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Alemany-Pagès M, Tavares R, Azul AM, Ramalho-Santos J. A Healthy Liver Will Always Deliver: Impact Study of a Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Awareness Comic. Health Commun 2024; 39:1412-1417. [PMID: 37248695 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2215908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Based on previous work, we developed the comic "A healthy liver will always deliver!" to raise awareness about Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and promote healthy lifestyles. An online pre-post questionnaire design demonstrated an increase in health-threat beliefs regarding NAFLD among the general public, as well as response efficacy and self-efficacy beliefs, normative and control beliefs regarding the maintenance of preventive strategies involving healthy diets and active lifestyles, after interaction with the comic's narrative. This effect was more evident in women. Furthermore, although we could not perform all the ideal controls during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the online strategy attracted mostly university education-level subjects, the comic seemed relatable and engaging. However, more work will have to be performed to ensure its usefulness in terms of acquired knowledge and behavior changes, especially in at-risk segments of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Alemany-Pagès
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra
- Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra
| | - Rui Tavares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra
- Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra
- DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra
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Alfaiate MI, Tavares RS, Ramalho-Santos J. A ripple effect? The impact of obesity on sperm quality and function. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23215. [PMID: 38589340 DOI: 10.1071/rd23215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of couples trying to conceive. Male-related causes account for roughly 50% of cases, with obesity emerging as a possible significant factor. Obesity, defined as a body mass index of 30.0 or higher, has become a widespread epidemic associated with numerous health issues, including a decrease of fertility. This review discusses the relationship between obesity and male infertility, particularly focusing on sperm quality and function. An overview of the literature suggests that obesity may influence the male reproductive system via disruptions in hormonal profiles, oxidative stress, and inflammation, leading to changes in sperm parameters. Several studies have discussed if obesity causes a decrease in sperm concentration, motility, and normal morphology, so far without a consensus being reached. However, available evidence suggests an impairment of sperm function in obese men, due to an increase in DNA damage and oxidative stress, impaired mitochondrial function and acrosome reaction in response to progesterone. Finally, the relationship between obesity and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes remains debatable, with conflicting evidence regarding the influence on fertilisation, pregnancy, and live birth rates. Therefore, the actual impact of obesity on human spermatozoa still needs to be clarified, due to the multiple factors potentially in play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Alfaiate
- University of Coimbra, CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Coimbra, Portugal; and University of Coimbra, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Doctoral Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renata Santos Tavares
- University of Coimbra, CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Coimbra, Portugal; and Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- University of Coimbra, CNC-UC, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Coimbra, Portugal; and Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
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Freitas-Martins A, Sousa MI, Cristo MI, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Metabolic characterization of human sperm cells using the Seahorse metabolic flux analyzer. Andrology 2024; 12:410-421. [PMID: 37357530 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13486] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The concerning trend on male infertility global prevalence, together with the unexplainable causes in half of those cases, highlights that there are still aspects of this disease to be understood and solved. To address this issue, one should not only be aware of the limitations of the implemented diagnostic tools, but also understand the sperm cell in depth, structurally, biochemically, molecularly in order to develop reliable and ready-to-be new/improved diagnostic tools. In this sense, the sperm cells metabolism, highly related to its functionality, seems to be a promising aspect to explore. Though there is much information on the human sperm metabolism, there is still a lack of a quick integrated and comprehensive analysis that may be introduced with the potential to reveal innovative clinically relevant information. OBJECTIVES Find metabolic details on human sperm that can be accessed easily, in real time and using few cells, relying on the bivalent potential of the Seahorse flux analyzer (SFA). RESULTS We have obtained standard records on human sperm cells' oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), that together with the metabolic metrics provided information on sperm cells' oxidative and glycolytic metabolism. Furthermore, a metabolic interindividual variation was observed. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Although the comparison with other species or cell types is not linear and warrant further studies, the metabolic profile of human sperm cells seems to be similar to that of other species. Altogether our results corroborate the value of SFA for metabolic human sperm cell analysis, warranting new studies, and anticipating several applications in the male infertility field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Freitas-Martins
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Cristo
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Marto CM, Laranjo M, Gonçalves AC, Paula A, Jorge J, Caetano-Oliveira R, Sousa MI, Oliveiros B, Ramalho-Santos J, Sarmento-Ribeiro AB, Marques-Ferreira M, Cabrita A, Botelho MF, Carrilho E. In Vitro Characterization of Reversine-Treated Gingival Fibroblasts and Their Safety Evaluation after In Vivo Transplantation. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:207. [PMID: 38399261 PMCID: PMC10892828 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16020207] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Reversine is a purine derivative that has been investigated with regard to its biological effects, such as its anticancer properties and, mostly, its ability to induce the dedifferentiation of adult cells, increasing their plasticity. The obtained dedifferentiated cells have a high potential for use in regenerative procedures, such as regenerative dentistry (RD). Instead of replacing the lost or damaged oral tissues with synthetic materials, RD uses stem cells combined with matrices and an appropriate microenvironment to achieve tissue regeneration. However, the currently available stem cell sources present limitations, thus restricting the potential of RD. Based on this problem, new sources of stem cells are fundamental. This work aims to characterize mouse gingival fibroblasts (GFs) after dedifferentiation with reversine. Different administration protocols were tested, and the cells obtained were evaluated regarding their cell metabolism, protein and DNA contents, cell cycle changes, morphology, cell death, genotoxicity, and acquisition of stem cell characteristics. Additionally, their teratoma potential was evaluated after in vivo transplantation. Reversine caused toxicity at higher concentrations, with decreased cell metabolic activity and protein content. The cells obtained displayed polyploidy, a cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, and showed an enlarged size. Additionally, apoptosis and genotoxicity were found at higher reversine concentrations. A subpopulation of the GFs possessed stem properties, as supported by the increased expression of CD90, CD105, and TERT, the existence of a CD106+ population, and their trilineage differentiation capacity. The dedifferentiated cells did not induce teratoma formation. The extensive characterization performed shows that significant functional, morphological, and genetic changes occur during the dedifferentiation process. The dedifferentiated cells have some stem-like characteristics, which are of interest for RD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Miguel Marto
- Institute of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Integrated Clinical Practice and Laboratory of Evidence-Based and Precision Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal (E.C.)
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Laranjo
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Cristina Gonçalves
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Paula
- Institute of Integrated Clinical Practice and Laboratory of Evidence-Based and Precision Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal (E.C.)
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Jorge
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Caetano-Oliveira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Germano de Sousa—Centro de Diagnóstico Histopatológico CEDAP, University of Coimbra, 3000-377 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Oliveiros
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Laboratory of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Bela Sarmento-Ribeiro
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Laboratory of Oncobiology and Hematology (LOH) and University Clinic of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuel Marques-Ferreira
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Endodontics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Cabrita
- Institute of Experimental Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Filomena Botelho
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Eunice Carrilho
- Institute of Integrated Clinical Practice and Laboratory of Evidence-Based and Precision Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal (E.C.)
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (B.O.); (M.M.-F.)
- Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
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Pacheco RI, Cristo MI, Anjo SI, Silva AF, Sousa MI, Tavares RS, Sousa AP, Almeida Santos T, Moura-Ramos M, Caramelo F, Manadas B, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral SG. New Insights on Sperm Function in Male Infertility of Unknown Origin: A Multimodal Approach. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1462. [PMID: 37892144 PMCID: PMC10605211 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101462] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The global trend of rising (male) infertility is concerning, and the unidentifiable causes in half of the cases, the so-called unknown origin male infertility (UOMI), demands a better understanding and assessment of both external/internal factors and mechanisms potentially involved. In this work, it was our aim to obtain new insight on UOMI, specifically on idiopathic (ID) and Unexplained male infertility (UMI), relying on a detailed evaluation of the male gamete, including functional, metabolic and proteomic aspects. For this purpose, 1114 semen samples, from males in couples seeking infertility treatment, were collected at the Reproductive Medicine Unit from the Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), from July 2018-July 2022. Based on the couples' clinical data, seminal/hormonal analysis, and strict eligibility criteria, samples were categorized in 3 groups, control (CTRL), ID and UMI. Lifestyle factors and anxiety/depression symptoms were assessed via survey. Sperm samples were evaluated functionally, mitochondrially and using proteomics. The results of Assisted Reproduction Techniques were assessed whenever available. According to our results, ID patients presented the worst sperm functional profile, while UMI patients were similar to controls. The proteomic analysis revealed 145 differentially expressed proteins, 8 of which were specifically altered in ID and UMI samples. Acrosin (ACRO) and sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 4 (SACA4) were downregulated in ID patients while laminin subunit beta-2 (LAMB2), mannose 6-phosphate isomerase (MPI), ATP-dependent 6-phosphofructokinase liver type (PFKAL), STAR domain-containing protein 10 (STA10), serotransferrin (TRFE) and exportin-2 (XPO2) were downregulated in UMI patients. Using random forest analysis, SACA4 and LAMB2 were identified as the sperm proteins with a higher chance of distinguishing ID and UMI patients, and their function and expression variation were in accordance with the functional results. No alterations were observed in terms of lifestyle and psychological factors among the 3 groups. These findings obtained in an experimental setting based on 3 well-defined groups of subjects, might help to validate new biomarkers for unknown origin male infertility (ID and UMI) that, in the future, can be used to improve diagnostics and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita I. Pacheco
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria I. Cristo
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra I. Anjo
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andreia F. Silva
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renata S. Tavares
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida Santos
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana Moura-Ramos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-115 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Bruno Manadas
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Gomes Amaral
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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Ferreira AF, Soares M, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J, Sousa AP. Aging and oocyte competence: A molecular cell perspective. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1613. [PMID: 37248206 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1613] [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: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Follicular microenvironment is paramount in the acquisition of oocyte competence, which is dependent on two interconnected and interdependent processes: nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Extensive research conducted in human and model systems has provided evidence that those processes are disturbed with female aging. In fact, advanced maternal age (AMA) is associated with a lower chance of pregnancy and live birth, explained by the age-related decline in oocyte quality/competence. This decline has largely been attributed to mitochondria, essential for oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development; with mitochondrial dysfunction leading to oxidative stress, responsible for nuclear and mitochondrial damage, suboptimal intracellular energy levels, calcium disturbance, and meiotic spindle alterations, that may result in oocyte aneuploidy. Nuclear-related mechanisms that justify increased oocyte aneuploidy include deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, loss of chromosomal cohesion, spindle assembly checkpoint dysfunction, meiotic recombination errors, and telomere attrition. On the other hand, age-dependent cytoplasmic maturation failure is related to mitochondrial dysfunction, altered mitochondrial biogenesis, altered mitochondrial morphology, distribution, activity, and dynamics, dysmorphic smooth endoplasmic reticulum and calcium disturbance, and alterations in the cytoskeleton. Furthermore, reproductive somatic cells also experience the effects of aging, including mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage, compromising the crosstalk between granulosa/cumulus cells and oocytes, also affected by a loss of gap junctions. Old oocytes seem therefore to mature in an altered microenvironment, with changes in metabolites, ribonucleic acid (RNA), proteins, and lipids. Overall, understanding the mechanisms implicated in the loss of oocyte quality will allow the establishment of emerging biomarkers and potential therapeutic anti-aging strategies. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Filipa Ferreira
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Soares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Ramalho-Santos J. Forgotten. Nature 2023:10.1038/d41586-023-01556-2. [PMID: 37173444 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-01556-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
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Pereira P, Neto AS, Rodrigues AS, Barros I, Miranda C, Ramalho-Santos J, Pereira de Almeida L, Ferreira JMF, Coelho JFJ, Fonseca AC. In Vitro Evaluation of Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds Derived from Cuttlefish Bone Coated with Poly(ester urea) for Bone Tissue Regeneration. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15102256. [PMID: 37242831 DOI: 10.3390/polym15102256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the osteogenic differentiation of umbilical-cord-derived human mesenchymal stromal cells (hUC-MSCs) on biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) scaffolds derived from cuttlefish bone doped with metal ions and coated with polymers. First, the in vitro cytocompatibility of the undoped and ion-doped (Sr2+, Mg2+ and/or Zn2+) BCP scaffolds was evaluated for 72 h using Live/Dead staining and viability assays. From these tests, the most promising composition was found to be the BCP scaffold doped with strontium (Sr2+), magnesium (Mg2+) and zinc (Zn2+) (BCP-6Sr2Mg2Zn). Then, samples from the BCP-6Sr2Mg2Zn were coated with poly(ԑ-caprolactone) (PCL) or poly(ester urea) (PEU). The results showed that hUC-MSCs can differentiate into osteoblasts, and hUC-MSCs seeded on the PEU-coated scaffolds proliferated well, adhered to the scaffold surfaces, and enhanced their differentiation capabilities without negative effects on cell proliferation under in vitro conditions. Overall, these results suggest that PEU-coated scaffolds are an alternative to PCL for use in bone regeneration, providing a suitable environment to maximally induce osteogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Pereira
- IPN, Instituto Pedro Nunes, Associação para a Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Ciência e Tecnologia, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
- CEMMPRE, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Rua Sílvio Lima-Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana S Neto
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering/CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana S Rodrigues
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Barros
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- III-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina Miranda
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- III-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Pereira de Almeida
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
- Viravector-Viral Vector for Gene Transfer Core Facility, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José M F Ferreira
- Department of Materials and Ceramic Engineering/CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Jorge F J Coelho
- IPN, Instituto Pedro Nunes, Associação para a Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Ciência e Tecnologia, Rua Pedro Nunes, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
- CEMMPRE, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Rua Sílvio Lima-Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana C Fonseca
- CEMMPRE, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Rua Sílvio Lima-Pólo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
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Vieira IH, Carvalho AF, Almeida Reis S, Carreira AL, Dias C, Fernandes S, Ferreira AF, Rodrigues D, Sousa AP, Ramalho-Santos J, Ramalhinho AC, Moura Ramos M, Paiva I, Cortesão P, Almeida-Santos AT. Association Between Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (FSHR) rs6166 and Estrogen Receptor 1 (ESR1) rs2234693 Polymorphisms and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Risk, Phenotype, and Reproductive Outcomes in an Infertile Portuguese Population. Cureus 2023; 15:e35690. [PMID: 37012960 PMCID: PMC10066722 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.35690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder often leading to anovulatory infertility. PCOS pathophysiology is still unclear and several potential genetic susceptibility factors have been proposed. The effect of polymorphisms in two genesrelated to follicular recruitment and development, the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), have been studied in different populations with contradictory results. AIMS To evaluate the influence of FSHR rs6166 (c.2039A>G) and of ESR1 rs2234693 (Pvull c.453-397 T > C) polymorphisms on PCOS risk, phenotype, and response to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). MATERIALS AND METHODS Genotyping of the FSHR rs6166 and the ESR1 rs2234693 polymorphisms was performed in PCOS women and a control group undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data, genotype frequency, and IVF outcomes were compared between groups. RESULTS We evaluated 88 PCOS women and 80 controls. There was no significant difference in the genotype distribution of FSHR rs6166 polymorphism between PCOS women and controls (AA 31.8%/AS 48.9%/SS 19.3% in PCOS women vs AA 37.5%/AS 40.0%/SS 22.5% in controls; p = 0.522). The same was true for the ESR1 rs2234693 (CC 24.1%/CT 46.0%/TT 29.9% in PCOS women vs CC 18.8%/CT 48.8%/TT 32.5% in controls; p = 0.697). In PCOS women, we found higher follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels on the third day of the menstrual cycle associated with the SS variant of the FSHR polymorphism (9.2 vs 6.2 ± 1.6 and 5.6 ± 1.6 mUI/mL; p = 0.011). We did not find other associations between the baseline hormonal parameters, antral follicle count, and response measures to COS with FSHR or ESR1 genotypes. We found, however, a need for higher cumulative doses of FSH for COS in patients with the SS variant of the FSHR rs6166 polymorphism (1860.5 ± 627.8 IU for SSvs 1498.1 ± 359.3 for AA and 1425.4 ± 474.8 for SA; p = 0.046 and p = 0.046). CONCLUSION Our data suggest that in the population, FSHR rs6166and ESR1 rs2234693 polymorphisms do not influence the risk of developing PCOS nor do they influence the patient's phenotype and IVF success. However, the SS variant of the FSHR rs6166 polymorphism may be associated with FSH resistance requiring higher FSH doses for COS.
