Sperm-borne miR-34c-5p and miR-191-3p as markers for sperm motility and embryo developmental competence.

BACKGROUND: Sperm-borne microRNAs play a pivotal role in influencing essential cellular processes during fertilization, impacting the quality of embryo development. Dysregulated microRNA profiles have been associated with compromised embryonic development and increased incidences of pregnancy loss. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the potential associations between the abundance of miR-34c-5p and miR-191-3p in human spermatozoa with sperm quality, as well as with embryo quality and metabolic performance during in vitro development. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirteen couples who underwent a total of 13 cycles participated in this study. The sperm quality was assessed using conventional methods following World Health Organization guidelines. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to measure microRNA abundance in spermatozoa. Embryos were categorized as good, lagging, or bad based on morphokinetic evaluation. Evaluation of embryo metabolic performance involved tracking changes in specific metabolites within the cultured media using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Statistical analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between microRNA abundance in human spermatozoa and all other collected data. RESULTS: Our findings revealed a negative correlation between the abundance of miR-34c-5p (but not miR-191-3p) and total sperm motility, potentially mediated by the modulation of key signaling pathways. Additionally, higher levels of miR-34c-5p in spermatozoa were strongly associated with the consumption or release of key metabolites by developing embryos, particularly those linked with lipid and glucose metabolism, suggesting enhanced metabolic performance, while miR-191-3p was mostly associated with glucose consumption. Concurrently, only miR-34c-5p content in spermatozoa correlated with higher embryo quality. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence suggesting that the abundance of miR-34c-5p in spermatozoa is correlated not only with total sperm motility but also with markers of embryo developmental competence, highlighting the potential significance of this sperm microRNA content as a biomarker in assisted reproduction.

Metabolomics analysis of human spermatozoa reveals impaired metabolic pathways in asthenozoospermia.

BACKGROUND: Infertility is a major health issue, affecting 15% of reproductive-age couples with male factors contributing to 50% of cases. Asthenozoospermia (AS), or low sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility with complex aetiology, involving genetic and metabolic alterations, inflammation and oxidative stress. However, the molecular mechanisms behind low motility are unclear. In this study, we used a metabolomics approach to identify metabolic biomarkers and pathways involved in sperm motility. METHODS: We compared the metabolome and lipidome of spermatozoa of men with normozoospermia (n = 44) and AS (n = 22) using untargeted LC-MS and the metabolome of seminal fluid using 1H-NMR. Additionally, we evaluated the seminal fluid redox status to assess the oxidative stress in the ejaculate. RESULTS: We identified 112 metabolites and 209 lipids in spermatozoa and 27 metabolites in the seminal fluid of normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men. PCA analysis of the spermatozoa's metabolomics and lipidomics data showed a clear separation between groups. Spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic men presented lower levels of several amino acids, and increased levels of energetic substrates and lysophospholipids. However, the metabolome and redox status of the seminal fluid was not altered inAS. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate impaired metabolic pathways associated with redox homeostasis and amino acid, energy and lipid metabolism in AS. Taken together, these findings suggest that the metabolome and lipidome of human spermatozoa are key factors influencing their motility and that oxidative stress exposure during spermatogenesis or sperm maturation may be in the aetiology of decreased motility in AS.

A safe, effective and adaptable live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine to reduce disease and transmission using one-to-stop genome modifications.

Approved vaccines are effective against severe COVID-19, but broader immunity is needed against new variants and transmission. Therefore, we developed genome-modified live-attenuated vaccines (LAV) by recoding the SARS-CoV-2 genome, including 'one-to-stop' (OTS) codons, disabling Nsp1 translational repression and removing ORF6, 7ab and 8 to boost host immune responses, as well as the spike polybasic cleavage site to optimize the safety profile. The resulting OTS-modified SARS-CoV-2 LAVs, designated as OTS-206 and OTS-228, are genetically stable and can be intranasally administered, while being adjustable and sustainable regarding the level of attenuation. OTS-228 exhibits an optimal safety profile in preclinical animal models, with no side effects or detectable transmission. A single-dose vaccination induces a sterilizing immunity in vivo against homologous WT SARS-CoV-2 challenge infection and a broad protection against Omicron BA.2, BA.5 and XBB.1.5, with reduced transmission. Finally, this promising LAV approach could be applicable to other emerging viruses.

