Bioinformatic prediction of the structure and characteristics of human sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 1 (hSAMP32) and evaluation of its antifertility function in vivo

2020 ◽  
Vol 32 (16) ◽  
pp. 1282
Author(s):  
Tianwu Zhang ◽  
Junmin Wang ◽  
Wenbin Niu ◽  
Fang Wang ◽  
Jin Liu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Litter Size ◽  
Human Sperm ◽  
Amino Acid Position ◽  
Random Coil ◽  
Prokaryotic Expression Vector ◽  
Depth Study ◽  
Physical And Chemical ◽  
Antigenic Epitopes ◽  
Sperm Acrosome

Human sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 1 (hSAMP32) plays an important role in the acrosome reaction, sperm–egg primary binding, secondary binding and fusion processes. However, its spatial structural and invivo antifertility function remain unknown. In this study, we first analysed the physical and chemical characteristics and antigenic epitopes of immunised mice using bioinformatics. Then, we constructed the prokaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1-hSAMP32 to immunise BALB/c mice invivo. IgG antibodies in the serum were detected, and the litter size of female mice and the number of the hamster eggs penetrated were counted. hSAMP32 was found to contain six hydrophilic regions and a signal peptide beginning at amino acid position 29. The transmembrane region of hSAMP32 was located within amino acids 217–239 with α-helices and random coil structures. We predicted five antigenic epitopes. The molecular weight of hSAMP32 was 59 kDa. Moreover, the results of invivo studies revealed that 56 days after the first immunisation, the litter size was significantly smaller for female pcDNA-3.1(+)-hSAMP32-immunised (mean±s.d. 4.33±1.21) than control mice (9.50±0.55), indicating that the immunocontraception vaccine had an antifertility effect. This experiment presents a theoretical and experimental basis for in-depth study of the hSAMP32 mechanism within the sperm-egg fusing process and for the screening of antigenic epitopes with immunocontraceptive properties.

Enhanced Stability and Controlled Delivery of MOF Encapsulated Vaccines and Their Immunogenic Response In Vivo

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Luzuriaga ◽  
Raymond P. Welch ◽  
Madushani Dharmawardana ◽  
Candace Benjamin ◽  
Shaobo Li ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Viral Vector ◽  
Controlled Delivery ◽  
Conformational Structure ◽  
Spectroscopy Analysis ◽  
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework ◽  
Structural Conformation ◽  
Depth Study ◽  
Viral Nanoparticle

<div><div><div><p>Vaccines have an innate tendency to lose their structural conformation upon environmental and chemical stressors. A loss in conformation reduces the therapeutic ability to prevent the spread of a pathogen. Herein, we report an in-depth study of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) and its ability to provide protection for a model viral vector against dena- turing conditions. The immunoassay and spectroscopy analysis together demonstrate enhanced thermal and chemical stability to the conformational structure of the encapsulated viral nanoparticle. The long-term biological activity of this virus-ZIF composite was investigated in animal models to further elucidate the integrity of the encapsulated virus, the bio-safety, and immunogenicity of the overall composite. Additionally, histological analysis found no observable tissue damage in the skin or vital organs in mice, following multiple subcutaneous administrations. This study shows that ZIF-based protein composites are strong candidates for improved preservation of proteinaceous drugs, are biocompatible, and capable of controlling the release and adsorption of drugs in vivo.</p></div></div></div>

scholarly journals Surrogate post-coital testing for contraceptive efficacy against human sperm activity in the ovine vaginal model†

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yong Zhu ◽  
Jamal Saada ◽  
Shrestha Bhawana ◽  
Sam Lai ◽  
Paula Villarreal ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Human Sperm ◽  
Vaginal Fluid ◽  
Human Semen ◽  
Ovine Model ◽  
Igg Antibody ◽  
Study Objective ◽  
In Vivo Testing ◽  
Efficacy Assessment ◽  
Sperm Immobilization

