Varicocele repair in adolescent remains controversial. Our aim is to identify and combine clinical trials results published thus far to ascertain the efficacy of varicocelectomy in improving testis volume and semen pa...Varicocele repair in adolescent remains controversial. Our aim is to identify and combine clinical trials results published thus far to ascertain the efficacy of varicocelectomy in improving testis volume and semen parameters compared with nontreatment control. A literature search was performed using Medline, Embase and Web of Science, which included results obtained from meta-analysis, randomized and nonrandomized controlled studies. The study population was adolescents with clinically palpable varicocele with or without the testicular asymmetry or abnormal semen parameters. Cases were allocated to treatment and observation groups, and testis volume or semen parameters were adopted as outcome measures. As a result, seven randomized controlled trials （RCTs） and nonrandomized controlled trials studying bilateral testis volume or semen parameters in both treatment and observation groups were identified. Using a random effect model, mean difference of testis volume between the treatment group and the observation group was 2.9 ml （95% confidence interval [CI]： 0.6, 5.2; P 〈 0.05） for the varicocele side and 1.5 ml （95% CI- 0.3, 2.7; P 〈 0.05） for the healthy side. The random effect model analysis demonstrated that the mean difference of semen concentration, total semen motility, and normal morphology between the two groups was 13.7 x 106 ml-1 （95% CI： -1.4, 28.8; P= 0.075）, 2.5% （95% CI：-3.6, 8.6; P= 0.424）, and 2.9% （95% CI： -3.0, 8.7; P= 0.336） respectively. In conclusion, although varicocelectomy significantly improved bilateral testis volume in adolescents with varicocele compared with observation cases, semen parameters did not have any statistically significant difference between two groups. Well-planned, properly conducted RCTs are needed in order to confirm the above-mentioned conclusion further and to explore whether varicocele repair in adolescents could improve subsequently spontaneous pregnancy rates.展开更多
Dear Editor,I would like to congratulate Mamsen et al.i on their extensive and scientifically valuable work.I analyzed their raw data presented in Table 1 of the original article from a different perspective and disco...Dear Editor,I would like to congratulate Mamsen et al.i on their extensive and scientifically valuable work.I analyzed their raw data presented in Table 1 of the original article from a different perspective and discovered an effect not mentioned in the article.My analysis showed that luteinizing hormone(LH)levels are significantly lower in patients at high infertility risk(HIR),whose testes lack A dark(Ad)spermatogonia and display an abnormal ratio of germ cells per crosssectional tubule(G/T).展开更多
Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathog...Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathogenesis.We have recently presented a study on a series of 453 consecutive boys with bilateral nonsyndromic cryptorchidism,in which we conducted hormonal evaluations and assessed germ cell numbers in testicular biopsies.3 In this series,45%of the boys were classified as having gonadotropin insufficiency.3 Identifying these patients at the time of surgery is important.A recent follow-up study of 208 boys with nonsyndromic bilateral cryptorchidism from our department showed that the boys with gonadotropin insufficiency had an impaired fertility potential after surgery compared to boys with an intact hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal feedback mechanism.4 In a review from 2022,Hadziselimovic5 suggested that infertility in patients diagnosed with cryptorchid testes is a consequence of a hormonal deficiency rather than temperature-induced cellular damage.展开更多
Hedgehog(HH)signaling has been researched for decades and Hedgehog has 3 homologs:Sonic Hedgehog(Shh),Indian Hedgehog(Ihh),and Desert Hedgehog(Dhh).Dhh is the one involved in male gonad and germ cell development.The d...Hedgehog(HH)signaling has been researched for decades and Hedgehog has 3 homologs:Sonic Hedgehog(Shh),Indian Hedgehog(Ihh),and Desert Hedgehog(Dhh).Dhh is the one involved in male gonad and germ cell development.The distribution of molecules in Hedgehog signaling in testis indicated that Hedgehog signaling executes important functions during testis development.The patients with Dhh signaling deficiency develop dysgenesis of gonads and hormone production which demands further exploration of gonad HH signaling.Some results proved the indispensable roles of HH signaling in gonad and germ cell development and the interaction with hormones.This review evaluates HH functions in the testis and how HH affects and is affected by hormones and provides novel insights about HH signaling to the readers.展开更多
To investigate the impact of preoperative serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels on the probability of testicular sperm retrieval,we conducted a study of nonobstructive azoospermic(NOA)men with different testic...To investigate the impact of preoperative serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels on the probability of testicular sperm retrieval,we conducted a study of nonobstructive azoospermic(NOA)men with different testicular volumes(TVs)who underwent microdissection testicular sperm extraction(micro-TESE).A total of 177 NOA patients undergoing micro-TESE for the first time from April 2019 to November 2022 in Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital(formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital,Shenzhen,China)were retrospectively reviewed.The subjects were divided into four groups based on average TV quartiles.Serum hormone levels in each TV group were compared between positive and negative sperm retrieval subgroups.Overall sperm retrieval rate was 57.6%.FSH levels(median[interquartile range])were higher in the positive sperm retrieval subgroup compared with the negative outcome subgroup when average TV was<5 ml(first quartile[Q1:TV<3 ml]:43.32[17.92]IU l^(−1) vs 32.95[18.56]IU l−1,P=0.048;second quartile[Q2:3 ml≤TV<5 ml]:31.31[15.37]IU l^(−1) vs 25.59[18.40]IU l^(−1),P=0.042).Elevated serum FSH levels were associated with successful micro-TESE sperm retrieval in NOA men whose average TVs were<5 ml(adjusted odds ratio[OR]:1.06 per unit increase;95%confidence interval[CI]:1.01–1.11;P=0.011).In men with TVs≥5 ml,larger TVs were associated with lower odds of sperm retrieval(adjusted OR:0.84 per 1 ml increase;95%CI:0.71–0.98;P=0.029).In conclusion,elevated serum FSH levels were associated with positive sperm retrieval in micro-TESE in NOA men with TVs<5 ml.In men with TV≥5 ml,increases in average TVs were associated with lower odds of sperm retrieval.展开更多
The aim of this investigation was to determine the optimal storage medium for testicular hypothermic transportation and identify the ideal concentration for the application of the protective agent 5-aminolevulinic aci...The aim of this investigation was to determine the optimal storage medium for testicular hypothermic transportation and identify the ideal concentration for the application of the protective agent 5-aminolevulinic acid(5-ALA).Furthermore,this study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of the protective effects of 5-ALA.First,we collected and stored mouse testicular fragments in different media,including Hank’s balanced salt solution(HBSS;n=5),Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium/Nutrient Mixture F-12(DMEM/F12;n=5),and alpha-minimum essential medium(αMEM;n=5).Storage of testicular tissue in HBSS preserved the integrity of testicular morphology better than that in the DMEM/F12 group(P<0.05)and theαMEM group(P<0.01).Testicular fragments were subsequently placed in HBSS with various concentrations of 5-ALA(0[control],1 mmol l−1,2 mmol l−1,and 5 mmol l−1)to determine the most effective concentration of 5-ALA.The 2 mmol l−15-ALA group(n=3)presented the highest positive rate of spermatogonial stem cells compared with those in the control,1 mmol l−1,and 5 mmol l−15-ALA groups.Finally,the tissue fragments were preserved in HBSS with control(n=3)and 2 mmol l−15-ALA(n=3)under low-temperature conditions.A comparative analysis was performed against fresh testes(n=3)to elucidate the underlying mechanism of 5-ALA.Gene set enrichment analysis(GSEA)for WikiPathways revealed that the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)signaling pathway was downregulated in the 2 mmol l−15-ALA group compared with that in the control group(normalized enrichment score[NES]=−1.57,false discovery rate[FDR]=0.229,and P=0.019).In conclusion,these data suggest that using 2 mmol l−15-ALA in HBSS effectively protected the viability of spermatogonial stem cells upon hypothermic transportation.展开更多
Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,wh...Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,whereas immune cells are thermo-sensitive,especially macrophages,which are the most abundant testicular immune cells.Our study aimed to unveil the underlying immune responses and assess their consequences on the semen quality of boars under HS.The results will aid in addressing environmental temperature-related seasonal infertility and in selecting the best boar for use in artificial insemination.Methods The 3-week experiment assigned 268-week-old Rongchang male pigs into thermal neutral pair-feed(TN-PF)and HS groups.During the last 2 weeks,which served as the HS period,the HS group was subjected to 14-day 35±1℃,while the TN-PF group was kept at 26±1℃.Pig gonad tissues were sampled at the end of HS period for assessments and measurements.Results Our findings confirmed HS-related reactions such as elevated respiration rate(P<0.05)and elevated heat shock protein 60(HSP60;P<0.05)and heat shock protein 90(HSP90;P<0.05)expression levels.Sperm motility(P=0.06)and progressive sperms(P=0.08)were decreased under HS as was a significant reduction in average straight-line velocity(VSL;P<0.05).Additionally,total abnormality levels increased(P<0.05).Fibrosis,caspase-3 expression,and accumulations of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α;P<0.05)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β;P<0.05),along with an elevated macrophage composition(P<0.05)characterized the orchitis under HS.Single cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)revealed fluctuations in engulfing and inflammatory signals in testicular macrophages(TMs).In particular,the complement cascade was promoted by CD163+macrophages,resulting in membrane attack complex(C5b-9)assembly(P<0.05).Linear regressions further revealed a negative correlation between C5b-9 and sperm motility(P<0.05),as well as near-negative correlations between the C5b-9 and both progressive motility(P=0.08)and VSL(P=0.06).Conclusions Our findings highlighted the relationship between HS,the onset of orchitis,and the activation of the complement system,all of which decreased the boar semen quality.展开更多
Aim： To investigate the distribution of cation channel of sperm 1 （CATSPER1） protein and the presence of CATSPER1 mRNA in human testis and ejaculated spermatozoa. The influence of anti-human CATSPER1 antibody upon ...Aim： To investigate the distribution of cation channel of sperm 1 （CATSPER1） protein and the presence of CATSPER1 mRNA in human testis and ejaculated spermatozoa. The influence of anti-human CATSPER1 antibody upon human sperm motility was used to evaluate the function of human CATSPER1 and to estimate its possible use as a target for immunocontraception. Methods： Human ejaculated sperm from normozoospermic donors （n = 12） and liquid nitrogen frozen human testis were used for the study of mRNA and protein expression of CATSPER1 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Spermatozoa from normozoospermic donors （n = 12） were individually processed using a swim-up procedure and were then incubated with CATSPER1 antibody at final concentrations of 20, 4 and 0.8 μg/mL. After 1, 2 and 6 h incubation, progressive motility and fast progressive motility were measured by means of computer-assisted semen analysis. Results： CATSPER1 transcript was detected in both human testis and each human ejaculated semen sample. CATSPER1 protein expressed in the membrane of spermatid and was localized in the principal piece of the sperm tail. The application of CATSPER1 antibody at all concentrations significantly inhibited both progressive motility and fast progressive motility after 1, 2 and 6 h incubation, and significant dose-dependent changes were observed. Conclusion： CATSPER1 is meiotically and post-meiotically expressed in human testis tissue. CATSPER1 mRNA in human ejaculated spermatozoa could be a more feasible target for study and infertility screening than testis biopsy. In addition, our results suggest that human CATSPER1 could be a possible target for immunocontraception.展开更多
Aim： To examine the effects of melatonin treatment on lipid peroxidation （LPO） and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the testicular tissue of streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic rats. Methods： Twenty-si...Aim： To examine the effects of melatonin treatment on lipid peroxidation （LPO） and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the testicular tissue of streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic rats. Methods： Twenty-six male rats were randomly divided into three groups as follows： group Ⅰ, control, non-diabetic rats （n = 9）; group Ⅱ, STZ-induced, untreated diabetic rats （n = 8）; group Ⅲ, STZ-induced, melatonin-treated （dose of 10 mg/kg·day） diabetic rats （n = 9）. Following 8-week melatonin treatment, all rats were anaesthetized and then were killed to remove testes from the scrotum. Results： As compared to group Ⅰ, in rat testicular tissues of grouap Ⅱ, increased levels of malondialdehyde （MDA） （P 〈 0.01） and superoxide dismutase （SOD） （P 〈 0.01） as well as, decreased levels of catalase （CAT） （P 〈 0.01） and glutathione peroxidase （GSH-Px） （P 〉 0.05） were found. In contrast, as compared to group Ⅱ, in rat testicular tissues of group Ⅲ, levels of MDA decreased （but this decrease was not significant, P 〉 0.05） and SOD （P 〈 0.01） as well as CAT （P 〈 0.05） increased. GSH-Px was not influenced by any of the treatment. Melatonin did not significantly affect the elevated glucose concentration of diabetic group. At the end of the study, there was no significant difference between the melatonin-treated group and the untreated group by means of body and testicular weight. Conclusion： Diabetes mellitus increases oxidative stress and melatonin inhibits lipid peroxidation and might regulate the activities of antioxidant enzymes of diabetic rat testes.展开更多
Aim： To quantitatively study the histological changes of the testis and epididymis as a result of a drastic reduction of testosterone secretion. Methods： Fourteen adult Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intraperiton...Aim： To quantitatively study the histological changes of the testis and epididymis as a result of a drastic reduction of testosterone secretion. Methods： Fourteen adult Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intraperitoneally with ethane dimethane sulfonate （EDS, 75 mg/kg） and the same number of animals were injected with normal saline as a control. At days 7 and 12 （after treatment）, respectively, half of the animals from each group were killed. The testes and epididymides were removed and tissue blocks embedded in methacrylate resin. The cell number per testis was estimated using the stereological optical disector and some other parameters were obtained using other morphometric methods. Results： The EDS treatment resulted in an almost complete elimination of Leydig cells but had no effect on the numbers of Sertoli cells per testis. At day 7 after EDS treatment, many elongated spermatids were retained in the seminiferous epithelium and many round spermatids could be seen in the epididymal ducts. At day 12, a looser arrangement of spermatids and spermatocytes became evident, with apparent narrow empty spaces being formed between germ cells in an approximately radial direction towards the tubule lumen; the numbers （per testis） of non-type B spermatogonia and spermatocytes were similar to controls, whereas that of type B spermatogonia increased by 59%, and that of early round, elongating and late elongated spermatids decreased by 37%, 72% and 52%, respectively. Conclusion： The primary spermatogenic lesions following EDS administration were （i） spermiation failure and （ii） detachment of spermatids and spermatocytes associated with impairment in spermiogenesis and meiosis.展开更多