Differential hemodynamic adaptations to tilt test in patients with idiopathic atrial fibrillation.

The hemodynamic response during the transition from the supine to standing position in idiopathic atrial fibrillation (AF) patients is not completely understood. This study aimed to analyze the hemodynamic changes that occur during the head-up tilt test in idiopathic AF patients. We investigated the hemodynamic changes during the head-up tilt test with impedance cardiography in 40 AF patients (12 with AF rhythm-AFr and 28 with sinus rhythm-AFsr) and 38 non-AF controls. Patients with AFr had attenuated SVI decrease after standing when compared to AFsr and non-AF [ΔSVI in mL/m2: -1.3 (-3.4 to 1.7) vs. -6.4 (-17.3 to -0.1) vs. -11.8 (-18.7 to -8.0), respectively; p < 0.001]. PVRI decreased in AFr but increased in AFsr and non-AF [ΔPVRI in dyne.seg.m2/cm5: -477 (-1148 to 82.5) vs. 131 (-525 to 887) vs. 357 (-29 to 681), respectively; p < 0.01]. Similarly, compared with non-AF patients, AFr patients also had a greater HR and greater CI increase after standing. The haemodynamic response to orthostatic challenge suggests differential adaptations between patients with AF rhythm and those reverted to sinus rhythm or healthy controls. Characterizing the hemodynamic phenotype may be relevant for the individualized treatment of AF patients.

Retinoic Acid-Mediated Control of Energy Metabolism Is Essential for Lung Branching Morphogenesis.

Lung branching morphogenesis relies on intricate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and signaling networks. Still, the interplay between signaling and energy metabolism in shaping embryonic lung development remains unexplored. Retinoic acid (RA) signaling influences lung proximal-distal patterning and branching morphogenesis, but its role as a metabolic modulator is unknown. Hence, this study investigates how RA signaling affects the metabolic profile of lung branching. We performed ex vivo lung explant culture of embryonic chicken lungs treated with DMSO, 1 µM RA, or 10 µM BMS493. Extracellular metabolite consumption/production was evaluated by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis were also analyzed. Proliferation was assessed using an EdU-based assay. The expression of crucial metabolic/signaling components was examined through Western blot, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. RA signaling stimulation redirects glucose towards pyruvate and succinate production rather than to alanine or lactate. Inhibition of RA signaling reduces lung branching, resulting in a cystic-like phenotype while promoting mitochondrial function. Here, RA signaling emerges as a regulator of tissue proliferation and lactate dehydrogenase expression. Furthermore, RA governs fatty acid metabolism through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore RA's pivotal role in shaping lung metabolism during branching morphogenesis, contributing to our understanding of lung development and cystic-related lung disorders.

Relevance of real-time analyzers to determine mitochondrial quality in endothelial cells and oxidative stress in preeclampsia.