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Ramalho-Santos J. Taking care of science: Towards better communication and societal engagement. Eur J Clin Invest 2023; 53:e13966. [PMID: 36748886 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- João Ramalho-Santos
- Department of Life Sciences, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Branco A, Moniz I, Ramalho-Santos J. Mitochondria as biological targets for stem cell and organismal senescence. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151289. [PMID: 36696809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151289] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Organismal aging is impacted by the deterioration of tissue turnover mechanisms due, in part, to the decline in stem cell function. This decline can be related to mitochondrial dysfunction and underlying energetic defects that, in concert, help drive biological aging. Thus, mitochondria have been described as a potential interventional target to hinder the loss of stem cell robustness, and subsequently, decrease tissue turnover decline and age-associated pathologies. In this review, we focused our analysis on the most recent literature on mitochondria and stem cell aging and discuss the potential benefits of targeting mitochondria in preventing stem cell dysfunction and thus influencing aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Branco
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Inês Moniz
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão, Polo 2, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB-Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Escada-Rebelo S, Ramalho-Santos J. Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress Detection in Human Sperm Using Fluorescent Probes. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2566:45-52. [PMID: 36152241 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2675-7_4] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As a natural by-product of mitochondrial respiration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm play a role in promoting fertilization, by intervening in a series of events. Nevertheless, an abnormal and uncounteracted increase in ROS production leads to oxidative stress (OS) which can, ultimately, culminate in cell death. An established relationship between OS and male infertility highlights the importance of an accurate detection method for ROS content that can be easily implemented and reproduced in any andrology lab. More recently, reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production and subsequent nitrosative stress have also been described. Here we describe the use of fluorescent probes, including some that targeted to the mitochondria due to the coupling of a cation (TPP+), in order to assess the levels of different ROS and RNS in human sperm using flow cytometry and/or fluorescent microscopy. This methodology is user friendly and accurate and can be safely applied in research- and/or clinical-based contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Escada-Rebelo
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (BEB), IIIUC- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Alemany-Pagès M, Tavares R, Azul AM, Ramalho-Santos J. A healthy liver will always deliver: development of a NAFLD awareness comic. Health Promot Int 2022; 37:6936407. [PMID: 36534948 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac165] [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: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Comics can be an effective tool to communicate health information and appeal to behavior change. The aim of this project, undertaken by a multidisciplinary team, was to develop a comic to raise awareness about non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and promote healthy lifestyles regarding dietary practices and regular physical activity patterns. We focused on the ability of comics in portraying abstract concepts to articulate NAFLD biomedical knowledge and use it as an encouragement/empowerment strategy towards disease-related beliefs, attitudes, intentions and behaviors. Formative research by means of a NAFLD awareness study with T2DM patients informed the selection of biomedical content and the design of characters and storylines on which the former was embedded. Mindful of graphic narrative and storytelling as a valuable tool in the domains of health promotion, disease prevention and therapeutic adherence, this work discusses the decisions that were taken for the materialization of the comic ‘A healthy liver will always deliver!’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Alemany-Pagès
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Tavares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
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Correia B, Sousa MI, Branco AF, Rodrigues AS, Ramalho-Santos J. Leucine and Arginine Availability Modulate Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell Proliferation and Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214286. [PMID: 36430764 PMCID: PMC9694364 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214286] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Amino acids are crucial nutrients involved in several cellular and physiological processes, including fertilization and early embryo development. In particular, Leucine and Arginine have been shown to stimulate implantation, as lack of both in a blastocyst culture system is able to induce a dormant state in embryos. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of Leucine and Arginine withdrawal on pluripotent mouse embryonic stem cell status, notably, their growth, self-renewal, as well as glycolytic and oxidative metabolism. Our results show that the absence of both Leucine and Arginine does not affect mouse embryonic stem cell pluripotency, while reducing cell proliferation through cell-cycle arrest. Importantly, these effects are not related to Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) and are reversible when both amino acids are reconstituted in the culture media. Moreover, a lack of these amino acids is related to a reduction in glycolytic and oxidative metabolism and decreased protein translation in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), while maintaining their pluripotent status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiana Correia
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Filipa Branco
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Rodrigues
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-354 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
Significance: Currently 10%-15% of couples in reproductive age face infertility issues. More importantly, male factor contributes to 50% of these cases (either alone or in combination with female causes). Among various reasons, impaired sperm function is the main cause for male infertility. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress due to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, particularly of mitochondrial origin, are believed to be the main contributors. Recent Advances: Mitochondrial dysfunction, particularly due to increased ROS production, has often been linked to impaired sperm function/quality. For decades, different methods and approaches have been developed to assess mitochondrial features that might correlate with sperm functionality. This connection is now completely accepted, with mitochondrial functionality assessment used more commonly as a readout of sperm functionality. More recently, mitochondria-targeted compounds are on the frontline for both assessment and therapeutic approaches. Critical Issues: In this review, we summarize the current methods for assessing key mitochondrial parameters known to reflect sperm quality as well as therapeutic strategies using mitochondria-targeted antioxidants aiming to improve sperm function in various situations, particularly after sperm cryopreservation. Future Directions: Although more systematic research is needed, mitochondria-targeted compounds definitely represent a promising tool to assess as well as to protect and improve sperm function. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 451-480.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Escada-Rebelo
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Casa Costa Alemão, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Cristo
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Casa Costa Alemão, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Reis S, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J, Sousa A. P-259 Cumulus cells mitochondrial membrane potential as a marker of oocyte competence in assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac107.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Study question
Is mitochondrial function of human Cumulus-oophurus Cells (hCCs) an important non-invasive biomarker for oocyte competence and a predictor of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) outcomes?
Summary answer
Advanced maternal age of women undergoing IVF is characterized by an impairment in cumulus cell mitochondrial function.
What is known already
The increasing delay of childbearing has led to urgent development of new non-invasive biomarkers of oocyte competency. Aging is a complex process that includes impairment of mitochondrial function and metabolic activity, increase of oxidative stress, alteration in the activity of several cell-signaling systems.
A great candidate to monitoring oocyte quality is the hCCs. During folliculogenesis there is an intense bidirectional communication between oocyte and its follicular cells. During oogenesis, CCs supply the oocyte with energy substrates and essential nutrients. Age-related mitochondrial dysfunction in hCCs was described to adversely affect oocyte growth and development.
Study design, size, duration
The objective of this study was to characterise the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm) of hCCs provided from patients undergoing ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) or oocyte cryopreservation in the Reproductive Medicine Unit of CHUC (Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal) between July and December 2021, to establish a predictive biomarker of oocyte competency and successful IVF outcomes.
Participants/materials, setting, methods
hCCs, collected from cumulus-oocyte complexes of 53 patients, were incubated with tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester (TMRM - 50 nM), MitoTracker Green (MTG 100 nM) and Hoechst (5µg/mL). Briefly, TMRM, due to its positive charge, accumulates within the mitochondria in a ΔΨm-depend manner, and emits red fluorescence. On the other hand, MTG is green-fluorescent mitochondrial dye which appears to localize in mitochondria regardless of Δψm. Therefore, the red/green fluorescence ratio can be measured as mitochondrial activity outcome.
Main results and the role of chance
The 53 patients studied were divided in two age groups (27 patients with <35 and 26 with ≥ 35 years old). A decrease in hCCs Δψm of women with advanced maternal age (≥35 y) compared with hCCs recovered from women with <35 was observed (P = 0.001). No differences were found in CCs Δψm in terms of infertility cause, body mass index and social habits (e.g., smoking) (P > 0.05). We also investigated if Δψm can be an effective indicator of clinical outcomes in IVF techniques; however, no correlation was observed between Δψm and oocyte maturation, fertilization, D3 embryo development and blastocyst development rates.
Our preliminary data strongly support the idea that advanced reproductive age of women undergoing IVF is accompanied by impaired cumulus cell mitochondrial function.
Limitations, reasons for caution
More data is needed to be collected to support our preliminary results, such as increasing the sample size, as well as better characterisation of the mitochondrial function in hCCs.
Wider implications of the findings
This knowledge opens a new window of opportunities in the development of new strategies to mitigate the effects of oocyte aging on (in)fertility, through clinical therapies, such as enhancing the mitochondrial function in hCCs.
