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Du Plessis SS, Tvrdá E, Cardona Maya WD, Omolaoye TS. Editorial: Male fertility: lessons learnt from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1372217. [PMID: 38468703 PMCID: PMC10925789 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1372217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan S. Du Plessis
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eva Tvrdá
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Walter D. Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia-UdeA, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Omolaoye TS, Skosana BT, Ferguson LM, Ramsunder Y, Ayad BM, Du Plessis SS. Implications of Exposure to Air Pollution on Male Reproduction: The Role of Oxidative Stress. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:64. [PMID: 38247488 PMCID: PMC10812603 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Air pollution, either from indoor (household) or outdoor (ambient) sources, occurs when there is presence of respirable particles in the form of chemical, physical, or biological agents that modify the natural features of the atmosphere or environment. Today, almost 2.4 billion people are exposed to hazardous levels of indoor pollution, while 99% of the global population breathes air pollutants that exceed the World Health Organization guideline limits. It is not surprising that air pollution is the world's leading environmental cause of diseases and contributes greatly to the global burden of diseases. Upon entry, air pollutants can cause an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by undergoing oxidation to generate quinones, which further act as oxidizing agents to yield more ROS. Excessive production of ROS can cause oxidative stress, induce lipid peroxidation, enhance the binding of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to their receptors, or bind to PAH to cause DNA strand breaks. The continuous and prolonged exposure to air pollutants is associated with the development or exacerbation of pathologies such as acute or chronic respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative and skin diseases, and even reduced fertility potential. Males and females contribute to infertility equally, and exposure to air pollutants can negatively affect reproduction. In this review, emphasis will be placed on the implications of exposure to air pollutants on male fertility potential, bringing to light its effects on semen parameters (basic and advanced) and male sexual health. This study will also touch on the clinical implications of air pollution on male reproduction while highlighting the role of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Bongekile T. Skosana
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7602, South Africa; (B.T.S.); (L.M.F.); (Y.R.)
| | - Lisa Marie Ferguson
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7602, South Africa; (B.T.S.); (L.M.F.); (Y.R.)
| | - Yashthi Ramsunder
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7602, South Africa; (B.T.S.); (L.M.F.); (Y.R.)
| | - Bashir M. Ayad
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Misurata University, Misratah P.O. Box 2478, Libya;
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates;
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town 7602, South Africa; (B.T.S.); (L.M.F.); (Y.R.)
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3
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Björndahl L, Barratt CLR, Mortimer D, Agarwal A, Aitken RJ, Alvarez JG, Aneck-Hahn N, Arver S, Baldi E, Bassas L, Boitrelle F, Bornman R, Carrell DT, Castilla JA, Cerezo Parra G, Check JH, Cuasnicu PS, Darney SP, de Jager C, De Jonge CJ, Drevet JR, Drobnis EZ, Du Plessis SS, Eisenberg ML, Esteves SC, Evgeni EA, Ferlin A, Garrido N, Giwercman A, Goovaerts IGF, Haugen TB, Henkel R, Henningsohn L, Hofmann MC, Hotaling JM, Jedrzejczak P, Jouannet P, Jørgensen N, Kirkman Brown JC, Krausz C, Kurpisz M, Kvist U, Lamb DJ, Levine H, Loveland KL, McLachlan RI, Mahran A, Maree L, Martins da Silva S, Mbizvo MT, Meinhardt A, Menkveld R, Mortimer ST, Moskovtsev S, Muller CH, Munuce MJ, Muratori M, Niederberger C, O’Flaherty C, Oliva R, Ombelet W, Pacey AA, Palladino MA, Ramasamy R, Ramos L, Rives N, Roldan ER, Rothmann S, Sakkas D, Salonia A, Sánchez-Pozo MC, Sapiro R, Schlatt S, Schlegel PN, Schuppe HC, Shah R, Skakkebæk NE, Teerds K, Toskin I, Tournaye H, Turek PJ, van der Horst G, Vazquez-Levin M, Wang C, Wetzels A, Zeginiadou T, Zini A. Standards in semen examination: publishing reproducible and reliable data based on high-quality methodology. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2497-2502. [PMID: 36112046 PMCID: PMC9627864 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Biomedical science is rapidly developing in terms of more transparency, openness and reproducibility of scientific publications. This is even more important for all studies that are based on results from basic semen examination. Recently two concordant documents have been published: the 6th edition of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen, and the International Standard ISO 23162:2021. With these tools, we propose that authors should be instructed to follow these laboratory methods in order to publish studies in peer-reviewed journals, preferable by using a checklist as suggested in an Appendix to this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Björndahl
- Correspondence address. Andrology Laboratory, ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Norra Stationsgatan 69, level 4, S-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden. E-mail:
| | | | | | - Ashok Agarwal
- Case Western Reserve University, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Robert J Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health & Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Juan G Alvarez
- Centro Androgen, La Coruña, Spain
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Stefan Arver