Abstract High unintended pregnancy rates are partially due to lack of effective nonhormonal contraceptives; development of safe, effective topical vaginal methods will address this need. Preclinical product safety and efficacy assessment requires in vivo testing in appropriate models. The sheep is a good model for the evaluation of vaginally delivered products due to its close similarities to humans. The study objective was to develop an ovine model for efficacy testing of female nonhormonal contraceptives that target human sperm. Fresh human semen was pooled from male volunteers. Nonpregnant female Merino sheep were treated with control or vaginal contraceptive product (IgG antibody with action against sperm or nonoxynol-9 [N9]). Pooled semen was added to the sheep vagina and mixed with product and vaginal secretions. Microscopic assessment of samples was performed immediately and progressive motility (PM) of sperm was compared between treatments. Cytokines CXCL8 and IL1B were assessed in vaginal fluid after instillation of human semen. No adverse reactions or elevations in proinflammatory cytokines occurred in response to human semen. N9 produced signs of acute cellular toxicity while there were no cellular changes after IgG treatment. N9 and IgG had dose-related effects with the highest dose achieving complete sperm immobilization (no sperm with PM). Surrogate post-coital testing of vaginally administered contraceptives that target human semen was developed in an ovine model established for vaginal product preclinical testing. This expanded model can aid the development of much needed nonhormonal topical vaginal contraceptives, providing opportunities for rapid iterative drug development prior to costly, time-intensive human testing.

Physical and chemical decay of prosthetic ACL after in vivo implantation

1994 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-36 ◽  
Author(s):  
L. Ambrosio ◽  
A. Apicella ◽  
M. Mensitieri ◽  
L. Nicolais ◽  
S.J. Huang ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical And Chemical

Using inverse Laplace transform in positronium lifetime imaging

2022 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kengo Shibuya ◽  
Haruo Saito ◽  
Hideaki Tashima ◽  
Taiga Yamaya
Keyword(s):  
Laplace Transform ◽  
Inverse Laplace Transform ◽  
Emission Tomography ◽  
Statistical Accuracy ◽  
Lifetime Imaging ◽  
Positron Emission ◽  
Positronium Lifetime ◽  
Physical And Chemical ◽  
Limited Sensitivity

Abstract Positronium (Ps) lifetime imaging is gaining attention to bring out additional biomedical information from positron emission tomography (PET). The lifetime of Ps in vivo can change depending on the physical and chemical environments related to some diseases. Due to the limited sensitivity, Ps lifetime imaging may require merging some voxels for statistical accuracy. This paper presents a method for separating the lifetime components in the voxel to avoid information loss due to averaging. The mathematics for this separation is the inverse Laplace transform (ILT), and the authors examined an iterative numerical ILT algorithm using Tikhonov regularization, namely CONTIN, to discriminate a small lifetime difference due to oxygen saturation. The separability makes it possible to merge voxels without missing critical information on whether they contain abnormally long or short lifetime components. The authors conclude that ILT can compensate for the weaknesses of Ps lifetime imaging and extract the maximum amount of information.

O-228 The SSRI antidepressant Sertraline inhibits CatSper calcium channels in human sperm

2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
R Rahban ◽  
A Rehfeld ◽  
C Schiffer ◽  
C Brenker ◽  
D. Louise Egeberg Palme ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
In Vitro Study ◽  
Human Sperm ◽  
Fertilization Process ◽  
Acrosomal Exocytosis ◽  
Depth Analysis ◽  
Sperm Penetration ◽  
Viscous Media ◽  
Voltage Activation

