity of Lactobacillus species in female moths with human 'healthy' vaginal Lactobacillus spp. suggest that these bacterial strains are also an important microbiome in the RS of female moths.

Gonadulin: A newly discovered insulin-like peptide involved in ovulation and oviposition in Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease

Insulin-like peptides (ILPs) are vital hormones involved in a wide range of physiological processes in all organisms. In insects, insulin signaling has a key role in detecting and interpreting nutrient levels for egg production. Based on publicly available transcriptomes, a new ILP named gonadulin has been reported and suggested to be expressed by the gonads (hence its name). Although the identification of gonadulin establishes its existence, its physiological relevance remains poorly understood. Rhodnius prolixus is an obligate hematophagous insect and a primary vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease. In this study, we report for the first time the participation of gonadulin in reproductive performance of an hemipteran. By quantitative PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), we find that the R. prolixus gonadulin transcript is highly expressed in the reproductive system, particularly in the calyx, a structure through which eggs move into the lumen of the lateral oviducts during ovulation. The putative gonadulin receptor, a member of the leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor subfamily (LGR3), is most highly expressed in the central nervous system with lower levels in the reproductive tissue and other tissues. Interestingly, when the gonadulin signaling cascade is impaired using RNA interference (RNAi), eggs are retained primarily in the ovarioles and calyx, indicating that ovulation and oviposition are inhibited. Understanding the physiological processes involved in reproduction in R. prolixus will shed light on potential targets for effective production of biopesticides by translational research, thereby controlling insect populations and transmission of the disease.

Modulatory role of Bovine serum albumin conjugated manganese dioxide nanoparticle on microwave radiation induced alterations in reproductive parameters of rat

In recent decades, microwave (MW) radiations are being used extensively for various applications such as Wi-Fi, telecommunication, etc. due to which there have been grave concerns regarding the adverse effects of MW exposure on human health, particularly the reproductive system. MW cause damage to the reproductive system by generating free radicals, decreasing antioxidant defence, and inducing oxidative stress. Hence, the present study was aimed to counteract the harmful effect by using antioxidant enzymes mimicking nanoparticle, Bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugated manganese dioxide nanoparticle (MNP*). Male Wistar rats were exposed to MW and treated with MNP*, and their individual, as well as combined effect on reproductive parameters was investigated. Results showed that MW exposed rats had significantly reduced testosterone levels along with alterations in the testicular morphology. The antioxidant status decreased, and lipid peroxidation increased significantly in testis. MW exposure also showed altered sperm parameters such as a significant decrease in sperm count, viability, membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity with a significant increase in morphological abnormality and lipid peroxidation. As a result, the changes induced by MW may affect male fertility. However, upon combined exposure of MNP* and MW, these alterations were reduced significantly. Hence, it may be concluded that MNP* could reduce oxidative stress mediated damages in the reproductive system of rats owing to its antioxidant activity, and thus have a potential to act as a radioprotectant.

Genetic population structure and reproductive system of two invasive Asian earthworms, Amynthas tokioensis and Amynthas agrestis

The invasive Asian earthworms, Amynthas tokioensis and A. agrestis, have been successful in entering North American forests in recent decades, with significant damage to both soils and above-ground environments. This success could be driven in part by a polyploid genetic system and parthenogenetic reproduction, often suggested as benefits for invasive species. Therefore, we assessed the genetic population structure, genetic diversity, and reproductive system of both species using morphological traits and panels of microsatellite markers. A total of 216 A. tokioensis and 196 A. agrestis from six sites in Vermont USA were analyzed. Although all worms were morphologically hermaphroditic, all the A. agrestis lacked the male pore (the structure allowing pass of sperm between individuals), and only 19% of the A. tokioensis possessed the male pore. All A. tokioensis earthworms were triploid (scored for three alleles for at least 1 locus, and usually several), and A. agrestis was a mix of triploid and diploid individuals. Notable was the high proportion (80%) of A. agrestis earthworms that were diploid at one site. There was clearly clonal reproduction, with identical seven- locus genotypes observed for earthworms from each site, with as many as 45 individuals with the identical genotype at one site. However, the earthworms were also genetically diverse, with 14 genotypes observed for A. tokioensis and 54 for A. agrestis, and with many singleton genotypes (a single individual). Most genotypes (71% for A. tokioensis and 92% for A. agrestis) were found at a single site. The greatest number of genotypes was found at a commercial nursery where fully 23/26 A. agrestis earthworms were singleton genotypes. As expected for the pattern of private clone alleles at sites, several measures of geographic genetic differentiation were positive, and as expected for triploid systems, an AMOVA analysis showed high within-individual genetic diversity. The paradox of clear clonal reproduction, but with a great number of genotypes for each species, and the mix of triploid and diploid individuals could be explained if the worms have been sexually reproductive, with the switch to the uniparental system only recently (or even if sexual reproduction is episodic). Last, a large number of microsatellite loci were recovered for each species and there sequence and suggested PCR primers are provided for free use by other researchers.

