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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics

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01-02-2019 | Gamete Biology

Histone modification signatures in human sperm distinguish clinical abnormalities

Authors: Samantha B. Schon, Lacey J. Luense, Xiaoshi Wang, Marisa S. Bartolomei, Christos Coutifaris, Benjamin A. Garcia, Shelley L. Berger

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 2/2019

Abstract

Purpose

Alternations to the paternal epigenome, specifically the components of sperm chromatin, can lead to infertility in humans and potentially transmit aberrant information to the embryo. One key component of sperm chromatin is the post-translational modification of histones (PTMs). We previously identified a comprehensive profile of histone PTMs in normozoospermic sperm; however, only specific histone PTMs have been identified in abnormal sperm by antibody-based approaches and comprehensive changes to histone PTM profiles remain unknown. Here, we investigate if sperm with abnormalities of total motility, progressive motility, and morphology have altered histone PTM profiles compared to normozoospermic sperm samples.

Methods

Discarded semen samples from 31 men with normal or abnormal semen parameters were analyzed for relative abundance of PTMs on histone H3 and H4 by “bottom-up” nano-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Asthenoteratozoospermic samples (abnormal motility, forward progression, and morphology, n = 6) displayed overall decreased H4 acetylation (p = 0.001) as well as alterations in H4K20 (p = 0.003) and H3K9 methylation (p < 0.04) when compared to normozoospermic samples (n = 8). Asthenozoospermic samples (abnormal motility and progression, n = 5) also demonstrated decreased H4 acetylation (p = 0.04) and altered H4K20 (p = 0.005) and H3K9 methylation (p < 0.04). Samples with isolated abnormal progression (n = 6) primarily demonstrated decreased acetylation on H4 (p < 0.02), and teratozoospermic samples (n = 6) appeared similar to normozoospermic samples (n = 8).

Conclusion

Sperm samples with combined and isolated abnormalities of total motility, progressive motility, and morphology display distinct and altered histone PTM signatures compared to normozoospermic sperm. This provides evidence that alterations in histone PTMs may be important for normal sperm function and fertility.

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Title: Histone modification signatures in human sperm distinguish clinical abnormalities
Authors: Samantha B. Schon
Lacey J. Luense
Xiaoshi Wang
Marisa S. Bartolomei
Christos Coutifaris
Benjamin A. Garcia
Shelley L. Berger
Publication date: 01-02-2019
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 2/2019
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-018-1354-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Histone modification signatures in human sperm distinguish clinical abnormalities

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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