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Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety Jun 2024Phenanthrene (Phe), a typical low-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) of three benzene rings, is one of the most abundant PAHs detected in daily...
Phenanthrene (Phe), a typical low-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) of three benzene rings, is one of the most abundant PAHs detected in daily diets. Pregnant women and infants are at great risk of Phe exposure. In the present study, Phe was administered to pregnant mice at a dose of 0, 60, or 600 μg/kg body weight six times, and the F1 male mice showed significant reproductive disorders: the testicular weight and testis somatic index were significantly reduced; the levels of serum testosterone, GnRH and SHBG were increased, while the FSH levels were reduced; histological analysis showed that the amount of Sertoli cells and primary spermatocytes in seminiferous tubules was increased, while the amount of secondary spermatocytes and spermatids were decreased in Phe groups. The protein levels of PCNA and androgen receptor were reduced. Differently expressed genes in the testis screened by RNA sequence were enriched in antioxidant capacity, reproduction et al.. Further biochemical tests confirmed that the antioxidant capacity in the F1 testis was significantly inhibited by treatment with Phe during pregnancy. Those results suggested that gestational Phe exposure disordered hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) hormones on the one hand, and on the other hand reduced testicular antioxidant capacity and further arrested cell cycle in F1 adult male mice, which co-caused the inhibition of spermatogenesis.
PubMed: 38850701
DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116566 -
Genomics Jun 2024Cattle-yak is a hybrid offspring resulting from the crossbreeding of yak and cattle, and it exhibits substantial heterosis in production performance. However, male...
Cattle-yak is a hybrid offspring resulting from the crossbreeding of yak and cattle, and it exhibits substantial heterosis in production performance. However, male sterility in cattle-yak remains a concern. Reports suggest that noncoding RNAs are involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. Therefore, in this study, we comprehensively compared testicular transcription profiles among cattle, yak, and cattle-yak. Numerous differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially expressed circRNAs (DECs), and differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) were identified in the intersection of two comparison groups, namely cattle versus cattle-yak and yak versus cattle-yak, with the number of DEGs, DECs, and DEMs being 4968, 360, and 59, respectively. The DEGs in cattle-yaks, cattle, and yaks were mainly associated with spermatogenesis, male gamete generation, and sexual reproduction. Concurrently, GO and KEGG analyses indicated that DEC host genes and DEM source genes were involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. The construction of a potential competing endogenous RNA network revealed that some differentially expressed noncoding RNAs may be involved in regulating the expression of genes related to testicular spermatogenesis, including miR-423-5p, miR-449b, miR-34b/c, and miR-15b, as well as previously unreported miR-6123 and miR-1306, along with various miRNA-circRNA interaction pairs. This study serves as a valuable reference for further investigations into the mechanisms underlying male sterility in cattle-yaks.
PubMed: 38849017
DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110872 -
PloS One 2024Cystic spermatogenesis in the subadult, maturing and adult Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) displays multiple novel features, characterized early on by an...
Aspects of spermatogenesis in immature and mature specimens of the long-lived Greenland shark: Novelties concerning the germinal compartment's assembly, complement of Sertoli cells and demise.
Cystic spermatogenesis in the subadult, maturing and adult Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) displays multiple novel features, characterized early on by an unorganized internal cellular environment of the spermatocysts (anatomically discrete follicle-like units containing a single germ cell stage and its complement of co-developing Sertoli cells). These typically show polar asymmetries due to asymmetrically distributed germ and Sertoli cells. These arise from several novel cellular rearrangements at the immature pole, including fusion of a cluster of somatic cells with newly formed cysts containing only one to three spermatogonia and that already display an excess of Sertoli cells. The subadult's germinative zone revealed an additional novelty, namely numerous previously formed somatic cell-lined rings into which spermatogonia were incorporated. A striking finding was the conspicuous rarity of the routinely discernible Sertoli mitotic figures in the hallmark cyst stage of diametric elasmobranch spermatogenesis that is known for the peak display of the latter. Scrutiny of sequentially unfolding phenomena in the linearly arranged spermatogonial generations revealed that the cellular developments at the most common type of cyst-duct transition area (comprising slender to spindle-like basophilic cells with pointed ends) were concurrent with the discreet appearance of a second dark Sertoli nucleus, a development that persisted in spermiated cysts. Spermatogenically active mature males displayed vigorous meiotic divisions. However, a scattering of their spermatid cysts also displayed shark-atypical asynchronous passage through spermiogenesis, phenomena which were exacerbated as arrested spermiogenesis in an archival collection of tissues from 13 maturing specimens. Subadult specimens revealed meiotic arrest, and foci of infiltration of leukocytes that originate from a mass of eosinophilic, granule-laden immune cells dorsally under the testis capsule. This tissue was identical to the testis-affixed bone marrow equivalent in other shark species. This tissue is likely developmentally regulated in the Greenland shark as it is absent in adults.
