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Falvo S, Rosati L, Di Fiore MM, Di Giacomo Russo F, Chieffi Baccari G, Santillo A. Proliferative and Apoptotic Pathways in the Testis of Quail Coturnix coturnix during the Seasonal Reproductive Cycle. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061729. [PMID: 34207904 PMCID: PMC8226535 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The quail Coturnix coturnix exhibits an annual cycle of testis size, sexual steroid production, and spermatogenesis. The testicular levels of both 17β-estradiol (E2) and androgens are higher during the reproductive period compared to the non-reproductive period, suggesting that estrogens act in synergy with the androgens for the initiation of spermatogenesis. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the estrogen responsive system in quail testis in relation to the reproduction seasons, with a focus on the molecular pathways activated in both active and regressive quail testes. The results indicated that estrogens participated in the activation of mitotic and meiotic events during the reproductive period by activating the ERK1/2 and Akt-1 pathways. In the non-reproductive period, when the E2/ERα levels are low, ERK1/2 and Akt-1 pathways remain inactive and apoptotic events occur. Our results suggest that the activation or inhibition of these molecular pathways plays a crucial role in the physiological switch “on/off” of the testicular activity in male quail during the seasonal reproductive cycle. Abstract The quail Coturnix coturnix is a seasonal breeding species, with the annual reproductive cycle of its testes comprising an activation phase and a regression phase. Our previous results have proven that the testicular levels of both 17β-estradiol (E2) and androgens are higher during the reproductive period compared to the non-reproductive period, which led us to hypothesize that estrogens and androgens may act synergistically to initiate spermatogenesis. The present study was, therefore, aimed to investigate the estrogen responsive system in quail testis in relation to the reproduction seasonality, with a focus on the molecular pathways elicited in both active and regressive quail testes. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that the expression of ERα, which is the predominant form of estrogen receptors in quail testis, was correlated with E2 concentration, suggesting that increased levels of E2-induced ERα could play a key role in the resumption of spermatogenesis during the reproductive period, when both PCNA and SYCP3, the mitotic and meiotic markers, respectively, were also increased. In the reproductive period we also found the activation of the ERK1/2 and Akt-1 kinase pathways and an increase in second messengers cAMP and cGMP levels. In the non-reproductive phase, when the E2/ERα levels were low, the inactivation of ERK1/2 and Akt-1 pathways favored apoptotic events due to an increase in the levels of Bax and cytochrome C, with a consequent regression of the gonad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (S.F.); (M.M.D.F.); (F.D.G.R.); (G.C.B.)
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università degli Studi di Napoli “Federico II”, 80138 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (S.F.); (M.M.D.F.); (F.D.G.R.); (G.C.B.)
| | - Federica Di Giacomo Russo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (S.F.); (M.M.D.F.); (F.D.G.R.); (G.C.B.)
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (S.F.); (M.M.D.F.); (F.D.G.R.); (G.C.B.)
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (S.F.); (M.M.D.F.); (F.D.G.R.); (G.C.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Rosati L, Agnese M, Di Lorenzo M, Barra T, Valiante S, Prisco M. Spermatogenesis and regulatory factors in the wall lizard Podarcis sicula. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 298:113579. [PMID: 32777222 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is an extraordinarily complex process, regulated by several factors, which leads to the differentiation of spermatogonia into spermatozoa. Among vertebrates, several reports have been focused on the lizard Podarcis sicula, a seasonal breeder and a good model for the study of reproductive processes. The goal of this review is to resume all the available data about systemic and above all local control factors involved in the control of P. sicula testicular activity. During the seasonal reproductive cycle, the variation of the expression levels of these factors determines significant variations that induce the activation or blocking of spermatogenesis. The data supplied in this review, in addition to analyze the current literature regarding the main actors of Podarcis sicula spermatogenesis, will hopefully provide a basic model that can be used for further studies on the intratesticular interaction between molecular factors that control spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy.
| | - Marisa Agnese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariana Di Lorenzo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Barra
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Valiante
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
| | - Marina Prisco
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cintia 21, 80126 Naples, Italy
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Di Fiore MM, Santillo A, Falvo S, Pinelli C. Celebrating 50+ years of research on the reproductive biology and endocrinology of the green frog: An overview. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 298:113578. [PMID: 32739437 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This issue is dedicated to the late Professor Giovanni Chieffi, and this article is an overview of the research on Comparative Endocrinology of reproduction using Rana esculenta (alias Pelophylax esculentus) as a model system. Starting from the early 1970s till today, a large quantity of work have been conducted both in the fields of experimental endocrinology and in the definition of the diffuse neuroendocrine system, with a major focus on the increasing role of regulatory peptides. The various aspects investigated concerned the histological descriptions of principal endocrine glands of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the localization and distribution in the HPG of several different substances (i.e. neurosteroids, hypothalamic peptide hormones, pituitary gonadotropins, gonadal sex steroids, and other molecules), the determination of sex hormone concentrations in both serum and tissues, the hormone manipulations, as well as the gene and protein expression of steroidogenic enzymes and their respective receptors. All together these researches, often conducted considering different periods of the annual reproductive cycle of the green frog, allowed to understand the mechanism of cascade control/regulation of the HPG axis of R. esculenta, characterizing the role of different hormones in the two sexes, and testing the hypotheses about the function of single hormones in different target organs. It becomes evident from the review that, in their simplest form, several features of this species are specular as compared to those of other vertebrate species and that reproduction in this frog species is either under endogenous multi-hormonal control or by a wide array of different factors. Our excursus of this research, spanning almost five decades, shows that R. esculenta has been intensively and successfully used as an animal model in reproductive endocrinology as well as several field studies such as those involving environmental concerns that focus on the effects of endocrine disruptors and other environmental contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Claudia Pinelli
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences & Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
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Scaia MF, Volonteri MC, Czuchlej SC, Ceballos NR. Estradiol and reproduction in the South American toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibian, Anura). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 273:20-31. [PMID: 29555118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Rhinella arenarum is a South American toad with wide geographic distribution. Testes of this toad produce high amount of androgens during the non reproductive season and shift steroid synthesis from androgens to 5α-pregnanedione during the breeding. In addition, plasma estradiol (E2) in males of this species shows seasonal variations but, since testes of R. arenarum do not express aromatase, the source of plasma E2 remained unknown for several years. However, the Bidder's organ (BO), a structure located at one pole of each testis, is proposed to be the main source of E2 in male's toads since it expresses several steroidogenic enzymes and is able to produce E2 from endogenous substrates throughout the year. In addition, there were significant correlations between plasma E2 and total activity of BO aromatase, and between plasma E2 and the amount of hormone produced by the BO in vitro. In the toad, apoptosis induced by in vitro treatment with E2 was mostly detected in spermatocytes during the breeding and in spermatids during the post-reproductive season, suggesting that this steroid has an important role in controlling spermatogenesis. However, in vitro treatment with E2 had no effect on proliferation. This evidence suggests that the mechanism of action of E2 on amphibian spermatogenesis is complex and more studies are necessary to fully understand the role of estrogens regulating the balance between cellular proliferation and apoptosis. In addition, in R. arenarum in vitro studies suggested that E2 has no effect on CypP450c17 protein levels or enzymatic activity, while it reduces 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3β-HSD/I) activity during the post reproductive season. As well, E2 regulates FSHβ mRNA expression all over the year suggesting a down regulation process carried out by this steroid. The effect on LHβ mRNA is dual, since during the reproductive season estradiol increases the expression of LHβ mRNA while in the non-reproductive season it has no effect. In conclusion, the effect of E2 on gonadotropins and testicular function is complex, not clearly understood and probably varies depending on the species. The aim of the current article is to review evidence on reproductive endocrinology and on the role of estradiol regulating reproduction in amphibians, with emphasis on the South American species Rhinella arenarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Scaia