Abstract Study question Do Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants affect the function of human sperm? Summary answer The SSRI-antidepressant Sertraline (e.g. Zoloft) inhibits the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper and affects human sperm function in vitro. What is known already In human sperm, CatSper translates changes of the chemical microenvironment into changes of the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and swimming behavior. CatSper is promiscuously activated by oviductal ligands, but also by synthetic chemicals that might disturb the fertilization process. It is well known that SSRIs have off-target actions on Ca2+, Na+, and K+ channels in somatic cells. Whether SSRIs affect the activity of CatSper is, however, unknown. Study design, size, duration We studied the action of the seven drugs belonging to the most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants, SSRIs, on resting [Ca2+]i and Ca2+ influx via CatSper in human sperm. The SSRI Sertraline was selected for in-depth analysis of its action on steroid-, prostaglandin-, pH-, and voltage-activation of human CatSper. Moreover, the action of Sertraline on sperm acrosomal exocytosis and penetration into viscous media was evaluated. Participants/materials, setting, methods The activity of CatSper was investigated in sperm of healthy volunteers, using kinetic Ca2+ fluorimetry and patch-clamp recordings. Acrosomal exocytosis was investigated using Pisum sativum agglutinin (PSA) and image cytometry. Sperm penetration in viscous media was evaluated using the Kremer test. Main results and the role of chance Four SSRIs increased [Ca2+]i, two out of which also attenuated ligand-induced Ca2+ influx via CatSper. In contrast, Sertraline decreased [Ca2+]i and almost completely suppressed ligand-induced Ca2+ influx via CatSper. Remarkably, the drug was about four-fold more potent to suppress prostaglandin- versus steroid-induced Ca2+ influx. Sertraline also suppressed alkaline- and voltage-activation of CatSper, indicating that the drug directly inhibits human CatSper. Finally, Sertraline suppressed ligand-induced acrosome reaction and sperm penetration into viscous media. Limitations, reasons for caution This is an in vitro study. Future studies have to assess the physiological relevance in vivo. Wider implications of the findings The off-target action of Sertraline on CatSper in human sperm might impair the fertilization process. In a research setting, Sertraline may be used to selectively inhibit prostaglandin-induced Ca2+ influx. Trial registration number CRU326

scholarly journals Synthesis and Two-Dimensional 1Η and 13C NMR Investigations of an Inhibitor of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Proliferation Ac–Ser–Asp–Lys–Pro–OH

1992 ◽  
Vol 47 (9) ◽  
pp. 1324-1332 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jens Freund ◽  
Afroditi Kapurniotu ◽  
Tadeusz A. Holak ◽  
Maryse Lenfant ◽  
Wolfgang Voelter
Keyword(s):  
Cell Proliferation ◽  
Stem Cell ◽  
Hematopoietic Stem Cell ◽  
Solid Phase ◽  
Water Solution ◽  
Random Coil ◽  
Hematopoietic Stem ◽  
Stem Cell Proliferation ◽  
Equilibrium Ratio

The solid phase synthesis of the inhibitor of hematopoietic stem cell proliferation, Ac–Ser–Asp–Lys–Pro–OH, and its derivative Ac–Ala–Asp–Lys–Pro–OH is described. 1H and 13C NMR investigations demonstrate that both peptides show no prefered conformation in water solution. Both peptides exist in a Pro-cis-trans equilibrium ratio of 9 (trans) : 1 (cis). Thymosin β4 is believed to be the precursor molecule of the tetrapeptide Ac–SDKP. The attachement of the random coil tetrapeptide to a rigid helical fragment could facilitate its in vivo enzymatic cleavage.

The 536C→T Transition in the Human Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor (TFPI) Gene Is Statistically Associated with a Higher Risk for Venous Thrombosis

1999 ◽  
Vol 82 (07) ◽  
pp. 1-5 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Schmidt ◽  
Christian Götting ◽  
Britt Schwenz ◽  
Stefan Lange ◽  
Gert Müller-Berghaus ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Venous Thrombosis ◽  
Tissue Factor ◽  
Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor ◽  
Blood Donors ◽  
Amino Acid Position ◽  
Immunological Methods ◽  
Venous Thromboembolic ◽  
Coagulation Inhibitors ◽  
Tissue Factor Pathway

SummaryTissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) is an important regulator in the extrinsic blood coagulation pathway. Although the regulatory biochemical role of TFPI is evident, the clinical significance of this proteinase inhibitor remains to be elucidated. The definition of a clinical TFPI deficiency seems to be more complex than that of other coagulation inhibitors because the activity and concentration of circulating TFPI can not be considered a true measure of in vivo levels. Its determination in plasma samples by immunological methods or functional assays has been shown to be inadequate in the detection of a clinical deficiency.Therefore, we screened genomic DNA samples of blood donors and thrombotic patients for alterations in the TFPI gene to assess the influence of a modified TFPI in venous thromboembolic diseases. We detected a single nucleotide substitution in exon 7 (536C→T) leading to a proline to leucine exchange at amino acid position 151 of the protein ([P151L]TFPI) and found the prevalence of heterozygous carriers in German unrelated blood donors to be 0.2% (n = 5120).Four unrelated persons out of 14 probands carrying the genetic variation could be linked to venous thrombosis. For calculation of a potential risk for venous thrombosis for carriers of the mutation we investigated healthy blood donors about thrombotic events. 7 out of 308 blood donors were found to have a history of venous thrombosis, one of them carried the TFPI mutation. Statistical calculation showed a significant relative risk for venous thrombosis for individuals with the trait (odds ratio, 9.3; confidence interval, 1.8-48.6; p <0.01).

scholarly journals Active immunization against the proregions of GDF9 or BMP15 alters ovulation rate and litter size in mice

Reproduction ◽  
2012 ◽  
Vol 143 (2) ◽  
pp. 195-201 ◽  
Author(s):  
C Joy McIntosh ◽  
Steve Lawrence ◽  
Peter Smith ◽  
Jennifer L Juengel ◽  
Kenneth P McNatty
Keyword(s):  
Litter Size ◽  
Transforming Growth Factor ◽  
Transforming Growth Factor Β ◽  
Cross Reactivity ◽  
Full Length ◽  
Ovulation Rate ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Immunization Group

The transforming growth factor β (TGFB) superfamily proteins bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), are essential for mammalian fertility. Recent in vitro evidence suggests that the proregions of mouse BMP15 and GDF9 interact with their mature proteins after secretion. In this study, we have actively immunized mice against these proregions to test the potential in vivo roles on fertility. Mice were immunized with either N- or C-terminus proregion peptides of BMP15 or GDF9, or a full-length GDF9 proregion protein, each conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). For each immunization group, ovaries were collected from ten mice for histology after immunization, while a further 20 mice were allowed to breed and litter sizes were counted. To link the ovulation and fertility data of these two experimental end points, mice were joined during the time period identified by histology as being the ovulatory period resulting in to the corpora lutea (CL) counted. Antibody titers in sera increased throughout the study period, with no cross-reactivity observed between BMP15 and GDF9 sera and antigens. Compared with KLH controls, mice immunized with the N-terminus BMP15 proregion peptide had ovaries with fewer CL (P<0.05) and produced smaller litters (P<0.05). In contrast, mice immunized with the full-length GDF9 proregion not only had more CL (P<0.01) but also had significantly smaller litter sizes (P<0.01). None of the treatments affected the number of antral follicles per ovary. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the proregions of BMP15 and GDF9, after secretion by the oocyte, have physiologically important roles in regulating ovulation rate and litter size in mice.

scholarly journals Attenuation of Carcinogenesis and the Mechanism Underlying by the Influence of Indole-3-carbinol and Its Metabolite 3,3′-Diindolylmethane: A Therapeutic Marvel

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
V. L. Maruthanila ◽  
J. Poornima ◽  
S. Mirunalini
Keyword(s):  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Cruciferous Vegetables ◽  
Brussels Sprouts ◽  
Anticancer Properties ◽  
Depth Study ◽  
Dimeric Product ◽  
Indole Glucosinolate

Rising evidence provides credible support towards the potential role of bioactive products derived from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, brussels sprouts, turnips, kohlrabi, bok choy, and radishes. Many epidemiological studies point out thatBrassicavegetable protects humans against cancer since they are rich sources of glucosinolates in addition to possessing a high content of flavonoids, vitamins, and mineral nutrients. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) belongs to the class of compounds called indole glucosinolate, obtained from cruciferous vegetables, and is well-known for tits anticancer properties. In particular, I3C and its dimeric product, 3,3′-diindolylmethane (DIM), have been generally investigated for their value against a number of human cancersin vitroas well asin vivo. This paper reviews an in-depth study of the anticancer activity and the miscellaneous mechanisms underlying the anticarcinogenicity thereby broadening its therapeutic marvel.

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