Cauda Epididymal Sperm Research Articles

Responses in organs, sperm, steroid hormones and CYP450 enzyme in male mice treated by quinestrol only or in conjunction with clarithromycin

Pest rodents persistently undermine crop yields and food security. Fertility control could be a viable alternative for managing rodent populations. This study investigates the antifertility effects of various concentrations of clarithromycin combined with 1.0 mg/kg quinestrol on male rodents to determine an effective contraceptive dose that minimizes quinestrol usage, addressing key concerns such as potential environmental residue, which may impact ecological balance, and poor palatability, which could reduce ingestion and limit the sterilant’s effectiveness. Male mice were divided into five groups and administered different doses of clarithromycin or clarithromycin and quinestrol for three consecutive days, while the control group received sunflower seed oil only. After seven days, organ weights, reproductive organ weights, sperm density, serum hormone levels, and CYP3A4 content in small intestinal and liver tissues were measured to assess persistent effects. Compared with the control group, all treatment groups had significant reductions in epididymal weight, seminal vesicle weight, and serum T and LH levels. Higher concentrations of clarithromycin (2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) significantly impacted reproductive metrics, including sperm density, organ weights, and serum LH and testosterone levels, though complete sterilization was not achieved, with more than 60 million cauda epididymal spermatozoa remaining. However, the combination demonstrated potential as an effective strategy for male fertility control. The combination of 2.0 mg/kg clarithromycin and quinestrol can mitigate organ enlargement seen with quinestrol alone. This combination also decreased total enzyme content, thereby diminishing quinestrol’s induction of CYP3A4, which may increase the sterilization effectiveness of the treatment.

A longer period of epididymal sperm interaction with extender components during cryopreservation improves sperm quality, decreases the size of sperm distal cytoplasmic droplets, and changes the number of nanoparticles in the extender

While cryopreservation of cauda epididymal sperm (SpCau) allows the preservation of post-mortem bulls’ gametes, the process triggers sperm damage. Although improving post-thaw sperm quality, using egg yolk extenders (EY) raises biosafety concerns which forces the use of EY-free extenders (EYFE). Since EYFE are less efficient in preserving post-thaw sperm quality, a strategy for ejaculated sperm (SpEj) frozen with EYFE is to add an Equilibrium Time (ET) step period to the cryopreservation process. However, the ET effect on the quality of SpCau cryopreserved in EYFE remains unknown. Distinct from SpEJ, SpCau physiologically displays cytoplasmic droplets (CDs) in the flagellum that may benefit cell exchange during ET. We hypothesized that using ET in SpCau cryopreserved with EYFE impacts sperm morphofunctional features, CD area, and in vitro fertility ability. Extender nanoparticles were also assessed. Following collection from the cauda epididymis of six Nellore bulls by retrograde flow, SpCau were cryopreserved in EYFE BoviFree® (Minitube, Germany) using three ET protocols: ET0 (no-ET); ET2.5 (2.5 h-ET); and ET5 (5 h-ET). SpCau from ET2.5 and ET5 showed a higher (P ≤ 0.05) percentage of motility and integrity of plasma and acrosome membranes and a smaller (P ≤ 0.05) distal CD area. There are no differences in sperm abnormalities, oxidative stress, capacitation-like events, and in vitro fertility ability. However, a better sperm recovery was found after Percoll® selection for ET2.5 and ET5. Interestingly, the number of nanoparticles in the extender decreased in post-thawed samples. In conclusion, an ET of 2.5 or 5 h is required for an efficient SpCau cryopreservation using an EYFE.

Inhibition of mitochondrial cyclophilin D, a downstream target of glycogen synthase kinase 3α, improves sperm motility.