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA - CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Instituto de Diversidad y Evolución Austral (IDEAus - CONICET), Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
| | - Silvia Cristina Czuchlej
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Santillo A, Falvo S, Chieffi Baccari G, Di Fiore MM. Seasonal changes in gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes, androgen and estrogen receptors in frog testis. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali; Biologiche e Farmaceutiche; Seconda Università di Napoli; Via Vivaldi 43 81100 Caserta Italy
| | - Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali; Biologiche e Farmaceutiche; Seconda Università di Napoli; Via Vivaldi 43 81100 Caserta Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali; Biologiche e Farmaceutiche; Seconda Università di Napoli; Via Vivaldi 43 81100 Caserta Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali; Biologiche e Farmaceutiche; Seconda Università di Napoli; Via Vivaldi 43 81100 Caserta Italy
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Arias Torres AJ, Páez JB, Zelarayán LI. Validation of Electrochemiluminiscence Immunoassay for Ovarian Steroid Determination inRhinella arenarum. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 325:265-73. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Josefina Arias Torres
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO); CONICET-UNT; Chacabuco 461, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán Tucumán Argentina
| | - José Bernardino Páez
- Facultad de Bioquímica; Química y Farmacia; UNT; Ayacucho 471, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán Tucumán Argentina
| | - Liliana Isabel Zelarayán
- Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO); CONICET-UNT; Chacabuco 461, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán Tucumán Argentina
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Scaia MF, Volonteri MC, Czuchlej SC, Ceballos NR. Effect of estradiol on apoptosis, proliferation and steroidogenic enzymes in the testes of the toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibia, Anura). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 221:244-54. [PMID: 25583585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 12/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens inhibit androgen production and this negative action on amphibian steroidogenesis could be related to the regulation of steroidogenic enzymes. Estrogens are also involved in the regulation of amphibian spermatogenesis by controlling testicular apoptosis and spermatogonial proliferation. The Bidder's organ (BO) is a structure characteristic from the Bufonidae family and in adult males of Rhinella arenarum it is one of the main sources of plasma estradiol (E2). The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of E2 on testicular steroidogenic enzymes, apoptosis and proliferation in the toad R. arenarum. For this purpose, testicular fragments were treated during 24h with or without 2 or 20nM of E2. After treatments, the activities of cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase-C17-20 lyase (CypP450c17) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/isomerase (3β-HSD/I) were measured by the transformation of radioactive substrates into products, and CypP450c17 expression was determined by Western blot analysis. Apoptosis in testicular sections was detected with a commercial fluorescent kit based on TUNEL method, and proliferation was evaluated by BrdU incorporation. Results indicate that E2 has no effect on CypP450c17 protein levels or enzymatic activity, while it reduces 3β-HSD/I activity during the post reproductive season. Furthermore, although E2 has no effect on apoptosis during the pre and the post reproductive seasons, it stimulates testicular apoptosis during the reproductive season, mostly in spermatocytes. Finally, E2 has no effect on testicular proliferation all year long. Taken together, these results suggest that E2 is involved in the regulation of testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Scaia
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Silvia Cristina Czuchlej
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Verma SK, Alim A. Ultimobranchial gland respond in a different way in male and female fresh water teleost Mastacembelus armatus (Lacepede) during reproductive cycle. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 156:111-7. [PMID: 25818521 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2015.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Revised: 02/27/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The present study was carried out to analyze the differences in the activity of ultimobranchial gland (UBG) between male and female fresh water teleost Mastacembelus armatus during reproductive cycle. Considerable variations in the nuclear diameter of UBG cells and plasma calcitonin (CT) levels during different reproductive phases of testicular and ovarian cycle suggested that the activity of the UBG depends upon the sexual maturity of fishes. A positive correlation was observed between plasma CT and sex steroid levels and the gonadosomatic index in both sexes which further confirmed the involvement of UBG in the processes related to gonadal development in fishes irrespective of the sex. Sudden increase in the level of plasma CT and nuclear diameter of UBG cells after administration of 17 α-methyltestosterone in males and 17 β-estradiol in females during resting phase of the reproductive cycle clearly showed that UBG becomes hyperactive with increases in the level of sex steroids. Plasma calcium level was also found to be positively correlated with gonadal maturation in females. However no such change in plasma calcium level in relation to testicular cycle was observed. Thus it can be concluded that UBG becomes hyperactive during gonadal maturation but its role differs between male and female fishes. In females it may involved in both gonadal maturation and plasma calcium regulation while in males its involvement in calcium regulation was not justified. Variations in the level of CT during various phases of testicular cycle evidenced its involvement in gonadal maturation only.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdul Alim
- Co-operative College (Ranchi University), Jharkhand, India
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Differences in the activity of prolactin cells in male and female fresh water teleost Mastacembelus armatus (Lacepede) during gonadal cycle. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(14)60031-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Verma SK, Alim A. Differential activity of stanniocalcin in male and female fresh water teleost Mastacembelus armatus (Lacepede) during gonadal maturation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e101439. [PMID: 25003342 PMCID: PMC4086893 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0101439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study was carried out to analyze the differences in the activity of hormone stanniocalcin (STC) between male and female fishes of Mastacembelus armatus during their gonadal cycle. A large variation in nuclear diameter of cells of corpuscles of Stannius (CS) were recorded in relation to testicular cycle as well as ovarian cycle which indicates that the cellular activity varied with different phases of reproductive cycle in both male and female fish. Similar changes in nuclear diameter of CS cells were also observed after 17alpha-methyltestosterone administration in males and 17 β-estradiol administrations in females. A positive correlation was observed between plasma STC levels, gonadosomatic index (GSI) and the sex steroids in both sexes, suggesting that STC has a role in the processes involved in gonadal development. In addition females showed remarkable changes in plasma calcium level during gonadal cycle while no such change for males were observed. In females the plasma calcium level estimated during different phases of reproductive cycle indicates positive correlation between plasma level of calcium and gonad growth. Thus hyperactivity of CS cells was noted in both male and female fishes during gonadal cycle along with the differences in the activity of STC as well. In female it may act as hypocalcemic factor and bring the level of calcium to normal which increases during preparatory and pre spawning phases to fulfill the increased demand of calcium for vitellogenesis. However data of male fishes indicated that plasma STC concentration varied widely during gonadal cycle but showed no consistent relationship to plasma calcium level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abdul Alim