Topics: Animals; Male; Sharks; Sertoli Cells; Spermatogenesis; Spermatogonia; Testis
PubMed: 38848382
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304475 -
Current Opinion in Toxicology Jun 2024The utilization of transcriptomic studies identifying profiles of gene expression, especially in toxicogenomics, has catapulted next-generation sequencing to the...
The utilization of transcriptomic studies identifying profiles of gene expression, especially in toxicogenomics, has catapulted next-generation sequencing to the forefront of reproductive toxicology. An innovative yet underutilized RNA sequencing technique emerging into this field is single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), which provides sequencing at the individual cellular level of gonad tissue. ScRNA-seq provides a novel and unique perspective for identifying distinct cellular profiles, including identification of rare cell subtypes. The specificity of scRNA-seq is a powerful tool for reproductive toxicity research, especially for translational animal models including zebrafish. Studies to date not only have focused on 'tissue atlassing' or characterizing what cell types make up different tissues but have also begun to include toxicant exposure as a factor that this review aims to explore. Future scRNA-seq studies will contribute to understanding exposure-induced outcomes; however, the trade-offs with traditional methods need to be considered.
PubMed: 38846809
DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2024.100463 -
Frontiers in Veterinary Science 2024Orchitis is a common reproductive disease of male animals, which has serious implications to human and animal reproduction. Additionally, phlorizin (PHN), a common...
OBJECTIVE
Orchitis is a common reproductive disease of male animals, which has serious implications to human and animal reproduction. Additionally, phlorizin (PHN), a common polyphenol in apples and strawberries, has a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-aging activities. We aimed to determine the protective effects and potential mechanisms of PHN in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute orchitis in mice.
METHOD
After 21 days of PHN pretreatment, mice were injected with LPS to induce testicular inflammation, and then the changes of testicular tissue structure, expression of inflammatory factors, testosterone level, expression of testosterone-related genes, adhesion gene and protein expression were detected, and the structural changes in the intestinal flora after PHN treatment were further detected by 16SRNA.
RESULT
Our results demonstrated that PHN treatment reduced LPS-induced testicular injury and body and testicular weight losses. The mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines-related genes and antioxidant enzyme activity were also decreased and elevated, respectively, by PHN administration; however, PHN treatment also reduced the LPS-induced decrease in testosterone levels in the testes. Additionally, further studies found that PHN increased the expression of marker proteins zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin associated with the blood testosterone barrier compared with that in LPS treatment groups. To further examine the potential mechanisms of the protective effect of PHN on LPS-induced testicular injury, we compared the differences of gut microbiota compositions between the 100 mg/kg PHN treatment group and the control group using 16SRNA. Metagenomic analyses indicated that the abundances of , , , , and in the PHN treatment group improved, while potential microbes that can induce intestinal diseases, including , , , and decreased in the PHN treatment group.
CONCLUSION
Our results indicate that PHN pretreatment might alleviate orchitis by altering the composition of gut microflora, which may provide a reference for reducing the occurrence of acute orchitis in male animals.
PubMed: 38846786
DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1340591 -
Cureus May 2024Background Undescended testis is a common pediatric surgical presentation condition with potential long-term consequences if left untreated. It is characterized by the...