Cyclophilin D (CypD) negatively regulates ATP production by opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. This study aimed to understand the role of CypD in sperm motility regulation. Changes in CypD during sperm capacitation and its interaction with glycogen synthase kinase 3α (GSK3α), a key kinase regulating sperm motility, were examined in mouse spermatozoa. The effects of CypD inhibitor cyclosporin A (CsA) and GSK3 inhibitor 6-bromo-indirubin-3'-oxime (BIO) on sperm motility, p-GSK3α(Ser21), mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and ATP production were examined. The effect of proteasome inhibitor MG115 on the cellular levels of CypD was examined. In cauda epididymal spermatozoa, GSK3α was found in both cytosolic and mitochondrial fractions whereas CypD was primarily found in the mitochondrial fraction together with ATP synthase F1 subunit alpha (ATP5A), a mitochondrial marker. GSK3α and CypD were co-localized in the sperm midpiece. Interaction between GSK3α and CypD was identified in co-immunoprecipitation. CsA, a CypD inhibitor, significantly increased sperm motility, tyrosine phosphorylation, mPTP closing, MMP, and ATP levels in spermatozoa, suggesting that CypD acts as a negative regulator of sperm function. Under capacitation condition, both GSK3α and CypD were decreased in spermatozoa but ATP5A was not. The GSK3 inhibitor BIO markedly increased p-GSK3α(Ser21) and decreased CypD but significantly increased mPTP closing, MMP, ATP production, and motility of spermatozoa. This suggests that inhibitory phosphorylation of GSK3α is coupled with degradation of CypD, potentiating the mitochondrial function. Degradation of CypD was attenuated by MG115, indicative of involvement of the ubiquitin proteasome system. During sperm capacitation, CypD act as a downstream target of GSK3α can be degraded via the ubiquitin proteasome system, stimulating mitochondrial function and sperm motility.

Lower developmental potential of rat zygotes produced by ooplasmic injection of testicular spermatozoa versus cauda epididymal spermatozoa.

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is clinically used to treat obstructive/nonobstructive azoospermia. This study compared the efficacy of ICSI with cauda epididymal and testicular sperm in Wistar (WI) and Brown-Norway (BN) rats. The transfer of ICSI oocytes with cryopreserved epididymal and testicular WI sperm resulted in offspring production of 26.2% and 3.7%-4.7%, respectively (P < 0.05). Treatments for artificial oocyte activation (AOA) and acrosome removal improved pronuclear formation in BN-ICSI oocytes; however, only AOA treatment was effective in producing offspring (3.7%-6.5%). In the case of ICSI with testicular sperm (TESE-ICSI), one offspring (0.6%) was derived from the BN-TESE-ICSI oocytes. The application of AOA or a hypo-osmotic sperm suspension did not improve the production of TESE-ICSI offspring. Thus, outbred WI rat offspring can be produced by using ICSI and less efficiently by using TESE-ICSI. Challenges in producing offspring by using ICSI/TESE-ICSI in inbred BN strain require further investigation.

DESIGN, SYNTHESIS, SPECTRAL ANALYSIS, ANTIMICROBIAL EVALUATION AND TOXICOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF BIVALENT TIN COMPLEXES WITH MACROCYCLIC MOIETY

The novel complexes Sn(II), were synthesized of macrocyclic ligands derived from various diamine and dicarboxylic acids in the ratio of 2:2 and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance measurements, mass, NMR, FT-IR, and electronic spectra. The interactions of macrocyclic ligands (MLn) with SnCl2 in a 1:1 molar ratio in methanol produced the ensuing physiologically active [Sn(MLn)Cl2] type complexes, where n = 1 or 2. The complexes were initially identified using conductivity tests, molecular weight calculations, and elemental investigations. The bonding mode was determined using spectral data from the IR, 1H NMR, and 119Sn NMR. The complexes exhibit hexacoordinated octahedral geometry. The positive findings of Brine shrimp lethality of the ligands and their complexes have been discussed. The antimicrobial effects of each complex on several types of harmful fungus and bacteria have been assessed. The research focused on investigating and analyzing various aspects related to male fertility. It specifically investigated cauda epididymal spermatozoa density, sperm motility, testicular sperm density, fertility, and biological constraints of propagative tissues. The findings and discussions about these factors were presented in the study.

