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Iwahashi N, Umakoshi H, Fujita M, Fukumoto T, Ogasawara T, Yokomoto-Umakoshi M, Kaneko H, Nakao H, Kawamura N, Uchida N, Matsuda Y, Sakamoto R, Seki M, Suzuki Y, Nakatani K, Izumi Y, Bamba T, Oda Y, Ogawa Y. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics analysis of human adrenal aging. Mol Metab 2024; 84:101954. [PMID: 38718896 PMCID: PMC11101872 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2024.101954] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The human adrenal cortex comprises three functionally and structurally distinct layers that produce layer-specific steroid hormones. With aging, the human adrenal cortex undergoes functional and structural alteration or "adrenal aging", leading to the unbalanced production of steroid hormones. Given the marked species differences in adrenal biology, the underlying mechanisms of human adrenal aging have not been sufficiently studied. This study was designed to elucidate the mechanisms linking the functional and structural alterations of the human adrenal cortex. METHODS We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics analysis of the aged human adrenal cortex. RESULTS The data of this study suggest that the layer-specific alterations of multiple signaling pathways underlie the abnormal layered structure and layer-specific changes in steroidogenic cells. We also highlighted that macrophages mediate age-related adrenocortical cell inflammation and senescence. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first detailed analysis of the aged human adrenal cortex at single-cell resolution and helps to elucidate the mechanism of human adrenal aging, thereby leading to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of age-related disorders associated with adrenal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norifusa Iwahashi
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hironobu Umakoshi
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
| | - Masamichi Fujita
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tazuru Fukumoto
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tatsuki Ogasawara
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Maki Yokomoto-Umakoshi
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kaneko
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nakao
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Namiko Kawamura
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Naohiro Uchida
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yayoi Matsuda
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Sakamoto
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Masahide Seki
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yutaka Suzuki
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kohta Nakatani
- Division of Metabolomics/Mass Spectrometry Center, Medical Research Center for High Depth Omics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Izumi
- Division of Metabolomics/Mass Spectrometry Center, Medical Research Center for High Depth Omics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Bamba
- Division of Metabolomics/Mass Spectrometry Center, Medical Research Center for High Depth Omics, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshinao Oda
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Ogawa
- Department of Medicine and Bioregulatory Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Bauer MB, Currie KPM. Serotonin and the serotonin transporter in the adrenal gland. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 124:39-78. [PMID: 38408804 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The adrenal glands are key components of the mammalian endocrine system, helping maintain physiological homeostasis and the coordinated response to stress. Each adrenal gland has two morphologically and functionally distinct regions, the outer cortex and inner medulla. The cortex is organized into three concentric zones which secrete steroid hormones, including aldosterone and cortisol. Neural crest-derived chromaffin cells in the medulla are innervated by preganglionic sympathetic neurons and secrete catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine) and neuropeptides into the bloodstream, thereby functioning as the neuroendocrine arm of the sympathetic nervous system. In this article we review serotonin (5-HT) and the serotonin transporter (SERT; SLC6A4) in the adrenal gland. In the adrenal cortex, 5-HT, primarily sourced from resident mast cells, acts as a paracrine signal to stimulate aldosterone and cortisol secretion through 5-HT4/5-HT7 receptors. Medullary chromaffin cells contain a small amount of 5-HT due to SERT-mediated uptake and express 5-HT1A receptors which inhibit secretion. The atypical mechanism of the 5-HT1A receptors and interaction with SERT fine tune this autocrine pathway to control stress-evoked catecholamine secretion. Receptor-independent signaling by SERT/intracellular 5-HT modulates the amount and kinetics of transmitter release from single vesicle fusion events. SERT might also influence stress-evoked upregulation of tyrosine hydroxylase transcription. Transient signaling via 5-HT3 receptors during embryonic development can limit the number of chromaffin cells found in the mature adrenal gland. Together, this emerging evidence suggests that the adrenal medulla is a peripheral hub for serotonergic control of the sympathoadrenal stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Beth Bauer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, South Broadway, Camden, NJ, United States
| | - Kevin P M Currie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, South Broadway, Camden, NJ, United States.
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Mateska I, Witt A, Hagag E, Sinha A, Yilmaz C, Thanou E, Sun N, Kolliniati O, Patschin M, Abdelmegeed H, Henneicke H, Kanczkowski W, Wielockx B, Tsatsanis C, Dahl A, Walch AK, Li KW, Peitzsch M, Chavakis T, Alexaki VI. Succinate mediates inflammation-induced adrenocortical dysfunction. eLife 2023; 12:e83064. [PMID: 37449973 PMCID: PMC10374281 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is activated in response to inflammation leading to increased production of anti-inflammatory glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex, thereby representing an endogenous feedback loop. However, severe inflammation reduces the responsiveness of the adrenal gland to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we show by transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses that LPS-induced systemic inflammation triggers profound metabolic changes in steroidogenic adrenocortical cells, including downregulation of the TCA cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, in mice. Inflammation disrupts the TCA cycle at the level of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH), leading to succinate accumulation and disturbed steroidogenesis. Mechanistically, IL-1β reduces SDHB expression through upregulation of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and methylation of the SDHB promoter. Consequently, increased succinate levels impair oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis and enhance ROS production, leading to reduced steroidogenesis. Together, we demonstrate that the IL-1β-DNMT1-SDHB-succinate axis disrupts steroidogenesis. Our findings not only provide a mechanistic explanation for adrenal dysfunction in severe inflammation, but also offer a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Mateska
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Anke Witt
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Eman Hagag
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Anupam Sinha
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Canelif Yilmaz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Evangelia Thanou
- Center of Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Department of Molecular and 10 Cellular Neurobiology, Vrije UniversiteitAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Na Sun
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Ourania Kolliniati
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Medical School, University of CreteHeraklionGreece
| | - Maria Patschin
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Heba Abdelmegeed
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Holger Henneicke
- Department of Medicine III & Center for Healthy Ageing, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- Center for Regenerative Therapies, TU Dresden, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Waldemar Kanczkowski
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Ben Wielockx
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Christos Tsatsanis
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Medical School, University of CreteHeraklionGreece
| | - Andreas Dahl
- DRESDEN-concept Genome Center, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Axel Karl Walch
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Ka Wan Li
- Center of Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Department of Molecular and 10 Cellular Neurobiology, Vrije UniversiteitAmsterdamNetherlands
| | - Mirko Peitzsch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital, Technische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
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Tyczewska M, Sujka-Kordowska P, Szyszka M, Jopek K, Blatkiewicz M, Malendowicz LK, Rucinski M. Transcriptome Profile of the Rat Adrenal Gland: Parenchymal and Interstitial Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119159. [PMID: 37298112 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The homeostasis of the adrenal gland plays a decisive role in its proper functioning, both in non-stressful conditions and under the influence of various types of stress. This consists of interactions between all types of cells that make up the organ, including parenchymal and interstitial cells. The amount of available information on this subject in the rat adrenal glands under non-stressful conditions is insufficient; the aim of the research was to determine the expression of marker genes for rat adrenal cells depending on their location. The material for the study consisted of adrenal glands taken from intact adult male rats that were separated into appropriate zones. Transcriptome analysis by means of Affymetrix® Rat Gene 2.1 ST Array was used in the study, followed by real-time PCR validation. Expression analysis of interstitial cell marker genes revealed both the amount of expression of these genes and the zone in which they were expressed. The expression of marker genes for fibroblasts was particularly high in the cells of the ZG zone, while the highest expression of specific macrophage genes was observed in the adrenal medulla. The results of this study, especially with regard to interstitial cells, provide a so far undescribed model of marker gene expression of various cells, both in the cortex and medulla of the sexually mature rat adrenal gland. The interdependence between parenchymal and interstitial cells creates a specific microenvironment that is highly heterogeneous within the gland with respect to some of the interstitial cells. This phenomenon most likely depends on the interaction with the differentiated parenchymal cells of the cortex, as well as the medulla of the gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Tyczewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Patrycja Sujka-Kordowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Szyszka
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Karol Jopek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Blatkiewicz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Ludwik K Malendowicz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Rucinski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Swiecickiego 6 Street, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
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5