Trial registration number
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Affiliation(s)
- S Reis
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biothecnology, Azinhaga de Santa Comba- Celas- 3004-504- University of Coimbra , Portugal
- University of Coimbra - PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine PDBEB, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research IIIUC , 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - T Almeida-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biothecnology, Azinhaga de Santa Comba- Celas- 3004-504- University of Coimbra , Portugal
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Praceta- R. Prof. Mota Pinto- 3004-561- Coimbra , Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba- Celas 3000-548 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB - Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biothecnology, Azinhaga de Santa Comba- Celas- 3004-504- University of Coimbra , Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas- 3000-456 Coimbra , Portugal
| | - A.P Sousa
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Praceta- R. Prof. Mota Pinto- 3004-561- Coimbra , Portugal
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Ferreira AF, Machado-Simões J, Soares M, Sousa AP, Ramalho-Santos J, Almeida-Santos T. Spatiotemporal dynamics of SIRT 1, 2 and 3 during in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2022; 186:60-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Moniz I, Ramalho-Santos J, Branco AF. Differential Oxygen Exposure Modulates Mesenchymal Stem Cell Metabolism and Proliferation through mTOR Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073749. [PMID: 35409106 PMCID: PMC8998189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073749] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells reside under precise hypoxic conditions that are paramount in determining cell fate and behavior (metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, etc.). In this work, we show that different oxygen tensions promote a distinct proliferative response and affect the biosynthetic demand and global metabolic profile of umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs). Using both gas-based strategies and CoCl2 as a substitute for the costly hypoxic chambers, we found that specific oxygen tensions influence the fate of UC-MSCs differently. While 5% O2 potentiates proliferation, stimulates biosynthetic pathways, and promotes a global hypermetabolic profile, exposure to <1% O2 contributes to a quiescent-like cell state that relies heavily on anaerobic glycolysis. We show that using CoCl2 as a hypoxia substitute of moderate hypoxia has distinct metabolic effects, when compared with gas-based strategies. The present study also highlights that, while severe hypoxia regulates global translation via mTORC1 modulation, its effects on survival-related mechanisms are mainly modulated through mTORC2. Therefore, the experimental conditions used in this study establish a robust and reliable hypoxia model for UC-MSCs, providing relevant insights into how stem cells are influenced by their physiological environment, and how different strategies of modulating hypoxia may influence experimental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Moniz
- CNC—Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC—Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
- Correspondence: (J.R.-S.); (A.F.B.)
| | - Ana F. Branco
- CNC—Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB—Centre for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Correspondence: (J.R.-S.); (A.F.B.)
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Alemany-Pagès M, Azul AM, Ramalho-Santos J. The use of comics to promote health awareness: A template using nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13642. [PMID: 34159578 PMCID: PMC9285735 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13642] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) constitutes a major threat to public health systems worldwide on account of its widespread prevalence and increasing incidence. More effective tools to raise awareness and increase health communication are therefore needed. Comics may constitute an effective language for this purpose, given the permanence, adaptability and ability of this form of communication to convey complex information, using both visual components and the creation of narrative involvement, thus promoting both awareness and health-conscious behaviours. Importantly, this process requires careful preparation in terms of selecting both the key biomedical concepts to be conveyed, as well as a graphical style and appropriate characters and a narrative arc with which a target audience can identify with. Here we provide a brief introduction to the use of comics in health communication and propose a possible roadmap for the development of comic-based tools for diverse conditions, using the context of NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Alemany-Pagès
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, Portugal
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20
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Fontes A, Ramalho-Santos J, Zischka H, Azul AM. Mushrooms on the plate: Trends towards NAFLD treatment, health improvement and sustainable diets. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13667. [PMID: 34390493 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13667] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a most important cause of liver disease. Similar to other non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as obesity and type II diabetes mellitus, NAFLD can strongly affected by diet. Diet-related NCD and malnutrition are rising in all regions being a major cause of the global health, economic and environmental burdens. Mushrooms, important dietary components since the hunter-gathering communities, have increasingly gained momentum in biomedical research and therapeutics due to their interplay in metabolism traits. We emphasize here the beneficial effects of mushroom-enriched diets on the homeostasis of lipid and sugar metabolism, including their modulation, but also interfering with insulin metabolism, gut microbiota, inflammation, oxidative stress and autophagy. In this review, we describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms at the gut-liver axis and the liver-white adipose tissue (WAT) axis, that plausibly cause such positive modulation, and discuss the potential of mushroom-enriched diets to prevent or ameliorate NAFLD and related NCD, also within the shift needed towards healthy sustainable diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Fontes
- Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,DCV-Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Hans Zischka
- Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany.,Institute of Toxicology and Environmental Hygiene, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,CIBB-Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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21
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Correia B, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J. Glycolytic Profiling of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells (mESCs). Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2520:151-159. [PMID: 34724190 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2021_449] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) can be captured in vitro in different pluripotency states through media modulation, mimicking their natural environment during early embryo development. As highly proliferative cells, mESCs prefer to use glycolysis to support the energetic and biosynthetic demands, even in the presence of oxygen. Indeed, glycolysis can not only supply ATP at a much faster rate, when compared to other catabolic pathways, but also provides biosynthetic substrates to meet anabolic requirements. Considering that ESCs cultured in different media conditions display distinct metabolic requirements, it is of utmost importance to have a robust metabolic characterization methodology to understand how subtle metabolic variations may be coupled to ESC identity. Here we describe how to profile the glycolytic activity of naive mouse ESC, using the established Seahorse XFe24 Live-cell Metabolic Assay. This may be a useful protocol for understanding how the glycolytic function of mESCs changes in certain circumstances and how is it coupled to diverse pluripotency/differentiation phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiana Correia
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3,University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3,University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, Portugal.
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3,University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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22
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Tavares RS, Ramalho-Santos J. The role of sperm and oocyte in fetal programming: Is Lamarck making a comeback? Eur J Clin Invest 2021; 51:e13521. [PMID: 33587759 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13521] [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: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Compelling evidence has shown that parental experiences and age at conception may potentially shape the future health of the next generation(s). Certain factors may affect both the female and, strikingly, the male gametes potentially causing the transmission of acquired traits, which was strongly defended by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. Neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, trinucleotide repeat-associated diseases, cardiovascular pathologies, diabetes, obesity and cancer in the offspring, among others, have now been associated with events occurring at the preconception level. The potential implications of a (trans)generational inheritance of parental disease and exposure effects should be taken into account in counselling and public policy. Further research into how exactly gametes apparently deliver more than DNA to a new generation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Santos Tavares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Casa Costa Alemão, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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23
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Azul AM, Almendra R, Quatorze M, Loureiro A, Reis F, Tavares R, Mota-Pinto A, Cunha A, Rama L, Malva JO, Santana P, Ramalho-Santos J. Unhealthy lifestyles, environment, well-being and health capability in rural neighbourhoods: a community-based cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1628. [PMID: 34488709 PMCID: PMC8422758 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11661-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-communicable diseases are a leading cause of health loss worldwide, in part due to unhealthy lifestyles. Metabolic-based diseases are rising with an unhealthy body-mass index (BMI) in rural areas as the main risk factor in adults, which may be amplified by wider determinants of health. Changes in rural environments reflect the need of better understanding the factors affecting the self-ability for making balanced decisions. We assessed whether unhealthy lifestyles and environment in rural neighbourhoods are reflected into metabolic risks and health capability. METHODS We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study in 15 Portuguese rural neighbourhoods to describe individuals' health functioning condition and to characterize the community environment. We followed a qualitatively driven mixed-method design to gather information about evidence-based data, lifestyles and neighbourhood satisfaction (incorporated in eVida technology), within a random sample of 270 individuals, and in-depth interviews to 107 individuals, to uncover whether environment influence the ability for improving or pursuing heath and well-being. RESULTS Men showed to have a 75% higher probability of being overweight than women (p-value = 0.0954); and the reporting of health loss risks was higher in women (RR: 1.48; p-value = 0.122), individuals with larger waist circumference (RR: 2.21; IC: 1.19; 4.27), overweight and obesity (RR: 1.38; p-value = 0.293) and aged over 75 years (RR: 1.78; p-value = 0.235; when compared with participants under 40 years old). Metabolic risks were more associated to BMI and physical activity than diet (or sleeping habits). Overall, metabolic risk linked to BMI was higher in small villages than in municipalities. Seven dimensions, economic development, built (and natural) environment, social network, health care, demography, active lifestyles, and mobility, reflected the self-perceptions in place affecting the individual ability to make healthy choices. Qualitative data exposed asymmetries in surrounding environments among neighbourhoods and uncovered the natural environment and natural resources specifies as the main value of rural well-being. CONCLUSIONS Metabolic risk factors reflect unhealthy lifestyles and can be associated with environment contextual-dependent circumstances. People-centred approaches highlight wider socioeconomic and (natural) environmental determinants reflecting health needs, health expectations and health capability. Our community-based program and cross-disciplinary research provides insights that may improve health-promoting changes in rural neighbourhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabela Marisa Azul