<abstract>Aim: To study the expression and regulation of Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 proteins (intracellular signaling molecules of transforming growth factor-β family) in rat testis during postnatal development. Me...<abstract>Aim: To study the expression and regulation of Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 proteins (intracellular signaling molecules of transforming growth factor-β family) in rat testis during postnatal development. Methods: The whole testes were collected from SD rats aged 3, 7, 14, 28 and 90 (adult) days. The cellular localization and developmental changes were examined by immunohistochemistry ABC method with the glucose oxidase-DAB-nickel enhancement technique. Quantitative analysis of the immunostaining was made by the image analysis system. The Smads proteins coexistence in the adult rat testis was tested by the double immune staining for CD14-Smad4 and Smad2-Smad4. The protein expression of Smad during rat testicular development was examined by means of Western blots. Results: Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 were present throughout testicular development. The immunostaining of Smadl and Smad2 were present in spermatogenic cells. A positive immunoreactivity was located at the cytoplasm, but the nucleus was negative. Smadl was immunolocalized at the d14, d28 and adult testes, while Smad2, at the d7, d14, d28 and adult testis. There was positive irnmunoreaction in the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells as well. The immunolocalization of Smad4 was exclusively at the cytoplasm of Leydig cells and the nuclei were negative throughout the testicular development. No expression was detected in the germ cells. The results of image and statistical analysis showed that generally the expression of Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 in the testis tended to increase gradually with the growth of the rat. Conclusion: The present data provide direct evidences for the molecular mechanism of TGF-βaction in rat testes during postnatal development and spermatogenesis.展开更多
The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimates of testicular volume with true testicular volume and to compare the accuracy and precision of the three most commonly utilized formu...The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimates of testicular volume with true testicular volume and to compare the accuracy and precision of the three most commonly utilized formulas.A total of 15 patients underwent high-resolution ultrasonography(US)analysis for testicular volume before orchiectomy.Testicular volume was calculated using three common formulas:(1)length(L)×width(W)×height(H)×0.52;(2)the empirical formula of Lambert:L×W×H×0.71;and(3)L×W^(2)×0.52.The actual volume of each removed testis was estimated directly by a water displacement method.Thus,four volume measurements were obtained for each of the 30 testes.The obtained data were analyzed by paired t-test and linear regression analysis.All three US formula measurements significantly underestimated the true testicular volume.The largest mean biases were observed with US formula 1,which underestimated the true volume by 3.3 mL(31%).US formula 2 had a smaller mean difference from the true volume,with an underestimation of only 0.6 mL(6%).Regression analysis showed that formulas 1 and 2 had better R^(2) values than formula 3.However,all three US formulas displayed a strong linear relationship with the true volume(R^(2)=0.872−0.977;P<0.001).Among the commonly used US formulas,the empirical formula of Lambert(L×W×H×0.71)provided better accuracy than the other two formulas evaluated,and better precision than formula 3.Therefore,the formula of Lambert is the optimal choice in clinical practice.展开更多
The usefulness of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging （DWI） in the evaluation of scrotal pathology has recently been reported. A standard reference of normal testicular apparent diffusion coefficient （ADC...The usefulness of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging （DWI） in the evaluation of scrotal pathology has recently been reported. A standard reference of normal testicular apparent diffusion coefficient （ADC） values and their variations with age is necessary when interpreting normal testicular anatomy and pathology. We evaluated 147 normal testes using DWI, including 71 testes from 53 men aged 20-39years （group 1）, 67 testes from 42 men aged 40-69 years （group 2） and nine testes from six men older than 70years （group 3）. DWI was performed along the axial plane, using a single shot, multislice spin-echo planar diffusion pulse sequence and b-values of 0 and 900 s mm-2. The mean and standard deviation of the ADC values of normal testicular parenchyma were calculated for each age group separately. Analysis of variance （ANOVA） followed by post hoc analysis （Dunnett T3） was used for statistical purposes. The ADC values （x 10-3 mm2s-1） of normal testicular tissue were different among age groups （group 1：1.08 ± 0.13; group 2：1.15 ±0.15 and group 3：1.31± 0.22）. ANOVA revealed differences in mean ADC among age groups （F= 11.391, P〈 0.001）. Post hoc analysis showed differences between groups 1 and 2 （P= 0.008） and between groups 1 and 3 （P= 0.043）, but not between groups 2 and 3 （P= 0.197）. Our findings suggest that ADC values of normal testicular tissue increase with advancing age.展开更多
For centuries, plants and plant-based products have been used as a valuable and safe natural source of medicines for treating various ailments. The therapeutic potential of most of these plants could be ascribed to th...For centuries, plants and plant-based products have been used as a valuable and safe natural source of medicines for treating various ailments. The therapeutic potential of most of these plants could be ascribed to their anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antispasmodic, analgesic and various other pharmacological properties. However, several commonly used plants have been reported to adversely affect male reproductive functions in wildlife and humans. The effects observed with most of the plant and plant-based products have been attributed to the antispermatogenic and/or antisteroidogenic properties of one or more active ingredients. This review discusses the detrimental effects of some of the commonly used plants on various target cells in the testis. A deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms of action of these natural compounds could pave the way for developing therapeutic strategies against their toxicity.展开更多
Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (...Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (Se) level diets were fed in separate groups for 8 weeks. Group 1 animals were fed yeast-based Se-deficient (0.02 ppm) diet. Group 2 and Group 3 animals were fed with the same diet supplemented with 0.2 ppm and 1 ppm Se as sodium selenite, respectively. After 8 weeks, biochemical and histopathological observations of the testis were carried out. LDH-X levels in the testis were analyzed by western immunoblot and ELISA. Results: A significant decrease in testis Se level was observed in Group 1 animals, whereas it was enhanced in Group 3 as compared to Group 2. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly reduced in both the liver and testis in Group 1, but not in Group 2 and 3. A significant increase in the testis glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity was observed in Group 1, whereas no significant change was seen in Groups 2 and 3. Histological analysis of testis revealed a normal structure in Group 2. A significant decrease in the germ cell population in Group 1 was observed as compared to Group 2 with the spermatids and mature sperm affected the most. Decrease in the lumen size was also observed. In the Se-excess group (Group 3), displacement of germ cell population was observed. Further, a decrease in the LDH-X level in testis was observed in Group 1. Conclusion: Excessive oxidative stress in the Se deficient group, as indicated by changes in the GSH-Px/GST activity, affects the spermatogenic process with a reduction in mature sperm and in turn the LDH-X level.展开更多
Aim: To investigate whether testosterone, estrogens, vasectomy, experimental cryptorchidism, varicocele or agingwould induce changes in the cytokine environment of the mouse testis. Methods: In adult male BALB/c mice,...Aim: To investigate whether testosterone, estrogens, vasectomy, experimental cryptorchidism, varicocele or agingwould induce changes in the cytokine environment of the mouse testis. Methods: In adult male BALB/c mice,testosterone implants, estradiol benzoate, vasectomy, unilateral cryptorchidism, unilateral varicocele were adminis-tered/performed. The mice were followed up for different periods of time and were then sacrificed with testes incisedfor examination. The control mice received the vehicle or sham-operation. Results: IL-10 was present in Leydigcells of nearly every testis and IL-10 + macrophages in 39% of testes. IL-6 was found in the testes of intact adultmice, mice treated with testosterone for 70 days, cryptorchid testes and sham-operated testes. Conclusion: Resultssuggest that IL-10 might be involved in the generation of the immunologically privileged microenvironment in the testis.(Asian J Androl 2001 Mar; 3: 9-19)展开更多
Aim： To investigate the effects of 17β-estradiol （E2）, Peganum harmala extract （PHE） and caloric restriction （CR） on various testis parameters during aging. Methods： Twelve-month-old male rats were treated fo...Aim： To investigate the effects of 17β-estradiol （E2）, Peganum harmala extract （PHE） and caloric restriction （CR） on various testis parameters during aging. Methods： Twelve-month-old male rats were treated for 6 months with either E2 or PHE, or submitted to CR （40%）. Results： Our results show that estrogens and CR are able to protect the male gonad by preventing the decrease of testosterone and E2 levels as well as the decrease of aromatase and estrogen receptor gene expressions. Indeed, E2, PHE and CR treatments induced an increase in the superoxide dismutase activities and decreased the activity of testicular enzymes： gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate deshydrogenase as well as the aspartate and lactate transaminases in aged animals. In addition, the testicular catalase and gluthatione peroxidase activities were enhanced in E2, PHE and CR-treated rats compared to untreated animals at 18 months of age. Moreover, the positive effects of estradiol, PHE and CR were further supported by a lower level of lipid peroxidation. Recovery of spermatogenesis was recorded in treated rats. Conclusion： Besides a low caloric diet which is beneficial for spermatogenesis, a protective antioxydant role of estrogens is suggested. Estrogens delay testicular cell damage, which leads to functional senescence and, therefore, estrogens are helpful in protecting the reproductive functions from the adverse effects exerted by reactive oxygen species （ROS） produced in large quanti- ties in the aged testis.展开更多
During spermatogenesis, developi ng germ cells that lack the cellular ultrastructures of filopodia and lamellipodia gen erally found in migrating cells, such as macrophages and fibroblasts, rely on Sertoli cells to su...During spermatogenesis, developi ng germ cells that lack the cellular ultrastructures of filopodia and lamellipodia gen erally found in migrating cells, such as macrophages and fibroblasts, rely on Sertoli cells to support their transport across the seminiferous epithelium. These in elude the transport of preleptote ne spermatocytes across the blood-testis barrier (BTB), but also the transport of germ cells, in particular developing haploid spermatids, across the seminiferous epithelium, that is to and away from the tubule lumen, depending on the stages of the epithelial cycle. On the other hand, cell junctions at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell in terface also un dergo rapid remodeli ng, invo Iving disassembly and reassembly of cell j un ctions, which, in turn, are supported by actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletal remodeling. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism(s) and the invoIving biomolecule(s) that regulate or support cytoskeletal remodeling remain largely unknown. Herein, we used an in vitro model of primary Sertoli cell cultures that mimicked the Sertoli BTB in vivo overexpressed with the ribosomal protei n S6 (rpS6, the down stream signali ng protein of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 [mTORCl]) cloned into the mammalian expression vector pCI-neo, namely, quadruple phosphomimetic and constitutively active mutant of rpS6 (pCI-neo/p-rpS6-MT) versus pCI-neo/rpS6-WT (wild-type) and empty vector (pCI-neo/Ctrl) for studies. These findings provide compelling evidence that the mT0RCl/rpS6 signal pathway exerted its effects to promote Sertoli cell BTB remodeling. This was mediated through changes in the organization of actin- and microtubulebased cytoskeletons, involving changes in the distribution and/or spatial expression of actin- and microtubule-regulatory proteins.展开更多
Aim: The expression of the cytokines IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α and the adhesion proteins CD99 and CD106 was studied in the human testis at the protein level. Methods: The expression of the cytokines and the...Aim: The expression of the cytokines IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α and the adhesion proteins CD99 and CD106 was studied in the human testis at the protein level. Methods: The expression of the cytokines and the adhesion proteins was assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Results: None of the cytokines studied was present in the human testis, but CD99 and CD106 (VCAM-1) strongly were expressed in all the testes investigated. CD99 was present in the interstitial tissue of the human testis as well as in the Sertoli cells. The identity of the CD99+ interstitial cells is unclear. CD106 (VCAM-1) was present in Leydig cells as well as the basal parts of the Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules. In immunoblotting, CD99 was demonstrated at molecular ratios of 46-57 (kD). This is a novel isoform of the molecule. Conclusion: The human testis produces both CD99 and CD106 and as CD106 mediates cell binding to lymphocytes, it is possible that the human Leydig cells adhere to lymphocytes like the rodent Leydig cells. (Asian J Androl 2002 Dec; 4: 243-248)展开更多