Isolation and Characterization of Submitochondrial Reticulum Complex Associated with Midpiece of Bovine Cauda Epididymal Sperm

The mitochondrial sheath of mammalian spermatozoa adheres to an underlying organized network of electron-dense material termed the submitochondrial reticulum (SMR). The objective of the present study is to characterize the structural components of the SMR. We have isolated SMR fractions from midpieces of bovine cauda sperm. SDS-PAGE of SMR fractions revealed four major polypeptides of 56kDa, 54kDa, 34kDa, and 31kDa. Proteomic analyses of the four polypeptides revealed that 56kDa and 54kDa polypeptides identified as glycerol kinase and 34kDa and 31kDa polypeptide identified as VDAC2 and VDAC3, respectively (Voltage-Dependent Anion-Selective Channel Protein 2/3). Western blots of midpiece stained with anti-56kDa, anti-54KDa, anti-34kDaVDAC2, and anti-31kDaVDAC3 antibodies demonstrated the presence of 56kDa, 54kDa, 34kDa, and 31kDa immunoreactive bands, respectively. Four polypeptides are localized to midpiece. Glycerol kinase activity was quantitively assayed in tails. We proposed that glycerol kinase and VDAC2/VDAC 3 polypeptides play an important role in sperm motility and in midpiece function.

Effects of Immunocastration and Amino Acid Supplementation on Yearling Fallow Deer (Dama dama) Testes Development.

Forty-four fallow deer bucks (10 months old; 22.9 ± 2.4 kg) were utilized to investigate the effects of immunocastration and amino acid supplementation on testes development. Immunocastrated bucks were administered Improvac® at weeks 1, 8, and 20 of this study (control group: intact males). Starting at week 8, half of each sex received rumen-protected lysine and methionine (3:1) supplementation. At slaughter (week 37/39), body size, internal fat deposits, antler size parameters, testes weight, testes surface color, cauda epididymal sperm viability and morphology, and seminiferous tubule circumference and epithelium thickness were determined. Animals with larger body sizes, greater forequarter development, and antler growth also had greater testes development. Whilst the result of immunocastration on testes size is unexpected, testes tissue showed impaired development (atrophied seminiferous tubules), decreased sperm viability, and normal morphology. Testes tissue from immunocastrated deer was less red, possibly indicating reduced blood supply. Conversely, amino acid supplementation increased testes' redness and sperm viability, and intact males fed amino acids showed the greatest seminiferous tubule development. Thus, immunocastration may be a welfare-friendly alternative for venison production. Whilst the results support findings from the literature that testes size is not a reliable indicator of immunocastration success, this warrants further investigation in deer over different physiological development stages.

Sperm Capacitation and Kinematics in Phodopus Hamsters.

This study was designed to analyze changes in the spermatozoa of three species of Phodopus hamsters incubated under different conditions. Cauda epididymal sperm were incubated for 4 h in modified Tyrode's medium containing albumin, lactate, pyruvate, and Hepes (mTALP-H), in the same medium with the addition of bicarbonate (mTALP-BH), or with bicarbonate and 20 ng/mL of progesterone (mTALP-BH+P4). Media with bicarbonate are believed to promote capacitation in rodent species. Sperm motility, viability, capacitation patterns, and kinematics were assessed at different times. Capacitation in live cells was quantified after staining with Hoechst 33258 and chlortetracycline. Patterns believed to correspond to non-capacitated cells (F pattern), capacitated, acrosome-intact cells (B pattern), and acrosome-reacted cells (AR pattern) were recognized. Kinematics were examined via computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). The results showed a decrease in total motility in all three species in different media, with a sharp decrease in progressive motility in bicarbonate-containing media (without or with progesterone), suggesting hyperactivated motion. However, none of the other signs of hyperactivation described in rodents (i.e., decrease in STR or LIN, together with an increase in ALH) were observed. F pattern cells diminished with time in all media and were generally lower in P. roborovskii and higher in P. campbelli. B pattern cells increased in mTALP-BH media in all species. Progesterone did not enhance the percentage of B pattern cells. Finally, AR pattern cells increased in all species incubated in different media, showing the highest percentage in P. roborovskii and the lowest in P. campbelli. Comparisons between media revealed that there were higher percentages of F pattern cells and lower percentages of B pattern cells over time in medium without bicarbonate (mTALP-H) in comparison to media containing bicarbonate (mTALP-BH; mTALP-BH+P4). Overall, changes consistent with the acquisition of capacitation and development of hyperactivated motility were found; however, further studies are required to better characterize media necessary to support the pathways involved in these processes in Phodopus species.

Sperm Chromatin Status and DNA Fragmentation in Mouse Species with Divergent Mating Systems.