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Almendra
- Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Colégio de São Jerónimo, University of Coimbra, 3004-530 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Geography and Tourism, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Colégio de São Jerónimo, University of Coimbra, 3004-530 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marta Quatorze
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Adriana Loureiro
- Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Colégio de São Jerónimo, University of Coimbra, 3004-530 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Flávio Reis
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-370 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), 3030-370 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Tavares
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- University of Coimbra, Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Mota-Pinto
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- CIMAGO-Center for Research in the Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Cunha
- IPN-Laboratory of Automatics and Systems, Pedro Nunes Institute, 3030-199 Coimbra, Portugal
- Ageing@Coimbra, EIP on AHA Reference Site, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Rama
- Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, University of Coimbra, 3040-256 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Oliveira Malva
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3030-370 Coimbra, Portugal
- Ageing@Coimbra, EIP on AHA Reference Site, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula Santana
- Centre of Studies in Geography and Spatial Planning (CEGOT), Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Colégio de São Jerónimo, University of Coimbra, 3004-530 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Geography and Tourism, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Colégio de São Jerónimo, University of Coimbra, 3004-530 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences (DCV), Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
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24
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Escada-Rebelo S, Mora FG, Sousa AP, Almeida-Santos T, Paiva A, Ramalho-Santos J. Fluorescent probes for the detection of reactive oxygen species in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:465-471. [PMID: 31939350 PMCID: PMC7523605 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_132_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is a by-product of mitochondrial activity and is necessary for the acquisition of the capacitated state, a requirement for functional spermatozoa. However, an increase in oxidative stress, due to an abnormal production of ROS, has been shown to be related to loss of sperm function, highlighting the importance of an accurate detection of sperm ROS, given the specific nature of this cell. In this work, we tested a variety of commercially available fluorescent probes to detect ROS and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in human sperm, to define their specificity. Using both flow cytometry (FC) and fluorescence microscopy (FM), we confirmed that MitoSOX™ Red and dihydroethidium (DHE) detect superoxide anion (as determined using antimycin A as a positive control), while DAF-2A detects reactive nitrogen species (namely, nitric oxide). For the first time, we also report that RedoxSensor™ Red CC-1, CellROX® Orange Reagent, and MitoPY1 seem to be mostly sensitive to hydrogen peroxide, but not superoxide. Furthermore, mean fluorescence intensity (and not percentage of labeled cells) is the main parameter that can be reproducibly monitored using this type of methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Escada-Rebelo
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Casa Costa Alemão, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal
| | - Francisca G Mora
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Ana P Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-370, Portugal
| | - Artur Paiva
- Clinical Pathology Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
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25
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Silva AF, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. The impact of antisperm antibodies on human male reproductive function: an update. Reproduction 2021; 162:R55-R71. [PMID: 34338216 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Immune infertility occurs due to the presence of antisperm antibodies (ASA). This type of infertility has a relatively low prevalence (2.6-6.6% in infertile men), and its etiology, risk factors, targets and consequences for male fertility are not completely understood. While it is largely accepted that abnormalities in the blood-testis barrier and/or blood-epididymal barrier are the main factors behind its etiology, and that sperm motility is the most frequently reported altered parameter, few are the well-defined risk factors and ASA targets only now started to be disclosed, with proteins involved in sperm-oocyte interaction rising as the most significant. The development of potential treatments is also limited, being the corticosteroids the more promising. Overall, there are still many knowledge gaps related to immune infertility. With this review we aimed to gather all the information collected from studies developed in humans in the last decade. Despite the controversial results/inconsistencies, that are not only a result from the complexity of mechanisms/variables involved in ASA infertility, but also from the technical approaches to assess ASA and the lack of a consensus regarding the thresholds to be used, this manuscript aims to bring a fresh update on the field. It has become clear that, to obtain more/reliable data, there is a need to assess ASA in all the routine seminal analysis, following WHO recommendations. In this way it will be possible to obtain consistent and comparable information, that can add to current knowledge. Additionally, multicentric studies with large cohorts are also missing, and future research should take this into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Filipa Silva
- A Silva, University of Coimbra, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo 3, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3004-504, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- J Ramalho-Santos, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Portugal
| | - Sandra Amaral
- S Amaral, University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Coimbra, Portugal
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26
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Correia B, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J. The mTOR pathway in reproduction: from gonadal function to developmental coordination. Reproduction 2021; 159:R173-R188. [PMID: 31786539 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction depends on many factors, from gamete quality to placenta formation, to fetal development. The mTOR pathway is emerging as a major player that integrates several cellular processes in response to a variety of environmental cues that are relevant in many aspects of reproduction. This review provides a general overview, summarizing the involvement of the two mTOR complexes (mTORC1 and mTORC2) in integrating signaling pathways, sensing environmental status, and managing physiological processes inherent to successful reproductive outcomes and pluripotent stem cell function. As a well-known governor of multiple cellular functions, it is not surprising that mTOR has a key regulatory role in determining cell quiescence or differentiation. In the gonads mTOR helps maintain spermatogonial stem cell and follicle identity and tightly regulates differentiation in both systems to ensure proper gamete production. The mTOR pathway is also known to prevent premature follicle exhaustion, while also controlling the blood-testis barrier in the male gonad. In stem cells mTOR again seems to have a role in controlling both pluripotency and differentiation, mirrored by its in vivo roles in the embryo, notably in regulating diapause. Finally, although there are clearly more complex systems intertwined in placental function, mTOR seems to serve as an early checkpoint for development progression and successful implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiana Correia
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, Portugal
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27
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Moniz I, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J, Branco A. Hypoxia-induced quiescence: improving uc-msc therapeutic value. Cytotherapy 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/s1465324921004928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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28
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Alfaiate MI, António Santos R, Silva AF, Sousa AP, Almeida-Santos T, Gendron C, Jabbour V, Mas Y, Verriere F, Ramalho-Santos J, Tavares RS. Comparative in vitro study on the local tolerance and efficacy of benzalkonium chloride, myristalkonium chloride and nonoxynol-9 as active principles in vaginal contraceptives. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2021; 26:334-342. [PMID: 33821738 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2021.1900563] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermicides have been identified as a potentially attractive alternative to hormonal contraceptives and/or intrauterine devices. Thus, this study aimed evaluating the efficacy and local tolerance of benzalkonium chloride (BKC) and myristalkonium chloride (MKC) contained in Pharmatex® vaginal formulations and compare them with nonoxynol-9 (N-9), the most common active ingredient in topical vaginal contraceptives. METHODS Human normozoospermic samples were assessed for motility, viability, acrosome status and penetration ability after exposure to control, N-9 or different BKC and MKC doses for 0 and 10 minutes. Local tolerance on HeLa cells was evaluated by the Trypan-blue and MTT assays. RESULTS Exposure to BKC and MKC reduced acrosome integrity while promoting total immobilisation and complete loss of sperm viability (p < .001, n = 15). Both compounds also compromised sperm penetration ability upon exposure (p < .001, n = 15). N-9 induced the same outcomes (p < .001, n = 15); nevertheless, it was more toxic to HeLa cells than BKC and MKC (p < .05, n = 14). CONCLUSIONS BKC and MKC present strong in vitro spermicidal activity at lower doses than N-9 and were better tolerated after immediate exposure than N-9. Available Pharmatex® galenic formulations were as effective as products based on N-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Alfaiate
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rita António Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andreia Filipa Silva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, IIIUC, Casa Costa Alemão, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | | | - Yana Mas
- Laboratoire Innotech International, Arcueil, France
| | | | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renata Santos Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cells Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Polo III, Azinhaga Santa Comba, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, IIIUC, Casa Costa Alemão, Coimbra, Portugal
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29
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Ferreira AF, Soares M, Almeida Reis S, Ramalho-Santos J, Sousa AP, Almeida-Santos T. Does supplementation with mitochondria improve oocyte competence? A systematic review. Reproduction 2021; 161:269-287. [PMID: 33275117 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0351] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial supplementation was proposed as a complementary treatment to assisted reproductive technologies to improve oocyte competence and support post-fertilization development. This strategy is based on the fact that poor-quality/aged oocytes contain lower and dysfunctional mitochondria. However, the efficacy and safety of mitochondrial supplementation are still controversial. Therefore, this review summarizes the clinical/biological outcomes of mitochondrial supplementation, aiming to improve oocyte competence or explore the safety of this technique, and was based on an online search using PubMed and Web of Science, until September 2019. The studies included reported outcomes related to the efficacy and safety of mitochondrial supplementation either in human or animal models (bovine, porcine and mouse). Extracted data were organized according to study objective, the mitochondrial source and the main outcomes: fertilization/pregnancy rates, embryo development and adverse outcomes. Clinical pregnancy was not improved in the only randomized controlled trial published, although an increase was demonstrated in other non-randomized studies. Fertilization rate and embryo development were not different from control groups in the majority of studies, although performed in different contexts and using diverse sources of mitochondria. The safety of mitochondria transfer is still a concern, however, the euploid rate and the absence of reported congenital malformation from the clinical studies are reassuring. In summary, mitochondrial supplementation does not seem to cause harm although the benefit of improving oocyte competence is still unclear due to the diversity of methodological approaches and low-quality of the data available. Analyzed data support the need to investigate further, in both pre-clinical and clinical contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Filipa Ferreira