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are important elements for the pathophysiology of preeclampsia (PE), a multisystemic hypertensive syndrome of pregnancy, characterized by endothelial dysfunction and responsible for a large part of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Researchers have dedicated their efforts to unraveling the intricate ways in which certain molecules influence both energy metabolism and oxidative stress. Exploring established methodologies from existing literature, shows that these investigations predominantly focus on the placenta, identified as a pivotal source that drives the changes observed in the disease. In this review, we discuss the role of oxidative stress in pathophysiology of PE, as well as metabolic/endothelial dysfunction. We further discuss the use of seahorse analyzers to study real-time bioenergetics of endothelial cells. Although the benefits are clear, few studies have presented results using this method to assess mitochondrial metabolism in these cells. We performed a search on MEDLINE/PubMed using the terms "Seahorse assay and endothelial dysfunction in HUVEC" as well as "Seahorse assay and preeclampsia". From our research, we selected 16 original peer-review papers for discussion. Notably, the first search retrieved studies involving Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) but none investigating bioenergetics in PE while the second search retrieved studies exploring the technique in PE but none of the studies used HUVECs. Additional studies are required to investigate real-time mitochondrial bioenergetics in PE. Clearly, there is a need for more complete studies to examine the nuances of mitochondrial bioenergetics, focusing on the contributions of HUVECs in the context of PE.

Exposure to toxicologically relevant atrazine concentrations impair the glycolytic function of mouse Sertoli cells through the downregulation of lactate dehydrogenase.

Atrazine (ATZ), a widely used herbicide with potent endocrine-disrupting properties, has been implicated in hormonal disturbances and fertility issues. Sertoli cells (SCs) play a crucial role in providing mechanical and nutritional support of spermatogenesis. Herein, we aimed to study the effects of environmentally relevant ATZ concentrations on the nutritional support of spermatogenesis provided by SCs. For that, mouse SCs (TM4) were exposed to increasing ATZ concentrations (in µg/L: 0.3, 3, 30, 300, or 3000). After 24 h, cellular proliferation and metabolic activity were assessed. Mitochondrial activity and endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were evaluated using JC-1 and CM-H2DCFDA probes, respectively. We also analyzed protein levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) using Western Blot and live cells glycolytic function through Seahorse XF Glycolysis Stress Test Kit. ATZ exposure decreased the activity of oxidoreductases in SCs, suggesting a decreased metabolic activity. Although ATZ is reported to induce oxidative stress, we did not observe alterations in mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS production across all tested concentrations. When we evaluated the glycolytic function of SCs, we observed that ATZ significantly impaired glycolysis and the glycolytic capacity at all tested concentrations. These results were supported by the decreased expression of LDH in SCs. Overall, our findings suggest that ATZ impairs the glycolytic function of SCs through LDH downregulation. Since lactate is the preferential energetic substrate for germ cells, exposure to ATZ may detrimentally impact the nutritional support crucial for spermatogenesis, hinting for a relationship between ATZ exposure and male infertility.

Signatures of metabolic diseases on spermatogenesis and testicular metabolism.

Diets leading to caloric overload are linked to metabolic disorders and reproductive function impairment. Metabolic and hormonal abnormalities stand out as defining features of metabolic disorders, and substantially affect the functionality of the testis. Metabolic disorders induce testicular metabolic dysfunction, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. The disruption of gastrointestinal, pancreatic, adipose tissue and testicular hormonal regulation induced by metabolic disorders can also contribute to a state of compromised fertility. In this Review, we will delve into the effects of high-fat diets and metabolic disorders on testicular metabolism and spermatogenesis, which are crucial elements for male reproductive function. Moreover, metabolic disorders have been shown to influence the epigenome of male gametes and might have a potential role in transmitting phenotype traits across generations. However, the existing evidence strongly underscores the unmet need to understand the mechanisms responsible for transgenerational paternal inheritance of male reproductive function impairment related to metabolic disorders. This knowledge could be useful for developing targeted interventions to prevent, counteract, and most of all break the perpetuation chain of male reproductive dysfunction associated with metabolic disorders across generations.

Standard Doses of Cholecalciferol Reduce Glucose and Increase Glutamine in Obesity-Related Hypertension: Results of a Randomized Trial.

