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Altered sperm chromatin structure in mice exposed to sodium fluoride through drinking water
Zilong Sun1, Ruiyan Niu, Bin Wang
1Shanxi Key Laboratory of Ecological Animal Science and Environmental Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, 030801, Shanxi, China.
Abstract:
This study investigated the effects of sodium fluoride (NaF) on sperm abnormality, sperm chromatin structure, protamine 1 and protamine 2 (P1 and P2) mRNA expression, and histones expression in sperm in male mice. NaF was orally administrated to male mice at 30, 70, and 150 mg/l for 49 days (more than one spermatogenic cycle). Sperm head and tail abnormalities were significantly enhanced at middle and high doses. Similarly, sperm chromatin structure was also adversely affected by NaF exposure, indicating DNA integrity damage. Furthermore, middle and high NaF significantly reduced the mRNA expressions of P1 and P2, and P1/P2 ratio, whereas the sperm histones level was increased, suggesting the abnormal histone-protamine replacement. Therefore, we concluded that the mechanism by which F induced mice sperm abnormality and DNA integrity damage may involved in the alterations in P1, P2, and histones expression in sperm of mice.
Insights
Sodium fluoride (NaF) exposure in male mice significantly increased sperm abnormalities and DNA damage. It also altered protamine and histone expression, suggesting a mechanism for fluoride-induced reproductive toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Environmental Health
- Sperm Biology
Background:
- Fluoride exposure is a global concern.
- Sperm quality is crucial for male fertility.
- Protamine and histone expression are vital for sperm DNA packaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of sodium fluoride (NaF) on male mouse reproductive parameters.
- To examine NaF's effects on sperm abnormality, chromatin structure, and protamine/histone expression.
Main Methods:
- Male mice were orally administered NaF (30, 70, 150 mg/l) for 49 days.
- Sperm abnormality, chromatin structure, protamine 1 and 2 (P1/P2) mRNA, and histone expression were analyzed.
Main Results:
- NaF significantly increased sperm head and tail abnormalities at middle and high doses.
- Sperm chromatin structure and DNA integrity were adversely affected by NaF.
- NaF reduced P1 and P2 mRNA expression and P1/P2 ratio, while increasing histone levels.
Conclusions:
- NaF induces sperm abnormality and DNA damage in male mice.
- Alterations in protamine and histone expression are implicated in NaF-induced reproductive toxicity.