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Zhang K, Hu Y, Li R, Li T. Single-cell atlas of murine adrenal glands reveals immune-adrenal crosstalk during systemic <i>Candida albicans</i> infection. Front Immunol 2022; 13:966814. [PMID: 36389688 PMCID: PMC9664004 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.966814] [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: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal sepsis remains a major health threat with high mortality, where the adrenal gland stress response has been rarely reported. <i>Candida albicans</i> (<i>C.albicans</i>) is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen of life-threatening disseminated candidiasis and fungal sepsis. In the present study, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) using the 10x Genomics platform to analyze the changes in murine adrenal transcriptome following systemic <i>C.albicans</i> infection. A total of 16 021 cells were categorized into 18 transcriptionally distinct clusters, representing adrenocortical cells, endothelial cells, various immune cells, mesenchymal cells, smooth muscle cells, adrenal capsule, chromaffin cells, neurons and glials. As the main cell component in the adrenal gland responsible for steroidogenesis, the adrenocortical cells dramatically diminished and were further grouped into 10 subclusters, which differently distributed in the infected and uninfected samples. Pseudo-time analysis revealed transitions of the adrenocortical cells from the initial normal states to active or dysfunctional states following systemic <i>C.albicans</i> infection <i>via</i> two trajectory paths. Endothelial cells in the highly vascularized organ of adrenal gland further proliferated following infection, with the upregulation of genes positively regulating angiogenesis and downregulation of protective genes of endothelial cells. Immune cells were also excessively infiltrated in adrenal glands of <i>C.albicans</i>-infected mice. Macrophages dominated the immune microenvironments in murine adrenal glands both before and after <i>C.albicans</i> infection, mediating the crosstalk among the steroid-producing cells, endothelial cells and immune cells within the adrenal gland. NLR family, pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3, encoded by <i>Nlrp3</i>) and complement receptor 3 (CR3, encoded by <i>Itgam</i>) were found to be significantly upregulated on the adrenal macrophages upon systemic <i>C.albicans</i> infection and might play critical roles in mediating the myeloid response. Meanwhile, the number and strength of the interactions between the infiltrating immune cells and adrenal resident cells were unveiled by cell-cell communication analysis to be dramatically increased after systemic <i>C.albicans</i> infection, indicating that the immune-adrenal crosstalk might contribute to the compromised functions of adrenal cells. Overall, our comprehensive picture of the murine adrenal gland microenvironment in systemic <i>C.albicans</i> infection provides deeper insights into the immune-adrenal cell communications during fungal sepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Zhang
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China,National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China,Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China,Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis on Dermatoses, Beijing, China
| | - Yuzhe Hu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Beijing, China,Peking University Center for Human Disease Genomics, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoyu Li
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China,National Clinical Research Center for Skin and Immune Diseases, Beijing, China,Research Center for Medical Mycology, Peking University, Beijing, China,Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnosis on Dermatoses, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Ting Li, ; Ruoyu Li,
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Beijing, China,Peking University Center for Human Disease Genomics, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Ting Li, ; Ruoyu Li,
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Lopez AG, Duparc C, Wils J, Naccache A, Castanet M, Lefebvre H, Louiset E. Steroidogenic cell microenvironment and adrenal function in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 535:111377. [PMID: 34216641 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The human adrenal cortex is a complex organ which is composed of various cell types including not only steroidogenic cells but also mesenchymal cells, immunocompetent cells and neurons. Intermingling of these diverse cell populations favors cell-to-cell communication processes involving local release of numerous bioactive signals such as biogenic amines, cytokines and neuropeptides. The resulting paracrine interactions play an important role in the regulation of adrenocortical cell functions both in physiological and pathophysiological conditions. Especially, recent evidence indicates that adrenocortical cell microenvironment is involved in the pathogenesis of adrenal disorders associated with corticosteroid excess. The paracrine factors involved in these intraadrenal regulatory mechanisms may thus represent valuable targets for future pharmacological treatments of adrenal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine-Guy Lopez
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France; Rouen University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Rouen, France
| | - Céline Duparc
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France
| | - Julien Wils
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France; Rouen University Hospital, Department of Pharmacology, Rouen, France
| | - Alexandre Naccache
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France; Rouen University Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Rouen, France
| | - Mireille Castanet
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France; Rouen University Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Rouen, France
| | - Hervé Lefebvre
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France; Rouen University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Rouen, France.
| | - Estelle Louiset
- Normandie Univ, UNIROUEN, INSERM, U1239, Laboratory of Neuronal and Neuroendocrine Differentiation and Communication, Rouen, France
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Rehman A, Pacher P, Haskó G. Role of Macrophages in the Endocrine System. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2021; 32:238-256. [PMID: 33455863 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are cells of the innate immune system that play myriad roles in the body. Macrophages are known to reside in endocrine glands, and a body of evidence now suggests that these cells interact closely with endocrine cells. Immune-endocrine interactions are important in the development of endocrine glands and their functioning during physiological states, and also become key players in pathophysiological states. Through gene expression profiling, diverse subpopulations of tissue macrophages have been discovered within endocrine organs; this has important implications for disease pathogenesis and potential pharmacotherapy. The molecular basis for the crosstalk between macrophages and endocrine cells is being unraveled, and allows the identification of multiple points for pharmacologic intervention. Macrophages in adipose tissue and pancreatic islets are key players in the process of metaflammation (metabolic inflammation) that underlies the development of insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In the ovary, they play important roles in ovarian folliculogenesis and ovulation, whereas in the male reproductive tract they regulate spermatogenesis through the regulation of steroidogenesis by Leydig cells. We summarize the diverse roles played by macrophages in the endocrine system and identify potential targets for pharmacotherapy in endocrine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Rehman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Pál Pacher
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology and Tissue Injury, National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - György Haskó
- Department of Anesthesiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
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Bijnen M, Bajénoff M. Gland Macrophages: Reciprocal Control and Function within Their Niche. Trends Immunol 2021; 42:120-136. [PMID: 33423933 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2020.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The human body contains dozens of endocrine and exocrine glands, which regulate physiological processes by secreting hormones and other factors. Glands can be subdivided into contiguous tissue modules, each consisting of an interdependent network of cells that together perform particular tissue functions. Among those cells are macrophages, a diverse type of immune cells endowed with trophic functions. In this review, we discuss recent findings on how resident macrophages support tissue modules within glands via the creation of mutually beneficial cell-cell circuits. A better comprehension of gland macrophage function and local control within their niche is essential to achieve a refined understanding of gland physiology in homeostasis and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Bijnen
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France.
| | - Marc Bajénoff
- Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie de Marseille-Luminy, Marseille, France
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Where Is Dopamine and how do Immune Cells See it?: Dopamine-Mediated Immune Cell Function in Health and Disease. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2019; 15:114-164. [PMID: 31077015 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-019-09851-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine is well recognized as a neurotransmitter in the brain, and regulates critical functions in a variety of peripheral systems. Growing research has also shown that dopamine acts as an important regulator of immune function. Many immune cells express dopamine receptors and other dopamine related proteins, enabling them to actively respond to dopamine and suggesting that dopaminergic immunoregulation is an important part of proper immune function. A detailed understanding of the physiological concentrations of dopamine in specific regions of the human body, particularly in peripheral systems, is critical to the development of hypotheses and experiments examining the effects of physiologically relevant dopamine concentrations on immune cells. Unfortunately, the dopamine concentrations to which these immune cells would be exposed in different anatomical regions are not clear. To address this issue, this comprehensive review details the current information regarding concentrations of dopamine found in both the central nervous system and in many regions of the periphery. In addition, we discuss the immune cells present in each region, and how these could interact with dopamine in each compartment described. Finally, the review briefly addresses how changes in these dopamine concentrations could influence immune cell dysfunction in several disease states including Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, as well as the collection of pathologies, cognitive and motor symptoms associated with HIV infection in the central nervous system, known as NeuroHIV. These data will improve our understanding of the interactions between the dopaminergic and immune systems during both homeostatic function and in disease, clarify the effects of existing dopaminergic drugs and promote the creation of new therapeutic strategies based on manipulating immune function through dopaminergic signaling. Graphical Abstract.