In arterial hypertension, the dysregulation of several metabolic pathways is closely associated with chronic immune imbalance and inflammation progression. With time, these disturbances lead to the development of progressive disease and end-organ involvement. However, the influence of cholecalciferol on metabolic pathways as a possible mechanism of its immunomodulatory activity in obesity-related hypertension is not known. In a phase 2, randomized, single-center, 24-week trial, we evaluated, as a secondary outcome, the serum metabolome of 36 age- and gender-matched adults with obesity-related hypertension and vitamin D deficiency, before and after supplementation with cholecalciferol therapy along with routine medication. The defined endpoint was the assessment of circulating metabolites using a nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolomics approach. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the systemic metabolic alterations caused by cholecalciferol. In comparison with normotensive controls, hypertensive patients presented overall decreased expression of several amino acids (p < 0.05), including amino acids with ketogenic and glucogenic properties as well as aromatic amino acids. Following cholecalciferol supplementation, increases were observed in glutamine (p < 0.001) and histidine levels (p < 0.05), with several other amino acids remaining unaffected. Glucose (p < 0.05) and acetate (p < 0.05) decreased after 24 weeks in the group taking the supplement, and changes in the saturation of fatty acids (p < 0.05) were also observed, suggesting a role of liposoluble vitamin D in lipid metabolism. Long-term cholecalciferol supplementation in chronically obese and overweight hypertensives induced changes in the blood serum metabolome, which reflected systemic metabolism and may have fostered a new microenvironment for cell proliferation and biology. Of note, the increased availability of glutamine may be relevant for the proliferation of different T-cell subsets.

Ionizable Lipid Nanoparticle-Mediated TRAIL mRNA Delivery in the Tumor Microenvironment to Inhibit Colon Cancer Progression.

Introduction: Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system to enhance antitumor responses while minimizing off-target effects. Among the promising cancer-specific therapies, tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has attracted significant attention. Methods: Here, we developed an ionizable lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platform to deliver TRAIL mRNA (LNP-TRAIL) directly to the tumor microenvironment (TME) to induce tumor cell death. Our LNP-TRAIL was formulated via microfluidic mixing and the induction of tumor cell death was assessed in vitro. Next, we investigated the ability of LNP-TRAIL to inhibit colon cancer progression in vivo in combination with a TME normalization approach using Losartan (Los) or angiotensin 1-7 (Ang(1-7)) to reduce vascular compression and deposition of extracellular matrix in mice. Results: Our results demonstrated that LNP-TRAIL induced tumor cell death in vitro and effectively inhibited colon cancer progression in vivo, particularly when combined with TME normalization induced by treatment Los or Ang(1-7). In addition, potent tumor cell death as well as enhanced apoptosis and necrosis was found in the tumor tissue of a group treated with LNP-TRAIL combined with TME normalization. Discussion: Together, our data demonstrate the potential of the LNP to deliver TRAIL mRNA to the TME and to induce tumor cell death, especially when combined with TME normalization. Therefore, these findings provide important insights for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the immunotherapy of solid tumors.

Nanoparticle-based DNA vaccine protects against SARS-CoV-2 variants in female preclinical models.

A safe and effective vaccine with long-term protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) is a global health priority. Here, we develop lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) to provide safe and effective delivery of plasmid DNA (pDNA) and show protection against VOCs in female small animal models. Using a library of LNPs encapsulating unique barcoded DNA (b-DNA), we screen for b-DNA delivery after intramuscular administration. The top-performing LNPs are further tested for their capacity of pDNA uptake in antigen-presenting cells in vitro. The lead LNP is used to encapsulate pDNA encoding the HexaPro version of SARS-CoV-2 spike (LNP-HPS) and immunogenicity and protection is tested in vivo. LNP-HPS elicit a robust protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 Gamma (P.1), correlating with reduced lethality, decreased viral load in the lungs and reduced lung damage. LNP-HPS induce potent humoral and T cell responses against P.1, and generate high levels of neutralizing antibodies against P.1 and Omicron (B.1.1.529). Our findings indicate that the protective efficacy and immunogenicity elicited by LNP-HPS are comparable to those achieved by the approved COVID-19 vaccine from Biontech/Pfizer in animal models. Together, these findings suggest that LNP-HPS hold great promise as a vaccine candidate against VOCs.