- Co-operative College, Ranchi University, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
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Scaia MF, Regueira E, Volonteri MC, Ceballos NR. Estradiol Production by the Bidder's Organ of the ToadRhinella arenarum(Amphibia, Anura). Seasonal Variations in Plasma Estradiol. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 319:355-64. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Scaia
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - Eleonora Regueira
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - María Clara Volonteri
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Buenos Aires; Argentina
| | - Nora Raquel Ceballos
- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Buenos Aires; Argentina
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Scaia MF, Regueira E, Sassone AG, Volonteri MC, Ceballos NR. The Bidder's organ of the toad Rhinella arenarum (Amphibia, Anura). Presence of steroidogenic enzymes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 315:439-46. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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13
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Hofmann HA. The neuroendocrine action potential. Winner of the 2008 Frank Beach Award in Behavioral Neuroendocrinology. Horm Behav 2010; 58:555-62. [PMID: 20600047 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Animals are remarkably well equipped to respond to changes in their environment across different time scales and levels of biological organization. Here, I introduce a novel perspective that incorporates the three main processes the nervous system uses to integrate and process information: electrophysiological, genomic, and neuroendocrine action potentials. After discussing several examples of neuroendocrine action potentials, I lay out the commonalities of these temporally organized responses and how they might be interrelated with electrophysiological activity and genomic responses. This framework provides a novel outlook on longstanding questions in behavioral neuroendocrinology and suggests exciting new avenues for further research that will integrate across disciplines and levels of biological organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans A Hofmann
- Section of Integrative Biology, Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute for Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
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Gobbetti A, Polzonetti-Magni A, Zerani M, Botte V. Effect of hypophysectomy on estrogen-induced vitellogenin synthesis in the green frogRana esculentacomplex. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/11250008509440537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Angelini F, Ciarcia G, Picariello O, Botte V, Pagano M. Sex steroids and postreproductive refractoriness in the lizard, Podarcis s.sicula. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/11250008609355483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Franco Angelini
- a Dipartimento di Biologia Evolutiva e Comparata , Università di Napoli , Via Mezzocannone 8, Napoli, 80134, Italy
| | - Gaetano Ciarcia
- a Dipartimento di Biologia Evolutiva e Comparata , Università di Napoli , Via Mezzocannone 8, Napoli, 80134, Italy
| | - Orfeo Picariello
- b Istituto e Museo di Zoologia , Univiersità di Napoli , Via Mezzocannone 8, Napoli, 80134, Italy
| | - Virgilio Botte
- b Istituto e Museo di Zoologia , Univiersità di Napoli , Via Mezzocannone 8, Napoli, 80134, Italy
| | - Maria Pagano
- c Istituto di Anatomia Sistematica e Comparata , Via Veterinaria Università di Napoli , Napoli, 80134, Italy
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Kaptan E, Murathanoğlu O. Annual Morphological Cycles of Testis and Thumb Pad of the Male Frog (Rana ridibunda). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2008; 291:1106-14. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.20723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Kohno S, Fujime M, Kamishima Y, Iguchi T. Sexually dimorphic basal water absorption at the isolated pelvic patch of Japanese tree frog, Hyla japonica. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 301:428-38. [PMID: 15114650 DOI: 10.1002/jez.a.20067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Frogs ingest little water orally, but absorb the majority of the water needed for normal physiological performance through a specific region of the ventral skin, the pelvic patch. We observed non-stimulated (basal water absorption, BWA) water flux through the isolated pelvic patch in vitro in Japanese tree frog (Hyla japonica). We found that water flux through non-stimulated skin from the pelvic patch was greater in males than females. This water flux was confirmed as BWA by observing no effect following the in vitro administration of propranolol and [adamantaneacetyl(1), O-Et-D-Tyr(2), Val(1), aminobutyryl(6), Arg(8, 9)] vasopressin, which are a beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist and a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, respectively. We further examined this phenomenon following gonadectomy, treatment with sex hormones (E2, 17beta-estradiol; TP, testosterone propionate), estrogenic chemicals (BPA, bisphenol A; MTX, methoxychlor) or prolactin (PRL, a hormone regulated by sex hormones that has osmoregulatory activity). Ovariectomy increased BWA in females. Injection (in vivo treatment) of E2 or PRL reduced BWA in males, whereas TP injection increased BWA in females. However, the in vitro addition of E2, TP, or PRL to the Ringer's solution on the serosal side of the ventral skin patch did not alter BWA. Subsequently, we injected (in vivo treatment) BPA or MTX, environmental chemical contaminants with known hormonal actions in mammals. Injection of BPA or MTX reduced BWA in males as observed following treatment with E2. These results provide the first evidence of sexual dimorphism in BWA through the isolated pelvic patch. The gonad appears essential for observed sexual dimorphism in BWA, and we hypothesize that sex hormones regulate the release of PRL, that in turn influences BWA indirectly. E2 is known to exert a specific stimulatory effect on PRL secretion. In addition, we have observed that some endocrine disrupting contaminants also eliminate the sexual dimorphism in BWA observed in the Japanese tree frog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satomi Kohno
- Graduate School of Integrated Science, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, 236-0027, Japan
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Shalan AG, Bradshaw SD, Withers PC, Thompson G, Bayomy MFF, Bradshaw FJ, Stewart T. Spermatogenesis and plasma testosterone levels in Western Australian burrowing desert frogs, Cyclorana platycephala, Cyclorana maini, and Neobatrachus sutor, during aestivation. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2004; 136:90-100. [PMID: 14980800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2003.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2003] [Revised: 12/09/2003] [Accepted: 12/09/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Changes in testis size, histological status, and plasma levels of testosterone were monitored for males of three species of Western Australian desert frogs, Cyclorana maini, Cyclorana platycephala, and Neobatrachus sutor during aestivation. The frogs were induced to burrow and form cocoons soon after their capture and then disinterred at intervals in order to monitor changes in reproductive activity of the testes. All stages of spermatogenesis were evident in active frogs, which were collected a few days following rain from breeding choruses. Relative testis mass declined gradually in all species during the first 7 months of aestivation and then increased significantly at 16-19 months in the two species for which extended data were available (C. maini and N. sutor). A decrease in the number of sperm bundles 2-4 months after cocooning was associated with an initial increase in the number of free spermatazoa in all three species, which then returned to the levels seen in active animals after 7 months. Increases in the number of primary and secondary spermatogonia were most evident in C. platycephala after 4-7 months of aestivation, but early stages of spermatocytogenesis were evident in all species after 7 months of aestivation, especially in individuals that contained neither sperm bundles nor mature spermatazoa. Changes in plasma testosterone levels correlated significantly with variations in the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the GSI, suggesting that this hormone plays a major role in controlling testicular recrudescence in aestivating, cocooned, desert frogs. Data from this study show that, in the absence of any external cues, testicular recrudescence is evident after approximately one year of aestivation in desert frogs which prepares them to breed again, once rain falls.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Shalan