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Tuscany, Italia
| | - Lluís Bassas
- Andrology Department, Laboratory of Andrology and Sperm Bank, Fundació Puigvert, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Riana Bornman
- School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - José A Castilla
- GAMETIA Biobank, Granada, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves and Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Gerardo Cerezo Parra
- LAFER Sperm Bank, Tuxpan 10-606, Roma Sur, C.P. 06760, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jerome H Check
- Robert Wood Johnson Medical School at Camden, The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Camden, NJ, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Melrose Park, PA, USA
| | - Patricia S Cuasnicu
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IbyME-CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Joël R Drevet
- Université Clermont Auvergne/CNRS/INSERM-GreD Institute, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Erma Z Drobnis
- School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MI, USA
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Evangelini A Evgeni
- CRYOGONIA Cryopreservation Bank, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Physiology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Greece
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italia
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Trine B Haugen
- Department of Life Sciences and Health, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion & Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Lars Henningsohn
- Division of Urology, Department of CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Urology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie-Claude Hofmann
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia & Hormonal Disorders, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Piotr Jedrzejczak
- Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Science, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jackson C Kirkman Brown
- Centre for Human Reproductive Science (ChRS), UK
- College of Medical & Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Maciej Kurpisz
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Stem Cells, Institutet of Human Genetics, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ulrik Kvist
- ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Dolores J Lamb
- Brady Department of Urology, Center for Reproductive Genomics and Englander Institute for Precision Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, The Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Hudson Institute, Centre for Reproductive Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ali Mahran
- Dermatology and Andrology Department, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt
- Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Liana Maree
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Sarah Martins da Silva
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Roelof Menkveld
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Sharon T Mortimer
- Oozoa Biomedical Inc., West Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Division of REI, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sergey Moskovtsev
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- CreATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Charles H Muller
- Male Fertility Laboratory, Department of Urology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Maria José Munuce
- Laboratorio de Medicina Reproductiva, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Argentina
| | - Monica Muratori
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Craig Niederberger
- Department of Urology, UIC College of Medicine, IL, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, UIC College of Engineering, IL, USA
| | - Cristian O’Flaherty
- Department of Surgery (Urology Division), McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Biomedical Research Institute August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Willem Ombelet
- Genk Institute for Fertility Technology, Genk, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ZOL Hospitals and Hasselt University, Genk, Belgium
| | - Allan A Pacey
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Liliana Ramos
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecologie, Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nathalie Rives
- Service Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Equipe Physiopathologie Surrénalienne et Gonadique, Unité Inserm 1239 NorDic, CHU-Hôpitaux de Rouen, UFR Santé—Université de Rouen, Rouen, France
| | - Eduardo Rs Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Andrea Salonia
- University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Sánchez-Pozo
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Biology, Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | - Rosanna Sapiro
- Depto de Histologia y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina, Gral. Flores, Uruguay
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster, Germany
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Section of Andrology, Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology & Andrology, Justus-Liebig-University/University Hospital of Giessen-Marburg, Giessen, Germany
| | - Rupin Shah
- Lilavati Hospital & Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Niels E Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katja Teerds
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Igor Toskin
- WHO Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (includes the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction—HRP), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Gerhard van der Horst
- Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
- Physiology Medical School, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Department of Animal Science, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | | - Christina Wang