<abstract>Aim: To identify specifically expressed genes in the adult and fetal testes. Methods: A human testis cDNA microarray was established. Then the mRNA of adult and fetal testis was purified and probes wer...<abstract>Aim: To identify specifically expressed genes in the adult and fetal testes. Methods: A human testis cDNA microarray was established. Then the mRNA of adult and fetal testis was purified and probes were prepared by a reverse transcription reaction with the testis mRNA as template. The microarray was hybridized with probes of adult and fetal testes. The nucleic sequences of differentially expressed genes were determined and homologies were searched in the databases of the GenBank. Results: When hybridized with adult or fetal testis probes, the positive clones were 96.8 % and 95.4 %, respectively. Among these genes, one was a new testis-specific gene, which was named TSP1. TSP1 was highly expressed in human adult testis. The cDNA of TSP1 was 1,484 bp in length. The cDNA sequence of this clone was deposited in the Genbank (AF333098). TSP1 was also determined as Interim Gen Symbol (Unigene, No. Hs.98266). Protein analysis showed that TSP1 contained two functional domains: an N-terminal basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) and a C-terminal leucine zipper (Zip). Homologous analysis showed that the 430 amino acid sequences deduced from the 1,293 bp open reading frame (ORF) had a homology with the human gene FLJ2509 (AK098575). TSP1 had also a sequence homology with Spz 1 protein of mouse. Expression profiles showed that TSP1 was specifically and strongly expressed in the testis. Conclusion: TSP1 is a gene highly expressed in adult testis. It may play an important role in spermatogenesis in the humans.展开更多
文摘Varicocele repair in adolescent remains controversial. Our aim is to identify and combine clinical trials results published thus far to ascertain the efficacy of varicocelectomy in improving testis volume and semen parameters compared with nontreatment control. A literature search was performed using Medline, Embase and Web of Science, which included results obtained from meta-analysis, randomized and nonrandomized controlled studies. The study population was adolescents with clinically palpable varicocele with or without the testicular asymmetry or abnormal semen parameters. Cases were allocated to treatment and observation groups, and testis volume or semen parameters were adopted as outcome measures. As a result, seven randomized controlled trials （RCTs） and nonrandomized controlled trials studying bilateral testis volume or semen parameters in both treatment and observation groups were identified. Using a random effect model, mean difference of testis volume between the treatment group and the observation group was 2.9 ml （95% confidence interval [CI]： 0.6, 5.2; P 〈 0.05） for the varicocele side and 1.5 ml （95% CI- 0.3, 2.7; P 〈 0.05） for the healthy side. The random effect model analysis demonstrated that the mean difference of semen concentration, total semen motility, and normal morphology between the two groups was 13.7 x 106 ml-1 （95% CI： -1.4, 28.8; P= 0.075）, 2.5% （95% CI：-3.6, 8.6; P= 0.424）, and 2.9% （95% CI： -3.0, 8.7; P= 0.336） respectively. In conclusion, although varicocelectomy significantly improved bilateral testis volume in adolescents with varicocele compared with observation cases, semen parameters did not have any statistically significant difference between two groups. Well-planned, properly conducted RCTs are needed in order to confirm the above-mentioned conclusion further and to explore whether varicocele repair in adolescents could improve subsequently spontaneous pregnancy rates.
文摘Dear Editor,I would like to congratulate Mamsen et al.i on their extensive and scientifically valuable work.I analyzed their raw data presented in Table 1 of the original article from a different perspective and discovered an effect not mentioned in the article.My analysis showed that luteinizing hormone(LH)levels are significantly lower in patients at high infertility risk(HIR),whose testes lack A dark(Ad)spermatogonia and display an abnormal ratio of germ cells per crosssectional tubule(G/T).
文摘Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathogenesis.We have recently presented a study on a series of 453 consecutive boys with bilateral nonsyndromic cryptorchidism,in which we conducted hormonal evaluations and assessed germ cell numbers in testicular biopsies.3 In this series,45%of the boys were classified as having gonadotropin insufficiency.3 Identifying these patients at the time of surgery is important.A recent follow-up study of 208 boys with nonsyndromic bilateral cryptorchidism from our department showed that the boys with gonadotropin insufficiency had an impaired fertility potential after surgery compared to boys with an intact hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal feedback mechanism.4 In a review from 2022,Hadziselimovic5 suggested that infertility in patients diagnosed with cryptorchid testes is a consequence of a hormonal deficiency rather than temperature-induced cellular damage.
基金supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.32270555 and 32072954).
文摘Hedgehog(HH)signaling has been researched for decades and Hedgehog has 3 homologs:Sonic Hedgehog(Shh),Indian Hedgehog(Ihh),and Desert Hedgehog(Dhh).Dhh is the one involved in male gonad and germ cell development.The distribution of molecules in Hedgehog signaling in testis indicated that Hedgehog signaling executes important functions during testis development.The patients with Dhh signaling deficiency develop dysgenesis of gonads and hormone production which demands further exploration of gonad HH signaling.Some results proved the indispensable roles of HH signaling in gonad and germ cell development and the interaction with hormones.This review evaluates HH functions in the testis and how HH affects and is affected by hormones and provides novel insights about HH signaling to the readers.
基金supported by the Shenzhen Fundamental Research Program(No.JCYJ20210324121807021).
文摘To investigate the impact of preoperative serum follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH)levels on the probability of testicular sperm retrieval,we conducted a study of nonobstructive azoospermic(NOA)men with different testicular volumes(TVs)who underwent microdissection testicular sperm extraction(micro-TESE).A total of 177 NOA patients undergoing micro-TESE for the first time from April 2019 to November 2022 in Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital(formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital,Shenzhen,China)were retrospectively reviewed.The subjects were divided into four groups based on average TV quartiles.Serum hormone levels in each TV group were compared between positive and negative sperm retrieval subgroups.Overall sperm retrieval rate was 57.6%.FSH levels(median[interquartile range])were higher in the positive sperm retrieval subgroup compared with the negative outcome subgroup when average TV was<5 ml(first quartile[Q1:TV<3 ml]:43.32[17.92]IU l^(−1) vs 32.95[18.56]IU l−1,P=0.048;second quartile[Q2:3 ml≤TV<5 ml]:31.31[15.37]IU l^(−1) vs 25.59[18.40]IU l^(−1),P=0.042).Elevated serum FSH levels were associated with successful micro-TESE sperm retrieval in NOA men whose average TVs were<5 ml(adjusted odds ratio[OR]:1.06 per unit increase;95%confidence interval[CI]:1.01–1.11;P=0.011).In men with TVs≥5 ml,larger TVs were associated with lower odds of sperm retrieval(adjusted OR:0.84 per 1 ml increase;95%CI:0.71–0.98;P=0.029).In conclusion,elevated serum FSH levels were associated with positive sperm retrieval in micro-TESE in NOA men with TVs<5 ml.In men with TV≥5 ml,increases in average TVs were associated with lower odds of sperm retrieval.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81971759 and No.82171604)the Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation(2023B1515020108)+3 种基金the Science and Technology Program of Guangzhou(202206010089)the Excellent Talents Training Project of The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University(R20210217202601970)the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program of CPSF(GZC20233216)the Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province(2021A1515111195).