Effects of diabetes-induced hyperglycemia on epigenetic modifications and DNA packaging and methylation during spermatogenesis; A narrative review.

The impact of diabetes on various organs failure including testis has been highlighted during the last decades. If on one hand diabetes-induced hyperglycemia has a key role in induced damages; on the other hand, glucose deprivation plays a key role in inducing male infertility. Indeed, glucose metabolism during spermatogenesis has been highlighted due to post-meiotic germ cells drastic dependence on glucose-derived metabolites, especially lactate. In fact, hyperglycemia-induced spermatogenesis arrest has been demonstrated in various studies. Moreover, various sperm maturation processes related to sperm function such as motility are directly depending on glucose metabolism in Sertoli cells. It has been demonstrated that diabetes-induced hyperglycemia adversely impacts sperm morphology, motility and DNA integrity, leading to infertility. However, fertility quality is another important factor to be considered. Diabetes-induced hyperglycemia is not only impacting sperm functions, but also affecting sperm epigenome. DNA packing process and epigenetics modifications occur during spermatogenesis process, determining next generation genetic quality transmitted through sperm. Critical damages may occur due to under- or downregulation of key proteins during spermatogenesis. Consequently, unpacked DNA is more exposed to oxidative stress, leading to intensive DNA damages. Moreover, epigenetic dysregulation occurred during spermatogenesis may impact embryo quality and be transmitted to next generations, increasing offspring genetic issues. Herein we discuss the mechanisms by which diabetes-induced hyperglycemia can affect epigenetic modifications and DNA packaging and methylation during spermatogenesis thus promoting long-lasting effects to the next generation.

Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins regulate the metabolic function of human Sertoli cells.

In brief: Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) regulate mitochondrial activity and reactive oxygen species production through the transport of protons and metabolites. This study identified the expression of UCPs in human Sertoli cells, which proved to be modulators of their mitochondrial activity. Abstract: Mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) are mitochondrial channels responsible for the transport of protons and small molecular substrates across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Altered UCP expression or function is commonly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress, which are both known causes of male infertility. However, UCP expression and function in the human testis remain to be characterized. This study aimed to assess the UCP homologs (UCP1-6) expression and function in primary cultures of human Sertoli cells (hSCs). We identified the mRNA expression of all UCP homologs (UCP1-6) and protein expression of UCP1, UCP2, and UCP3 in hSCs. UCP inhibition by genipin for 24 h decreased hSCs proliferation without causing cytotoxicity (n = 6). Surprisingly, the prolonged UCP inhibition for 24 h decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, oxygen consumption rate (OCR), and endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The metabolism of hSCs was also affected as UCP inhibition shifted their metabolism toward an increased pyruvate consumption. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that UCPs play a role as regulators of the mitochondrial function in hSCs, emphasizing their potential as targets in the study of male (in)fertility.

Decoding the Influence of Obesity on Prostate Cancer and Its Transgenerational Impact.

In recent decades, the escalating prevalence of metabolic disorders, notably obesity and being overweight, has emerged as a pressing concern in public health. Projections for the future indicate a continual upward trajectory in obesity rates, primarily attributable to unhealthy dietary patterns and sedentary lifestyles. The ramifications of obesity extend beyond its visible manifestations, intricately weaving a web of hormonal dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. This nexus of factors holds particular significance in the context of carcinogenesis, notably in the case of prostate cancer (PCa), which is a pervasive malignancy and a leading cause of mortality among men. A compelling hypothesis arises from the perspective of transgenerational inheritance, wherein genetic and epigenetic imprints associated with obesity may wield influence over the development of PCa. This review proposes a comprehensive exploration of the nuanced mechanisms through which obesity disrupts prostate homeostasis and serves as a catalyst for PCa initiation. Additionally, it delves into the intriguing interplay between the transgenerational transmission of both obesity-related traits and the predisposition to PCa. Drawing insights from a spectrum of sources, ranging from in vitro and animal model research to human studies, this review endeavors to discuss the intricate connections between obesity and PCa. However, the landscape remains partially obscured as the current state of knowledge unveils only fragments of the complex mechanisms linking these phenomena. As research advances, unraveling the associated factors and underlying mechanisms promises to unveil novel avenues for understanding and potentially mitigating the nexus between obesity and the development of PCa.