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Chen T, Mori Y, Inui-Yamamoto C, Komai Y, Tago Y, Yoshida S, Takabatake Y, Isaka Y, Ohno K, Yoshioka Y. Polymer-brush-afforded SPIO Nanoparticles Show a Unique Biodistribution and MR Imaging Contrast in Mouse Organs. Magn Reson Med Sci 2017; 16:275-283. [PMID: 28132997 PMCID: PMC5743518 DOI: 10.2463/mrms.mp.2016-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: To investigate the biodistribution and retention properties of the new super paramagnetic iron oxide (new SPIO: mean hydrodynamic diameter, 100 nm) nanoparticles, which have concentrated polymer brushes in the outer shell and are difficult for phagocytes to absorb, and to compare the new SPIO with clinically approved SPIO (Resovist: mean hydrodynamic diameter, 57 nm). Materials and Methods: 16 male C57BL/6N mice were divided in two groups according to the administered SPIO (n = 8 for each group; intravenous injection does, 0.1 ml). In vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before and one hour, one day, one week and four weeks after SPIO administration by two dimensional-the fast low angle shot (2D-FLASH) sequence at 11.7T. Ex vivo high-resolution images of fixed organs were also obtained by (2D-FLASH). After the ex vivo MRI, organs were sectioned and evaluated histologically to confirm the biodistribution of each particle precisely. Results: The new SPIO was taken up in small amounts by liver Kupffer cells and showed a unique in vivo MRI contrast pattern in the kidneys, where the signal intensity decreased substantially in the boundaries between cortex and outer medulla and between outer and inner medulla. We found many round dark spots in the cortex by ex vivo MRI in both groups. Resovist could be detected almost in the cortex. The shapes of the dark spots were similar to those observed in the new SPIO group. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that Resovist and the new SPIO accumulated in different cells of glomeruli, that is, endothelial and mesangial cells, respectively. Conclusion: The new SPIO was taken up in small amounts by liver tissue and showed a unique MRI contrast pattern in the kidney. The SPIO were found in the mesangial cells of renal corpuscles. Our results indicate that the new SPIO may be potentially be used as a new contrast agent for evaluation of kidney function as well as immunune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Chen
- Biofunctional Imaging Laboratory, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI IFReC), Osaka University.,Functional Imaging Technology, Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) and Osaka University
| | - Yuki Mori
- Biofunctional Imaging Laboratory, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI IFReC), Osaka University.,Functional Imaging Technology, Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) and Osaka University
| | - Chizuko Inui-Yamamoto
- Biofunctional Imaging Laboratory, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI IFReC), Osaka University.,Functional Imaging Technology, Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) and Osaka University
| | - Yutaka Komai
- Biofunctional Imaging Laboratory, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI IFReC), Osaka University
| | - Yoshiyuki Tago
- Biotechnology Development Laboratories, Kaneka Corporation
| | | | | | - Yoshitaka Isaka
- Department of Nephrology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kohji Ohno
- Institute for Chemical Research, Kyoto University
| | - Yoshichika Yoshioka
- Biofunctional Imaging Laboratory, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI IFReC), Osaka University.,Functional Imaging Technology, Center for Information and Neural Networks (CiNet), National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) and Osaka University
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12
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Kanczkowski W, Sue M, Bornstein SR. Adrenal Gland Microenvironment and Its Involvement in the Regulation of Stress-Induced Hormone Secretion during Sepsis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:156. [PMID: 28018291 PMCID: PMC5155014 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Survival of all living organisms depends on maintenance of a steady state of homeostasis, which process relies on its ability to react and adapt to various physical and emotional threats. The defense against stress is executed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic-adrenal medullary system. Adrenal gland is a major effector organ of stress system. During stress, adrenal gland rapidly responds with increased secretion of glucocorticoids (GCs) and catecholamines into circulation, which hormones, in turn, affect metabolism, to provide acutely energy, vasculature to increase blood pressure, and the immune system to prevent it from extensive activation. Sepsis resulting from microbial infections is a sustained and extreme example of stress situation. In many critical ill patients, levels of both corticotropin-releasing hormone and adrenocorticotropin, the two major regulators of adrenal hormone production, are suppressed. Levels of GCs, however, remain normal or are elevated in these patients, suggesting a shift from central to local intra-adrenal regulation of adrenal stress response. Among many mechanisms potentially involved in this process, reduced GC metabolism and activation of intra-adrenal cellular systems composed of adrenocortical and adrenomedullary cells, endothelial cells, and resident and recruited immune cells play a key role. Hence, dysregulated function of any of these cells and cellular compartments can ultimately affect adrenal stress response. The purpose of this mini review is to highlight recent insights into our understanding of the adrenal gland microenvironment and its role in coordination of stress-induced hormone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waldemar Kanczkowski
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- *Correspondence: Waldemar Kanczkowski,
| | - Mariko Sue
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Stefan R. Bornstein
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, King’s College London, London, UK
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13
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Kanczkowski W, Sue M, Zacharowski K, Reincke M, Bornstein SR. The role of adrenal gland microenvironment in the HPA axis function and dysfunction during sepsis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 408:241-8. [PMID: 25543020 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Revised: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Sepsis and septic shock in response to bacterial or viral infections remain the major health problem worldwide. Despite decades of intensive research and improvements in medical care, severe sepsis is associated with high mortality. Rapid activation of the adrenal gland glucocorticoid and catecholamine production is a fundamental component of the stress response and is essential for survival of the host. However, in many critically ill patients this homeostatic function of the adrenal gland is often impaired. In these patients, plasma levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol are often dissociated. This has been attributed to the stimulatory action of non-ACTH factors within the adrenal gland such as cytokines, and recently with decreased cortisol metabolism and suppressed ACTH synthesis. Regulation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function during sepsis is a complex process which involves various immune and neuroendocrine interactions occurring at the levels of the central nervous system (CNS) and the adrenal gland. A coordinated interaction of numerous cell types and systems within the adrenal gland is involved in the sustained adrenal glucocorticoid production. This review article describes and discusses recent experimental findings regarding the role of adrenal gland microenvironment including the adrenal vasculature and the immune-adrenal crosstalk in the disregulated HPA axis during sepsis conditions. In summary, in addition to the reduced cortisol breakdown and related ACTH suppression, sepsis-mediated chronic activation of the immune-adrenal crosstalk and vascular dysfunction may contribute to the HPA axis dysregulation found in septic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waldemar Kanczkowski
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Mariko Sue
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kai Zacharowski
- Clinic of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, 60595 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Stefan R Bornstein
- Department of Medicine III, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstrasse 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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14
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Lukewich MK, Rogers RC, Lomax AE. Divergent neuroendocrine responses to localized and systemic inflammation. Semin Immunol 2014; 26:402-8. [PMID: 24486057 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is part of an integrative network that functions to restore homeostasis following injury and infection. The SNS can provide negative feedback control over inflammation through the secretion of catecholamines from postganglionic sympathetic neurons and adrenal chromaffin cells (ACCs). Central autonomic structures receive information regarding the inflammatory status of the body and reflexively modulate SNS activity. However, inflammation and infection can also directly regulate SNS function by peripheral actions on postganglionic cells. The present review discusses how inflammation activates autonomic reflex pathways and compares the effect of localized and systemic inflammation on ACCs and postganglionic sympathetic neurons. Systemic inflammation significantly enhanced catecholamine secretion through an increase in Ca(2+) release from the endoplasmic reticulum. In contrast, acute and chronic GI inflammation reduced voltage-gated Ca(2+) current. Thus it appears that the mechanisms underlying the effects of peripheral and systemic inflammation neuroendocrine function converge on the modulation of intracellular Ca(2+) signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark K Lukewich
- Department of Biological Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard C Rogers
- Laboratory for Autonomic Neuroscience, Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Alan E Lomax
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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15