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Alex Wetzels
- Fertility Laboratory, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Theodosia Zeginiadou
- Thessaloniki Andrology Laboratory—Hellenic Sperm Bank, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Laboratory of Histology-Embryology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, St Mary's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Omolaoye TS, Halabi MO, Mubarak M, Cyril AC, Duvuru R, Radhakrishnan R, Du Plessis SS. Statins and Male Fertility: Is There a Cause for Concern? Toxics 2022; 10:toxics10100627. [PMID: 36287907 PMCID: PMC9607778 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10100627] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The well-known 3-hydroxyl 3-methyl glutaryl-Coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, called statins, have been the main medication used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and some cases of cardiovascular diseases. The effectiveness of this drug in controlling cholesterol production is impeccable, however, patients often complain of a variety of side effects, such as myalgia, muscle atrophy, and in some cases, rhabdomyolysis. Not only has the use of statins caused the aforementioned side effects, but they are also shown to cause testicular discomfort, erectile dysfunction, altered semen parameters, and modified steroid hormone production. These reported adverse effects on male fertility are not generally agreed upon, as some have shown the use to be beneficial. Hence, this makes the aftermath effect of statin use on male fertility debatable and controversial. The negative effects have been associated with imbalanced or reduced steroid hormones, which are necessary for proper spermatogenesis and other sexual functions. Meanwhile, the beneficial effects are related to statin's anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties. These contradictory findings are in part due to the different age of users, concentrations of statins, the type and duration of treatment, and the underlying disease and/or comorbidities. Therefore, the current study aims to analyze the literature and gather evidence as to the effects of statin on male sexual health and reproductive parameters, and subsequently give recommendations for the direction of future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: ; +971-56-345-7628
| | - Mouhammad Omar Halabi
- School of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland-Bahrain, Busaiteen 15503, Bahrain
| | - Maitha Mubarak
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Asha Caroline Cyril
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruthwik Duvuru
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajan Radhakrishnan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town P.O. Box 7505, South Africa
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Narain K, Rackimuthu S, Nawaz FA, Okonji OC, Ashworth H, Du Plessis SS, Shah J. Strategies for malaria vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic in African countries. Bull World Health Organ 2022; 100:582-582A. [PMID: 36188023 PMCID: PMC9511673 DOI: 10.2471/blt.21.287472] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kapil Narain
- Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, 719 Umbilo Rd, Umbilo, Berea, 4001 South Africa
| | | | - Faisal A Nawaz
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Henry Ashworth
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America (USA)
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jaffer Shah
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA
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Ayad B, Omolaoye TS, Louw N, Ramsunder Y, Skosana BT, Oyeipo PI, Du Plessis SS. Oxidative Stress and Male Infertility: Evidence From a Research Perspective. Front Reprod Health 2022; 4:822257. [PMID: 36303652 PMCID: PMC9580735 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.822257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility potential can be influenced by a variety of conditions that frequently coincide. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage due to their limited antioxidant capacity and cell membrane rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The role of oxidative stress (OS) in the etiology of male infertility has been the primary focus of our Stellenbosch University Reproductive Research Group (SURRG) over the last 10 years. This review aims to provide a novel insight into the impact of OS on spermatozoa and male reproductive function by reviewing the OS-related findings from a wide variety of studies conducted in our laboratory, along with those emerging from other investigators. We will provide a concise overview of the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the development of OS in the male reproductive tract along with the physiological and pathological effects thereof on male reproductive functions. Recent advances in methods and techniques used for the assessment of OS will also be highlighted. We will furthermore consider the current evidence regarding the association between OS and ejaculatory abstinence period, as well as the potential mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of various systemic diseases such as obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and certain mental health disorders which have been shown to cause OS induced male infertility. Finally, special emphasis will be placed on the potential for transferring and incorporating research findings emanating from different experimental studies into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Ayad
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Misurata University, Misrata, Libya
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nicola Louw
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Yashthi Ramsunder