- School of Animal Biology and Centre for Native Animal Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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19
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Abstract
In Bufo arenarum, androgen biosynthesis occurs through a complete 5-ene pathway, including 5-androstane-3beta,17beta-diol as the immediate precursor of testosterone. Besides, steroidogenesis changes during the breeding period, turning from androgens to C(21)-steroids such as 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha,20alpha-diol, 3alpha-hydroxy-5alpha-pregnan-20-one and 5alpha-pregnan-3,20-dione. In B. arenarum, steroid hormones are not involved in hCG-induced spermiation, suggesting that the steroidogenic shift to C(21)-steroids during the breeding be not related to spermiation. The activity of 17-hydroxylase-C(17-20) lyase (CypP450(c17)) decreases during the reproductive season, suggesting that this enzyme would represent a key enzyme in the regulation of seasonal changes. However, the increase in the affinity for pregnenolone of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3alphaHSD)/isomerase could also be involved. Moreover, the reduction in CypP450(c17) leading to a reduction in C(19)-steroids, among them dehydroepiandrosterone (DHE), would contribute to the conversion of pregnenolone into progesterone, avoiding the non-competitive inhibition exerted by DHE on this transformation. Additionally, CypP450(c17) possesses a higher affinity for pregnenolone than for progesterone, explaining the predominance of the 5-ene pathway for testosterone biosynthesis. Animals in reproductive condition showed a significant reduction in circulating androgens, enhancing the physiological relevance of all the in vitro results. The in vitro effects of mGnRH and hrFSH on testicular steroidogenesis revealed that both hormones inhibited CypP450(c17) activity. In summary, these results demonstrate that, in B. arenarum, the change in testicular steroidogenesis during the reproductive period could be partially due to an FSH and GnRH-induced decrease in CypP450(c17) activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis F Canosa
- PRHOM-CONICET and Laboratorio de Endocrinología Comparada, Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Pabellón II, Ciudad Universitaria, C1428EHA Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Pierantoni R, Cobellis G, Meccariello R, Fasano S. Evolutionary aspects of cellular communication in the vertebrate hypothalamo-hypophysio-gonadal axis. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 2003; 218:69-141. [PMID: 12199520 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(02)18012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
This review emphasizes the comparative approach for developing insight into knowledge related to cellular communications occurring in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Indeed, research on adaptive phenomena leads to evolutionary tracks. Thus, going through recent results, we suggest that pheromonal communication precedes local communication which, in turn, precedes communication via the blood stream. Furthermore, the use of different routes of communication by a certain mediator leads to a conceptual change related to what hormones are. Nevertheless, endocrine communication should leave out of consideration the source (glandular or not) of mediator. Finally, we point out that the use of lower vertebrate animal models is fundamental to understanding general physiological mechanisms. In fact, different anatomical organization permits access to tissues not readily approachable in mammals.
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Guerriero G, Ciarcia G. Progesterone receptor: some viewpoints on hypothalamic seasonal fluctuations in a lower vertebrate. BRAIN RESEARCH. BRAIN RESEARCH REVIEWS 2001; 37:172-7. [PMID: 11744085 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0173(01)00117-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Steroids secreted by the ovary, specifically estrogen and progesterone, influence the expression of behaviors associated with reproduction by interacting with a specific binding protein, or receptor, located in target cells in certain hypothalamic nuclei. The present paper reviews the progesterone receptor studies in the vertebrates brain, the progesterone receptor fluctuations throughout the reproductive cycle and suggests a role for progesterone receptors in the regulation of hypothalamic functions in amphibians. Furthermore, we report here a combined biochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of the hypothalamic progesterone receptor during the reproductive cycle of a lower vertebrate, the female amphibian anura Rana esculenta. 3H-Progesterone binding activity was found in both cytosol and nuclear extract samples. The progesterone binding moiety showed typical characteristics of a true receptor, such as high affinity, low capacity and specificity for progesterone. Further characterization was performed by using monoclonal antiserum raised against both the subunits A and B of the chicken progesterone receptor. Immunostained neurons were located mainly in two specific regions of the hypothalamus: the preoptic area and the infundibular hypothalamus. An immunoreactive band of about 67 kDa was observed using Western blotting, both in the cytosol and in the nuclear extract. Progesterone receptor levels fluctuated throughout the cycle along with plasma steroids and vitellogenin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Guerriero
- Department of Zoology, Federico II University, Via Mezzocannone 8, 80134, Naples, Italy.
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22
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Gobbetti A, Bellini-Cardellini L, Zerani M. Role of nitric oxide in gonadotropin-releasing hormone-dependent prostaglandin F2 alpha synthesis by frog (Rana esculenta) interrenal gland during post-reproduction. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 1998; 55:277-90. [PMID: 9653767 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-6980(98)00026-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to clarify the possible involvement of nitric oxide (NO) on prostaglandin (PG) E2-9-ketoreductase activity in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-dependent PGF2 alpha synthesis by the interrenal gland of the female water frog, Rana esculenta, during the post-reproduction. Interrenal glands were incubated in vitro with GnRH, NO donor (sodium nitroprusside, SNP), and inhibitors of phospholipase C (compound 48/80), inositol triphosphate (decavanadate), calmodulin (calmidazolium), NO synthase (L-NAME), and PGE2-9-ketoreductase (palmitic acid). Production of PGE2 and PGF2 alpha and NO synthase and PGE2-9-ketoreductase activities were determined. GnRH and SNP increased PGF2 alpha production and PGE2-9-ketoreductase activity, and decreased production of PGE2 and GnRH increased NO synthase activity. GnRH effects were blocked by all inhibitors, except for palmitic acid, which did not affect NO synthase activity, which is increased by GnRH. This study indicates that NO may be involved in regulation of the R. esculenta post-reproduction through stimulation of PGE2-9-ketoreductase activity in GnRH-dependent PGF2 alpha synthesis by the frog interrenal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy.
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23
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Epstein MS, Blackburn DG. Histology and histochemistry of androgen-stimulated nuptial pads in the leopard frog, Rana pipiens, with notes on nuptial gland evolution. CAN J ZOOL 1997. [DOI: 10.1139/z97-057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Nuptial pads are digital specializations of male frogs that cycle with the reproductive season and are considered to function in mating. Glandular secretions of the nuptial pads were analyzed histochemically in androgen-stimulated overwintering leopard frogs, Rana pipiens, to provide information on gland function and physiological control. In castrated and sham-operated male frogs treated with testosterone cypionate, the secretory product of the nuptial gland epithelium stained positive for carbohydrates and proteins, yet negative for lipids and glycogen. Secretions also stained positive for tyrosine residues and negative for acidic mucosubstances, sulphated mucosubstances, tryptophan, and cystine. Castration prior to hormone treatment had no effect on gland staining properties, and glands of cholesterol-treated castrates and intact controls appeared to be inactive cytochemically. Nuptial glands of frogs treated with 5-α-dihydrotestosterone were histologically similar to those of frogs treated with testosterone cypionate. Nuptial glands share structural and functional characteristics with integumentary mucous glands, and may have been modified evolutionary from that parent gland population.