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Alabedalkarim NM, Bozhok GA, Legach EI, Ustichenko VD, Zubov PM, Bilyavskaya SB, Dudetskaya GV, Bondarenko TP, Hoffmann MW. Outcome of adrenal tissue fragments allotransplantation: the impact of cryopreservation. Cryobiology 2012; 65:188-95. [PMID: 22722062 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2012] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation is thought to have the potential to preserve tissue for transplantation. In addition, it can also be used for decreasing tissue immunogenicity, which might be important for prolonging allograft survival. In the present study we examined the impact of cryopreservation at various cooling rates on the outcome of allotransplantation of murine adrenal tissue fragments (ATFr). ATFr were cryopreserved with a cooling rate at 1; 10; 40 and more than 100 °C/min. After thawing it was found that the number of the cells expressing markers of dendritic cells (CD11c) and macrophages (CD11b) in the suspension obtained from ATFr decreased with increasing cooling rate. After allotransplantation the survival rates of adrenalectomized mice and the blood serum levels of corticosterone were higher in recipients of cryopreserved ATFr. By immunohistochemistry, cryopreserved allografts displayed a decreased infiltration by CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocytes as compared to fresh grafts. These findings suggest that cryopreserved allografts cause a less severe rejection by decreasing graft immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M Alabedalkarim
- Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkov, Ukraine
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Bellastella G, Rotondi M, Pane E, Costantini S, Colella C, Calemma R, Capone F, Falorni A, Castello G, Sinisi AA, Bizzarro A, Chiovato L, Bellastella A, De Bellis A. Simultaneous evaluation of the circulating levels of both Th1 and Th2 chemokines in patients with autoimmune Addison's disease. J Endocrinol Invest 2011; 34:831-4. [PMID: 21169727 DOI: 10.3275/7414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemokines play a key role in the recruitment of the immune cells into the autoimmune process. Thus, the simultaneous evaluation of circulating levels of Th1-related chemokines, such as CX chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) and macrophage inflammatory proteins 1α (CCL3/MIP-1α), and Th2-related chemokines, such as macrophage inflammatory proteins 1 β (CCL4/MIP-1β) could be useful in the approach to some autoimmune diseases, including autoimmune Addison's disease (AAD). AIM To evaluate plasmatic levels of MIP-1α, MIP-1β, CXCL10 and adrenocortical antibodies in patients with AAD under treatment with corticosteroids. PATIENTS AND METHODS Twelve women and 5 men (group 1) were divided in 2 subgroups: 9 subjects with isolated AAD (group 1a) and 8 with AAD associated with chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (group 1b). MIP-1α, MIP- 1β and CXCL10 were evaluated in the serum of all patients and in 20 healthy controls, using a system for microarray suspension. RESULTS The levels of MIP-1α, MIP-1β and CXCL10 resulted significantly increased vs controls (p<0.001). An inverse significant correlation between the serum levels of MIP- 1β and the duration of the disease was observed. CONCLUSION High levels of MIP-1α and MIP-1β associated with increased levels of CXCL10 in AAD seem to indicate a role of these chemokines in the autoimmune pathology of adrenal gland through the recruitment in loco of Th1 and Th2 cells. The simultaneous measurement of Th1-related chemokines (CXCL10 and MIP-1α) and of Th2-related chemokine MIP-1β in the serum of patients with AAD would sustain a novel preliminary hypothesis on the immune microenvironment of chronic autoimmune inflammation within adrenal glands.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Bellastella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine and Surgery, F Magrassi-A Lanzara, Second University of Naples, Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
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17
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Pérez-Alvarez A, Hernández-Vivanco A, Caba-González JC, Albillos A. Different roles attributed to Cav1 channel subtypes in spontaneous action potential firing and fine tuning of exocytosis in mouse chromaffin cells. J Neurochem 2010; 116:105-21. [PMID: 21054386 PMCID: PMC7197458 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.07089.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
J. Neurochem. (2011) 116, 105–121. Abstract This study examines the Cav1 isoforms expressed in mouse chromaffin cells and compares their biophysical properties and roles played in cell excitability and exocytosis. Using immunocytochemical and electrophysiological techniques in mice lacking the Cav1.3α1 subunit (Cav1.3−/−) or the high sensitivity of Cav1.2α1 subunits to dihydropyridines, Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 channels were identified as the only Cav1 channel subtypes expressed in mouse chromaffin cells. Cav1.3 channels were activated at more negative membrane potentials and inactivated more slowly than Cav1.2 channels. Cav1 channels, mainly Cav1.2, control cell excitability by functional coupling to BK channels, revealed by nifedipine blockade of BK channels in wild type (WT) and Cav1.3−/− cells (53% and 35%, respectively), and by the identical change in the shape of the spontaneous action potentials elicited by the dihydropyridine in both strains of mice. Cav1.2 channels also play a major role in spontaneous action potential firing, supported by the following evidence: (i) a similar percentage of WT and Cav1.3−/− cells fired spontaneous action potentials; (ii) firing frequency did not vary between WT and Cav1.3−/− cells; (iii) mostly Cav1.2 channels contributed to the inward current preceding the action potential threshold; and (iv) in the presence of tetrodotoxin, WT or Cav1.3−/− cells exhibited spontaneous oscillatory activity, which was fully abolished by nifedipine perfusion. Finally, Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 channels were essential for controlling the exocytotic process at potentials above and below −10 mV, respectively. Our data reveal the key yet differential roles of Cav1.2 and Cav1.3 channels in mediating action potential firing and exocytotic events in the neuroendocrine chromaffin cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Pérez-Alvarez
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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18
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Hui XG, Akahira JI, Suzuki T, Nio M, Nakamura Y, Suzuki H, Rainey WE, Sasano H. Development of the human adrenal zona reticularis: morphometric and immunohistochemical studies from birth to adolescence. J Endocrinol 2009; 203:241-52. [PMID: 19723922 PMCID: PMC4159054 DOI: 10.1677/joe-09-0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Age-related morphologic development of human adrenal zona reticularis (ZR) has not been well examined. Therefore, in this study, 44 human young adrenal autopsy specimens retrieved from large archival files (n=252) were examined for immunohistochemical and morphometric analyses. Results demonstrated that ZR became discernible around 4 years of age, and both thickness and ratio per total cortex of ZR increased in an age-dependent fashion thereafter, although there was no significant increment in total thickness of developing adrenal cortex. We further evaluated immunoreactivity of both KI67 and BCL2 in order to clarify the equilibrium between cell proliferation and apoptosis in the homeostasis of developing human adrenals. Results demonstrated that proliferative adrenocortical cells were predominantly detected in the zona glomerulosa and partly in outer zona fasciculata (ZF) before 4 years of age and in ZR after 4 years of age, but the number of these cells markedly decreased around 20 years of age. The number of BCL2-positive cells increased in ZR and decreased in ZF during development. Adrenal androgen synthesizing type 5 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD17B5 or AKR1C3 as listed in the Hugo Database) was almost confined to ZR of human adrenals throughout development. HSD17B5 immunoreactivity in ZR became discernible and increased from around 9 years of age. Results of our present study support the theory of age-dependent adrenocortical cell migration and also indicated that ZR development is not only associated with adrenarche, but may play important roles in an initiation of puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Gang Hui
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
| | - Jun-ichi Akahira
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takashi Suzuki
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masaki Nio
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Nakamura
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, 30912, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Hiroyoshi Suzuki
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, National Hospital Organization, Sendai Medical Center, 983-8520, Sendai, Japan
| | - William E Rainey
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, 30912, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Hironobu Sasano
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University School of Medicine, 980-8575, Sendai, Japan
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Yasui T, Uemura H, Tomita J, Miyatani Y, Yamada M, Kuwahara A, Matsuzaki T, Maegawa M, Tsuchiya N, Yuzurihara M, Takeda S, Irahara M. Association of interleukin-8 with hot flashes in premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women and bilateral oophorectomized women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:4805-8. [PMID: 17018658 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2006-1100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to identify serum cytokine concentrations in premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women and bilateral oophorectomized women with hot flashes. METHODS Serum concentrations of 17 cytokines were simultaneously measured using a multiplexed human cytokine assay in 129 premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women and 50 bilateral oophorectomized women. RESULTS Serum IL-8 concentrations in midlife women and bilateral oophorectomized women with severe hot flashes were significantly higher than the concentrations in women without hot flashes and women with mild and moderate hot flashes. Serum macrophage inflammatory protein-1beta concentration in women with severe hot flashes was significantly higher than those in women without hot flashes and women with mild and moderate hot flashes. CONCLUSION Serum IL-8 concentrations in premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women and bilateral oophorectomized women with hot flashes were significantly higher than those in women without hot flashes. IL-8 may be associated with peripheral vasodilation in women with hot flashes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Yasui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan.