Exosomes - Spectacular role in reproduction

Exosomes are nano-sized structures that are found in semen, epididymal -fluid, endometrium, as well as in follicular fluid. They are responsible for transporting bioactive cargo- proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Exosomes have been proven to influence processes in both female and male reproductive systems, including gametogenesis, acrosomal reaction, sperm capacitation, and embryo implantation in the endometrium. Exosomes are made of the same particles as the cells they come from and are secreted by normal and pathological cells. Therefore, exosomes can reflect the physiological state of cells. Moreover, due to the transportation of biomolecules, they participate in intercellular communication and can be used as biomarkers of many diseases, including ovarian, endometrial and prostate cancer. Identification of exosomes as biomarkers could contribute to a better understanding of genital dysfunction and fertility disorders.

Physiological and proteomic analyses reveal the effect of CeO2 nanoparticles on strawberry reproductive system and fruit quality

With the rapid development of nanotechnology, the environmental impact assessment of nanoparticles (NPs) becomes a pressing problem to ensure the environmental safety and human health. However, the roles of CeO₂ NPs on the development of crop reproductive system and fruit quality are largely unknown. Herein, strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) plants were exposed to CeO₂ NPs at 0-115 mg/L. The reduced generation of stolon, increased pollen numbers and germination rate of pollen grains, as well as the elongation of pollen tubes contributed to the enhanced yield of strawberry upon CeO₂ NP exposure (6-115 mg/L). Furthermore, the fruit quality was improved by increasing total phenols, vitamin C, amino acids, and protein contents. More importantly, even at 115 mg/L treatment, fruit Ce contents (4.4 mg/kg) did not exceed the Ce mean oral reference dose of humans. Finally, label-free proteomic results disclosed that differentially expressed proteins related to malate were down-regulated, and the differential regulation of sugar-associated proteins suggested the changes in sugar composition. The significantly different expression of ascorbate and glutathione related proteins exhibited the increased antioxidant capacity of fruits. The findings in the present study provide new perspectives for understanding the potential risk posed by NPs in the environment.

Effects of iron oxide nanoparticles as T2-MRI contrast agents on reproductive system in male mice

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs)-based contrast agents are widely used for T₂-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in clinical diagnosis, highlighting the necessity and importance to evaluate their potential systematic toxicities. Although a few previous studies have documented the toxicity concerns of IONPs to major organs, limited data are available on the potential reproductive toxicity caused by IONPs, especially when administrated via intravenous injection to mimic clinical use of MRI contrast agents. Our study aimed to determine whether exposure to IONPs would affect male reproductive system and cause other related health concerns in ICR mice. The mice were intravenously injected with different concentrations IONPs once followed by routine toxicity tests of major organs and a series of reproductive function-related analyses at different timepoints. As a result, most of the contrast agents were captured by reticuloendothelial system (RES) organs such as liver and spleen, while IONPs have not presented adverse effects on the normal function of these major organs. In contrast, although IONPs were not able to enter testis through the blood testicular barrier (BTB), and they have not obviously impaired the overall testicular function or altered the serum sex hormones levels, IONPs exposure could damage Sertoli cells in BTB especially at a relative high concentration. Moreover, IONPs administration led to a short-term reduction in the quantity and quality of sperms in a dose-dependent manner, which might be attributed to the increase of oxidative stress and apoptotic activity in epididymis. However, the semen parameters have gradually returned to the normal range within 14 days after the initial injection of IONPs. Collectively, these results demonstrated that IONPs could cause reversible damage to the reproductive system of male mice without affecting the main organs, providing new guidance for the clinical application of IONPs as T₂-MRI contrast agents.

Functional survey of decellularized tissues transplantation for infertile females

Numbers of women worldwide face infertility, which will have a significant impact on a couple's life. As a result, assisting with the treatment of these individuals is seen as a critical step. Successful births following uterus and ovary donation have been reported in recent. When immunosuppressive drugs are used in patients who receive donated tissues, there are always problems with the drugs' side effects. In recent years, tissue engineering has mainly been successful in treating infertility using decellularization techniques. Engineered uterus and ovary prevent immunological reactions and do not require immunosuppressive drugs. The most important aspect of using decellularized tissue is its proper function after transplantation. These tissues must be able to produce follicles, secrete hormones and cause pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate research on decellularized tissues and transplanted into the female reproductive system. In this study, just tissues that, after transplantation, have the proper function for fertility were investigated.