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Bongekile T. Skosana
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Peter I. Oyeipo
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Physiology, College of Health Sciences, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Ayad BM, Oyeyipo IP, Van der Horst G, Du Plessis SS. Cementing the relationship between conventional and advanced semen parameters. Middle East Fertil Soc J 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-021-00086-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Affordable conventional semen analysis remains a fundamental procedure to be performed routinely during the diagnosis of male infertility. Advanced semen analyses provide valuable clinical insights in treatment-related decision-making, but these are highly expensive and lack universal standardization. This study aimed at determining the relationship between conventional semen parameters, measured with assistance of computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA), and a set of advanced semen tests. Basic semen analysis (n = 124) was performed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Sperm DNA fragmentation and intracellular superoxide (O2−•) levels were assessed by flow cytometry. Seminal plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity were measured by spectrophotometry. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was used, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results
Semen pH correlated negatively with TBARS (p < 0.01). The proportions of total and progressively motile as well as rapid spermatozoa correlated positively with CAT activity (p < 0.05). Sperm viability correlated negatively with both O2−• (p < 0.05) and DNA fragmentation (p = 0.01), while normal morphology correlated negatively with O2−• levels (p < 0.05) and positively with CAT activity (p < 0.05). Straight-line velocity (VCL) and average-path velocity (VAP) correlated negatively with both O2−• (p < 0.01) and TBARS (p < 0.01). Amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) correlated negatively with O2−• (p < 0.01) and DNA fragmentation (p < 0.01), while its correlation with SOD activity was positive (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The results obtained from this study support the validity of some CASA parameters as sensitive indicators of changes in sperm oxidative status and DNA integrity. Predicting advanced from conventional parameters through the building of linear regression models should be considered for future studies.
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Du Plessis SS, Otaki F, Zaher S, Zary N, Inuwa I, Lakhtakia R. Taking a Leap of Faith: A Study of Abruptly Transitioning an Undergraduate Medical Education Program to Distance-Learning Owing to the COVID-19 Pandemic. JMIR Med Educ 2021; 7:e27010. [PMID: 34227994 PMCID: PMC8315158 DOI: 10.2196/27010] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced universities worldwide to immediately transition to distance-learning. Although numerous studies have investigated the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on universities in the Middle East, none have reflected on the process through which medical education programs for health professions underwent this transition. This study aimed to elucidate the rapid transition to distance-learning of an undergraduate medical program at the College of Medicine, Mohammad Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (Dubai, United Arab Emirates), owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. An action research approach constituted the foundation of this collaborative effort that involved investigations, reflections, and improvements of practice, through ongoing cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting. Efforts of transitioning to distance-learning were grouped into four interrelated aspects: supporting faculty members in delivering the program content, managing curriculum changes, engaging with the students to facilitate distance-learning experiences, and conducting web-based assessments. Challenges included the high perceived uncertainty, need for making ad hoc decisions, lack of experiential learning and testing of clinical skills, and blurring of work-life boundaries. Our preliminary findings show the successful generation of a strong existing digital base, future prospects for innovation, and a cohesive team that was key to agility, rapid decision-making, and program implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan S Du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Farah Otaki
- Strategy and Institutional Excellence, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shroque Zaher
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nabil Zary
- Institute for Excellence in Health Professions Education, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ibrahim Inuwa
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ritu Lakhtakia
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Omolaoye TS, Du Plessis SS. The effect of streptozotocin induced diabetes on sperm function: a closer look at AGEs, RAGEs, MAPKs and activation of the apoptotic pathway. Toxicol Res 2021; 37:35-46. [PMID: 33489856 PMCID: PMC7806682 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-020-00040-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to (1) investigate the possible mechanisms through which diabetes-induced advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and receptor for AGEs (RAGE) activation can affect male reproductive function; and (2) corroborate the interaction of previously established independent pathways. Male albino Wistar rats (14-weeks old) weighing 250-300 g received either a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (30 mg/kg or 60 mg/kg), represented as STZ30 or STZ60 respectively, or citrate buffer (control). Diabetes mellitus (DM) was confirmed if plasma glucose levels were ≥ 14 mmol/L after 1 week. Animals were sacrificed after 8 weeks of treatment by an overdose of sodium pentobarbital (160 mg/kg body weight). The testes and epididymides were harvested. The testes were used for biochemical and Western blot analysis, while sperm was retrieved from the epididymis and analysed with computer-aided sperm analysis. The blood glucose levels of STZ60 animals were above the cut-off point and hence these animals were regarded as diabetic. Diabetic animals presented with a non-significant increase in AGE and RAGE expression. Diabetic animals showed a significant increase in the expression of cleaved caspase 3 compared to control (p < 0.001), and these animals also presented with an increase in the expression of JNK (p < 0.05), PARP (p = 0.059) and p38 MAPK (p = 0.1). Diabetic animals also displayed decreased catalase activity accompanied by a non-significant increase in malondialdehyde levels. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in the percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa (p < 0.05) in diabetic animals. This study has shed some light on the interplay between DM, AGE, RAGE and mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling in the testes of diabetic rats, which can result in altered sperm function and contribute to male infertility. However, more studies are needed to better understand this complicated process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505 South Africa
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, Tygerberg, 7505 South Africa
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Omolaoye TS, Windvogel SL, Du Plessis SS. The Effect of Rooibos ( Aspalathus linearis), Honeybush ( Cyclopia intermedia) and Sutherlandia ( Lessertia frutescens) on Testicular Insulin Signalling in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Wistar Rats. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2021; 14:1267-1280. [PMID: 33776463 PMCID: PMC7989961 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s285025] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular insulin signalling is altered in diabetic (DM) males. While unravelling the mechanism through which DM exert these detrimental effects, studies have shown the importance of insulin regulation in glucose homeostasis, and how a lack in insulin secretion indirectly led to reduced male fertility. The current study aimed to investigate the role of rooibos, honeybush and Sutherlandia on insulin signalling in the testicular tissue of type I diabetic rats. METHODS Animals (n=60) were randomly divided into six groups. The groups include a control group, a vehicle group, and diabetes was induced in the remainder of animals via a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ at 45mg/kg. The remaining four groups included a diabetic control (DC), diabetic + rooibos (DRF), diabetic + honeybush (DHB) and diabetic + Sutherlandia group (DSL). Animals were sacrificed after seven weeks of treatment, and blood and testes were collected. RESULTS All diabetic groups (DC, DRF, DHB, DSL) presented with a significant increase in blood glucose levels after diabetes induction compared to the control and vehicle (p<0.001). The DC animals presented with decreased testicular protein expression of IRS-1, PkB/Akt and GLUT4 compared to controls. DRF and DHB animals displayed an acute upregulation in IRS-1, while the DSL group showed improvement in IRS-2 compared to DC. Although, DRF animals presented with a decrease in PkB/Akt, DHB and DSL animals displayed upregulation (22.3%, 48%) compared to controls, respectively. CONCLUSION The results taken together, it can be suggested that these infusions may enhance insulin signalling through diverse pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Temidayo S Omolaoye
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shantal Lynn Windvogel
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Centre for Cardio-Metabolic Research in Africa, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: Stefan S Du Plessis Department of Basic Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, P.O. Box 505055, Dubai, 505055, United Arab Emirates Email
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Cardona Maya WD, Du Plessis SS, Velilla PA. SARS-CoV-2 and the testis: similarity with other viruses and routes of infection. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:763-764. [PMID: 32362571 PMCID: PMC7162782 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the start of the latest coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak, the number of infected individuals and cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been increasing exponentially worldwide. Of interest is existing evidence that orchitis can develop due coronavirus infection. It is therefore not unreasonable to believe that SARS-CoV-2 could be transmitted by semen. Consequently, it is of paramount importance that individuals who could potentially be infected take all possible care to mitigate the likely risk of passing on the infection through sexual intercourse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walter D Cardona Maya
- Reproduction Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Medical School, University of Antioquia, Antioquia, Colombia
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE; Division of Medical Physiology, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Paula A Velilla
- Immunovirology Group, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Medical School, University of Antioquia, Antioquia, Colombia