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Soares
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Almeida Reis
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, Coimbra, Portugal.,University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, Coimbra, Portugal.,CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Correia B, Sousa MI, Branco AF, Ramalho-Santos J. Monitoring Mitochondrial Function in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells (mESCs). Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2310:47-56. [PMID: 34095997] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) can be grown in culture, recapitulating the different states of pluripotency of their in vivo counterparts, with notably different metabolic profiles. mESCs in a naïve pluripotent state present an ambivalent metabolism, using both glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation as energy sources. Here, we describe a method to evaluate the oxidative function of naïve mESCs using the Seahorse Extracellular Flux Analyzer coupled to flow cytometry analysis of mitochondrial transmembrane potential using the TMRM fluorescence probe, thus assessing both oxygen consumption and mitochondrial membrane potential. This may be a useful protocol for understanding how mitochondrial oxidative function and potential of mESCs change in certain circumstances, and how is it related with various pluripotency/differentiation phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibiana Correia
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana F Branco
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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31
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Soares M, Sousa AP, Fernandes R, Ferreira AF, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J. Aging-related mitochondrial alterations in bovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2020; 157:218-225. [PMID: 32814249 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 05/03/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Advanced maternal age is an emerging health problem which involves many functional and structural alterations in oocytes, and its study is relevant to design better approaches to improve the reproductive function in women of advanced age. A constraint to this type of studies is the limited amount of samples and the ethical problems of working with human gametes. This study aims to characterize the in vitro-induced age-related modifications in a bovine model, as well as to determine if this model is a reliable approach to study human aging. For this purpose, we have focused on aging-related alterations related to oocyte mitochondrial dysfunction, a key hallmark in aging. Morphological and bioenergetic in vitro-induced alterations in bovine oocytes were compared to an in vivo aged group and to the already reported information regarding humans and other animal models. Parameters monitored included ooplasmic volume; mitochondrial mass, distribution and aggregation, assessed by MitoTracker Green; mitochondrial activity, monitored by JC-1; and the mitochondrial levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), quantified using MitoPY. Results show a significant decrease in oocyte cytoplasmic volume after both in vitro and in vivo aging (p < 0.001). Additionally, the levels of H2O2 increased significantly after in vitro and in vivo aging (p < 0.001) and mitochondrial aggregation patterns were significantly different after 30 h of in vitro maturation, with MII oocytes presenting small aggregates inside the cytoplasm, whereas aged oocytes had a lack of granularity (p < 0.001). In contrast, there were no differences between the different aging groups in terms of mitochondrial mass, distribution and activity. In conclusion, this in vitro approach of inducing aging-related alterations may be considered as a reliable approach to study the aging process in human female gametes, since it causes the same types of alterations in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Soares
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raquel Fernandes
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Filipa Ferreira
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Celas, 3004-504, University of Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Alemany-Pagès M, Moura-Ramos M, Araújo S, Macedo MP, Ribeiro RT, do Ó D, Ramalho-Santos J, Azul AM. Insights from qualitative research on NAFLD awareness with a cohort of T2DM patients: time to go public with insulin resistance? BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1142. [PMID: 32690054 PMCID: PMC7372774 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09249-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is estimated that around 70% of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients (T2DM) have Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Awareness and education are amongst the major shortcomings of the public health response to the increasing threat of NAFLD. Characterizing the specific NAFLD-related information needs of particular high-risk metabolic communities, for instance, T2DM patients, might aid in the development of evidence-based health promotion strategies, ultimately promoting NAFLD-awareness, treatment adherence and therapeutic success rates. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with T2DM patients were conducted to gain insight into their awareness of NAFLD, including its relationship with insulin resistance and T2DM. RESULTS Awareness of NAFLD as a disease entity, as well as its progression to end-stage liver disease or its relationship with other metabolic conditions, including insulin resistance and T2DM was low. Surveillance behaviours were also suboptimal and perceptions on the self-management knowledge and praxis regarding lifestyle intervention components of T2DM treatment seemed detached from those of NAFLD. CONCLUSIONS Our findings could inform the integration of NAFLD-related content in T2DM health promotion strategies. Rising awareness on NAFLD progression and its relationship with T2DM using culturally and community-relevant constructs might facilitate the development of primary and secondary prevention programmes to promote the adherence to lifestyle interventions by influencing NAFLD threat perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Alemany-Pagès
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- University of Coimbra, IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Moura-Ramos
- Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Praceta Prof. Mota Pinto, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Rua do Colégio Novo, 3000-115, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Araújo
- CES-Centre for Social Studies, University of Coimbra, 3000-104, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Paula Macedo
- APDP-Portuguese Diabetic Association, 1250-189, Lisbon, Portugal
- CEDOC-Centro de Estudos de Doenças Crónicas, NOVA Medical School/Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, 1150-082, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | - Dulce do Ó
- APDP-Portuguese Diabetic Association, 1250-189, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-504, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, University of Coimbra, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3000-504, Coimbra, Portugal.
- University of Coimbra, IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, 3030-789, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Marzano G, Chiriacò MS, Primiceri E, Dell’Aquila ME, Ramalho-Santos J, Zara V, Ferramosca A, Maruccio G. Sperm selection in assisted reproduction: A review of established methods and cutting-edge possibilities. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 40:107498. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Alemany-Pagès M, Tavares R, Varela Amaral S, Barros-Viegas AT, Oliveira PJ, Ramalho-Santos J, Azul AM. Publicly stressing the role of mitochondria in NAFLD with(in) a sports event. Eur J Clin Invest 2020; 50:e13234. [PMID: 32291744 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mireia Alemany-Pagès
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Tavares
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Varela Amaral
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Teresa Barros-Viegas
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo J Oliveira
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anabela Marisa Azul
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rua Larga, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,IIIUC-Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Sousa MI, Correia B, Rodrigues AS, Ramalho-Santos J. Metabolic characterization of a paused-like pluripotent state. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2020; 1864:129612. [PMID: 32272203 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2020.129612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Embryonic diapause is a conserved reproductive strategy in which development arrests at the blastocyst phase. Recently mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition was shown to induce diapause on mouse blastocysts and a paused-like state on mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). In this work, we aimed to further characterize this new paused-pluripotent state, focusing on its glycolytic and oxidative metabolic function. We therefore exposed mESCs, to the mTOR inhibitor INK-128 and evaluated proliferation, pluripotency status and energy-related metabolism, as well as the mTOR inhibition status and translational function. Unexpectedly, in our hands INK-128 did not inhibit the phosphorylation of mTOR or its downstream targets after 48 h. Accordingly, no alterations on protein translational function were observed. Nonetheless, INK-128 could still successfully induce a paused-like state in naïve mESCs regardless of their culturing conditions, by greatly slowing proliferation without affecting pluripotency status. This effect was more prevalent in 2i cultured cells. Interestingly, in this paused-like state, mESCs present a glucose-related hypometabolic profile, which is a hallmark of diapaused blastocysts, with decreased glycolytic and oxidative metabolism and decreased nutrient uptake. Despite the lack of mTOR inhibition and translational suppression, INK-128 still induced a paused-like pluripotent state through cell cycle and metabolic modulation, rather than by translational suppression, suggesting more than one avenue for this type of pluripotent phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Sousa
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Bibiana Correia
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Rodrigues
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, CIBB, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, Polo 3, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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36
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Rodrigues AS, Pereira SL, Ramalho-Santos J. Stem metabolism: Insights from oncometabolism and vice versa. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1866:165760. [PMID: 32151634 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.165760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metabolism, is a transversal hot research topic in different areas, resulting in the integration of cellular needs with external cues, involving a highly coordinated set of activities in which nutrients are converted into building blocks for macromolecules, energy currencies and biomass. Importantly, cells can adjust different metabolic pathways defining its cellular identity. Both cancer cell and embryonic stem cells share the common hallmark of high proliferative ability but while the first represent a huge social-economic burden the second symbolize a huge promise. Importantly, research on both fields points out that stem cells share common metabolic strategies with cancer cells to maintain their identity as well as proliferative capability and, vice versa cancer cells also share common strategies regarding pluripotent markers. Moreover, the Warburg effect can be found in highly proliferative non-cancer stem cells as well as in embryonic stem cells that are primed towards differentiation, while a bivalent metabolism is characteristic of embryonic stem cells that are in a true naïve pluripotent state and cancer stem cells can also range from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation. Therefore, this review aims to highlight major metabolic similarities between cancer cells and embryonic stem cells demonstrating that they have similar strategies in both signaling pathways regulation as well as metabolic profiles while focusing on key metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Sofia Rodrigues
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Sandro L Pereira
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), University of Luxembourg, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg.