Resveratrol (RV): A pharmacological review and call for further research

Resveratrol (RV) is a well-known polyphenolic compound in various plants, including grape, peanut, and berry fruits, which is quite famous for its association with several health benefits such as anti-obesity, cardioprotective neuroprotective, antitumor, antidiabetic, antioxidants, anti-age effects, and glucose metabolism. Significantly, promising therapeutic properties have been reported in various cancer, neurodegeneration, and atherosclerosis and are regulated by several synergistic pathways that control oxidative stress, cell death, and inflammation. Similarly, RV possesses a strong anti-adipogenic effect by inhibiting fat accumulation processes and activating oxidative and lipolytic pathways, exhibiting their cardioprotective effects by inhibiting platelet aggregation. The RV also shows significant antibacterial effects against various food-borne pathogens (Listeria, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus, and E. coli) by inhibiting an electron transport chain (ETC) and F0F1-ATPase, which decreases the production of cellular energy that leads to the spread of pathogens. After collecting and analyzing scientific literature, it may be concluded that RV is well tolerated and favorably affects cardiovascular, neurological, and diabetic disorders. As such, it is possible that RV can be considered the best nutritional additive and a complementary drug, especially a therapeutic candidate. Therefore, this review would increase knowledge about the blend of RV as well as inspire researchers around the world to consider RV as a pharmaceutical drug to combat future health crises against various inhumane diseases. In the future, this article will be aware of discoveries about the potential of this promising natural compound as the best nutraceuticals and therapeutic drugs in medicine.

A TRPV6 expression atlas for the mouse

The transient receptor potential vanilloid 6 (TRPV6) channel is highly Ca²⁺-selective and has been implicated in mediating transcellular Ca²⁺ transport and thus maintaining the Ca²⁺ balance in the body. To characterize its physiological function(s), a detailed expression profile of the TRPV6 channel throughout the body is essential. Capitalizing on a recently established murine Trpv6-reporter strain, we identified primary TRPV6 channel-expressing cells in an organism-wide manner. In a complementary experimental approach, we characterized TRPV6 expression in different tissues of wild-type mice by TRPV6 immunoprecipitation (IP) followed by mass spectrometry analysis and correlated these data with the reporter gene expression. Taken together, we present a TRPV6 expression atlas throughout the entire body of juvenile and adult mice, providing a novel resource to investigate the role of TRPV6 channels in vivo.

1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl)-ethane (DDT) and 1,1-Dichloro-2,2-bis (p, p'-chlorophenyl) ethylene (DDE) as endocrine disruptors in human and wildlife: A possible implication of mitochondria

1,1,1-trichloro-2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl)-ethane (DDT) and its main metabolite 1,1-Dichloro-2,2-bis (p, p'-chlorophenyl) ethylene (DDE) act as endocrine disruptors in humans and wildlife. Immunomodulatory functions have also been attributed to both xenobiotics. DDT was banned in the 1970s due to its toxicity, but it is still produced and used for indoor residual spraying with disease vector control purposes. Due to their persistence and lipophilic properties, DDT and DDE can bioaccumulate through the food chain, being stored in organisms' adipose depots. Their endocrine disruptor function is mediated by agonist or antagonist interaction with nuclear receptors. Present review aimed to provide an overview of how DDT and DDE exposure impacts reproductive and immune systems with estrogen-disrupting action in humans and wildlife. Studies showing DDT and DDE impact on mitochondrial function and apoptosis pathway will also be reviewed, suggesting the hypothesis of direct action on mitochondrial steroid receptors.

Modulatory effects of Punica granatum L juice against 2115 MHz (3G) radiation-induced reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rat

Advancements in telecommunication sector result in increasing exposure to electromagnetic (EM) radiation, which has been correlated with incidence of male infertility. Therefore, the present study focused on analyzing the consequence of EM radiation (2115 MHz) exposure on the reproductive system of male Wistar rats. Besides, the antioxidant protective effect of Punica granatum juice was also evaluated. For experimental analysis, rats were divided into five groups (control, sham exposed, exposed, herbal plus exposed, and herbal only). Individual group consisted of 6 rats which were exposed to radiation for 45 days (2 h/day). The herbal-treated groups were given 1 ml of Punica granatum extract orally. Various parameters such as organ to body ratio, sperm count, motility, viability, and testis histopathology were studied. Furthermore, oxidative stress parameters and free radical generation were analyzed. The exposed group showed changes in sperm parameters along with decrease in seminiferous tubule diameter. On the contrary, herbal-exposed group showed enhanced sperm count, increased motility, and viability in comparison to exposed group. Histopathology studies also revealed the protective role of herbal juice. Significant alteration in oxidative parameters along with an enhanced free radical generation in exposed group and reduction in herbal groups was observed. The results thus indicate that continuous exposure to EM radiation can lead to oxidative stress which induces biochemical changes in rat sperms. However, Punica granatum extract has a protective role against oxidative damage induced by EM radiation.

Decellularization of Male Reproductive Tissue

Decellularized testicular matrix (DTM) enables researchers to focus on the specific composition of the testicular extracellular matrix (ECM) and elucidate its role in spermatogenesis. Furthermore, it provides the natural architectural arrangement that could guide the reorganization of dissociated testicular cells in vitro. This is a key consideration as the presence of an authentic nutritive and endocrine support has been proven to be essential for in vitro spermatogenesis, at least in the mouse (Oliver and Stukenborg in Andrology 8:825-834, 2020; Richer et al. in Andrology 12741, 2019). Hence, scaffolds of DTM could be harnessed for the development of a human in vitro spermatogenesis culture system, which is a missing link in male fertility preservation and could be a possible treatment for nonobstructive azoospermia (Gassei and Orwig in Steril 105:256-266, 2016).