Background Undescended testis is a common pediatric surgical presentation condition with potential long-term consequences if left untreated. It is characterized by the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum. This study aims to measure and enhance awareness and knowledge about undescended testis through comprehensive medical research and provide evidence-based recommendations. Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate participants' knowledge regarding undescended testes and assess the level of interest and awareness among individuals and parents about the importance of early examination and treatment. Methods It is a cross-sectional, nationwide study targeting the population of Al-Qunfudhah. The study was conducted in December 2023 using a validated questionnaire distributed through social media platforms. Results The study analyzed data from 459 participants to assess their knowledge and attitudes regarding undescended testis. Participants' knowledge was evaluated. In general, the mean ± SD score of knowledge was 3.61 ± 2.33. Higher education level, occupation, and having children were associated with greater knowledge. Attitudes were measured. The mean attitudes score was 2.37 ± 1.58. Higher education level, occupation, and marital status influenced attitudes. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the knowledge and attitudes of individuals regarding undescended testis. Participants displayed moderate levels of knowledge and positive attitudes, with educational attainment and occupation playing significant roles. These findings highlight the importance of targeted educational interventions to improve awareness and promote positive attitudes toward undescended testis.
PubMed: 38846244
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59770 -
Juntendo Iji Zasshi = Juntendo Medical... 2023A 27-year-old man experienced discomfort in his right testis in early September, 2021, and visited the hospital five days later. Physical examination did not detect any...
A 27-year-old man experienced discomfort in his right testis in early September, 2021, and visited the hospital five days later. Physical examination did not detect any abnormalities in the scrotum. However, an ultrasound revealed a tumor in the central part of the right testis, and a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) showed a tumor 2.7cm in diameter with clear boundaries and a marginally smooth surface. The level of alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, human chorionic gonadotropin-β subunit, and lactate dehydrogenase were within normal limits. A Computed Tomography (CT) scan showed no abnormalities. We can't rule out the possibility of malignancy, right radical orchiectomy was performed with a diagnosis of right testicular tumor in mid-September 2021. The macroscopic lesion was 1.5×1.3 cm in size, and no viable tumorous cells were found pathologically. Atypical cells were observed in the seminiferous tubules from the spermatic cord, which were positively stained with immune-histochemical staining CD117 (c-kit), D2-40, and MIB-1 but negatively with alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and human chorionic gonadotropin-β subunit. The pathological diagnosis was germ cell neoplasia in situ, and no continuity was observed between these cells and bleeding necrosis. The patient has been followed up for 1 year and 4 months after surgery, with no recurrence or metastasis observed.
PubMed: 38845730
DOI: 10.14789/jmj.JMJ23-0016-CR -
Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism Jul 2024During the process of transition from paediatric to adult health care, counselling concerning fertility is an important issue and is based mainly on serum markers of...
OBJECTIVE
During the process of transition from paediatric to adult health care, counselling concerning fertility is an important issue and is based mainly on serum markers of gonadal function. Here, we analysed these markers in adolescents with various underlying endocrine diseases at the time of transition.
METHODS
After reaching near adult height and late puberty (girls: bone age [BA] ≥14 years, and boys: BA ≥16 years), we assessed stages of puberty according to Tanner and measured testes or ovarian volumes and serum markers of gonadal function (anti-Mullerian hormone [AMH], inhibin B, 17β-estradiol, testosterone).
RESULTS
One hundred and ten patients (56 females and 54 males) were included from May 2010 to March 2016 with multiple pituitary hormone deficiency (MPHD; n = 17), growth hormone deficiency (GHD; n = 35), Turner syndrome (TS; n = 27), short stature after being born small for gestational age (SGA; n = 20) and Klinefelter syndrome (KS; n = 11). Female and male adolescents exhibited mature secondary sexual characteristics. The levels of serum inhibin B and AMH were lower in TS and female MPHD than in GHD and SGA, each independently (p < 0.05). The levels of serum AMH were higher whereas serum inhibin B were lower in male MPHD and KS (p < 0.05). Ovary volumes were significantly smaller in patients with TS, and testicular volumes were smaller in patients with KS.
CONCLUSIONS
After current established treatments with sex steroids, the development of secondary sexual characteristics was mature. However, impaired markers of fertility have been identified in patients with TS, KS and MPHD, reflecting gonadal dysgenesis in TS and KS, but gonadal immaturity in MPHD as gonadal gonadotropin stimulation is lacking throughout development. Consequently, in patients with MPHD, these markers cannot reliably predict individual fertility, which warrants consideration and incorporation in future treatment concepts.