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Calçada Martim de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal.
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Sousa MI, Silva A, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Can Antidiabetic Drugs Improve Male Reproductive (Dys)Function Associated with Diabetes? Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4191-4222. [PMID: 30381064 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666181101111404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 12/26/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The alarming increase in the number of diabetic patients worldwide raises concerns regarding the impact of the disease on global health, not to mention on social and economic aspects. Furthermore, the association of this complex metabolic disorder with male reproductive impairment is worrying, mainly due to the increasing chances that young individuals, at the apex of their reproductive window, could be affected by the disease, further contributing to the disturbing decline in male fertility worldwide. The cornerstone of diabetes management is glycemic control, proven to be effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of disease-related complications. Nonetheless, the possible impact of these therapeutic interventions on male reproductive function is essentially unexplored. To address this issue, we have made a critical assessment of the literature on the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. While the crucial role of insulin is clear, as shown by the recovery of reproductive impairments in insulin-deficient individuals after treatment, the same clearly does not apply to other antidiabetic strategies. In fact, there is an abundance of controversial reports, possibly related to the various study designs, experimental models and compounds used, which include biguanides, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones/glitazones, bile acid sequestrants, amylin mimetics, as well as sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), α-glucosidase inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors. These aspects constitute the focus of the current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Escada-Rebelo
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M I Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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38
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Perestrelo T, Correia M, Ramalho-Santos J, Wirtz D. Metabolic and Mechanical Cues Regulating Pluripotent Stem Cell Fate. Trends Cell Biol 2018; 28:1014-1029. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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39
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Perestrelo T, Chen W, Correia M, Le C, Pereira S, Rodrigues AS, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J, Wirtz D. Pluri-IQ: Quantification of Embryonic Stem Cell Pluripotency through an Image-Based Analysis Software. Stem Cell Reports 2018; 11:607. [PMID: 30110623 PMCID: PMC6094164 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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40
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41
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Silva AF, Escada-Rebelo S, Amaral S, Tavares RS, Schlatt S, Ramalho-Santos J, Mota PC. Can we induce spermatogenesis in the domestic cat using an in vitro tissue culture approach? PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191912. [PMID: 29414992 PMCID: PMC5802888 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reduced number of animals in most wild felid populations implies a loss of genetic diversity. The death of juveniles, prior to the production of mature sperm, represents a loss of potential genetic contribution to future populations. Since 2011 mouse testicular organ culture has introduced an alternative mechanism to produce sperm in vitro from immature tissue. However, extension of this technology to other species has remained limited. We have used the domestic cat (Felis catus) as a model for wild felids to investigate spermatogenesis initiation and regulation, with the mouse serving as a control species. Testicular tissue fragments were cultured in control medium or medium supplemented with knockout serum replacement (KSR), AlbuMax, beta-estradiol or AlbuMax plus beta-estradiol. Contrary to expectations, and unlike results obtained in mouse controls, no germ cell differentiation could be detected. The only germ cells observed after six weeks of culture were spermatogonia regardless of the initial stage of tubule development in the donor tissue. Moreover, the number of spermatogonia decreased with time in culture in all media tested, especially in the medium supplemented with KSR, while AlbuMax had a slight protective effect. The combination of AlbuMax and beta-estradiol led to an increase in the area occupied by seminiferous tubules, and thus to an increase in total number of spermatogonial cells. Considering all the media combinations tested the stimulus for felid germ cell differentiation in this type of system seems to be different from the mouse. Studies using other triggers of differentiation and tissue survival factors should be performed to pursue this technology for the genetic diversity preservation in wild felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia F. Silva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Escada-Rebelo
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renata S. Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paula C. Mota
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- * E-mail:
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Silva AF, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Antidiabetic therapies and male reproductive function: where do we stand? Reproduction 2018; 155:R13-R37. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus has been increasing at alarming rates in recent years, thus jeopardizing human health worldwide. Several antidiabetic drugs have been introduced in the market to manage glycemic levels, and proven effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of diabetes mellitus-related complications. However, and despite the established association between such pathology and male reproductive dysfunction, the influence of these therapeutic interventions on such topics have been scarcely explored. Importantly, this pathology may contribute toward the global decline in male fertility, giving the increasing preponderance of diabetes mellitus in young men at their reproductive age. Therefore, it is mandatory that the reproductive health of diabetic individuals is maintained during the antidiabetic treatment. With this in mind, we have gathered the available information and made a critical analysis regarding the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. Unlike insulin, which has a clear and fundamental role on male reproductive function, the other antidiabetic therapies' effects at this level seem incoherent. In fact, studies are highly controversial possibly due to the different experimental study approaches, which, in our opinion, suggests caution when it comes to prescribing such drugs to young diabetic patients. Overall, much is still to be determined and further studies are needed to clarify the safety of these antidiabetic strategies on male reproductive system. Aspects such as the effects of insulin levels variations, consequent of insulin therapy, as well as what will be the impact of the side effect hypoglycemia, common to several therapeutic strategies discussed, on the male reproductive system are still to be addressed.
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Tavares RS, Martins S, Almeida-Santos T, Sousa AP, Ramalho-Santos J, da Cruz E Silva OA. Alzheimer's disease-related amyloid-β 1-42 peptide induces the loss of human sperm function. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 369:647-651. [PMID: 28776187 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2665-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Characteristically identified as the main component of senile plaques present in patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease, Aβ has been detected in human testis and reproductive fluids, but its effect on spermatozoa has not been addressed. The present study evaluated whether the most toxic and aggregant amyloid precursor protein (APP)-proteolytic product, amyloid-β1-42 (Aβ1-42), was capable of affecting sperm functionality. Normozoospermic samples were either exposed to different Aβ1-42 doses or to the untreated and scrambled controls for a maximum of 48 h at 37 °C and 5%CO2, and motility, viability and mitochondrial status were evaluated. Additionally, tyrosine phosphorylation was analyzed by immunocytochemistry and acrosomal integrity through PSA-FITC. A shorter treatment period was used to monitor prompt Ca2+ responses. Aβ1-42 peptide decreased motility before inducing mitochondrial impairment (p < 0.05; n = 6). Both outcomes became more pronounced with time, reaching their maximal decrease at 48 h, where even 1 μM produced undesirable effects (p < 0.05; n = 6). Aβ1-42 peptide also decreased cell survival (p < 0.05; n = 6). Furthermore, although no effects on tyrosine phosphorylation were observed (p > 0.05; n = 6), reduced acrosomal integrity was detected (p < 0.05; n = 7), which was not correlated with viability loss (p > 0.05). In parallel, all Aβ1-42 concentrations elicited a [Ca2+]i rise but a significant difference was only observed at 20 μM (p < 0.05; n = 7) and a tendency was obtained with 10 μM (p = 0.053; n = 7). In conclusion, Aβ1-42 peptide oligomers impair sperm function in vitro, although further studies are required to determine the clinical relevance of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Tavares
- Neuroscience and Cell Signalling Group, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Martins
- Neuroscience and Cell Signalling Group, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - T Almeida-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Service, University Hospitals of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A P Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Service, University Hospitals of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, Calçada Martins de Freitas, 3000-456, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - O A da Cruz E Silva
- Neuroscience and Cell Signalling Group, Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine - iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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Perestrelo T, Chen W, Correia M, Le C, Pereira S, Rodrigues AS, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J, Wirtz D. Pluri-IQ: Quantification of Embryonic Stem Cell Pluripotency through an Image-Based Analysis Software. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 9:697-709. [PMID: 28712847 PMCID: PMC5549834 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/13/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Image-based assays, such as alkaline phosphatase staining or immunocytochemistry for pluripotent markers, are common methods used in the stem cell field to assess pluripotency. Although an increased number of image-analysis approaches have been described, there is still a lack of software availability to automatically quantify pluripotency in large images after pluripotency staining. To address this need, we developed a robust and rapid image processing software, Pluri-IQ, which allows the automatic evaluation of pluripotency in large low-magnification images. Using mouse embryonic stem cells (mESC) as a model, we combined an automated segmentation algorithm with a supervised machine-learning platform to classify colonies as pluripotent, mixed, or differentiated. In addition, Pluri-IQ allows the automatic comparison between different culture conditions. This efficient user-friendly open-source software can be easily implemented in images derived from pluripotent cells or cells that express pluripotent markers (e.g., OCT4-GFP) and can be routinely used, decreasing image assessment bias. Open-source software to evaluate pluripotency in low-magnification images Automatic colony detection and segmentation Supervised machine-learning platform with high characterization accuracy Software tools for easy data validation, visualization, and data analysis comparison
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Affiliation(s)
- Tânia Perestrelo
- PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Institute for Nanobiotechnology at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Weitong Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Marcelo Correia
- PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal; Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Christopher Le
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Sandro Pereira
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Ana S Rodrigues
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Maria I Sousa
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal.