Effects of Polychlorinated Biphenyls on Animal Reproductive Systems and Epigenetic Modifications

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of highly toxic endocrine-disrupting chemicals comprising 209 homologs. PCBs are extensively found in the environment and can induce typical estrogenic and profound, long-lasting effects on animals. In this article, the introduction of PCB residues into the environment and the pathways of PCB enrichment in animals are described. PCBs are widely deposited and eventually accumulate in human tissues and body fluids through biomagnification. PCBs can significantly decrease animal fertility and interfere with endocrine processes, leading to the development of various diseases and even cancer. The effects of PCBs on the reproductive systems of animals can also be passed to their offspring, indicating that PCBs may affect the epigenetic modification process. There is currently no treatment to effectively inhibit the toxicity of PCBs in organisms; therefore, the severity of PCB toxicity needs to be widely recognized.

The in-vivo assessment of Turkish propolis and its nano form on testicular damage induced by cisplatin

OBJECTIVE

Chemotherapeutic drugs, such as cisplatin (CP), which are associated with oxidative stress and apoptosis, may adversely affect the reproductive system. This study tests whether administration of propolis and nano-propolis (NP) can alleviate oxidative stress and apoptosis in rats with testicular damage induced by CP.

METHODS

In this study, polymeric nanoparticles including propolis were synthesized with a green sonication method and characterized using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, and wet scanning transmission electron microscopy techniques. In total, 56 rats were divided into the following seven groups: control, CP, propolis, NP-10, CP + propolis, CP + NP-10, and CP + NP-30. Propolis (100 mg/kg), NP-10 (10 mg/kg), and NP-30 (30 mg/kg) treatments were administered by gavage daily for 21 d, and CP (3 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally in a single dose. After the experiment, oxidative stress parameters, namely, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT), and apoptotic pathways including B cell leukemia/lymphoma-2 protein (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) were measured in testicular tissues. Furthermore, sperm quality and weights of the testis, epididymis, right cauda epididymis, seminal vesicles and prostate were evaluated.

RESULTS

Propolis and NP (especially NP-30) were able to preserve oxidative balance (decreased MDA levels and increased GSH, CAT, and GPx activities) and activate apoptotic pathways (decreased Bax and increased Bcl-2) in the testes of CP-treated rats. Sperm motility in the control, CP, and CP + NP-30 groups were 60%, 48.75%, and 78%, respectively (P < 0.001). Especially, NP-30 application completely corrected the deterioration in sperm features induced by CP.

CONCLUSION

The results show that propolis and NP treatments mitigated the side effects of CP on spermatogenic activity, antioxidant situation, and apoptosis in rats.

Effects of tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) on the reproductive health of male rodents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a type of brominated flame retardant widely detected in the environment and organisms. It has been reported to cause cytotoxicity and disrupt endocrine system of animals. However, the effect of TBBPA on the reproductive system of male rodents is still controversial. Hence, this meta-analysis aims to determine whether TBBPA exposure damage to the reproductive system of male rodents. In this study, a thorough search of literatures was undertaken to select papers published before December 1st, 2020. The standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated by random model. The results showed a statistically significant association between TBBPA exposure and the reproductive system health of male rodents (SMD = -0.35, 95% CI -0.50 to -0.19). The SMD for the reproductive system index organ weight, sperm quality, hormone levels, and gene expression were 0.03 (95% CI -0.18 to 0.23), -0.47 (95% CI -0.78 to -0.16), -0.51 (95% CI -0.75 to -0.27), and -0.98 (95% CI -1.36 to -0.60), respectively. There was a significant dose-effect relationship between TBBPA exposure and the reproductive health of male rodents, with the SMD values of low, medium, and high doses -0.20 (95% CI -0.34 to -0.05), -0.24 (95% CI -0.56 to 0.07), and -0.48 (95% CI -0.83 to -0.13), respectively. For exposure duration of TBBPA, an exposure time of >10 weeks (SMD = -0.33, 95% CI -0.54 to -0.12) showed more significant effect than an exposure time of ≤10 weeks (SMD = -0.22, 95% CI -0.43 to -0.02). Moreover, TBBPA exposure exhibited significant negative effects on sperm count (SMD = -0.49, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.17) while also reduced the content of triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) hormones. To summarize, our meta-analysis indicated that TBBPA had a toxicity effect to the reproductive system of male rodents.