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20
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Romero DG, Vergara GR, Zhu Z, Covington GS, Plonczynski MW, Yanes LL, Gomez-Sanchez EP, Gomez-Sanchez CE. Interleukin-8 synthesis, regulation, and steroidogenic role in H295R human adrenocortical cells. Endocrinology 2006; 147:891-8. [PMID: 16269456 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-0951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The adrenal gland secretes several cytokines, and cytokines modulate steroid secretion by this gland. In this study, a survey of cytokine production by H295R human adrenocortical cells demonstrated that these cells secreted IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, and TNFalpha but not IL-5, IL-12, or interferon-gamma. IL-8 was the IL secreted at higher concentration. IL-8 secretion, its regulation, and role in steroidogenesis were further studied. Secreted ILs and steroids were measured by ELISA in cell culture supernatant. IL-8 mRNA was quantified by real-time RT-PCR. H295R cells and human adrenal gland expressed IL-8 mRNA. Angiotensin II, potassium, endothelin-1, IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, TNFalpha, and Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide dose-dependently increase IL-8 secretion by H295R cells after 24 h incubation. IL-6 had no effect on IL-8 secretion. Angiotensin II time-dependently increased IL-8 secretion by H295R cells up to 48 h. Angiotensin II caused a biphasic increase in IL-8 mRNA expression with a peak 6 h after stimulation. TNFalpha synergized angiotensin II, potassium, and IL-1alpha-mediated IL-8 secretion. IL-8 did not modify aldosterone or cortisol secretion by H295R cells under basal or stimulated (angiotensin II or potassium) conditions. In conclusion, it is demonstrated for the first time that human adrenal cells expressed and secreted IL-8 under the regulation of angiotensin II, potassium, endothelin-1, and immune peptides. Adrenal-secreted IL-8 is one point of convergence between the adrenal gland and the immune system and may have relevance in physiological and pathophysiological conditions associated with increased levels of aldosterone secretagogues and the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian G Romero
- Division of Endocrinology, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, 39216, USA.
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21
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SILVERMAN MARNIN, PEARCE BRADD, BIRON CHRISTINEA, MILLER ANDREWH. Immune modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during viral infection. Viral Immunol 2005; 18:41-78. [PMID: 15802953 PMCID: PMC1224723 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2005.18.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Compelling data has been amassed indicating that soluble factors, or cytokines, emanating from the immune system can have profound effects on the neuroendocrine system, in particular the hypothalamic- pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. HPA activation by cytokines (via the release of glucocorticoids), in turn, has been found to play a critical role in restraining and shaping immune responses. Thus, cytokine-HPA interactions represent a fundamental consideration regarding the maintenance of homeostasis and the development of disease during viral infection. Although reviews exist that focus on the bi-directional communication between the immune system and the HPA axis during viral infection (188,235), others have focused on the immunomodulatory effects of glucocorticoids during viral infection (14,225). This review, however, concentrates on the other side of the bi-directional loop of neuroendocrine-immune interactions, namely, the characterization of HPA axis activity during viral infection and the mechanisms employed by cytokines to stimulate glucocorticoid release.
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Affiliation(s)
- MARNI N. SILVERMAN
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - BRAD D. PEARCE
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - CHRISTINE A. BIRON
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - ANDREW H. MILLER
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Address reprint requests to: Dr. Andrew H. Miller, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 101 Woodruff Circle, WMRB Suite 4000, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, E-mail:
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Ehrhart-Bornstein M, Lamounier-Zepter V, Schraven A, Langenbach J, Willenberg HS, Barthel A, Hauner H, McCann SM, Scherbaum WA, Bornstein SR. Human adipocytes secrete mineralocorticoid-releasing factors. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2003; 100:14211-6. [PMID: 14614137 PMCID: PMC283571 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2336140100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 316] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity has become an epidemic problem in western societies, contributing to metabolic diseases, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Overweight and obesity are frequently associated with increased plasma levels of aldosterone. Recent evidence suggests that human fat is a highly active endocrine tissue. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that adipocyte secretory products directly stimulate adrenocortical aldosterone secretion. Secretory products from isolated human adipocytes strongly stimulated steroidogenesis in human adrenocortical cells (NCI-H295R) with a predominant effect on mineralocorticoid secretion. Aldosterone secretion increased 7-fold during 24 h of incubation. This stimulation was comparable to maximal stimulation of these cells with forskolin (2 x 10(-5) M). On the molecular level, there was a 10-fold increase in the expression of steroid acute regulatory peptide mRNA. This effect was independent of adipose angiotensin II as revealed by the stimulatory effect of fat cell-conditioned medium even in the presence of the angiotensin type 1 receptor antagonist, valsartan. None of the recently defined adipocytokines accounted for the effect. Mineralocorticoid-stimulating activity was heat sensitive and could be blunted by heating fat cell-conditioned medium to 99 degrees C. Centrifugal filtration based on molecular mass revealed at least two releasing factors: a heat sensitive fraction (molecular mass >50 kDa) representing 60% of total activity, and an inactive fraction (molecular mass <50 kDa). However, the recovery rate increased to 92% when combining these two fractions, indicating the interaction of at least two factors. In conclusion, human adipocytes secrete potent mineralocorticoid-releasing factors, suggesting a direct link between obesity and hypertension.
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cutolo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy.