Sperm DNA integrity and chromatin status serve as pivotal indicators of sperm quality, given their intricate link to sperm function, embryo development, and overall fertility. Defects in chromatin compaction, which are often associated with compromised protamine content, can lead to damaged DNA strands. In this study, the chromatin status and possible correlation with DNA damage was assessed in males of three mouse species: Mus musculus, M. spretus, and M. spicilegus. We employed various staining methods, including aniline blue, methylene blue (Diff-Quik), toluidine blue, and chromomycin A3, to assess chromatin compaction in cauda epididymal sperm. Samples were also analyzed by the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) to estimate DNA fragmentation (%tDFI, %HDS). Analyses were carried out on freshly collected sperm and cells incubated for 3 h in a HEPES-buffered modified Tyrode's medium simulating conditions of the female reproductive tract. Notably, the analysis of chromatin status yielded minimal abnormal values across all three species employing diverse methodologies. SCSA analyses revealed distinct variations in %tDFI between species. Following sperm incubation, the percentages of sperm stained with methylene blue exhibited differences among the species and were significantly correlated to the DNA fragmentation index. HDS demonstrated correlations with the percentages of sperm stained by aniline blue, methylene blue, and chromomycin A3. Overall, chromatin compaction was high across all species, with limited differences among them. The relationship between chromatin status and DNA integrity appeared to be related to levels of sperm competition among species.

Dietary aflatoxin B1 and antimalarial—a lumefantrine/artesunate—therapy perturbs male rat reproductive function via pro-inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms

We investigated the impact of Coartem™ (COA) and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on rats’ hypothalamus, epididymis, and testis. Male rats were randomly grouped (n = 5 rats) and treated: control group (corn oil), AFB1 (70 µg/kg), COA (5 mg/kg), COA + AFB1 (5 + 0.035 mg/kg) and COA + AFB1 (5 + 0.07 mg/kg) for 28 days. Blood samples were collected for serum prolactin, testosterone, follicle-stimulating and luteinising hormones (FSH and LH) assay upon sacrifice. The semen, hypothalamus, epididymis, and testes were harvested for morphological, biochemical, and histopathology determination of oxidative, inflammation stress, genomic integrity, and pathological alterations. Exposure to the COA and AFB1 caused the cauda epididymal spermatozoa to display low motility, viability, and volume, with increased abnormalities. Hormonal disruption ensued in animals exposed to COA and AFB1 alone or together, exemplified by increased prolactin, and decreased testosterone, FSH and LH levels. Treatment-related reduction in biomarkers of testicular metabolism—acid and alkaline phosphatases, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase—were observed. Also, COA and AFB1 treatment caused reductions in antioxidant (Glutathione and total thiols) levels and antioxidant enzyme (Catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione-S-transferase) activities in the examined organs. At the same time, treatment-related increases in DNA damage (p53), oxidative stress (xanthine oxidase, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species and lipid peroxidation), inflammation (nitric oxide and tumour necrosis factor-alpha), and apoptosis (caspase-9, and -3) were observed. Chronic exposure to COA and AFB1 led to oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage in male rats' hypothalamic-reproductive axis, which might potentiate infertility if not contained.

P-084 Oral antioxidant supplementation ameliorates the deleterious effects of plasticizers Bisphenol AF (BPAF) and Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) on mouse sperm DNA integrity