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Barrera N, Ordoqui R, Montes JM, Canepa M, Bonelli C, Surka C, Torrens A, Cantú L, Du Plessis SS. The Uruguayan semen donor population: A twenty-eight-year retrospective study. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13502. [PMID: 31876046 DOI: 10.1111/and.13502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have reported a global decline in seminal quality over the years. The objective of this study was to describe the semen donor population of Uruguay through comparing data of successive samples banked by the same donors and the analysis of their semen and physical characteristics, ancestry origin and educational level. A total of 3,449 ejaculated samples collected from 71 donors, cryobanked between 1989 and March 2017 at Fertilab, were analysed. Results revealed a mean age of 23.90 ± 3.98 years, an average weight of 74.95 ± 1.09 kg and a mean height of 1.78 ± 0.06 m. The majority of the donors trace their origin to Europe (74.65%, 53/71) and 66.19% (47/71) have a level of education higher than secondary school. We observed longitudinal differences in two parameters, that is sperm concentration and semen volume. Sperm concentration declined, while semen volume increased significantly over the 28-year period. The results of the present study are in accordance with that of previous articles that also reported a decline in sperm concentration over time. However, no differences were observed in total sperm number per ejaculate due to the increase in semen volume values, thus reflecting no real changes in sperm production over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalibeth Barrera
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay.,IVF Laboratory, Centro de Esterilidad Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rosina Ordoqui
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - José M Montes
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Mariel Canepa
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Carla Bonelli
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay.,IVF Laboratory, Centro de Esterilidad Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Carolina Surka
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Andrea Torrens
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Lidia Cantú
- Andrology Laboratory, Fertilab Laboratorio de Análisis Clínicos, Montevideo, Uruguay.,IVF Laboratory, Centro de Esterilidad Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Arokoyo DS, Oyeyipo IP, Du Plessis SS, Chegou NN, Aboua YG. Modulation of Inflammatory Cytokines and Islet Morphology as Therapeutic Mechanisms of Basella alba in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Toxicol Res 2018; 34:325-332. [PMID: 30370007 PMCID: PMC6195884 DOI: 10.5487/tr.2018.34.4.325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of the previously reported antidiabetic effect of Basella alba is unknown. This study investigated the role of B. alba aqueous leaf extract in the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and islet morphology in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Forty male Wistar rats, between 8 and 10 weeks old, were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10) and administered the following treatments: Healthy control (H-c) and Diabetic control (D-c) animals received normal saline 0.5 mL/100 g body weight daily, while Healthy Treatment (H-Ba) and Diabetic Treatment (D-Ba) rats received the plant extract 200 mg/kg body weight daily. All treatments were administered by oral gavage. Diabetes was induced in D-c and D-Ba rats by a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg body). The body weight and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels were recorded every week for 4 weeks, after which the rats were euthanized and samples collected for further analysis. After the experiment, FBS level was significantly reduced (p < 0.0001) in rats in the D-Ba group, but increased (p < 0.001) in rats in the D-c group. The absolute (H-c and H-Ba vs D-c, p < 0.05) and relative (D-Ba vs H-c, p < 0.05; D-Ba vs H-Ba, p < 0.005) weights of the pancreases were significantly higher after the experiment. The rats in the D-c group had significantly higher levels of serum interleukin-1β (p < 0.001 vs H-c; p < 0.05 vs H-Ba and D-Ba) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (p < 0.0001), but lower levels of interleukin-10 (p < 0.05) in comparison with the other groups. Histopathological examination revealed severe interstitial congestion, reduced islet area (p < 0.0001), and increased islet cell density in the D-c group compared with those in the D-Ba group. From these findings, it was concluded that the aqueous extract of B. alba stimulates the recovery of beta-islet morphology in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats by modulating the peripheral production of inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis S Arokoyo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ibukun P Oyeyipo
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Novel N Chegou
- DST/NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research and SAMRC Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Yapo G Aboua
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
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14
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Ayad BM, Horst GVD, Plessis SSD. Revisiting The Relationship between The Ejaculatory Abstinence Period and Semen Characteristics. Int J Fertil Steril 2017; 11:238-246. [PMID: 29043697 PMCID: PMC5641453 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2018.5192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Variation in the ejaculatory abstinence period suggested by different guidance bodies have resulted in a growing concern among researchers and clinicians over what the precise period of ejaculatory abstinence ought to be for an optimal semen sample. Several studies have thus been undertaken to examine the association between the length of sexual abstinence and semen characteristics. Not all studies, however, have arrived at the same conclusions. This study aims to review all existing literature published during the past few decades pertaining to the influence of ejaculatory abstinence on semen quality. For the purpose of this systematic review, all data related to sexual abstinence duration and seminal parameters were re-analysed to homogenize the current data. Thorough PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar, a literature search was conducted using the keywords "sexual abstinence", "ejaculatory abstinence", "semen", "spermatozoa", "semen analysis", "sperm parameters", "motility", "reactive oxygen species (ROS)" and "DNA fragmentation". After carefully reviewing all the literature, 30 relevant papers, both written in English and published between January 1979 and December 2016, were included in this review. The weight of the evidence suggests that the decline in semen volume and sperm concentration with shorter abstinence periods is accompanied by a substantial improvement in sperm motility characteristics, especially progressive motility and velocity. Nevertheless, available data are insufficient to support definitive conclusions regarding the influence of the ejaculatory abstinence period on advanced semen parameters (ROS, DNA fragmentation and seminal plasma antioxidant capacity) and pregnancy rates. In conclusion, taking all data into account, shortening of the abstinence period may be beneficial to sperm quality. Furthermore, we recommend that the current guidelines regarding the prescribed abstinence period should be revisited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir M Ayad
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Gerhard Van der Horst
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Stefan S Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa.
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Du Plessis SS, Agarwal A, Halabi J, Tvrda E. Contemporary evidence on the physiological role of reactive oxygen species in human sperm function. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:509-20. [PMID: 25646893 PMCID: PMC4380893 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0425-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in male fertility. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been associated with a variety of male fertility complications, including leukocytospermia, varicocele and idiopathic infertility. The subsequent oxidative insult to spermatozoa can manifest as insufficient energy metabolism, lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, leading to loss of motility and viability. However, various studies have demonstrated that physiological amounts of ROS play important roles in the processes of spermatozoa maturation, capacitation, hyperactivation and acrosome reaction. It is therefore crucial to define and understand the delicate oxidative balance in male reproductive cells and tissues for a better understanding of both positive as well as negative impact of ROS production on the fertilizing ability. This review will discuss the specific physiological roles, mechanisms of action and effects that ROS have on the acquisition of structural integrity and physiological activity of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan S. Du Plessis
- />Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Mail Code X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- />Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Mail Code X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Jacques Halabi
- />Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Mail Code X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
| | - Eva Tvrda
- />Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Mail Code X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195 USA
- />Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
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Sharma R, Agarwal A, Mohanty G, Du Plessis SS, Gopalan B, Willard B, Yadav SP, Sabanegh E. Proteomic analysis of seminal fluid from men exhibiting oxidative stress. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:85. [PMID: 24004880 PMCID: PMC3846593 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seminal plasma serves as a natural reservoir of antioxidants. It helps to remove excessive formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and consequently, reduce oxidative stress. Proteomic profiling of seminal plasma proteins is important to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying oxidative stress and sperm dysfunction in infertile men. METHODS This prospective study consisted of 52 subjects: 32 infertile men and 20 healthy donors. Once semen and oxidative stress parameters were assessed (ROS, antioxidant concentration and DNA damage), the subjects were categorized into ROS positive (ROS+) or ROS negative (ROS-). Seminal plasma from each group was pooled and subjected to proteomics analysis. In-solution digestion and protein identification with liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), followed by bioinformatics analyses was used to identify and characterize potential biomarker proteins. RESULTS A total of 14 proteins were identified in this analysis with 7 of these common and unique proteins were identified in both the ROS+ and ROS- groups through MASCOT and SEQUEST analyses, respectively. Prolactin-induced protein was found to be more abundantly present in men with increased levels of ROS. Gene ontology annotations showed extracellular distribution of proteins with a major role in antioxidative activity and regulatory processes. CONCLUSIONS We have identified proteins that help protect against oxidative stress and are uniquely present in the seminal plasma of the ROS- men. Men exhibiting high levels of ROS in their seminal ejaculate are likely to exhibit proteins that are either downregulated or oxidatively modified, and these could potentially contribute to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sharma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gayatri Mohanty
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Permanent address: Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, Odisha, India
| | | | - Banu Gopalan
- Bioinformatics Core Services, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Belinda Willard