Toxicity and deleterious impacts of selenium nanoparticles at supranutritional and imbalance levels on male goldfish (Carassius auratus) sperm

BACKGROUND

Selenium has a major role in male reproduction and antioxidative mechanisms. Although deficiency of this element can result in damages to the body's organs, this metalloid can induce deleterious effects in organisms by causing oxidative stress. This study assessed the spermatotoxicity of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in goldfish (Carassius auratus) based on genotoxicity, antioxidant status, sperm quality, and histopathology.

METHODS

The fish with an average weight of 70 g (n = 288) were divided into four experimental groups (three replicates) and fed three times a day with SeNPs at different levels of 0, 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg kg diet for 30 and 60 days.

RESULTS

After 30 and 60 days of feeding trial, compared to the control group, spermatocrit percentage markedly decreased at 1 mg kg SeNPs on day 30 as well as at 0.5 and 1 mg kg on day 60 (p < 0.05). Computer-assisted sperm analysis parameters especially VCL, VSL, and VAP decreased in response to SeNPs (p < 0.05). Percentage of fast speed progressive sperm cells was highest in fish fed with 0.1 mg kg SeNPs following the dietary experiment and significantly reduced in a SeNPs dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05). In addition, the levels of Malondialdehyde and Glutathione peroxidase were significantly elevated in seminal plasma of all SeNPs-treated groups (p < 0.05). On day 60, DNA damage of sperm was greatly increased at 1 mg kg SeNPs (p < 0.05). Moreover, the highest percentage of spermatocyte and spermatid were observed at the highest dose of SeNPs while the highest percentage of spermatozoa was recorded at the lowest and moderate SeNPs doses.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that non-optimal doses of SeNPs could reduce sperm quality, induce oxidative stress, and DNA damage in sperm, and disrupt testis development.

Review of endocrine disruptors on male and female reproductive systems

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) interfere with different hormonal and metabolic processes and disrupt the development of organs and tissues, as well as the reproductive system. In toxicology research, various animal models have been utilized to compare and characterize the effects of EDs. We reviewed studies assessing the effect of ED exposure in humans, zebrafish, and mouse models and the adverse effects of EDs on male and female reproductive systems. This review outlines the distinctive morphological characteristics, as well as gene expression, factors, and mechanisms that are known to occur in response to EDs. In each animal model, disturbances in the reproductive system were associated with certain factors of apoptosis, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, estrogen receptor pathway-induced meiotic disruption, and steroidogenesis. The effects of bisphenol A, phthalate, and 17α-ethinylestradiol have been investigated in animal models, each providing supporting outcomes and elaborating the key regulators of male and female reproductive systems.

Organ-on-a-chip technology for the study of the female reproductive system

Over the past decade, organs-on-a-chip and microphysiological systems have emerged as a disruptive in vitro technology for biopharmaceutical applications. By enabling new capabilities to engineer physiological living tissues and organ units in the precisely controlled environment of microfabricated devices, these systems offer great promise to advance the frontiers of basic and translational research in biomedical sciences. Here, we review an emerging body of interdisciplinary work directed towards harnessing the power of organ-on-a-chip technology for reproductive biology and medicine. The focus of this topical review is to provide an overview of recent progress in the development of microengineered female reproductive organ models with relevance to drug delivery and discovery. We introduce the engineering design of these advanced in vitro systems and examine their applications in the study of pregnancy, infertility, and reproductive diseases. We also present two case studies that use organ-on-a-chip design principles to model placental drug transport and hormonally regulated crosstalk between multiple female reproductive organs. Finally, we discuss challenges and opportunities for the advancement of reproductive organ-on-a-chip technology.

Synchrotron X-ray phase contrast micro tomography to explore the morphology of abdominal organs in Pterostichus melas italicus Dejean, 1828 (Coleoptera, Carabidae)

Micro-computer tomography imaging is a fast and non-destructive data acquisition technique which can replace or complement the traditional investigation methodologies used in entomology to study morphology. In this paper, Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Phase-Contrast micro tomography (SR-PhC micro-CT) was combined with histology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations to describe the abdominal organs of Pterostichus melas italicus Dejean, 1828 (Coleoptera, Carabidae). This species was used as a representative model because of its ecological role as a generalist predator in agroecosystems. SR-PhC micro-CT allowed us to identify in situ abdominal structures including dorsal vessel, digestive tract with Malpighian tubules, male reproductive system, ganglia, fat bodies, pygidial glands, muscles and tracheae. The histology was performed to define the tissue organization of the digestive and reproductive systems. SR-PhC micro-CT and 3D rendering provided more accurate information on shape and size of organs than histological and SEM analyses, respectively. The finding of this study was to describe the anatomy and histology of organs involved in crucial life history traits, such as reproduction, nutrition and excretion. High quality images and the supplementary video represent a significant advance in knowledge of the carabid anatomy and are a baseline for future research.