文摘The aim of this investigation was to determine the optimal storage medium for testicular hypothermic transportation and identify the ideal concentration for the application of the protective agent 5-aminolevulinic acid(5-ALA).Furthermore,this study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of the protective effects of 5-ALA.First,we collected and stored mouse testicular fragments in different media,including Hank’s balanced salt solution(HBSS;n=5),Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium/Nutrient Mixture F-12(DMEM/F12;n=5),and alpha-minimum essential medium(αMEM;n=5).Storage of testicular tissue in HBSS preserved the integrity of testicular morphology better than that in the DMEM/F12 group(P<0.05)and theαMEM group(P<0.01).Testicular fragments were subsequently placed in HBSS with various concentrations of 5-ALA(0[control],1 mmol l−1,2 mmol l−1,and 5 mmol l−1)to determine the most effective concentration of 5-ALA.The 2 mmol l−15-ALA group(n=3)presented the highest positive rate of spermatogonial stem cells compared with those in the control,1 mmol l−1,and 5 mmol l−15-ALA groups.Finally,the tissue fragments were preserved in HBSS with control(n=3)and 2 mmol l−15-ALA(n=3)under low-temperature conditions.A comparative analysis was performed against fresh testes(n=3)to elucidate the underlying mechanism of 5-ALA.Gene set enrichment analysis(GSEA)for WikiPathways revealed that the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)signaling pathway was downregulated in the 2 mmol l−15-ALA group compared with that in the control group(normalized enrichment score[NES]=−1.57,false discovery rate[FDR]=0.229,and P=0.019).In conclusion,these data suggest that using 2 mmol l−15-ALA in HBSS effectively protected the viability of spermatogonial stem cells upon hypothermic transportation.
基金supported by the Projects of The National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20255)Strategic Priority Research Program of the National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs(NCTIPXD/B04)+3 种基金The National Natural Science Foundation of China(32573270)The National Natural Science Foundation of China(3227291)National Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System Sichuan Pig innovation team(SCSZTD-2024-08)the National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFD1300804)。
文摘Background Heat stress(HS)is posing as a tremendous threat to the swine industry,due to the thermos-sensitive gonads of boars.Testes are immune-privileged organs in which spermatogenesis needs to remain undisturbed,whereas immune cells are thermo-sensitive,especially macrophages,which are the most abundant testicular immune cells.Our study aimed to unveil the underlying immune responses and assess their consequences on the semen quality of boars under HS.The results will aid in addressing environmental temperature-related seasonal infertility and in selecting the best boar for use in artificial insemination.Methods The 3-week experiment assigned 268-week-old Rongchang male pigs into thermal neutral pair-feed(TN-PF)and HS groups.During the last 2 weeks,which served as the HS period,the HS group was subjected to 14-day 35±1℃,while the TN-PF group was kept at 26±1℃.Pig gonad tissues were sampled at the end of HS period for assessments and measurements.Results Our findings confirmed HS-related reactions such as elevated respiration rate(P<0.05)and elevated heat shock protein 60(HSP60;P<0.05)and heat shock protein 90(HSP90;P<0.05)expression levels.Sperm motility(P=0.06)and progressive sperms(P=0.08)were decreased under HS as was a significant reduction in average straight-line velocity(VSL;P<0.05).Additionally,total abnormality levels increased(P<0.05).Fibrosis,caspase-3 expression,and accumulations of tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α;P<0.05)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β;P<0.05),along with an elevated macrophage composition(P<0.05)characterized the orchitis under HS.Single cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq)revealed fluctuations in engulfing and inflammatory signals in testicular macrophages(TMs).In particular,the complement cascade was promoted by CD163+macrophages,resulting in membrane attack complex(C5b-9)assembly(P<0.05).Linear regressions further revealed a negative correlation between C5b-9 and sperm motility(P<0.05),as well as near-negative correlations between the C5b-9 and both progressive motility(P=0.08)and VSL(P=0.06).Conclusions Our findings highlighted the relationship between HS,the onset of orchitis,and the activation of the complement system,all of which decreased the boar semen quality.
文摘Aim： To investigate the distribution of cation channel of sperm 1 （CATSPER1） protein and the presence of CATSPER1 mRNA in human testis and ejaculated spermatozoa. The influence of anti-human CATSPER1 antibody upon human sperm motility was used to evaluate the function of human CATSPER1 and to estimate its possible use as a target for immunocontraception. Methods： Human ejaculated sperm from normozoospermic donors （n = 12） and liquid nitrogen frozen human testis were used for the study of mRNA and protein expression of CATSPER1 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction （RT-PCR） and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Spermatozoa from normozoospermic donors （n = 12） were individually processed using a swim-up procedure and were then incubated with CATSPER1 antibody at final concentrations of 20, 4 and 0.8 μg/mL. After 1, 2 and 6 h incubation, progressive motility and fast progressive motility were measured by means of computer-assisted semen analysis. Results： CATSPER1 transcript was detected in both human testis and each human ejaculated semen sample. CATSPER1 protein expressed in the membrane of spermatid and was localized in the principal piece of the sperm tail. The application of CATSPER1 antibody at all concentrations significantly inhibited both progressive motility and fast progressive motility after 1, 2 and 6 h incubation, and significant dose-dependent changes were observed. Conclusion： CATSPER1 is meiotically and post-meiotically expressed in human testis tissue. CATSPER1 mRNA in human ejaculated spermatozoa could be a more feasible target for study and infertility screening than testis biopsy. In addition, our results suggest that human CATSPER1 could be a possible target for immunocontraception.
文摘Aim： To examine the effects of melatonin treatment on lipid peroxidation （LPO） and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the testicular tissue of streptozotocin （STZ）-induced diabetic rats. Methods： Twenty-six male rats were randomly divided into three groups as follows： group Ⅰ, control, non-diabetic rats （n = 9）; group Ⅱ, STZ-induced, untreated diabetic rats （n = 8）; group Ⅲ, STZ-induced, melatonin-treated （dose of 10 mg/kg·day） diabetic rats （n = 9）. Following 8-week melatonin treatment, all rats were anaesthetized and then were killed to remove testes from the scrotum. Results： As compared to group Ⅰ, in rat testicular tissues of grouap Ⅱ, increased levels of malondialdehyde （MDA） （P 〈 0.01） and superoxide dismutase （SOD） （P 〈 0.01） as well as, decreased levels of catalase （CAT） （P 〈 0.01） and glutathione peroxidase （GSH-Px） （P 〉 0.05） were found. In contrast, as compared to group Ⅱ, in rat testicular tissues of group Ⅲ, levels of MDA decreased （but this decrease was not significant, P 〉 0.05） and SOD （P 〈 0.01） as well as CAT （P 〈 0.05） increased. GSH-Px was not influenced by any of the treatment. Melatonin did not significantly affect the elevated glucose concentration of diabetic group. At the end of the study, there was no significant difference between the melatonin-treated group and the untreated group by means of body and testicular weight. Conclusion： Diabetes mellitus increases oxidative stress and melatonin inhibits lipid peroxidation and might regulate the activities of antioxidant enzymes of diabetic rat testes.