- Proteomics Core Services, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Satya P Yadav
- Molecular Biotechnology Core lab, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Edmund Sabanegh
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Lampiao F, Du Plessis SS. New developments of the effect of melatonin on reproduction. World J Obstet Gynecol 2013; 2:8-15. [DOI: 10.5317/wjog.v2.i2.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2013] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/10/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past decades, a lot of advances in understanding the biochemistry and physiology of the pineal gland have been made. There is evidence that it interacts with many endocrine as well as non-endocrine tissues to influence their metabolic activity modulating many organs and functions. Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland in the brain and plays an important role in regulating the neuroendocrine system. This hormone is one of the major role players in the regulation of the circadian sleep-wake cycle. It is normally released from the pineal gland during the night in response to environmental changes in light. Studies have shown that melatonin plays a role in the regulation of many reproductive processes such as puberty, gonadal function, and pregnancy. Beside these, melatonin has been shown to be able to directly neutralize a number of free radicals and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. The main objective of this review is to provide comprehensive information about the new developments in melatonin research regarding its role in reproduction. A review of international scientific literature was done and a question-and-answer format was used in an attempt to convey comprehensive information in a simple manner. This review discusses evidence currently available relating to the effect of melatonin on reproductive processes. It deliberates the mechanism of action of melatonin, its effect on puberty, testicular and ova function, pregnancy, and oxidative stress. A growing body of scientific evidence is suggesting that melatonin plays an important role in reproductive function. It is therefore imperative to highlight the beneficial effects of this hormone in improving the reproductive processes.
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Cabler S, Agarwal A, Flint M, Du Plessis SS. Obesity: modern man's fertility nemesis. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:480-9. [PMID: 20531281 PMCID: PMC3739371 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [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: 02/01/2010] [Revised: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/14/2010] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The obesity pandemic has grown to concerning proportions in recent years, not only in the Western World, but in developing countries as well. The corresponding decrease in male fertility and fecundity may be explained in parallel to obesity, and obesity should be considered as an etiology of male fertility. Studies show that obesity contributes to infertility by reducing semen quality, changing sperm proteomes, contributing to erectile dysfunction, and inducing other physical problems related to obesity. Mechanisms for explaining the effect of obesity on male infertility include abnormal reproductive hormone levels, an increased release of adipose-derived hormones and adipokines associated with obesity, and other physical problems including sleep apnea and increased scrotal temperatures. Recently, genetic factors and markers for an obesity-related infertility have been discovered and may explain the difference between fertile obese and infertile obese men. Treatments are available for not only infertility related to obesity, but also as a treatment for the other comorbidities arising from obesity. Natural weight loss, as well as bariatric surgery are options for obese patients and have shown promising results in restoring fertility and normal hormonal profiles. Therapeutic interventions including aromatase inhibitors, exogenous testosterone replacement therapy and maintenance and regulation of adipose-derived hormones, particularly leptin, may also be able to restore fertility in obese males. Because of the relative unawareness and lack of research in this area, controlled studies should be undertaken and more focus should be given to obesity as an etiolgy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Cabler
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Margot Flint
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
| | - Stefan S. Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
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Abstract
The results of several studies point to an increased likelihood of abnormal semen parameters among overweight men, and an elevated risk for subfertility among couples in which the male partner is obese. Obesity is, therefore, associated with a higher incidence of male factor infertility. Several mechanisms might account for the effect of obesity on male infertility, both directly and indirectly, by inducing sleep apnea, alterations in hormonal profiles (reduced inhibin B and androgen levels accompanied by elevated estrogen levels) and increased scrotal temperatures, ultimately manifesting as impaired semen parameters (decreased total sperm count, concentration and motility; increased DNA fragmentation index). Neither the reversibility of obesity-associated male infertility with weight loss nor effective therapeutic interventions have been studied in-depth. The increasing prevalence of obesity calls for greater clinical awareness of its effects on fertility, better understanding of underlying mechanisms, and exploration into avenues of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan S Du Plessis
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, P. O. Box 19063, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa
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