Elatostema qinzhouense (Urticaceae), a new species from limestone karst in Guangxi, China

Elatostema qinzhouense L.F. Fu, A.K. Monro & Y.G. Wei, a new species from Guangxi, China is described and illustrated. Morphologically, E. qinzhouense is most similar to E. hezhouense from which it differs by having smaller size of leaf laminae, fewer and smaller staminate peduncle bracts, longer pistillate peduncle bracts and a larger achene. This result is supported by the molecular evidence. The phylogenetic position of the new species within Elatostema is evaluated using three DNA regions, ITS, trnH-psbA and psbM-trnD, for 107 taxa of Elatostema s.l. (including E. qinzhouense). Bayesian inference (BI) and maximum likelihood (ML) analyses each recovered the same strongly supported tree topologies, indicating that E. qinzhouense is a member of the core Elatostema clade and sister to E. hezhouense. Along with the phylogenetic studies, plastid genome and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences of the new species are assembled and annotated. The plastid genome is 150,398 bp in length and comprises two inverted repeats (IRs) of 24,688 bp separated by a large single-copy of 83,919 bp and a small single-copy of 17,103 bp. A total of 113 functional genes are recovered, comprising 79 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. The rDNA is 5,804 bp in length and comprised the 18S ribosomal RNA partial sequence (1,809 bp), internal transcribed spacer 1 (213 bp), 5.8S ribosomal RNA (164 bp), internal transcribed spacer 2 (248 bp) and 26S ribosomal RNA partial sequence (3,370 bp). In addition, the chromosome number of E. qinzhouense is observed to be 2n = 26, suggesting that the species is diploid. Given a consistent relationship between ploidy level and reproductive system in Elatostema, the new species is also considered to be sexually reproducing. Our assessment of the extinction threat for E. qinzhouense is that it is Endangered (EN) according to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Effects of tributyltin on gonad and brood pouch development of male pregnant lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) at environmentally relevant concentrations

The male pregnancy of seahorses is unique, but their reproductive response to environmental disturbances has not yet been clarified. Tributyltin (TBT) is known to have an endocrine disrupting effect on the reproductive system of coastal marine organisms. This study evaluated the potential effects of exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of TBT on the development of gonads and brood pouch of the lined seahorse (Hippocampus erectus). Physiological, histological, and transcriptional analyses were conducted, and results showed that high levels of TBT bioaccumulation occurred in male and female seahorses. TBT led to ovarian follicular atresia and apoptosis with the elevation of androgen levels, accompanied by the induction of genes associated with lysosomes and autophagosomes. Comparative transcriptional analyses revealed the likely inhibition of spermatogenesis via the suppression of cyclic AMP and androgen synthesis. Notably, the transcriptional profiles showed that TBT potentially affects the immune system, angiogenesis, and embryo nourishment of the brood pouch, which indicates that it has negative effects on the male reproductive system of seahorses. In summary, this study reveals that environmental levels of TBT potentially affect the reproductive efficiency of seahorses, and may ultimately lead to a reduction in their populations in coastal environments.

Effect of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) on reproductive system

Since the emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in December 2019, it has rapidly spread across many countries and it has become a crucial global health concern. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 infection not only effect on respiratory system, but on reproductive system of human. However, there has been not any review described the transmission paths and effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human reproductive system, systematically. In order to describe the transmission paths of SARS-CoV-2, effect on the male/female reproductive system of SARS-CoV-2 and some successful prevention measures. We would like to review effect of SARS-CoV-2 on reproductive system. To conclude, SARS-CoV-2 infection might damage to male reproductive system via ACE2 receptor mediating and male patients were reportedly slightly more affected than women by SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Co-exposure of Bi2O3 nanoparticles and bezo[a]pyrene-enhanced in vitro cytotoxicity of mouse spermatogonia cells

Recent attention has been focused on reproductive toxicity of nanoscale materials in combination with pre-existing environmental pollutants. Due to its unique characteristics, bismuth (III) oxide (Bi₂O₃) nanoparticles (BONPs) are being used in diverse fields including cosmetics and biomedicine. Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) is a known endocrine disruptor that most common sources of BaP exposure to humans are cigarette smoke and well-cooked barbecued meat. Hence, joint exposure of BONPs and BaP in humans is common. There is scarcity of information on toxicity of BONPs in combination with BaP in human reproductive system. In this work, combined effects of BONPs and BaP in mouse spermatogonia (GC-1 spg) cells were assessed. Results showed that combined exposure of BONPs and BaP synergistically induced cell viability reduction, lactate dehydrogenase leakage, induction of caspases (-3 and -9) and mitochondrial membrane potential loss in GC-1 spg cells. Co-exposure of BONPs and BaP also synergistically induced production of pro-oxidants (reactive oxygen species and hydrogen peroxide) and reduction of antioxidants (glutathione and several antioxidant enzymes). Experiments with N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC, a reactive oxygen species scavenger) indicated that oxidative stress was a plausible mechanism of synergistic toxicity of BONPs and BaP in GC-1 spg cells. Present data could be helpful for future in vivo research and risk assessment of human reproductive system co-exposed to BONPs and BaP.

