1
|
Męczekalski B, Niwczyk O, Battipaglia C, Troia L, Kostrzak A, Bala G, Maciejewska-Jeske M, Genazzani AD, Luisi S. Neuroendocrine disturbances in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: an update and future directions. Endocrine 2023:10.1007/s12020-023-03619-w. [PMID: 38062345 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03619-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is one of the most common causes of both primary and secondary amenorrhea in women of reproductive age. It is characterized by chronic anovulation and the absence of menses that appear as a result of stressors such as eating disorders, excessive exercise, or psychological distress. FHA is presumed to be a functional disruption in the pulsatile secretion of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which in turn impairs the release of gonadotropin. Hypoestrogenism is observed due to the absence of ovarian follicle recruitment. Numerous neurotransmitters have been identified which play an important role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and of which the impairment would contribute to developing FHA. In this review we summarize the most recent advances in the identification of contributing neuroendocrine disturbances and relevant contributors to the development of FHA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Błażej Męczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Olga Niwczyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Christian Battipaglia
- Gynecological Endocrinology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Libera Troia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Maggiore della Carità Hospital, University of Eastern Piedmont, Novara, Italy
| | - Anna Kostrzak
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Gregory Bala
- UCD School of Medicine University College Dublin, D04 V1W8, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Alessandro D Genazzani
- Gynecological Endocrinology Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Grant AD, Kriegsfeld LJ. Neural substrates underlying rhythmic coupling of female reproductive and thermoregulatory circuits. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1254287. [PMID: 37753455 PMCID: PMC10518419 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1254287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Coordinated fluctuations in female reproductive physiology and thermoregulatory output have been reported for over a century. These changes occur rhythmically at the hourly (ultradian), daily (circadian), and multi-day (ovulatory) timescales, are critical for reproductive function, and have led to the use of temperature patterns as a proxy for female reproductive state. The mechanisms underlying coupling between reproductive and thermoregulatory systems are not fully established, hindering the expansion of inferences that body temperature can provide about female reproductive status. At present, numerous digital tools rely on temperature to infer the timing of ovulation and additional applications (e.g., monitoring ovulatory irregularities and progression of puberty, pregnancy, and menopause are developed based on the assumption that reproductive-thermoregulatory coupling occurs across timescales and life stages. However, without clear understanding of the mechanisms and degree of coupling among the neural substrates regulating temperature and the reproductive axis, whether such approaches will bear fruit in particular domains is uncertain. In this overview, we present evidence supporting broad coupling among the central circuits governing reproduction, thermoregulation, and broader systemic physiology, focusing on timing at ultradian frequencies. Future work characterizing the dynamics of reproductive-thermoregulatory coupling across the lifespan, and of conditions that may decouple these circuits (e.g., circadian disruption, metabolic disease) and compromise female reproductive health, will aid in the development of strategies for early detection of reproductive irregularities and monitoring the efficacy of fertility treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lance J. Kriegsfeld
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Graduate Group in Endocrinology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zheng P, Lu Y, Tang Y, Xu F, Wang L, Qian R, Hui C, Xu Q, He J, Deng D. Effect of Hypoglycemic Drugs on Kisspeptin Expression in the Hypothalamic Arcuate Nucleus of PCOS Rats. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2023; 16:2717-2732. [PMID: 37701721 PMCID: PMC10494929 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s421911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate the change in hypothalamic kisspeptin-1 (Kiss1) expression during the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypoglycemic drug intervention. Methods Letrozole lavage was used to construct a polycystic ovary rat model. After successful modeling, we treated PCOS rats with metformin, pioglitazone, and acarbose, and we then observed changes in weight, estrus, glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, sex hormones, and hypothalamic kiss1 expression. Results PCOS rats exhibited increased body weight, abnormal estrous cycle, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, increased testosterone level, increased luteinizing hormone level, and increased Kiss1 expression in the hypothalamus. However, intervention with metformin, pioglitazone, and acarbose improved the reproductive and metabolic disorders as well as reduced hypothalamic Kiss1 expression. Conclusion The expression of hypothalamic Kiss1 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Metformin, pioglitazone, and acarbose may reduce the expression of hypothalamic Kiss1 by improving insulin resistance, thereby improving reproductive and metabolic disorders in PCOS rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Zheng
- The General Practice Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yating Lu
- The Endocrinology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - You Tang
- The General Practice Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fudong Xu
- The Pathology Department, Beijing Chest Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Tuberculosis & Thoracic Tumor Research Institute, Shoudu Medical University, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lin Wang
- The Endocrinology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Qian
- The Neurology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cancan Hui
- The Geriatric endocrinology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qian Xu