Abstract Study question Do common chemicals in plastic, BPAF and DBP, negatively impact sperm parameters and DNA integrity, and can oral antioxidant supplementation mitigate their impact? Summary answer Short-term, low-dose exposure to BPAF or DBP did not impact testicular/epididymal histology but caudal epididymal sperm parameters, particularly DNA integrity was significantly compromised. What is known already Plasticizers are among the most commonly produced chemicals worldwide with 90% of people showing detectable levels in their urine. As endocrine disruptors (EDCs), they act as estrogen mimetics but can also induce oxidative stress and form DNA adducts. Numerous studies have linked exposure to EDCs to impaired spermatogenesis, sperm DNA damage and male infertility. Limited studies suggest antioxidants may alleviate the reproductive toxicity of EDCs. This study measured the effects of short-term exposures to two common environmental EDCs (BPAF &amp; DBP) on the post-testicular compartment epididymis and investigate the efficacy of an oral antioxidant supplement to safeguard sperm DNA integrity. Study design, size, duration Adult male CD1 mice were exposed to low doses (50mg/kg) of BPAF or DBP with or without co-administration of antioxidant supplementation (Fertilix®) for 14 days and evaluated after euthanasia. Participants/materials, setting, methods All experiments were performed at the University Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France. Mice were supplemented with BPAF, DBP or/and Fertilix® in their drinking water. The results of exposure of males were evaluated against controls and included: testicular and epididymal histology, epididymal ROS status via 4-HNE levels in caput protein extracts, general semen parameters: (count, motility, viability, acrosome integrity), sperm nuclear/DNA parameters [decondensation (Toluidine blue stain), fragmentation (TUNEL test), oxidation (8-OHdG residue level)]. Main results and the role of chance The histology of the testis and epididymis was unaffected by the exposure conditions used. An oxidative stress situation was evident by the EDC exposures, demonstrated by increased level of 4-HNE adducts in the epididymal caput protein extracts. Viability, total and progressive motility, and acrosome integrity of caudal epididymal spermatozoa remained unaltered in exposed animals compared with controls. Exposure to BPAF but not DBP significantly decreased sperm count. Sperm nuclear/DNA integrity assessed by the percentages of sperm with decondensed and oxidized nuclei was significantly increased in EDC-exposed animals. Sperm DNA fragmentation did not significantly increase in any group of exposed animals. Co-administration with Fertilix® significantly corrected the defective sperm parameters (nuclear decondensation and DNA base oxidation) with the exception of sperm count which did not return to control levels in BPAF+ Fertilix® treated animals. These data confirm that even at low doses and short-term exposures, epididymal spermatozoa are susceptible to DNA damage induced by environmental ROS-generating EDCs, confirming its association with male infertility. Limitations, reasons for caution The translation of these findings to humans needs to be confirmed, although the nuclear compartment of human sperm is more susceptible to oxidative alterations than that of the mouse. Wider implications of the findings These data demonstrate the susceptibility of post-testicular sperm cells to common environmental chemicals. They also support the use of appropriate antioxidant supplementation as an effective therapeutic choice for individuals with multiple exposures to environmental stressors such as ROS-generating EDCs. Trial registration number not applicable

Effect of addition of honey and skim milk and cooled cauda epididymal spermatozoa of Awassi ram

The current study intends to assess the effectiveness of combining honey and skim milk in an extender on individual motility, livability, and abnormalities of cauda epididymal Awassi ram spermatozoa after diluting and cooling. Nine pairs of testicles Awassi rams were collected after the slaughter at the abattoir. Honey and skim milk combined were prepared. The cauda epididymal spermatozoa were divided into four equal parts and diluted in a Tris-based extender. (Control, basic diluents), HSM1 (basic diluents containing 0.5 ml honey and 9.5ml skim milk), HSM2 (basic diluents containing 1 ml honey and 9ml skim milk), HSM3 (basic diluents containing 1.5 ml honey and 8.5ml skim milk) and cooled 4ºC for evaluation of the percentages of sperm individual motility, live and abnormalities spermatozoa (including head, midpiece, and tail) at 0, 24, 48, and 72h. Results showed that individual motility spermatozoa preserved (P&lt;0.05) in HSM1 and HSM2 groups at 24h and 48h. Livability spermatozoa were increased (P&lt;0.05) in the HSM1 group at 48h and 72h. Groups HSM1, HSM2, and HSM3 decreased total abnormalities (P&lt;0.05) at 48 h and 72h while decreasing tail abnormalities (P&lt;0.05) at 24h and 48h than control. The HSM2 group was lower (P&lt;0.05) in head abnormality of spermatozoa at 48 h, whereas the HSM1 group was at 72 h. In conclusion, the nourishing and protective effects of lower honey concentrations in extender favorably impact cauda epididymal spermatozoa of Awassi rams. Keywords: cauda epididymal spermatozoa, honey, skim milk, motility, livability, and abnormalities.