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Carnevali O, Sabbieti MG, Mosconi G, Polzonetti-Magni AM. Multihormonal control of vitellogenin mRNA expression in the liver of frog, Rana esculenta. Mol Cell Endocrinol 1995; 114:19-25. [PMID: 8674844 DOI: 10.1016/0303-7207(95)03637-m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In Rana esculenta in an in vitro system, hepatic vitellogenin synthesis can be induced by growth hormone in both sexes. In this study: (1) the ability of this hormone to induce transcription of the VTG gene was determined, and (2) this ability was compared with that of estradiol-17 beta. The results indicate that growth hormone stimulates VTG mRNA transcription both in vivo and in vitro, in both sexes. The levels of mRNA are related to protein levels in the medium. In addition, seasonal variation occurs in the VTG gene transcription under growth hormone and estradiol-17 beta; indeed the more active inducer was growth hormone during the reproductive period and estradiol-17 beta during the preproductive phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Carnevali
- Department of Biology (MCA), University of Camerino, Italy
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25
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Fasano S, D'Antonio M, Chieffi P, Cobellis G, Pierantoni R. Chicken GnRH-II and salmon GnRH effects on plasma and testicular androgen concentrations in the male frog, Rana esculenta, during the annual reproductive cycle. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART C, PHARMACOLOGY, TOXICOLOGY & ENDOCRINOLOGY 1995; 112:79-86. [PMID: 8564791 DOI: 10.1016/0742-8413(95)00078-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In the frog, Rana esculenta, two molecular forms of GnRH, coeluting with chicken (c) GnRH-II and salmon (s) GnRH, have been detected using HPLC and radioimmunoassay. Mammalian (m) GnRH seems to be also present. In amphibians the role of cGnRH-II seems to be primarily the involvement in the regulation of neuroendocrine processes and, while the mGnRH has been postulated to act as a neurotransmitter and/or neuromodulator, the activity of sGnRH-like material has not been investigated. Therefore, we have treated the frogs with single or multiple injections of cGnRH-II or sGnRH (6 micrograms) or both peptides (6 micrograms of each) to detect differences in the response measured as testicular or plasma androgen (testosterone plus 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone) concentration during the annual reproductive cycle. The basal profile of testicular and plasma androgen shows that the spring peak disappeared in control animals given multiple injections and kept in short-term captivity. We show in the treatment with cGnRH-II and/or sGnRH that the effects of the peptides depend on the season, the experimental design, and the tissue in which androgen levels were measured. In particular, both peptides strongly stimulate androgen production during the autumn-winter period, the time of the greater response to the GnRHs when basal levels of steroids are highest.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fasano
- Dipartimento di Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate F. Bottazzi, II Università di Napoli, Italy
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26
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Dawley EM, Crowder J. Sexual and seasonal differences in the vomeronasal epithelium of the red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus). J Comp Neurol 1995; 359:382-90. [PMID: 7499536 DOI: 10.1002/cne.903590303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Sexually dimorphic behaviors often are associated with sexually dimorphic neural structures. Perinatal hormonal levels influence structural sexual dimorphism, and seasonal structural changes also can be the result of seasonal hormonal fluctuations. We compared the volume of vomeronasal organs of male and female red-backed salamanders (Plethodon cinereus) throughout the year. Odorants are delivered to vomeronasal receptors through nasolabial grooves when salamanders touch the bases of these grooves to objects (nose tapping). Males may locate and identify potential mates through nose tapping during the prolonged breeding season that lasts from October through May. We compared vomeronasal organ data through multiple regression by using total body size, sex, and season as variables that may influence vomeronasal organ volume. Gonads also were examined as an indicator of reproductive status. Total body size and sex significantly affect vomeronasal organ volume; as body size increases, so does vomeronasal organ volume, and males have significantly larger vomeronasal organs than females at all times of the year. During the summer, both males and females have larger vomeronasal organs than at any other time of the year. Summer also is a period of intense foraging and the initiation of a new cycle of gametogenesis. Previous studies of circulating hormone levels in amphibians have shown that the initial stages of gametogenesis correspond to a period of low estradiol and testosterone levels but high gonadotropin-releasing hormone levels. The functional significance of sexual and seasonal differences in the vomeronasal organs of P. cinereus may relate to the neurogenesis of specialized receptors for courtship and mating.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Dawley
- Department of Biology, Ursinus College, Collegeville, Pennsylvania 19426, USA
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27
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Battisti A, Vallarino M, Carnevali O, Fasano S, Polzonetti-Magni A, Pierantoni R. Detection and localization of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-like material in the frog, Rana esculenta, ovary. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART A, PHYSIOLOGY 1994; 109:1097-103. [PMID: 7828025 DOI: 10.1016/0300-9629(94)90259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
GnRH-like material has been identified using HPLC followed by RIA in the ovary of Rana esculenta. During the reproductive cycle three immunoreactive GnRH peaks were eluted. One of them coeluted with s-GnRH, the other two forms between GnRH and cII-GnRH. During the recovery phase s-GnRH immunoreactivity disappears. By immunocytochemistry, cII-GnRH immunostaining was localized to granulosa cells while s-GnRH was present in the perinuclear zone of the oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Battisti
- Dipartimento di Biologia MCA, Università di Camerino, Italy
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28
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Giacoma C, Halliday T, Lodi L, Lupo C. Corticosterone and androgen plasma levels in male toadsBufo bufoduring the reproductive period. ETHOL ECOL EVOL 1994. [DOI: 10.1080/08927014.1994.9522979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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29
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Lupo C, Lodi L, Giacoma C, Halliday T. Testosterone binding sites in the brain, plasma sex hormones and reproductive behaviour in males of the toad Bufo bufo. Behav Processes 1993; 30:93-102. [DOI: 10.1016/0376-6357(93)90001-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/12/1993] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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30
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M, Cardellini LB. Relationships among mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone, prostaglandins, and sex steroids in the brain of the crested newt, Triturus carnifex. PROSTAGLANDINS 1992; 44:209-18. [PMID: 1410526 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(92)90014-k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The present study was carried out to evaluate the in vitro brain release of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), androgens, and 17 beta-estradiol in male and female crested newt, Triturus carnifex, during three different periods of the annual sexual cycle; in addition, the effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (mGnRH), PGF2 alpha, and PGE2 on prostaglandins and steroids release by the brain were evaluated during the same periods. In brain incubations of both sexes, PGF2 alpha and estradiol were higher during postreproduction, while PGE2 and androgens were higher during reproduction. In both sexes, mGnRH increased PGF2 alpha and estradiol during postreproduction, and PGE2 during reproduction; PGF2 alpha increased estradiol secretion during postreproduction. Only in the male, did both mGnRH and PGE2 increase androgens during reproduction. It could be suggested that in Triturus carnifex, the regulation of the reproductive activity in the central nervous system (CNS) depends on the relationships among mGnRH, prostaglandins and steroids. In particular, PGF2 alpha and PGE2 seem to play different roles in the CNS of the newt: PGF2 alpha is involved in the postreproductive processes, through estradiol secretion, while PGE2 in the reproductive ones (through androgens secretion?).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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31
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M. Prostaglandin E2 and reproduction in the male crested newt,Triturus carnifex (Laur.). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1992. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.1402630208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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32