Reproductive injury in male BALB/c mice infected with Neospora caninum

Background

Neospora caninum is one of the main causes of abortion in pregnant animals. However, N. caninum-induced reproductive injury in male mice is still unclear.

Methods

Male BALB/c mice were infected with a bovine isolate of N. caninum, and the organ coefficients of the testis and epididymis were measured. Lesions in the testis and epididymis were observed by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Expression of the spermatogenic cell apoptosis-related proteins p53 and caspase-3 was detected by western blot. The expression of spermatogenesis-related genes in the testis was detected by reverse transcription-PCR. Sperm morphology and motility were observed. The levels of nitric oxide (NO) and antisperm antibody (AsAb) in the testicular homogenates and hormones in the serum were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The reproductive capacity of the male mice was detected using a reproduction test.

Results

The organ coefficients of the testis and epididymis of the experimental group were significantly downregulated. Light microscopy examination revealed that the spermatogenic cells of the testis were arranged in a disordered manner, and the number was reduced. The number of sperm in the epididymal lumen was significantly reduced, and the cytoplasm exhibited vacuolation and degeneration. Ultrastructural studies revealed that the cells of the testis and epididymis tissues showed varying degrees of disease. The level of p53 and caspase-3 expression in the testis was significantly upregulated. The expression of the testicular spermatogenesis-related genes Herc4, Ipo11 and Mrto4 were strongly downregulated. Observation of sperm by microscopic examination revealed significantly reduced sperm density and sperm motility, and the number of sperm deformities was significantly increased. The level of NO and AsAb was significantly increased. The levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and gonadotropin-releasing hormone were significantly upregulated, whereas the levels of testosterone, thyrotropin-releasing hormone, thyroxine and thyroid-stimulating hormone were significantly downregulated. After challenge, the infected male mice and healthy female mice were caged together: the subsequent fetal death rate was increased, and the conception rate, litter size, number of live births and the birth weight were significantly reduced.

Conclusions

Infection of male BALB/c mice with the bovine isolate of N. caninum induced varying degrees of injury to the testis, epididymis and sperm of the mice, destroyed spermatogenesis and affected the reproductive capacity.

Ovarian toxicity by fusariotoxins in pigs: Does it imply in oxidative stress?

Mycotoxins are natural contaminants of food and feed occurring worldwide. Deoxynivalenol (DON) and fumonisin B1 (FB₁) are the most frequent fusariotoxins and induce immune and intestinal toxicity in humans and animals. Recently, an association between mycotoxins exposure and impaired fertility has been suggested. However, the effects of these mycotoxins on the reproductive system are not well established. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of FB₁ and DON, in combination or alone, on the ovarian morphology and oxidative responses using porcine explants. Seventy-two explants were obtained from six pigs and submitted to the following treatments: control (MEM medium), DON (10 μM), FB₁ (100 μM FB₁), and DON + FB₁ (10 μM + 100 μM). Histological and immunohistochemical assays were performed to evaluate ovarian changes, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Oxidative stress response was evaluated through lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity response assays. The exposure to mycotoxins induced significant histological changes in the ovaries, which were characterized by a decrease in viable follicles and increase in degenerated follicles. A significant decrease in granulosa cell proliferation was observed in explants exposed to all mycotoxins. In addition the multi-contaminated treatment was responsible for an increase in the cell apoptosis index of growing follicles. On the other hand, the FB₁ and multi-contaminated treatments induced a significant decrease in lipid peroxidation accompanied by an increase in antioxidant responses. Altogether, our results indicate a reproductive toxicity induced by fusariotoxins. Moreover, mycotoxins, alone or in combination, modulate oxidative stress response, interfering with the production of free radicals and affecting the reproductive capacity of pigs.

The effect of pre-pregnancy body mass index on breastfeeding initiation, intention and duration: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

Overweight and obesity not only are major risk factors for number of chronic diseases, but also a risk factor for pregnancy complications in women. The present study aims to investigate the association between pre-pregnancy BMI and the persistence and duration of BF. The electronic databases including Medline (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched for papers with titles and/or abstracts including one of our keywords and published up to 15 April 2019. For dose-response relationship, the two-stage random-effects meta-analysis was performed using the “dosresmeta” function in R software. Thirty-two studies with the effect of pre-pregnancy BMI on BF initiation, intention and duration were included in the present study. Based on crude and adjusted OR models, the risk of BF cessation increased by 4% (OR = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02–1.05) with an increase in a unit of BMI. In addition, based on crude and adjusted RR models, the risk of BF cessation increases by 2% and 1% (crude RR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.03 and adjusted RR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.99–1.02) with an increase in one unit of BMI. Based on the result, the health care professionals and other key stakeholders should be aware of the impact excess weight, and that women who are overweight or obese should be encouraged with continued access to guidance, counseling and support, starting from conception, to maximize BF outcomes.