Topics: Humans; Adolescent; Female; Male; Biomarkers; Anti-Mullerian Hormone; Transition to Adult Care; Fertility; Inhibins; Adult; Young Adult; Endocrine System Diseases; Testosterone; Turner Syndrome; Chronic Disease; Estradiol; Puberty; Klinefelter Syndrome
PubMed: 38845445
DOI: 10.1002/edm2.493 -
Biology of Sex Differences Jun 2024Sex hormones and sex chromosomes play a vital role in cardiovascular disease. Testosterone plays a crucial role in men's health. Lower testosterone level is associated...
BACKGROUND
Sex hormones and sex chromosomes play a vital role in cardiovascular disease. Testosterone plays a crucial role in men's health. Lower testosterone level is associated with cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases, including inflammation, atherosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Testosterone replacement is beneficial or neutral to men's cardiovascular health. Testosterone deficiency is associated with cardiovascular events. Testosterone supplementation to hypogonadal men improves libido, increases muscle strength, and enhances mood. We hypothesized that sex chromosomes (XX and XY) interaction with testosterone plays a role in arterial stiffening.
METHODS
We used four core genotype male mice to understand the inherent contribution of sex hormones and sex chromosome complement in arterial stiffening. Age-matched mice were either gonadal intact or castrated at eight weeks plus an additional eight weeks to clear endogenous sex hormones. This was followed by assessing blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, echocardiography, and ex vivo passive vascular mechanics.
RESULTS
Arterial stiffening but not blood pressure was more significant in castrated than testes-intact mice independent of sex chromosome complement. Castrated mice showed a leftward shift in stress-strain curves and carotid wall thinning. Sex chromosome complement (XX) in the absence of testosterone increased collagen deposition in the aorta and Kdm6a gene expression.
CONCLUSION
Testosterone deprivation increases arterial stiffening and vascular wall remodeling. Castration increases Col1α1 in male mice with XX sex chromosome complement. Our study shows decreased aortic contractile genes in castrated mice with XX than XY sex chromosomes.
Topics: Animals; Male; Testosterone; Vascular Stiffness; Sex Chromosomes; Mice; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Blood Pressure; Orchiectomy
PubMed: 38845040
DOI: 10.1186/s13293-024-00624-0 -
Virology Journal Jun 2024Limited data is available regarding the severity and mortality of Mpox in individuals with immunocompromised conditions. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
Limited data is available regarding the severity and mortality of Mpox in individuals with immunocompromised conditions. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis to understand the impact of HIV- or non-HIV-associated immunosuppression on the severity of Mpox requiring hospitalization and mortality.
METHODS
A thorough literature search was performed from 2022 up to January 2024. The results were presented as odds ratios (ORs). We only included patients who required hospitalization for severity rather than isolation.
RESULTS
A total of 34 studies were included in this analysis. Our analysis did not find a significant difference in the hospitalization risk between HIV-positive individuals and those who were HIV-negative (OR = 1.03; P = 0.85; 7 studies; CD4 count of fewer than 200 cells/µL was less than 0.5% across all studies). Patients with a CD4 count lower than 200 cells/µL or an unsuppressed RNA viral load (> 200 copies/ml) had a significantly higher hospitalization risk (OR = 5.3, P < 0.001) and (OR = 3, P < 0.001), respectively. Most of the reported deaths were reported in patients with HIV with CD4 counts below 200 cells/µL, with some fatal cases occurring in non-HIV immunosuppressed patients, particularly organ transplant recipients. Based on the autopsy findings, Mpox was confirmed in multiple organs, particularly the digestive tract, lung, and testes. Furthermore, some studies documented cases of death that were suspected to be related to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Most of the death reports showed concomitant non-Mpox infections at the time of hospitalization and death CONCLUSIONS: Our finding shows that Mpox acts as an opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised individuals. These individuals should be prioritized for early care and closely monitored for signs of deteriorating clinical conditions. Clinical manifestations and autopsy findings strongly suggest Mpox dissemination to multiple organs, particularly the digestive tract, and lungs. However, the presence of concomitant non-Mpox infections complicates the assessment of the attribution of Mpox to death. Caution should be exercised when interpreting data suggesting poorer outcomes in individuals with non-HIV immunosuppression, as current evidence is scarce and further research is needed.
Topics: Humans; Hospitalization; Immunocompromised Host; HIV Infections; CD4 Lymphocyte Count; Mpox (monkeypox); Disease Outbreaks; Immunosuppression Therapy; Viral Load
PubMed: 38840177
DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02392-0