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Panno M, Beraldi E, Sisci D, Salerno M, Buffone M, Aquila S, Pezzi V, Bolelli G, Andó S. Changes of intratesticular sex steroid concentrations during the annual spermatogenic cycle of male lizards Podarcis sicula. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1992. [DOI: 10.1016/0300-9629(92)90726-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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33
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Paolucci M, Di Fiore MM, Ciarcia G, Botte V. Plasma sex steroid binding proteins (SSBP) in the male lizard, Podarcis s. sicula, during the reproductive cycle. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1992; 87:232-9. [PMID: 1398017 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(92)90027-h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In male Podarcis s. sicula plasma, a sex steroid binding protein [SSBP(s)] binds testosterone (T) and estradiol-17 beta (E2) with moderate affinity (Kd = 0.23 +/- 0.08 x 10(-8) for 3H-E2, and 0.24 +/- 0.07 x 10(-8) for 3H-T) and high capacity. The SSBP binding affinity is unchanged throughout the sexual cycle, although its capacity is higher in nonreproductive males (winter and postreproductive period). This change may be related to changes in plasma T and E2 levels, and is likely to be involved in mechanisms whereby free steroid is delivered to target organs. SSBP, under isoelectrofocusing, is distributed between pH 5.5-6.5 and pH 7.1-7.5. The concentration of these two forms varies during the annual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Paolucci
- Dipartimento di Zoologia, Università di Napoli, Italy
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34
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M. A possible involvement of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in Rana esculenta ovulation: effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone on in vitro PGF2 alpha and 17 beta-estradiol production from ovary and oviduct. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1992; 87:163-70. [PMID: 1398010 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(92)90018-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The present work studied the PGF2 alpha and 17 beta-estradiol plasma levels during ovulation, and the in vitro effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (mGnRH) on ovarian and oviductal production of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and 17 beta-estradiol during four different stages of the annual sexual cycle in water frog, Rana esculenta. Plasma levels of PGF2 alpha increased in ovulating frogs, with respect to preovulatory and postovulatory levels, while estradiol did not change. In addition, mGnRH increased PGF2 alpha and 17 beta-estradiol in the incubation media of ovaries taken during the recovery stage. Moreover, mGnRH increased PGF2 alpha in incubation media of oviducts collected during the reproductive stage. These findings suggest that PGF2 alpha could be involved in the control of egg deposition in the female R.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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35
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Zerani M, Gobbetti A. In vivo and in vitro studies on the effects of mGnRH on oestradiol-17 beta inter-renal production in the female frog, Rana esculenta, during the post-reproductive period. ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA 1992; 145:377-84. [PMID: 1529724 DOI: 10.1111/j.1748-1716.1992.tb09378.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Plasma oestradiol-17 beta was measured by RIA, in female, Rana esculenta, submitted to hypophysectomy, gonadectomy, or both, and treated with mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (mGnRH), homologous pituitary homogenate, or both, during the post-reproductive period. In addition, the oestradiol-17 beta release was measured in in vitro incubations of ovaries or interrenals treated with mGnRH, pituitary, or both, during the same period. In vivo and in vitro mGnRH and/or pituitary directly stimulated the production of oestradiol-17 beta by the interrenal, but not by ovary, although the stimulatory effects of the pituitary are minor and delayed with respect to those of mGnRH. These results seem to indicate that mGnRH and pituitary, with probably different mechanisms, stimulate the interrenal to produce high levels of oestradiol which is involved in the post-reproductive refractoriness.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Zerani
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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36
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Carnevali O, Mosconi G. In vitro induction of vitellogenin synthesis in Rana esculenta: role of the pituitary. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1992; 86:352-8. [PMID: 1398001 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(92)90060-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Vitellogenin (VTG), a complex protein, is a precursor of yolk protein (lipovitellin and phosvitin) in all oviparous vertebrates studied to date. In amphibians, as in other oviparous vertebrates, VTG synthesis is hormonally dependent; estradiol-17 beta (E2) is especially important, although in vivo in the frog Rana esculenta the pituitary may be involved in hepatic VTG synthesis and secretion. The present in vitro experiments carried out during the main phases of the annual reproductive cycle of this frog showed that homologous pituitary homogenate (HPH), as well as E2, stimulated VTG synthesis in male and female livers, although their patterns of VTG secretion showed some differences with respect to the induction time and the rate of VTG secretion. The hepatic response to HPH occurred after a longer time than that of E2 VTG induction, and no cooperation between HPH and E2 was found in the VTG synthesizing response. It should be emphasized that during the refractory period (July), hepatic VTG synthesis in males and females could only be induced by HPH. These data demonstrate, for the first time, a direct action of HPH on VTG synthesis in male and female frog livers in all the periods tested; hepatic responsiveness to HPH and E2 varies with season and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Carnevali
- Department of Biology (MCA) University of Camerino, Italy
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37
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Cobbetti A, Zerani M. PGF2 alpha, PGE2, and sex steroids from the abdominal gland of the male crested newt Triturus carnifex (Laur.). PROSTAGLANDINS 1992; 43:101-9. [PMID: 1542738 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(92)90079-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), progesterone, androgens, and 17 beta-estradiol in vitro release by the abdominal gland of the crested newt, Triturus carnifex (Laur.), was studied during the prereproductive, reproductive and postreproductive periods. In addition, the in vitro effects of the PGF2 alpha and/or PGE2 on progesterone, androgens and estradiol release by the abdominal gland were evaluated. PGF2 alpha, PGE2 and progesterone release was higher during the reproductive period, and in the same period, PGE2 treatment induced a progesterone increase. PGF2 alpha induced an increase of abdominal gland estradiol release at the end of the reproductive period. These results seemed to confirm the pheromonal role assigned to progesterone, and suggested a PGE2 stimulatory role in inducing progesterone release, even if pheromonal activity of PGF2 alpha and PGE2 cannot be excluded. In addition, PGF2 alpha-dependent estradiol increase at the end of reproduction could be interpreted as a mechanism for interruption of the abdominal gland activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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38
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Pestarino M, Vallarino M, Polzonetti-Magni A, Carnevali O, Mosconi G, Facchinetti F. Occurrence of immunoreactive Met- and Leu-enkephalin-like peptides in the ovary of the green frog, Rana esculenta. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1992; 85:118-23. [PMID: 1563612 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(92)90179-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we have localized for the first time Met- and Leu-enkephalin-like material in the ovary of the anuran, Rana esculenta, using the indirect immunofluorescence method. The ovaries were sampled during the main representative phases of the annual reproductive cycle of the frog, living in a mountain pond (Colfiorito, Umbria at 820 m a.s.l.). Strong immunoreactivity to Met- and Leu-enkephalin antisera was observed in the follicle cells of the granulosa layer of vitellogenic oocytes; moreover, during this phase, immunofluorescent materials were also radially localized in the cytoplasm and in the perinuclear zone. The mature oocytes showed Met- and Leu-enkephalin-like immunostaining in the thecal layer and in several granules scattered in the peripheral zone of the yolk. The different pattern of Leu- and Met-enkephalin-like immunoreactivity in the frog ovary parallels and complements the changes occurring in the reproductive (May) and in the vitellogenetic (September) phases during the ovarian cycle. Consequently, these findings strongly support the hypothesis for a local synthesis of these peptides in the ovary and suggest their possible involvement in the control of ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pestarino
- Institute of Comparative Anatomy, University of Genoa, Italy
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39