| | - Denis Wirtz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences - Oncology Center, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
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Amaral S, S Tavares R, Baptista M, Sousa MI, Silva A, Escada-Rebelo S, Paiva CP, Ramalho-Santos J. Mitochondrial Functionality and Chemical Compound Action on Sperm Function. Curr Med Chem 2017; 23:3575-3606. [PMID: 27109577 DOI: 10.2174/0929867323666160425113518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Revised: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade, several studies have shown that mitochondrial parameters, such as integrity, respiratory activity, membrane potential and ROS production are intimately linked with sperm quality. Given the limitations of conventional semen analyses in terms of predicting male fertility, an increasing number of studies are focusing on the characterization of sperm mitochondria in order to more accurately assess sperm functionality. Moreover, mitochondria from several organs, such as the liver, have been described as a powerful screening tool for drug safety, being an easy in vitro model to assess the toxicity of distinct families of compounds. Given that mitochondrial functionality is intimately related to sperm homeostasis, it has become important to understand how compounds, ranging from dietary supplements, environmental pollutants, dependency-inducing drugs to pharmacological agents (such as erectile dysfunction-targeted drugs and male contraceptives) affect sperm mitochondrial function. In this review, we discuss studies describing the effects of various chemical agents on spermatozoa, with particular emphasis on mitochondrial function. From the extensive literature analyzed, we conclude that in some cases the role of sperm mitochondria as putative predictors of sperm functionality is very obvious, while in others further studies are needed to clarify this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amaral
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3001-517 Coimbra, Portugal..
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Correia M, Perestrelo T, Rodrigues AS, Ribeiro MF, Pereira SL, Sousa MI, Ramalho-Santos J. Sirtuins in metabolism, stemness and differentiation. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2017; 1861:3444-3455. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Tavares RS, Portela JMD, Sousa MI, Mota PC, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. High glucose levels affect spermatogenesis: an in vitro approach. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:1369-1378. [DOI: 10.1071/rd15475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides known factors that may cause male infertility, systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus may further exacerbate a decline in male fertility. This metabolic disease, clinically characterised by a hyperglycaemic phenotype, has devastating consequences in terms of human health, with reproductive dysfunction being one of the associated clinical complications. Nonetheless, the mechanisms responsible for such alterations are still poorly understood due to the multiplicity of factors involved in the induced pathophysiological changes. With this in mind, we focused on the main mediator of diabetes-associated alterations and performed an in vitro approach to address the effects of high glucose conditions on spermatogenesis, avoiding other confounding in vivo factors. Mouse (5 days post partum) testis fragments were cultured on agar gel stands at a gas–liquid interface with either 5, 25 or 50 mM D-glucose for 3 weeks. Stereological analysis revealed that high D-glucose levels increased Sertoli cell number (P < 0.05) and decreased tubular luminal area (P < 0.01), suggesting an impairment of this somatic cell type. Moreover, higher proliferative activity in a TM4 Sertoli cell line exposed to high D-glucose was found (P < 0.05) without compromising cell viability (P > 0.05), further suggesting altered Sertoli cell maturation. Overall, high D-glucose concentrations may lead to impairment of Sertoli cell function, which, given their significant role in spermatogenic control, may compromise male fertility.
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48
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Correia M, Sousa MI, Rodrigues AS, Perestrelo T, Pereira SL, Ribeiro MF, Ramalho-Santos J. Data on the potential impact of food supplements on the growth of mouse embryonic stem cells. Data Brief 2016; 7:1190-1195. [PMID: 27761502 PMCID: PMC5063814 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2016.03.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of new compounds as dietary supplements is increasing, but little is known in terms of possible consequences of their use. Pluripotent stem cells are a promising research tool for citotoxicological research for evaluation of proliferation, cell death, pluripotency and differentiation. Using the mouse embryonic stem cell (mESC) model, we present data on three different compounds that have been proposed as new potential supplements for co-adjuvant disease treatments: kaempferol, berberine and Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA). Cell number and viability were monitored following treatment with increased concentrations of each drug in pluripotent culture conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Correia
- Ph.D. Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria I Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana S Rodrigues
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tânia Perestrelo
- Ph.D. Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandro L Pereira
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marcelo F Ribeiro
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Crespo ÂC, van der Zwan A, Ramalho-Santos J, Strominger JL, Tilburgs T. Cytotoxic potential of decidual NK cells and CD8+ T cells awakened by infections. J Reprod Immunol 2016; 119:85-90. [PMID: 27523927 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [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: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
To establish a healthy pregnancy the maternal immune system must tolerate fetal allo-antigens, yet remain competent to respond to infections. The ability of decidual NK cells (dNK) to promote migration of fetal extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) and placental growth as well as the capacity of EVT to promote immune tolerance are topics of high interest and extensive research. However, the problem of how dNK and decidual CD8+ T cells (CD8+ dT) provide immunity to infections of the placenta and the mechanisms that regulate their cytolytic function has thus far largely been ignored. Fetal EVT are the most invasive cells of the placenta and directly interact with maternal decidual immune cells at this maternal-fetal interface. Besides the expression of non-polymorphic HLA-E and HLA-G molecules that are associated with immune tolerance, EVT also express highly polymorphic HLA-C molecules that can serve as targets for maternal dNK and CD8+ dT responses. HLA-C expression by EVT has a dual role as the main molecule to which immune tolerance needs to be established and as the only molecule that can present pathogen-derived peptides and provide protective immunity when EVT are infected. The focus of this review is to address the regulation of cytotoxicity of dNK and CD8+ dT, which is essential for maternal-fetal immune tolerance as well as recent evidence that both cell types can provide immunity to infections at the maternal-fetal interface. A particular emphasis is given to the role of HLA-C expressed by EVT and its capacity to elicit dNK and CD8+ dT responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ângela C Crespo
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Anita van der Zwan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology and Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Jack L Strominger
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Tamara Tilburgs
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Correia M, Mota PC, Ramalho-Santos J. The non-genomic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on mammalian sperm. Reproduction 2016; 151:R1-R13. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to toxicants present in the environment, especially the so-called endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), has been associated with decreased sperm quality and increased anomalies in male reproductive organs over the past decades. Both human and animal populations are continuously exposed to ubiquitous synthetic and natural-occurring EDCs through diet, dermal contact and/or inhalation, therefore potentially compromising male reproductive health. Although the effects of EDC are likely induced via multiple genomic-based pathways, their non-genomic effects may also be relevant. Furthermore, spermatozoa are transcriptionally inactive cells that can come in direct contact with EDCs in reproductive fluids and secretions and are therefore a good model to address non-genomic effects. This review thus focuses on the non-genomic effects of several important EDCs relevant to mammalian exposure. Notably, EDCs were found to interfere with pre-existing pathways inducing a panoply of deleterious effects to sperm function that included altered intracellular Ca2+oscillations, induction of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, increased DNA damage and decreased sperm motility and viability, among others, potentially jeopardizing male fertility. Although many studies have used non-environmentally relevant concentrations of only one compound for mechanistic studies, it is important to remember that mammals are not exposed to one, but rather to a multitude of environmental EDCs, and synergistic effects may occur. Furthermore, some effects have been detected with single compounds at environmentally relevant concentrations.
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