文摘Aim： To quantitatively study the histological changes of the testis and epididymis as a result of a drastic reduction of testosterone secretion. Methods： Fourteen adult Sprague-Dawley rats were injected intraperitoneally with ethane dimethane sulfonate （EDS, 75 mg/kg） and the same number of animals were injected with normal saline as a control. At days 7 and 12 （after treatment）, respectively, half of the animals from each group were killed. The testes and epididymides were removed and tissue blocks embedded in methacrylate resin. The cell number per testis was estimated using the stereological optical disector and some other parameters were obtained using other morphometric methods. Results： The EDS treatment resulted in an almost complete elimination of Leydig cells but had no effect on the numbers of Sertoli cells per testis. At day 7 after EDS treatment, many elongated spermatids were retained in the seminiferous epithelium and many round spermatids could be seen in the epididymal ducts. At day 12, a looser arrangement of spermatids and spermatocytes became evident, with apparent narrow empty spaces being formed between germ cells in an approximately radial direction towards the tubule lumen; the numbers （per testis） of non-type B spermatogonia and spermatocytes were similar to controls, whereas that of type B spermatogonia increased by 59%, and that of early round, elongating and late elongated spermatids decreased by 37%, 72% and 52%, respectively. Conclusion： The primary spermatogenic lesions following EDS administration were （i） spermiation failure and （ii） detachment of spermatids and spermatocytes associated with impairment in spermiogenesis and meiosis.
文摘<abstract>Aim: To study the expression and regulation of Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 proteins (intracellular signaling molecules of transforming growth factor-β family) in rat testis during postnatal development. Methods: The whole testes were collected from SD rats aged 3, 7, 14, 28 and 90 (adult) days. The cellular localization and developmental changes were examined by immunohistochemistry ABC method with the glucose oxidase-DAB-nickel enhancement technique. Quantitative analysis of the immunostaining was made by the image analysis system. The Smads proteins coexistence in the adult rat testis was tested by the double immune staining for CD14-Smad4 and Smad2-Smad4. The protein expression of Smad during rat testicular development was examined by means of Western blots. Results: Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 were present throughout testicular development. The immunostaining of Smadl and Smad2 were present in spermatogenic cells. A positive immunoreactivity was located at the cytoplasm, but the nucleus was negative. Smadl was immunolocalized at the d14, d28 and adult testes, while Smad2, at the d7, d14, d28 and adult testis. There was positive irnmunoreaction in the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells as well. The immunolocalization of Smad4 was exclusively at the cytoplasm of Leydig cells and the nuclei were negative throughout the testicular development. No expression was detected in the germ cells. The results of image and statistical analysis showed that generally the expression of Smadl, Smad2 and Smad4 in the testis tended to increase gradually with the growth of the rat. Conclusion: The present data provide direct evidences for the molecular mechanism of TGF-βaction in rat testes during postnatal development and spermatogenesis.
基金We are grateful to Ms Shu-Fang Huang,a statistical specialist at our institute,for her valuable assistance in statistical analysis and review of the statistical section.
文摘The aim of this study was to determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimates of testicular volume with true testicular volume and to compare the accuracy and precision of the three most commonly utilized formulas.A total of 15 patients underwent high-resolution ultrasonography(US)analysis for testicular volume before orchiectomy.Testicular volume was calculated using three common formulas:(1)length(L)×width(W)×height(H)×0.52;(2)the empirical formula of Lambert:L×W×H×0.71;and(3)L×W^(2)×0.52.The actual volume of each removed testis was estimated directly by a water displacement method.Thus,four volume measurements were obtained for each of the 30 testes.The obtained data were analyzed by paired t-test and linear regression analysis.All three US formula measurements significantly underestimated the true testicular volume.The largest mean biases were observed with US formula 1,which underestimated the true volume by 3.3 mL(31%).US formula 2 had a smaller mean difference from the true volume,with an underestimation of only 0.6 mL(6%).Regression analysis showed that formulas 1 and 2 had better R^(2) values than formula 3.However,all three US formulas displayed a strong linear relationship with the true volume(R^(2)=0.872−0.977;P<0.001).Among the commonly used US formulas,the empirical formula of Lambert(L×W×H×0.71)provided better accuracy than the other two formulas evaluated,and better precision than formula 3.Therefore,the formula of Lambert is the optimal choice in clinical practice.
文摘The usefulness of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging （DWI） in the evaluation of scrotal pathology has recently been reported. A standard reference of normal testicular apparent diffusion coefficient （ADC） values and their variations with age is necessary when interpreting normal testicular anatomy and pathology. We evaluated 147 normal testes using DWI, including 71 testes from 53 men aged 20-39years （group 1）, 67 testes from 42 men aged 40-69 years （group 2） and nine testes from six men older than 70years （group 3）. DWI was performed along the axial plane, using a single shot, multislice spin-echo planar diffusion pulse sequence and b-values of 0 and 900 s mm-2. The mean and standard deviation of the ADC values of normal testicular parenchyma were calculated for each age group separately. Analysis of variance （ANOVA） followed by post hoc analysis （Dunnett T3） was used for statistical purposes. The ADC values （x 10-3 mm2s-1） of normal testicular tissue were different among age groups （group 1：1.08 ± 0.13; group 2：1.15 ±0.15 and group 3：1.31± 0.22）. ANOVA revealed differences in mean ADC among age groups （F= 11.391, P〈 0.001）. Post hoc analysis showed differences between groups 1 and 2 （P= 0.008） and between groups 1 and 3 （P= 0.043）, but not between groups 2 and 3 （P= 0.197）. Our findings suggest that ADC values of normal testicular tissue increase with advancing age.
文摘For centuries, plants and plant-based products have been used as a valuable and safe natural source of medicines for treating various ailments. The therapeutic potential of most of these plants could be ascribed to their anticancer, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antispasmodic, analgesic and various other pharmacological properties. However, several commonly used plants have been reported to adversely affect male reproductive functions in wildlife and humans. The effects observed with most of the plant and plant-based products have been attributed to the antispermatogenic and/or antisteroidogenic properties of one or more active ingredients. This review discusses the detrimental effects of some of the commonly used plants on various target cells in the testis. A deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms of action of these natural compounds could pave the way for developing therapeutic strategies against their toxicity.
文摘Aim: To evaluate the effect of oxidative stress on the spermatogenesis and lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDH-X) activity in mouse testis. Methods: For creating different levels of oxidative stress in mice, three selenium (Se) level diets were fed in separate groups for 8 weeks. Group 1 animals were fed yeast-based Se-deficient (0.02 ppm) diet. Group 2 and Group 3 animals were fed with the same diet supplemented with 0.2 ppm and 1 ppm Se as sodium selenite, respectively. After 8 weeks, biochemical and histopathological observations of the testis were carried out. LDH-X levels in the testis were analyzed by western immunoblot and ELISA. Results: A significant decrease in testis Se level was observed in Group 1 animals, whereas it was enhanced in Group 3 as compared to Group 2. The glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity was significantly reduced in both the liver and testis in Group 1, but not in Group 2 and 3. A significant increase in the testis glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity was observed in Group 1, whereas no significant change was seen in Groups 2 and 3. Histological analysis of testis revealed a normal structure in Group 2. A significant decrease in the germ cell population in Group 1 was observed as compared to Group 2 with the spermatids and mature sperm affected the most. Decrease in the lumen size was also observed. In the Se-excess group (Group 3), displacement of germ cell population was observed. Further, a decrease in the LDH-X level in testis was observed in Group 1. Conclusion: Excessive oxidative stress in the Se deficient group, as indicated by changes in the GSH-Px/GST activity, affects the spermatogenic process with a reduction in mature sperm and in turn the LDH-X level.