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24
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25
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Schteingart DE, Giordano TJ, Benitez RS, Burdick MD, Starkman MN, Arenberg DA, Strieter RM. Overexpression of CXC chemokines by an adrenocortical carcinoma: a novel clinical syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001; 86:3968-74. [PMID: 11502840 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.86.8.7780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A patient with adrenocortical carcinoma presented with fever, leukocytosis, and increased acute phase reactants. The tumor was infiltrated with neutrophils. Immunohistochemical staining of the tumor showed positive signal for epithelial neutrophil-activating protein-78, an angiogenic and chemotactic CXC chemokine. Conditioned medium from tumor-derived cells (RL-251) showed high concentration of IL-8, epithelial neutrophil-activating protein-78, Gro alpha, and Gro gamma, angiogenic CXC chemokines with a potential role in tumorigenesis. An adrenal cancer/severe combined immunodeficiency mouse chimera was developed. Mice grew tumors rapidly, and circulating levels of IL-8 and epithelial neutrophil-activating protein-78 were detected. In contrast, animals transplanted with NCI-H295 cells, a nonchemokine-secreting cell line, grew tumors more slowly and did not have detectable chemokine levels. Similar to the patient, mice with RL-251 tumors developed marked leukocytosis and neutrophilia, and their tumors were infiltrated with neutrophils. Mice were passively immunized with epithelial neutrophil-activating protein-78 antisera. A marked decrease in tumor growth was observed. Potential for chemokine production by other adrenocortical tumors was investigated by RT-PCR in archival material. Six of seven adrenal carcinomas and one of three adenomas had cDNA for IL-8; six of seven carcinomas and the three adenomas had cDNA for epithelial neutrophil-activating protein-78. We concluded that the clinical presentation of this case resulted from increased tumor production of chemotactic chemokines. Through their angiogenic and chemotactic properties these chemokines may play an important role in adrenal tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E Schteingart
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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26
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Leptin is involved in the maintenance of energy balance acting on food intake, thermogenesis and energy expenditure. Via its receptor in the hypothalamus, leptin modulates the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the systemic sympathetic/adrenomedullary system, which are closely linked to the regulation of energy balance and body weight. In regard of potential interactions of leptin and adrenal hormones this study intended to characterize the role of leptin in the human adrenal gland. MATERIALS AND METHODS A novel technique of laser capture microdissection was used to separate cortical and chromaffin cells for mRNA expression studies of leptin receptor isoforms and leptin mRNA in adrenal tissue and cell line NCI-H295. Immunostaining was used to localize leptin receptor in human adrenal slices. The influence of leptin on basal and ACTH-stimulated steroid hormone secretion and enzyme expression was assessed. The effect of leptin on proliferation and viability of adrenal cells in primary culture and of the NCI-H295 cell line was studied by the WST-1 assay and by 3H-thymidine test. RESULTS Our data demonstrate that leptin can regulate the human adrenal function directly, via its receptors on adrenocortical cells. Leptin decreased the corticotropin-stimulated release of steroid hormones in vitro without any effect on cell proliferation. Leptin did not significantly affect the expression of cytochrome P450 scc m RNA in humans, but decreased the ACTH stimulated expression of the cytochrome P450 17alpha mRNA [corrected]. CONCLUSIONS The adipo-adrenal interaction mediated by leptin further underscores the close link of metabolism and stress regulation in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Glasow
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Leipzig, Germany.
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27
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Abstract
RA is an autoimmune rheumatic disorder resulting from the combination of several predisposing factors, including the relation between epitopes of possible triggering agents and histocompatibility epitopes, the status of the stress response system, and the sex hormone status. Estrogens are implicated as enhancers of humoral immunity, and androgens and progesterone are natural immune suppressors. Sex hormone concentrations have been evaluated in RA patients before glucocorticoid therapy and have frequently been found to be altered, especially in premenopausal women and male patients. In particular, low levels of gonadal and adrenal androgens (testosterone and DHT, DHEA and DHEAS) and a reduced androgen:estrogen ratio have been detected in body fluids (i.e., blood, synovial fluid, smears, saliva) of male and female RA patients. These observations support a possible pathogenic role for the decreased levels of the immune-suppressive androgens. Exposure to environmental estrogens (estrogenic xenobiotics), genetic polymorphisms of genes coding for hormone metabolic enzymes or receptors, and gonadal disturbances related to stress system activation (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis) and physiologic hormonal perturbations such as during aging, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, the postpartum period, and menopause may interfere with the androgen:estrogen ratio. Sex hormones might exert their immune-modulating effects, at least in RA synovitis, because synovial macrophages, monocytes, and lymphocytes possess functional androgen and estrogen receptors and may metabolize gonadal hormones. The molecular basis for sex hormone adjuvant therapy in RA is thus experimentally substantiated. By considering the well-demonstrated immune-suppressive activities exerted by androgens, male hormones and their derivatives seem to be the most promising therapeutic approach. Recent studies have shown positive effects of androgen replacement therapy at least in male RA patients, particularly as adjuvant treatment. Interestingly, the increase in serum androgen metabolism induced by RA treatment with CSA should be regarded as a possible marker of androgen-mediated immune-suppressive activities exerted by CSA, at least in RA and at the level of sensitive target cells and tissues (i.e., synovial macrophages). The absence of altered serum levels of estrogens in RA patients and the reported immune-enhancing properties exerted by female hormones have represented a poor stimulus to test estrogen replacement therapy in RA. The different results obtained with OC use seem to depend on dose-related effects and the different type of response to estrogens in relation to the cytokine balance between Th1 cells (cellular immunity, i.e., RA) and Th2 cells (humoral immunity, i.e., SLE). The androgen replacement obtained directly (i.e., testosterone, DHT, DHEAS) or indirectly (i.e., antiestrogens) may represent a valuable concomitant or adjuvant treatment to be associated with other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (i.e., MTX, CSA) in the management of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cutolo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Italy.
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28
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Koval LM, Yavorskaya EN, Lukyanetz EA. Ultrastructural features of medullary chromaffin cell cultures. Neuroscience 2000; 96:639-49. [PMID: 10717445 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(99)00563-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The ultrastructural organization on the fourth day of culture of chromaffin cells isolated from the bovine adrenal medulla was characterized based on electron microscopic and morphological analysis. We established that medullary chromaffin cells could be divided into four morphologically different subtypes. Most cells (49.1% of those examined) had a dense cytoplasm and fine dense granules. Cells with dense cytoplasm and large granules represented a second type of chromaffin cell (21.1%). Cells of the third type had a light cytoplasm, granules with a light halo and a well-developed Golgi apparatus (26.3%). The fourth type of chromaffin cell was characterized by moderately dense cytoplasm with well-expressed varicose rough endoplasmic reticulum (about 3.5%). Among concomitant cell types, cortical adrenal cells from the zona fasciculata and zona glomerulosa, epithelial cells, fibroblasts, lymphocytes, brown lipoblasts and glial Schwann cells were present. Morphological analysis implies that cells with dense cytoplasm and fine granules and those with light cytoplasm and haloed granules (75.4% in total) are adrenaline-containing cells, whereas the cells with dense cytoplasm and large granules (26.3%) contain noradrenaline. Cells with moderately dense cytoplasm and varicose reticulum share common morphological properties with classical glandular cells and, by their properties, were closer to noradrenaline-containing cells. It is concluded that chromaffin cells, which are the main cell type among cultured cells from adult bovine adrenal medulla, are morphologically quite heterogeneous. Other cell types of different nature may also be present in the culture and can locally influence the properties of the investigated medullary chromaffin cells used in electrophysiological experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Koval
- International Center of Molecular Physiology, Kiev, Ukraine
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29