Contraceptive use and associated factors among sexually active reproductive age HIV positive women attending ART clinic at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Contraception helps prevent unplanned pregnancies and mother to child Human Immune Virus (HIV) transmission among human immune virus positive women. Ethiopia has made remarkable progress in increasing contraceptive use rate but there is still a disparity of contraceptive use within the country. Although there were some studies about contraceptive use in Ethiopia, evidences about contraceptive use among sexually active HIV positive women was limited. Understanding the extent of and barriers in Ethiopia is important for learning how to best improve level of contraceptive use. Therefore, this study aimed to assess contraceptives use and associated factors among HIV positive sexually active women at anti-retroviral therapy clinic at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital ART clinic in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.

METHOD

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 01-30, 2018 among (n = 308) randomly selected HIV positive women at Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Survey logistic regression analysis was employed to identify determinants of contraceptive use. Statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05.

RESULTS

Out of three hundred eight participants, 118 (38.3%) reported contraceptive use at the time of the study. Injectable is the most preferred (43.5%) contraceptive method. Participants with age 15-34 years (AOR = 3.09, 95%CI: 1.59-5.99), disclosed their status to sex partner, (AOR = 2.7, 95%CI: 1.14-6.66), had history of contraception use; (AOR = 3.36, 95%CI: 1.68-6.74), were sexually active (AOR = 5.45, 95%CI: 2.72-10.91) had higher odds of contraceptive use. However, participants who had drinking habit (AOR = 4.35, 95%CI: 1.82-10.38) had lower odds of contraceptive use.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of HIV positive women had low level of contraceptive use that was lower than the national recommended level. Participants with younger age (15-34years), who disclosed HIV status to sex partner, had history of contraceptive use, and who were sexually active six months prior to the study were more likely to use contraception. However, participants who had drinking habit were less likely to use contraception. These results suggest that multi-sectorial and multi-disciplinary approaches are needed to increase contraceptive use in the HIV positive women.

Enrichment of bovine X-sperm using microfluidic dielectrophoretic chip: A proof-of- concept study

The microfluidic dielectrophoretic (MF-DEP) chip is a new, economical and readily-available technology that might be used to enrich X-sperm for increasing female offspring in dairy farms. In this study, we sought to develop an MF-DEP chip to enrich X bovine sperm. The MF-DEP chip was composed of an electrode attached to a glass slide and a microchannel made from polydimethylsiloxane. Sex-sorted sperm from flow cytometry were used to identify optimal electric field conditions while unsorted sperm were later tested for sorting efficiency. The results show that during dielectrophoresis some sperm attached to the electrode (called positive DEP; pDEP) whereas other moved away from the electrode (called negative DEP; nDEP). X and Y-sperm responded to dielectrophoresis differently depending on various factors such as buffers, voltages, and frequencies. We found that the condition 4 V 1 MHz significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the percentage of Y-sperm to nearly 30 and therefore enriched X-sperm. The sorting efficiency was dependent on buffer, bull, sorting cycle, flow rate, electrical voltage, and frequency. Notably, the best sorting buffer found in this experiment was the conducting buffer, but this buffer significantly reduced sperm viability and motility. Other sperm-friendly buffers, TRIS and mHTF, were also used, but could not enrich X-sperm. In conclusion, this is a proof of concept that the MF-DEP chip can be effectively used to enrich bovine X-sperm. However, more research must be performed particularly to find the best sorting buffer to effectively sex-sort sperm while providing high motility and sperm viability.

The benefits of varicocele repair for achieving pregnancy in male infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Varicocele is one of the most common treatable causes of male infertility. However, the decision to perform varicocelectomy before starting a fertility program remains controversial. This study aimed to thoroughly review and analyze the benefit of varicocele repair and its impact on the success rate of a fertility program.

Materials and methods

A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Wiley Library. The primary outcome was the pregnancy rate, and the secondary outcomes were live birth rate and surgical sperm retrieval success rate. Outcomes were compared between men who underwent treatment for a varicocele and those that did not. The pooled analysis data are presented as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 31 articles were included in the meta-analysis. The pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the treated group (odds ratio = 1.82; 95% confidence interval: 1.37-2.41; P < 0.0001) along with the live birth rate (odds ratio = 2.80; 95% confidence interval: 1.67-4.72; P = 0.0001). The further subgroup analysis revealed a higher pregnancy rate in treated men with azoospermia, subnormal semen parameters, and normozoospermia (P = 0.04, P = 0.0005, and P = 0.002, respectively), while the live birth rate was only significantly higher in the treated men with subnormal semen parameters and normozoospermia (P = 0.001 and P < 0.0001). Treated varicocele also led to a higher sperm retrieval rate in azoospermic patients (odds ratio = 1.69; 95% confidence interval: 1.16-2.45; P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Varicocele repair increased the pregnancy and live birth rates regardless the semen analysis result, along with the sperm retrieval success rate in azoospermic men. Thus, varicocele repair may be beneficial prior to joining a fertility program.