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40
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Facchinetti F, Genazzani AR, Pestarino M, Vallarino M, Pierantoni R, Fasano S, D'Antonio M, Carnevali O, Mosconi G, Polzonetti-Magni A. Ovarian opioids and the reproductive cycle of the frog Rana esculenta. Life Sci 1992; 50:1389-98. [PMID: 1573972 DOI: 10.1016/0024-3205(92)90257-p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, proopiomelanocortin-related peptides are involved in reproductive processes both at the hypothalamo-pituitary and ovarian levels. Using immunocytochemical, biochemical and physiological "in vitro" studies, we provide here evidence for a diffuse POMC-related opioid system in the frog Rana esculenta. Ovarian beta-endorphin (beta-EP) is expressed in thecal cells and changes during the reproductive cycle in an inverse relationship with follicular development. Seasonal changes in the ovary are different to those in the brain or in the pituitary. The ratio of acetylated vs native beta-EP in the ovary also changes over the reproductive period, affecting the biological activity of the peptide. During both the reproductive spring period and the summer post-reproductive phase pMol amounts of beta-EP stimulate follicular androgen secretion in vitro, in a naloxone-reversible way. In either period, an inhibition of estradiol, possibly mediated via other factors, is the result of opioid action. In conclusion, these data demonstrate for the first time the widespread presence of beta-EP-related peptides in the frog Rana esculenta. Both immunocytochemical and biochemical evidence, as well as in vitro responses, support a physiological role for beta-EP in ovarian seasonality during the reproductive cycle of this amphibian.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Facchinetti
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena, Italy
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41
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Carnevali O, Mosconi G, Angelini F, Limatola E, Ciarcia G, Polzonetti-Magni A. Plasma vitellogenin and 17 beta-estradiol levels during the annual reproductive cycle of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 84:337-43. [PMID: 1808014 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90079-l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Plasma vitellogenin and 17 beta-estradiol concentration were determined during the annual reproductive cycle of the female lizard Podarcis s. sicula Raf. living around Naples. Plasma vitellogenin was purified from estrogenized males for characterization and to raise specific immune serum. Using ELISA, plasma vitellogenin titers were determined in relation to ovary weight; plasma 17 beta-estradiol was measured by RIA method. Native vitellogenin was present as two polypeptide bands: alpha and beta. The electrophoretic patterns, studied in normal male and estrogenized male and female, showed vitellogenin to be a protein present in female and in estrogenized male plasma but not in normal males. Lizard monomeric VTG, determined by SDS-PAGE, was about 200 kDa. Correlations between seasonal ovarian weight variations and plasma vitellogenin and 17 beta-estradiol suggest that ovarian development in Podarcis depends on plasma vitellogenin synthesis, which in turn relies on plasma estradiol levels. The two ovulatory waves observed in this study coincided with the two peak values of plasma vitellogenin and 17 beta-estradiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Carnevali
- Department of Biology (MCA), University of Camerino, Italy
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42
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulates biosynthesis of prostaglandin F2 alpha by the interrenal gland of the water frog, Rana esculenta, in vitro. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 84:434-9. [PMID: 1808024 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90092-k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The present study was carried out to evaluate the in vitro effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (mGnRH) on the production of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and sex steroids (progesterone, androgens, and 17 beta-estradiol) by the interrenal gland of male and female Rana esculenta during three different periods of the sexual annual cycle. In both sexes, mGnRH induced a significant increase in PGF2 alpha in the incubation medium in all examined periods. Progesterone and androgens were undetectable, while 17 beta-estradiol was significantly increased by mGnRH in interrenals incubated during the postreproductive period in both sexes. These results suggest that R. esculenta interrenals could be a GnRH-dependent PGF2 alpha-secreting tissue. In addition, the simultaneous increase in PGF2 alpha and estradiol from postreproductive cultured interrenals support the notion that mGnRH-induced estradiol synthesis is mediated through PGF2 alpha formation. This finding, taken together with other previous studies, strongly suggests that the end of the breeding period in R. esculenta depends on GnRH-induced PGF2 alpha-mediated enhancement of estradiol synthesis in a steroidogenetic organ (probably interrenals).
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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43
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M, Mosconi G, Botte V. Effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone on plasma level of prostaglandin F2 alpha in the water frog, Rana esculenta. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 84:9-15. [PMID: 1778413 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90059-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The present investigation was performed to evaluate the effects of mammalian gonadotropin-releasing hormone (mGnRH) on prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) plasma level in adult male and female water frog, Rana esculenta, during three different periods of the reproductive cycle: recovery period (October), breeding period (May), and postreproductive period (June). Intact, hypophysectomized (HYP), gonadectomized (GON), and hypophysectomized-and-gonadectomized (HYP/GON) animals were injected with 0.6 micrograms of mGnRH and sacrificed 1 hr and 5 hr after peptide administration. Some of each of the groups were sacrificed without having received mGnRH. PGF2 alpha plasma levels were assessed by radioimmunoassay. Hypophysectomy induced a significant increase of PGF2 alpha levels in October and June males. mGnRH induced a significant increase of PGF2 alpha plasma levels only in HYP and HYP/GON frogs. The tissue target of this GnRH action is, at present, unknown, although interrenals could be putative responsive tissues. At present, it is also difficult to assign any physiological role to observed phenomena unless to suppose that the pituitary inhibition is not constant throughout the year. It cannot be excluded that the prostaglandin induction depends on a local paracrine action of GnRH, which could be performed outside any pituitary control.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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44
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M, Cardellini LB, Botte V. Plasma prostaglandin F2 alpha and reproduction in the female Triturus carnifex (Laur.). PROSTAGLANDINS 1991; 42:269-77. [PMID: 1780444 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(91)90115-v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Plasma patterns of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and sex hormones (progesterone, androgens and 17 beta-estradiol) have been studied in the female crested newt, Triturus carnifex (Laur.), during the annual sexual cycle. The effects of exogenous PGF2 alpha on sex hormones were determined. In addition, the effects of one week's captivity on plasma PGF2 alpha and sex hormones were reported. PGF2 alpha plasma level peaked in April, was low in summer, and progressively increased during the autumn to peak again in December. The April PGF2 alpha coincided with a 17 beta-estradiol rise, and with a progesterone drop. The autumn PGF2 alpha increase was coupled to a 17 beta-estradiol rise, and therefore it has been tentatively related to ovary and oviduct development. In newts collected in April, moreover, a PGF2 alpha-dependent 17 beta-estradiol synthesis could occur, since PGF2 alpha injection induced a significant 17 beta-estradiol plasma increase. These findings led us to suppose that PGF2 alpha intervenes in spring breeding season termination through the induction of a 17 beta-estradiol synthesis as in other amphibian species. PGF2 alpha injection caused a progesterone decrease, probably by inducing corpora lutea lysis. The patterns of plasma sex hormones were consistent with the results reported for the same newt species.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Animal Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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45