文摘Aim: To investigate whether testosterone, estrogens, vasectomy, experimental cryptorchidism, varicocele or agingwould induce changes in the cytokine environment of the mouse testis. Methods: In adult male BALB/c mice,testosterone implants, estradiol benzoate, vasectomy, unilateral cryptorchidism, unilateral varicocele were adminis-tered/performed. The mice were followed up for different periods of time and were then sacrificed with testes incisedfor examination. The control mice received the vehicle or sham-operation. Results: IL-10 was present in Leydigcells of nearly every testis and IL-10 + macrophages in 39% of testes. IL-6 was found in the testes of intact adultmice, mice treated with testosterone for 70 days, cryptorchid testes and sham-operated testes. Conclusion: Resultssuggest that IL-10 might be involved in the generation of the immunologically privileged microenvironment in the testis.(Asian J Androl 2001 Mar; 3: 9-19)
文摘Aim： To investigate the effects of 17β-estradiol （E2）, Peganum harmala extract （PHE） and caloric restriction （CR） on various testis parameters during aging. Methods： Twelve-month-old male rats were treated for 6 months with either E2 or PHE, or submitted to CR （40%）. Results： Our results show that estrogens and CR are able to protect the male gonad by preventing the decrease of testosterone and E2 levels as well as the decrease of aromatase and estrogen receptor gene expressions. Indeed, E2, PHE and CR treatments induced an increase in the superoxide dismutase activities and decreased the activity of testicular enzymes： gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate deshydrogenase as well as the aspartate and lactate transaminases in aged animals. In addition, the testicular catalase and gluthatione peroxidase activities were enhanced in E2, PHE and CR-treated rats compared to untreated animals at 18 months of age. Moreover, the positive effects of estradiol, PHE and CR were further supported by a lower level of lipid peroxidation. Recovery of spermatogenesis was recorded in treated rats. Conclusion： Besides a low caloric diet which is beneficial for spermatogenesis, a protective antioxydant role of estrogens is suggested. Estrogens delay testicular cell damage, which leads to functional senescence and, therefore, estrogens are helpful in protecting the reproductive functions from the adverse effects exerted by reactive oxygen species （ROS） produced in large quanti- ties in the aged testis.
基金grants from the National Institutes of Health (R01 HD056034 to CYC)the Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)(No. 81601264 to LXLand No. 81730042 to RSG).
文摘During spermatogenesis, developi ng germ cells that lack the cellular ultrastructures of filopodia and lamellipodia gen erally found in migrating cells, such as macrophages and fibroblasts, rely on Sertoli cells to support their transport across the seminiferous epithelium. These in elude the transport of preleptote ne spermatocytes across the blood-testis barrier (BTB), but also the transport of germ cells, in particular developing haploid spermatids, across the seminiferous epithelium, that is to and away from the tubule lumen, depending on the stages of the epithelial cycle. On the other hand, cell junctions at the Sertoli cell-cell and Sertoli-germ cell in terface also un dergo rapid remodeli ng, invo Iving disassembly and reassembly of cell j un ctions, which, in turn, are supported by actin- and microtubule-based cytoskeletal remodeling. Interestingly, the underlying mechanism(s) and the invoIving biomolecule(s) that regulate or support cytoskeletal remodeling remain largely unknown. Herein, we used an in vitro model of primary Sertoli cell cultures that mimicked the Sertoli BTB in vivo overexpressed with the ribosomal protei n S6 (rpS6, the down stream signali ng protein of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 [mTORCl]) cloned into the mammalian expression vector pCI-neo, namely, quadruple phosphomimetic and constitutively active mutant of rpS6 (pCI-neo/p-rpS6-MT) versus pCI-neo/rpS6-WT (wild-type) and empty vector (pCI-neo/Ctrl) for studies. These findings provide compelling evidence that the mT0RCl/rpS6 signal pathway exerted its effects to promote Sertoli cell BTB remodeling. This was mediated through changes in the organization of actin- and microtubulebased cytoskeletons, involving changes in the distribution and/or spatial expression of actin- and microtubule-regulatory proteins.
基金Correspondence to: Dr. Esko Verijnkorva, University of Turku, Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Anatomy, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland.
文摘Aim: The expression of the cytokines IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α and the adhesion proteins CD99 and CD106 was studied in the human testis at the protein level. Methods: The expression of the cytokines and the adhesion proteins was assessed using immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting. Results: None of the cytokines studied was present in the human testis, but CD99 and CD106 (VCAM-1) strongly were expressed in all the testes investigated. CD99 was present in the interstitial tissue of the human testis as well as in the Sertoli cells. The identity of the CD99+ interstitial cells is unclear. CD106 (VCAM-1) was present in Leydig cells as well as the basal parts of the Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules. In immunoblotting, CD99 was demonstrated at molecular ratios of 46-57 (kD). This is a novel isoform of the molecule. Conclusion: The human testis produces both CD99 and CD106 and as CD106 mediates cell binding to lymphocytes, it is possible that the human Leydig cells adhere to lymphocytes like the rodent Leydig cells. (Asian J Androl 2002 Dec; 4: 243-248)
文摘<abstract>Aim: To identify specifically expressed genes in the adult and fetal testes. Methods: A human testis cDNA microarray was established. Then the mRNA of adult and fetal testis was purified and probes were prepared by a reverse transcription reaction with the testis mRNA as template. The microarray was hybridized with probes of adult and fetal testes. The nucleic sequences of differentially expressed genes were determined and homologies were searched in the databases of the GenBank. Results: When hybridized with adult or fetal testis probes, the positive clones were 96.8 % and 95.4 %, respectively. Among these genes, one was a new testis-specific gene, which was named TSP1. TSP1 was highly expressed in human adult testis. The cDNA of TSP1 was 1,484 bp in length. The cDNA sequence of this clone was deposited in the Genbank (AF333098). TSP1 was also determined as Interim Gen Symbol (Unigene, No. Hs.98266). Protein analysis showed that TSP1 contained two functional domains: an N-terminal basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) and a C-terminal leucine zipper (Zip). Homologous analysis showed that the 430 amino acid sequences deduced from the 1,293 bp open reading frame (ORF) had a homology with the human gene FLJ2509 (AK098575). TSP1 had also a sequence homology with Spz 1 protein of mouse. Expression profiles showed that TSP1 was specifically and strongly expressed in the testis. Conclusion: TSP1 is a gene highly expressed in adult testis. It may play an important role in spermatogenesis in the humans.