- The Endocrinology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianle He
- The General Practice Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| | - Datong Deng
- The Endocrinology Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Uenoyama Y, Tsukamura H. KNDy neurones and GnRH/LH pulse generation: Current understanding and future aspects. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13285. [PMID: 37232103 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Uncovering the central mechanism underlying mammalian reproduction is warranted to develop new therapeutic approaches for reproductive disorders in humans and domestic animals. The present study focused on the role of arcuate kisspeptin neurones (also known as KNDy neurones) as an intrinsic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator, which plays a fundamental role in mammalian reproduction via the stimulation of pituitary gonadotropin synthesis and release and thereby in gametogenesis and steroidogenesis in the gonads of mammals. We also discuss the mechanism that inhibits pulsatile GnRH/gonadotropin release under a negative energy balance, considering that reproductive disorders often occur during malnutrition in humans and livestock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Iwasa T, Noguchi H, Aoki H, Tamura K, Maeda T, Takeda A, Uchishiba M, Arakaki R, Minato S, Kamada S, Yamamoto S, Imaizumi J, Kagawa T, Yoshida A, Fukui R, Daizumoto K, Kon M, Shinohara N, Yoshida K, Yamamoto Y. Effects of undernutrition and low energy availability on reproductive functions and their underlying neuroendocrine mechanisms. Endocr J 2022; 69:1363-1372. [PMID: 36372440 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej22-0426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been well established that undernutrition and low energy availability disturb female reproductive functions in humans and many animal species. These reproductive dysfunctions are mainly caused by alterations of some hypothalamic factors, and consequent reduction of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Evidence from literature suggests that increased activity of orexigenic factors and decreased activity of anorexigenic/satiety-related factors in undernourished conditions attenuate GnRH secretion in an integrated manner. Likewise, the activity of kisspeptin neurons, which is a potent stimulator of GnRH, is also reduced in undernourished conditions. In addition, it has been suggested that gonadotrophin-inhibitory hormone, which has anti-GnRH and gonadotrophic effects, may be involved in reproductive dysfunctions under several kinds of stress conditions. It should be remembered that these alterations, i.e., promotion of feeding behavior and temporary suppression of reproductive functions, are induced to prioritize the survival of individual over that of species, and that improvements in metabolic and nutritional conditions should be considered with the highest priority.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroki Noguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Hidenori Aoki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Kou Tamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Takaaki Maeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Asuka Takeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Maimi Uchishiba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Arakaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Saki Minato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Shota Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan
| | - Junki Imaizumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kagawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Atsuko Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Rijin Fukui
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Tokushima Municipal Hospital, Tokushima 770-0812, Japan
| | - Kei Daizumoto
- Department of Urology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Masafumi Kon
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan
| | - Kanako Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Yuri Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Park JS, Cheon YP, Choi D, Lee SH. Expression of Kisspeptin in the Adult Hamster Testis. Dev Reprod 2022; 26:107-115. [PMID: 36285151 PMCID: PMC9578319 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2022.26.3.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptins, products of KISS1 gene, are ligands of the G-protein coupled receptor (GPR54), and the kisspeptin-GPR54 signaling has an important role as an upstream regulator of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons. Interestingly, extrahypothalamic expressions of kisspeptin/GPR-54 in gonads have been found in primates and experimental rodents such as rats and mice. Hamsters, another potent experimental rodent, also have a kisspeptin-GPR54 system in their ovaries. The presence of testicular kisspeptin-GPR54 system, however, remains to be solved. The present study was undertaken to determine whether the kisspeptin is expressed in hamster testis. To do this, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reactions (RT-PCRs) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were employed. After the nest PCR, two cDNA products (320 and 280 bp, respectively) were detected by 3% agarose gel electrophoresis, and sequencing analysis revealed that the 320 bp product was correctly amplified from hamster kisspeptin cDNA. Modest immunoreactive (IR) kisspeptins were detected in Leydig-interstitial cells, and the weak signals were detected in germ cells, mostly in round spermatids and residual bodies of elongated spermatids. In the present study, we found the kisspeptin expression in the testis of Syrian hamster. Further studies on the local role(s) of testicular kisspeptin are expected for a better understanding the physiology of hamster testis, including photoperiodic gonadal regression specifically occurred in hamster gonads.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Soo Park
- Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung
University, Seoul 03016, Korea
| | - Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and
Physiology, School of Biological Sciences and Chemistry, Sungshin
University, Seoul 02844, Korea
| | - Donchan Choi
- Department of Life Science, College of
Environmental Sciences, Yong-In University, Yongin
17092, Korea
| | - Sung-Ho Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung
University, Seoul 03016, Korea,Corresponding author Sung-Ho
Lee, Department of Biotechnology, Sangmyung, University, Seoul 03016, Korea,
Tel: +82-2-2287-5139, Fax:
+82-2-2287-0070, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|