CpG DNA methylation changes during epididymal sperm maturation in bulls

BackgroundDuring epididymal transit spermatozoa acquire specific morphological features which enhance their ability to swim in a progressive manner and interact with the oocytes. At the same time, sperm cells undergo specific molecular rearrangements essential for the fertilizing sperm to drive a correct embryo development. To assess epigenetic sperm changes during epididymal maturation, the caput, corpus and cauda epididymis sperm tracts were isolated from eight bulls and characterized for different sperm quality parameters and for CpG DNA methylation using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) able to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in higher CpG density regions.ResultsCaput sperm showed significant variation in motility and sperm kinetics variables, whereas spermatozoa collected from the corpus presented morphology variation and significant alterations in variables related to acrosome integrity. A total of 57,583 methylated regions were identified across the eight bulls, showing a significantly diverse distribution for sperm collected in the three epididymal regions. Differential methylation was observed between caput vs corpus (n = 11,434), corpus vs cauda (n = 12,372) and caput vs cauda (n = 2790). During epididymal transit a high proportion of the epigenome was remodeled, showing several regions in which methylation decreases from caput to corpus and increases from corpus to cauda.ConclusionsSpecific CpG DNA methylation changes in sperm isolated from the caput, corpus, and cauda epididymis tracts are likely to refine the sperm epigenome during sperm maturation, potentially impacting sperm fertilization ability and spatial organization of the genome during early embryo development.

Effect of testicular degeneration on expression of sperm protein at 22kDa in stallions.

Sperm protein at 22kDa has been associated with fertility. The objectives of this study were to determine (1) the localization pattern of SP22 on ejaculated and caudal epididymal equine spermatozoa and in epididymal fluid, and to (2) characterize SP22 protein and mRNA expression in testicular and epididymal tissues in response to heat-induced testicular degeneration. Semen was collected before and after hemi-castration, as well as prior to and following insulation of the remaining testes, and tissue specimens were collected for analysis. Histopathology confirmed degeneration in insulated testes. Ejaculated and epididymal spermatozoa from samples collected prior to insulation of the testicles had a predominant staining pattern of SP22 over the equatorial region. However, the equatorial pattern in the pre-insulation epididymal semen samples was significantly lower than in the pre-insulation ejaculated semen samples (68±3, 81±2.6, respectively). Ejaculated and epididymal samples collected after insulation of the testicles showed a complete loss of staining as the predominant pattern. Western blot analysis verified the presence of SP22 on fresh ejaculated spermatozoa prior to and following heat-induced degeneration, on epididymal spermatozoa after testicular insulation, and in testicular and epididymal tissues. Heat insulation significantly reduced messenger RNA expression in the head of the epididymis and testicular tissues. Immunohistochemistry of the testicular and epididymal tissues pre-heating showed considerably weaker staining than the same tissues post-heating. It was concluded that heat-induced testicular damage causes both loss and relocation of SP22 on the sperm membrane. Future studies are warranted to determine the diagnostic value of these findings.

Systematic assessment of hexavalent chromium-induced damage to male fertility and the preventive role of melatonin: a longitudinal study from the translational point of view.

Chromium (Cr) and its compounds are closely associated with individuals' lives and extensively used in industry. Excessive exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) induces oxidative damage of various organs including the testes, posing a serious threat to male reproductive fitness. As an endogenous antioxidant, melatonin holds potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, becoming a potential candidate for treatment of a variety of diseases, including reproductive disorders. Here, by using a mouse model, we systematically assessed Cr(VI)-induced damage to male fertility as well as the preventive role of melatonin. We analyzed the histology and pathology of the testis and epididymis, the density, viability, and malformation of caudal epididymal sperm, the proliferative activity and apoptosis of various spermatogenic subtypes and Sertoli cells, as well as the fertility of mice at five timepoints within one cycle of spermatogenesis (Days 0, 14, 21, 28, and 35) post 14 days of Cr(VI) and/or melatonin intraperitoneal injection. We identified that the testicular damage caused by Cr(VI) persisted to Day 21 after administration and then started to be alleviated, with clear alleviation on Day 35. Pretreatment with melatonin evidently reduced Cr(VI)-induced testicular damage and accelerated spermatogenic restoration, generating an almost normal phenotype on Day 35. Melatonin pretreatment also retained the sperm quality at all time points investigated. Moreover, melatonin to some extent preserved the fertility of Cr(VI)-treated mice without apparent side effects. The findings shed light on the future clinical application of melatonin as a therapeutic agent for environmental heavy metal toxicant-induced male subfertility or infertility.