Impact of Different Treatment Regimens and Timeframes in the Plasmatic Metabolic Profiling of Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma.

In recent years, the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has suffered a variety of alterations. Chemotherapy (CTX), immunotherapy (IT) and tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) have shown remarkable results. However, not all patients with NSCLC respond to these drug treatments or receive durable benefits. In this framework, metabolomics has been applied to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of lung cancer and particularly lung adenocarcinoma (AdC). In our study, metabolomics was used to analyze plasma samples from 18 patients with AdC treated with CTX or IT via 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Relevant clinical information was gathered, and several biochemical parameters were also evaluated throughout the treatments. During the follow-up of patients undergoing CTX or IT, imaging control is recommended in order to assess the effectiveness of the therapy. This evaluation is usually performed every three treatments. Based on this procedure, all the samples were collected before the beginning of the treatment and after three and six treatments. The identified and quantified metabolites in the analyzed plasma samples were the following: isoleucine, valine, alanine, acetate, lactate, glucose, tyrosine, and formate. Multivariate/univariate statistical analyses were performed. Our data are in accordance with previous published results, suggesting that the plasma glucose levels of patients under CTX become higher throughout the course of treatment, which we hypothesize could be related to the tumor response to the therapy. It was also found that alanine levels become lower during treatment with CTX regimens, a fact that could be associated with frailty. NMR spectra of long responders' profiles also showed similar results. Based on the results of the study, metabolomics can represent a potential option for future studies, in order to facilitate patient selection and the monitoring of therapy efficacy in treated patients with AdC. Further studies are needed to improve the prospective identification of predictive markers, particularly glucose and alanine levels, as well as confer guidance to NSCLC treatment and patient stratification, thus avoiding ineffective therapeutic strategies.

A systematic scientometric review of paternal inheritance of acquired metabolic traits.

BACKGROUND: The concept of the inheritance of acquired traits, a foundational principle of Lamarck's evolutionary theory, has garnered renewed attention in recent years. Evidence for this phenomenon remained limited for decades but gained prominence with the Överkalix cohort study in 2002. This study revealed a link between cardiovascular disease incidence and the food availability experienced by individuals' grandparents during their slow growth periods, reigniting interest in the inheritance of acquired traits, particularly in the context of non-communicable diseases. This scientometric analysis and systematic review comprehensively explores the current landscape of paternally transmitted acquired metabolic traits. RESULTS: Utilizing Scopus Advanced search and meticulous screening, we included mammalian studies that document the inheritance or modification of metabolic traits in subsequent generations of unexposed descendants. Our inclusive criteria encompass intergenerational and transgenerational studies, as well as multigenerational exposures. Predominantly, this field has been driven by a select group of researchers, potentially shaping the design and focus of existing studies. Consequently, the literature primarily comprises transgenerational rodent investigations into the effects of ancestral exposure to environmental pollutants on sperm DNA methylation. The complexity and volume of data often lead to multiple or redundant publications. This practice, while understandable, may obscure the true extent of the impact of ancestral exposures on the health of non-exposed descendants. In addition to DNA methylation, studies have illuminated the role of sperm RNAs and histone marks in paternally acquired metabolic disorders, expanding our understanding of the mechanisms underlying epigenetic inheritance. CONCLUSIONS: This review serves as a comprehensive resource, shedding light on the current state of research in this critical area of science, and underscores the need for continued exploration to uncover the full spectrum of paternally mediated metabolic inheritance.