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Currie KP, Zhou Z, Fox AP. Evidence for paracrine signaling between macrophages and bovine adrenal chromaffin cell Ca(2+) channels. J Neurophysiol 2000; 83:280-7. [PMID: 10634871 DOI: 10.1152/jn.2000.83.1.280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal gland contains resident macrophages, some of which lie adjacent to the catecholamine producing chromaffin cells. Because macrophages release a variety of secretory products, it is possible that paracrine signaling between these two cell types exists. Of particular interest is the potential paracrine modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels (I(Ca)), which are the main calcium influx pathway triggering catecholamine release from chromaffin cells. We report that prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), one of the main signals produced by macrophages, inhibited I(Ca) in cultured bovine adrenal chromaffin cells. The inhibition is rapid, robust, and voltage dependent; the activation kinetics are slowed and inhibition is largely reversed by a large depolarizing prepulse, suggesting that the inhibition is mediated by a direct G-protein betagamma subunit interaction with the calcium channels. About half of the response to PGE(2) was sensitive to pertussis toxin (PTX) incubation, suggesting both PTX-sensitive and -insensitive G proteins were involved. We show that activation of macrophages by endotoxin rapidly (within minutes) releases a signal that inhibits I(Ca) in chromaffin cells. The inhibition is voltage dependent and partially PTX sensitive. PGE(2) is not responsible for this inhibition as blocking cyclooxygenase with ibuprofen did not prevent the production of the inhibitory signal by the macrophages. Nor did blocking the lipoxygenase pathway with nordihydroguaiaretic acid alter production of the inhibitory signal. Our results suggest that macrophages may modulate I(Ca) and catecholamine secretion by releasing PGE(2) and other chemical signal(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- K P Currie
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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30
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Bornstein SR, Tajima T, Eisenhofer G, Haidan A, Aguilera G. Adrenomedullary function is severely impaired in 21-hydroxylase-deficient mice. FASEB J 1999; 13:1185-94. [PMID: 10385609 DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.13.10.1185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Deficiency of 21-hydroxylase (21-OH), one of the most common genetic defects in humans, causes low glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid production by the adrenal cortex, but the effect of this disorder on the adrenomedullary system is unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the development, structure, and function of the adrenal medulla in 21-OH-deficient mice, an animal model resembling human congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Chromaffin cells of 21-OH-deficient mice exhibited ultrastructural features of neuronal transdifferentiation with reduced granules, increased rough endoplasmic reticulum and small neurite outgrowth. Migration of chromaffin cells in the adrenal to form a central medulla was impaired. Expression of phenylethanolamine-N-methyltransferase (PNMT) was reduced to 27 +/- 9% (P<0.05), as determined by quantitative TaqMan polymerase chain reaction, and there was a significant reduction of cells staining positive for PNMT in the adrenal medulla of the 21-OH-deficient mice. Adrenal contents of epinephrine were decreased to 30 +/- 2% (P<0. 01) whereas norepinephrine and dopamine levels were reduced to 57 +/- 4% (P<0.01) and 50 +/- 9% (P<0.05), respectively. 21-OH-deficient mice demonstrate severe adrenomedullary dysfunction, with alterations in chromaffin cell migration, development, structure, and catecholamine synthesis. This hitherto unrecognized mechanism may contribute to the frequent clinical, mental, and therapeutic problems encountered in humans with this genetic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Bornstein
- Section on Endocrine Physiology, Developmental Endocrinology Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
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31
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Mitani F, Mukai K, Miyamoto H, Suematsu M, Ishimura Y. Development of functional zonation in the rat adrenal cortex. Endocrinology 1999; 140:3342-53. [PMID: 10385432 DOI: 10.1210/endo.140.7.6859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In an attempt to elucidate the mechanism(s) through which the functional adrenal cortex is established, we analyzed immunohistochemically the expression of various markers for the adrenocortical zones, i.e. the zona glomerulosa (zG), the zona fasciculata (zF), and the zona reticularis (zR), as well as markers for the medulla, and further examined the distribution and behavior of DNA-synthesizing cells in rat adrenal glands during development. The results showed that 1) separation of the cortex and medulla, and the development of functional zonation in the cortex began at around the time of birth, 2) at fetal stages when cortical zonation was not established, DNA-synthesizing cells were found scattered throughout the gland, where they proliferated without significant migration, and 3) after birth in the adrenal cortex with established cortical zonation, DNA-synthesizing cells were localized near the undifferentiated zone between zG and zF, and then they migrated centripetally. Cell death appeared to occur in the innermost portion of the cortex, where many resident macrophages are present. These findings illustrate basic processes underlying adrenal development and suggest that the undifferentiated region is apparently the stem cell zone of the adrenal cortex that maintains the cortical zonation.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Mitani
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan.
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32
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Nussdorfer GG, Mazzocchi G. Immune-endocrine interactions in the mammalian adrenal gland: facts and hypotheses. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 1998; 183:143-84. [PMID: 9666567 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(08)60144-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Several cytokines, which are the major mediators of the inflammatory responses, are well-known to stimulate the hypothalamopituitary corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)/adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) system, thereby evoking secretory responses by the adrenal cortex. Many of these cytokines, including interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-2, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon-gamma (INF-gamma) are synthesized in the adrenal gland by both parenchymal cells and resident macrophages, and the release of some of them (e.g., IL-6 and TNF-alpha) is regulated by the main agonists of steroid hormone secretion (e.g., ACTH and angiotensin-II) and bacterial endotoxins. Adrenocortical and adrenomedullary cells are provided with specific receptors for IL-1, IL-2, and IL-6. IL-1 and TNF-alpha directly inhibit aldosterone secretion of zona glomerulosa cells, whereas IL-6 enhances it. IL-2, IL-3, IL-6, and INF-alpha are able to directly stimulate glucocorticoid production by zona fasciculata and zona reticularis cells, whereas IL-1 exerts an analogous effect through an indirect mechanism involving the stimulation of catecholamine release by chromaffin cells and/or the activation of the intramedullary CRH/ACTH system; again, TNF-alpha depresses glucocorticoid synthesis. IL-6 raises androgen secretion by inner adrenocortical layers. IL-1 enhances the proliferation of adrenocortical cells, and findings suggest that cytokines may control the apoptotic deletion of senescent zona reticularis cells. The relevance of the intraadrenal cytokine system in the fine-tuning of the secretion and growth of the adrenal cortex under normal conditions remains to be explored. However, indirect proof is available that local immune-endocrine interactions may play an important role in modulating adrenal responses to inflammatory and immune challenges and stresses.
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33
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Abstract
Adaptation of the adrenal gland to the demands of the organism is regulated functionally and structurally. Three common hypotheses on zonation in the adrenal gland, the migrational, zonal, and transformation field theories, try independently to reconcile the findings on structure, proliferation, and cell death. The classical theories on zonation are revisited in the light of recent data on cell death and renewal. In accordance with data on cell death as immunoreactivity against FAS(CD 95), an apoptosis-inducing receptor, in situ end labelling of fragmented DNA, and ultrastructural analyses, programmed cell death (PCD) occurs throughout the whole organ. The angiotensin II receptor subtypes described in the adrenal allow an additional regulation of tissue homeostasis by proliferative and even by the antiproliferative effects of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor. Proto-oncogenes are involved in the regulation of cell cycle and PCD, and adrenocorticotropin asserts its tissue integrating and differentiating effects by regulating proto-oncogenes such as c-jun, c-fos, jun-B and c-myc. Polypeptides involved in proliferation and DNA repair, such as proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki-67, have been found within zones of expected cell senescence. The expression of the class II major histocompatibility complex on normal adrenocortical cells allows cell-to-cell communication with the immune system and may trigger the Fas/Fas-ligand system to permit tissue regression and decreasing activity in both systems. In summary, new data allow us to reappraise and to reconcile the classical theories. Apoptosis is a physiological process in the adrenal gland. There is a differential regulation of apoptosis in the different zones. An investigation of this process may elucidate the basic mechanisms of adrenal zonation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G W Wolkersdörfer
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Leipzig, Germany.