KUALITAS SPERMATOZOA CAUDA EPIDIDIMIS SAPI BALI PADA KELOMPOK UMUR YANG BERBEDA

Utilization of cauda epididymis spermatozoa has been carried out because these spermatozoa can be used in artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization. The purpose of this study was to obtain information on the quality of spermatozoa which produced from the cauda epididymis of Bali cattle at different ages. The cauda epididymis samples used came from 31 slaughterhouses. Information and identification of the age of the cattle was based on the structure of the incisors. Observations were made on the variables of motility, concentration, viability and abnormalities of spermatozoa. Each variable was observed in duplicate from each cauda. The data was performed using a t-test to obtain differences in each group. The results showed that the motility was 64.1% in 2 years to 71.2% in 3 years. Spermatozoa concentration were increase from 310.1x107/mL to 401.1x107/mL in 3 years. Viability values were 93.8% to 95.9% and total abnormality was 16.2 to 20.6% in 3 years. The results of statistical analysis showed that there was a significant difference (P0.05) for the concentration, viability and head abnormality of the spermatozoa. Based on the results of the study it can be concluded that the quality of spermatozoa cauda epididymis is affected by the age of the Bali cattle. The concentration, viability and head abnormality values were increased with increasing age of Bali cattle.

TITLE OF THE ARTICLE: EXOINTERACTIVE AMELIORATION AGAINST METHOTREXATE INTOXICATION IN MOUSE SPERMATOZOA

Objective: To assess the synergistic potential using an exointeractive association between Murraya koenigii hydromethanolic leaf extract and the synthetic compound quercetin to offset methotrexate induced toxicity in mouse cauda epididymal spermatozoa. Methods: Healthy adult male albino mice were divided into eight groups (N= 6/group) and were treated with methotrexate intraperitoneally (10mg/kg body weight) at intervals of every 48 hours for 15 days, to combat this toxic effects of the drug, Murraya koenigii hydromethanolic leaf extract (250mg/kg body weight) and quercetin (15mg and 30mg) alone as well as in combination, were given by oral administration. Various sperm parameters such as sperm count, motility and viability followed by Hypo-osmotic Swelling (HOS) test, apoptosis test, Sperm Toroid Integrity (STI) and Sperm Chromatin Dispersion (SCD) assay. Statistical analysis used: Statistical analysis was carried out using Graphpad Prism Version 7 to verify levels of significance at the P &lt; 0.001 value in one-way ANOVA. Results: Methotrexate induced a substantial reduction in sperm count, motility and viability which induces apoptotic changes, also resulted in disruption of sperm toroid protamine-DNA binding, increased fragmentation of nuclear DNA by decreased sperm chromatin dispersion and low percentage of swollen sperm representing membrane integrity loss. whereas Murraya koenigii hydromethanolic leaf extract and quercetin proved effective in reversing the drug induced toxicity, especially with the 15 mg dose of quercetin along with the plant extract brought about significant amelioration than 30mg dose of quercetin due to its pro-oxidant effects. Conclusions: To reduce the toxic manifestations of methotrexate, this exointeractive approach proved efficient.

Radical scavenging activity of Chlorophytum borivilianum L. root extract and its protective role in cauda epididymal sperm integrity in Mus musculus after gamma irradiation.

Background: Chlorophytum borivilianum L. is a recognized herbal medicine for the management of impotency in South Asian countries. In Ayurveda, it is used for the management of multiple health conditions, including diabetes, infection, and cardiovascular diseases. Parts of the plant have been used as excellent antioxidants and scavengers of free radicals. Since oxidative stress plays an important role in spermatogenesis and fertility in male populations, this study evaluated the role of ethanolic extract of C. borivilianum roots in epididymal sperm maturation against adversities posed by ionizing gamma irradiation. Materials and methods: Antioxidant potential of C. borivilianum root extract (CRE) was evaluated through DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) and NO (nitric oxide) scavenging assays. Four groups of healthy Swiss albino mice were constituted, which were labeled as follows: Group I: sham control, Group II: 7-day pre-treatment with 50mg/kg CRE, Group III: 6Gy irradiation without pre-treatment, and Group IV: 7-day pre-treatment with 50mg/kg CRE and 6Gy irradiation on day 7. Swiss albino mice were observed for 30 days and later sacrificed to evaluate sperm quality parameters. Results: CRE showed a remarkable antioxidant potential with IC50 values of 46.37μg/ml and 98.39μg/ml for DPPH and NO, respectively. A significant decline (p < 0.001) in cauda epididymal sperm count, motility, and viability was observed in Group III animals. Group IV also showed a substantial decline (p < 0.01) in all three parameters compared to Group I; nonetheless, these were significantly higher than Group III. Morphological alterations indicated a coiled and bent tail, with the presence of cytoplasmic droplets in Group III, which declined substantially in Group IV. The ultrastructure of sperm indicated higher curvature of hook in Group III than Group IV, indicating specific interferences in the sperm maturation process. Conclusion: It was concluded that pre-treatment with 50mg/kg body weight of CRE could protect sperm during epididymal maturation against oxidative stress.