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Zerani M, Vellano C, Amabili F, Carnevali O, Andreoletti GE, Polzonetti-Magni A. Sex steroid profile and plasma vitellogenin during the annual reproductive cycle of the crested newt (Triturus carnifex Laur.). Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 82:337-44. [PMID: 1879651 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90308-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The annual reproductive cycle of the crested newt, Triturus carnifex, has been studied in the field. Temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and photoperiod were recorded throughout the year. Adult male and female newts were sampled monthly; snout vent lengths, crest heights of males, and body ovarian, oviducal, testicular, and abdominal gland weights were recorded. Plasma samples were assayed for androgen, estradiol-17 beta, and progesterone by radioimmunoassay and for vitellogenin by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Air, deep water, water surface, and soil temperatures were low from October to March, but increased in April and May without consistent summer variations. Ovarian and oviducal weights increased in October to reach maximum values between January and March (reproductive period). Crest height and abdominal gland weight in males mirrored the ovarian and oviducal pattern, while testicular weights were maximal in October and November. In females, plasma androgens were high during the reproductive period, and plasma estradiol peaked sharply in March, while plasma progesterone changed little. In the males plasma androgen and estradiol concentrations were similar to those of females, while plasma progesterone was significantly correlated with the cycle in testicular weight. In both sexes androgens showed a significantly negative correlation with air and water surface temperature. Plasma vitellogenin peaked in March but it did not correlate with either ovarian weight or plasma estradiol concentrations. These data support and confirm those previously reported for newts under laboratory conditions. The negative correlation between androgens and temperature suggests that this hormone may trigger the reproductive process. Moreover the correlations between plasma progesterone and testicular weight may indicate that this hormone is involved in male newts reproduction.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- M Zerani
- Department of Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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46
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M, Bolelli GF, Botte V. Seasonal changes in plasma prostaglandin F2 alpha and sex hormones in the male water frog, Rana esculenta. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 82:331-6. [PMID: 1879650 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90307-r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha), progesterone, androgens (testosterone + dihydrotestosterone), and 17 beta-estradiol were measured in the plasma of male frogs, Rana esculenta, by radioimmunoassays. Plasma concentrations of PGF2 alpha were higher from October to December and peaked in March (prereproduction) and in June (postreproduction). Plasma progesterone levels were relatively low but showed an increase from October to December and in June. Plasma androgen titres rapidly increased in early spring, started to fall during the reproductive period (May), and were lowest in July. 17 beta-Estradiol levels peaked in March and in June. The annual profile of the plasma PGF2 alpha levels was positively correlated with those of progesterone and androgens, while it was not correlated to the estradiol plasma pattern, except in March and June. The increase in plasma PGF2 alpha in the autumn may be related to gonadal recovery. The simultaneous increases in PGF2 alpha and 17 beta-estradiol, both in March and June, suggest a PGF2 alpha-dependent estradiol synthesis, a possibility also supported by the increased plasma 17 beta-estradiol previously observed in PGF2 alpha-treated postreproductive females. The effects of captivity and castration on plasma PGF2 alpha concentrations were also studied during the annual cycle. Captivity was associated with a reduced PGF2 alpha titre, while castration did not modify prostaglandin synthesis, which may point to an extragonadal source of plasma PGF2 alpha.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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Mosconi G, Carnevali O, Polzonetti AM. Ovarian development and sex steroid hormones during the reproductive cycle of Podarcis s. sicula Raf. Gynecol Endocrinol 1991; 5:7-13. [PMID: 1897381 DOI: 10.3109/09513599109049937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Variations in ovary weight and seasonal changes in plasma androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone have been studied during the reproductive cycle of female Podarcis s. sicula Raf. Adult female Podarcis were captured in the surroundings of Naples during the years 1988 and 1989. Ten lizards were sampled monthly (except in February, August, October and December). Ovaries and oviducts were submitted to morphological examination, and in the blood samples androgens, 17 beta-estradiol and progesterone were assessed by the radioimmunoassay (RIA) method. Ovary weight, expressed as the gonadosomatic index (GSI), presented two statistically significant peak values in April and June, related to the ovulatory waves observed in this study. Several shelled oocytes were also found in the oviducts in this period. Progesterone titers mirrored the modifications of GSI and a very significant correlation (p less than 0.001) between the two parameters can be ascertained. Androgens increased in early spring, peaked in April, and low levels of androgens were found in September and during the winter months. Estradiol titers reached the peak values in March, and, after a sharp decrease in April, remained high until the winter months. The results reported here substantiate the periovulatory changes of the three major gonadal steroids during the annual ovarian cycle of Podarcis s. sicula.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Mosconi
- Dipartimento di Biologia MCA, Università di Camerino, Italy
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Fasano S, D'Antonio M, Pierantoni R. Sites of action of local estradiol feedback mechanism in the frog (Rana esculenta) testis. Gen Comp Endocrinol 1991; 81:492-9. [PMID: 2055446 DOI: 10.1016/0016-6480(91)90177-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The direct effect of estradiol on testicular androgen biosynthesis was studied in the frog, Rana esculenta, measuring progesterone, 17 alpha-OH-progesterone, androstenedione, and androgens (T + DHT) in supernatants and testes incubated (6 hr, 15 degrees) with estradiol alone (10(-6) M) or in combination with crude pituitary homogenate (1 pituitary equivalent/tube). Estradiol, either alone or in combination with pituitary homogenate, induced decreases of 17 alpha-OH-progesterone, androstenedione, and androgens but was ineffective in modulating progesterone levels. Pituitary homogenate was effective in inducing a significant increase of androstenedione and androgens but was ineffective in modulating both progesterone and 17 alpha-OH-progesterone production. It is concluded that estradiol acts by decreasing the activity of steroidogenic enzymes starting from 17 alpha-hydroxylase, while pituitary homogenate does not affect the 17 alpha-hydroxylase activity, but it acts starting from 17,20-lyase.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Fasano
- Dipartimento di Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate F. Bottazzi, I Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Napoli, Italy
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49
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Zerani M, Amabili F, Mosconi G, Gobbetti A. Effects of captivity stress on plasma steroid levels in the green frog, rana esculenta, during the annual reproductive cycle. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1991. [DOI: 10.1016/0300-9629(91)90436-g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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50
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Gobbetti A, Zerani M, Botte V. Plasma prostaglandin F2 alpha in the male Triturus carnifex (Laur.) during the reproductive annual cycle and effects of exogenous prostaglandin on sex hormones. PROSTAGLANDINS 1991; 41:67-74. [PMID: 2020747 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(91)90106-p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Plasma patterns of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) and sex hormones (progesterone, androgens and 17 beta-estradiol) have been studied in the male crested newt, Triturus carnifex (Laur.), during the sexual cycle. The effects of exogenous PGF2 alpha on sex steroids have also been observed. In addition, effects of one week's captivity are reported. The patterns of plasma sex hormones, during the annual cycle, are consistent with the results previously reported for the same newt species. PGF2 alpha plasma level peaks in April, is low in summer, and progressively increases during autumn to peak again in December. The April PGF2 alpha peak coincides with a plasma estradiol increase and with an androgens drop. In April-collected newts, moreover, PGF2 alpha treatment induces a significant estradiol increase. These findings lead us to suppose that at the end of the breeding season (April) a PGF2 alpha-dependent estradiol synthesis occurs which could be implied in reproductive period termination. In several vertebrates, including some amphibian species, in fact, chronic administration of estradiol results in a strong inhibition of testicular endocrine tissue activity. The putative role of PGF2 alpha-dependent estradiol production in the gonadal regulation in amphibia living in temperate zones is discussed. The autumn PGF2 alpha increase has been tentatively related to the recovery gonadal processes and secondary sexual character development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gobbetti
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Camerino, Italy
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