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34
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Ehrhart-Bornstein M, Hinson JP, Bornstein SR, Scherbaum WA, Vinson GP. Intraadrenal interactions in the regulation of adrenocortical steroidogenesis. Endocr Rev 1998; 19:101-43. [PMID: 9570034 DOI: 10.1210/edrv.19.2.0326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 341] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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35
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Päth G, Bornstein SR, Ehrhart-Bornstein M, Scherbaum WA. Interleukin-6 and the interleukin-6 receptor in the human adrenal gland: expression and effects on steroidogenesis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1997; 82:2343-9. [PMID: 9215317 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.82.7.4072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin (IL)-6 is a potent activator of the human hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis. After chronic administration of IL-6 in humans, there is a substantial elevation of cortisol, whereas ACTH levels are blunted. Thus, we investigated whether IL-6 and/or the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) are expressed in the human adrenal gland and whether IL-6 could cause the release of steroid hormones by a direct action on adrenal cells in primary culture. The expression of IL-6 and IL-6R was investigated with RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, and the effects on human adrenal steroidogenesis were tested with IL-6 in vitro. To avoid effects mediated by macrophages, we depleted adrenal primary cultures from macrophages using specific mouse antihuman CD68 and sheep antimouse IgG conjugated magnetic beads. The results showed that 1): IL-6 and IL-6R are expressed in adrenal cell cultures, including all cell types and those depleted of macrophages; 2) IL-6R is mainly expressed in the zona reticularis and the inner zona fasciculata; positive signals from the zona glomerulosa and the medulla occurred in single cells; and 3) IL-6 regulates adrenal synthesis of mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and androgens in vitro, dependent on time and dose, in the absence of macrophages. After 24 h, aldosterone secretion increased to 172 +/- 28% SEM, cortisol to 177 +/- 27% SEM, and dehydroepiandrosterone to 153 +/- 20% SEM of basal secretion. These findings, in combination with previous investigations, suggest that IL-6 exerts its acute action via the hypothalamus and the pituitary. In the adrenal gland, however, IL-6 seems to be a long-term regulator of stress response, integrating the responses of all cortical zones to stimuli from the immune and endocrine system.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Päth
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University of Leipzig, Germany
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36
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Bornstein SR, Ehrhart-Bornstein M, Scherbaum WA. Morphological and functional studies of the paracrine interaction between cortex and medulla in the adrenal gland. Microsc Res Tech 1997; 36:520-33. [PMID: 9142698 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0029(19970315)36:6<520::aid-jemt9>3.0.co;2-l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Within the last years it has become evident that besides the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis, extrapituitary mechanisms exist that regulate the activity of the adrenal cortex. In this context, intra-adrenal regulatory mechanisms play an important role. Several secretory products from adrenomedullary cells are able to influence adrenocortical steroidogenesis. Since the main blood flow within the adrenal is directed centripetally from the cortex to the medulla, chromatin cells should act on cortical cells in a paracrine manner. The morphological prerequisite for this regulatory pathway is seen in the close apposition of the two tissues. Within the mammalian adrenal, the two endocrine tissues are interwoven to an astonishing degree with cortical cells located within the medulla and vice versa. It is concluded from morphological and functional studies that paracrine interactions between cortex and medulla play an important role in the regulation of adrenocortical steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Bornstein
- Universität Leipzig, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, Leipzig, Germany
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37
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You-Ten KE, Itié A, Seemayer TA, Palfree RG, Lapp WS. Increased expression of proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA in adrenal glands of mice undergoing graft-versus-host disease (GVHD): association with persistent elevated plasma corticosterone levels. Clin Exp Immunol 1995; 102:596-602. [PMID: 8536378 PMCID: PMC1553375 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.1995.tb03858.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
GVHD in animal models induces severe thymic atrophy as a result of prolonged secretion of high concentrations of adrenal glucocorticoids. In this study we investigated the mechanism responsible for the persistent stimulation of the adrenal glands to secrete glucocorticoids in mice undergoing GVHD. GVHD was induced across the major and multiple minor histocompatibility antigen difference in unirradiated C57Bl/6 x AF1 hybrid mice by the intravenous injection of A strain parental lymphoid cells. Our results showed plasma corticosterone (CS) levels were elevated in association with high concentrations of corticotropin (ACTH) in both the GVHD and control syngeneic (SYN) groups on day 9. By days 16 and 24, plasma CS and ACTH in the SYN mice returned to basal levels. In contrast, plasma CS levels remained elevated in the GVHD animals on days 16 and 24 despite decreasing concentrations of plasma ACTH. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) showed several-fold increase in POMC mRNA in the adrenal glands of GVHD mice compared with SYN animals. In addition, high mRNA levels for murine prohormone convertase 1, the enzyme that cleaves POMC into ACTH, were also detected in GVHD adrenals. Histological analysis of GVHD adrenals failed to show any sign of adrenalitis, and RT-PCR of GVHD adrenals also failed to detect mRNA for interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), a cytokine expressed by activated T and natural killer (NK) cells. However, mRNA for IL-12, a cytokine produced by activated macrophages, was increased in GVHD adrenals, suggesting that resident adrenal macrophages were activated during GVHD. Our findings suggest that persistent elevated levels of plasma glucocorticoids during GVHD could be mediated by intra-adrenal ACTH produced by resident adrenal macrophages activated as a consequence of GVHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E You-Ten
- Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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38
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Balm PH, van Lieshout E, Lokate J, Wendelaar Bonga SE. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interleukin 1 (IL-1) exert multiple physiological effects in the tilapia Oreochromis mossambicus (Teleostei). J Comp Physiol B 1995; 165:85-92. [PMID: 7622674 DOI: 10.1007/bf00301472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
To gain insight in immuno-endocrine communication in teleosts the physiological effects of interleukin 1 and bacterial lipopolysaccharide in teleosts were investigated. Tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) were treated with murine interleukin 1 and E. coli lipopolysaccharide in vivo, and lipopolysaccharide was administered to pituitary lobes and head kidneys in vitro. The integument of the fish appeared to be a sensitive target for the preparations tested, since proliferation of chloride cells and of epidermal mucous cells was observed as well as an increase in epidermal thickness. These effects may relate to an acute phase-like reaction caused by the treatments. Lipopolysaccharide administration furthermore resulted in an increase in plasma free fatty acids levels. Lipopolysaccharide, but not interleukin 1, stimulated the interrenal axis of the fish, as judged by the increase in cortisol production measured in superfusion of head kidneys. In addition to these in vivo effects, lipopolysaccharide also displayed several effects in vitro. Pituitary adrenocorticotropic hormone, as well as alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone, release was inhibited, and the head kidney responsiveness to adrenocorticotropic hormone was inhibited after pretreatment of the tissue with the E. coli product. This latter effect coincided with the release of an unidentified alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone immunoreactive fraction by the head kidneys which could be stimulated by lipopolysaccharide. The data strongly support the notion that the immune system is involved in adaptive regulations in teleosts, and that immunoendocrine interactions are phylogenetically old mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Balm
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Science, University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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39
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González-Hernández JA, Bornstein SR, Ehrhart-Bornstein M, Gschwend JE, Gwosdow A, Jirikowski G, Scherbaum WA. IL-1 is expressed in human adrenal gland in vivo. Possible role in a local immune-adrenal axis. Clin Exp Immunol 1995; 99:137-41. [PMID: 7813105 PMCID: PMC1534131 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.1995.tb03484.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
IL-1 is an important mediator in the dialogue between the immune system and the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. A direct influence of IL-1 upon adrenal steroidogenesis has been demonstrated in experimental animals. We therefore designed a study to see if IL-1 is expressed within the normal human adrenal gland. The combination of in situ hybridization and specific immunostaining to IL-1 beta was eminently suited to demonstrate both mRNA and protein production. The specific immunostaining of the different cells combined with in situ hybridization (IL-1) allowed us to identify the exact cellular source of IL-1. IL-1 mRNA occurred in the zona reticularis in 17 alpha-hydroxylase positive steroid cells surrounding the adrenomedullary cells. Some CD68+ macrophages in this zona showed a positive signal. A weak signal was seen to IL-1 mRNA in few chromaffin cells, while IL-1-like immunoreactivity was more frequent. We conclude that in the normal situation in man IL-1 is mainly expressed in specialized cortical cells. The occurrence of the major glucocorticoid inducing factor in the normal human adrenal gland itself provides evidence for an autocrine or paracrine reaction under physiological conditions.
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