Effects of preconception exposure to phthalates on mouse sperm capacitation parameters.

Phthalates have been linked to adverse male reproductive health, including poor sperm quality and embryo quality as well as a longer time to pregnancy (months of unprotected intercourse before conception occurs). The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of preconception exposure to two ubiquitous phthalate chemicals, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), and their mixture on sperm function, fertilization, and embryo development in mice. Adult male C57BL/6Jmice aged 8-9weeks were exposed to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, di-n-butyl phthalate, or their mixture (di-n-butyl phthalate+di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate) at 2.5mg/kg/day or vehicle for 40days (equivalent to one spermatogenic cycle) via surgically implanted osmotic pumps. Caudal epididymal spermatozoa were extracted and analyzed for motility using computer-assisted sperm analyses. Sperm phosphorylation of protein kinase A substrates and tyrosine phosphorylation, markers of early and late capacitation events, respectively, were analyzed by Western blots. In vitro fertilization was used to evaluate the sperm fertilizing capacity. While the study did not reveal any significant differences in sperm motility and fertilization potential, abnormal sperm morphology was observed in all phthalate exposures, particularly in the phthalate mixture group. In addition, the study revealed significant differences in sperm concentration between control and exposed groups. Moreover, protein phosphorylation of protein kinase A substrates was decreased in the di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and mixture exposure groups, while no significant changes in protein tyrosine phosphorylation were observed in any of the groups. Assessment of the reproductive functionality did not reveal significant effects on in vitro fertilization and early embryo development rates but showed wide variability in the phthalate mixture group. Our findings suggest that preconception phthalate exposure affects sperm numbers and phosphorylation of protein kinase A substrates involved in capacitation. Future research is warranted to examine the associations between phthalate exposure and capacitation in human spermatozoa.

Location of aquaporins 3, 7 and 10 in frozen-thawed ejaculated and cauda epididymal spermatozoa from the Iberian ibex, mouflon, and chamois

Spermatozoa collected from the cauda epididymis of wild ruminants are more cryoresistant than ejaculated spermatozoa. Changes in the membrane location of aquaporins (AQPs) follow the osmotic changes that occur during freeze-thawing, and might influence the cryosurvival of spermatozoa depending on their source. This work reports the location of AQP3, AQP7 and AQP10 in the cauda epididymal and post-ejaculation spermatozoa of three wild mountain ungulate species (Iberian ibex, mouflon, and chamois), as determined by Western blotting (WB) and immunocytochemistry (ICC) using commercial rabbit polyclonal primary antibodies. WB confirmed the presence of all three AQPs in the spermatozoa of all the studied species, while ICC showed AQP3 to be mainly located in the sperm acrosome, mid-piece, principal piece, and end piece, both in cauda epididymal and ejaculated cells. The percentage of ejaculated spermatozoa showing AQP3 in the principal piece was higher in the ibex than in the chamois (P < 0.05), and higher in epididymal spermatozoa in the mouflon than in the chamois (P < 0.05). AQP7 was located in the acrosome of both epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa, as well as in the cytoplasmic droplet of the epididymal spermatozoa of all three species. No differences were seen between the species with respect to the percentage of spermatozoa showing AQP7. AQP10 was located mainly in the mid-piece, principal piece and end piece of the sperm tail in both epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa. The percentage of mouflon spermatozoa with AQP10 in the end piece was higher in the cauda epididymal than in the ejaculated spermatozoa (P < 0.05). In conclusion, except for AQP10 in the mouflon, the locations of the studied AQPs are similar in epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa, with inter-species differences seen only for AQP3. Further studies are needed to determine what this might mean with respect to sperm cryopreservation.