1
|
Brown EC, Hallinger DR, Simmons SO. High-throughput AR dimerization assay identifies androgen disrupting chemicals and metabolites. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2023; 5:1134783. [PMID: 37082740 PMCID: PMC10112521 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2023.1134783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Analysis of streamlined computational models used to predict androgen disrupting chemicals revealed that assays measuring androgen receptor (AR) cofactor recruitment/dimerization were particularly indispensable to high predictivity, especially for AR antagonists. As the original dimerization assays used to develop the minimal assay models are no longer available, new assays must be established and evaluated as suitable alternatives to assess chemicals beyond the original 1,800+ supported by the current data. Here we present the AR2 assay, which is a stable, cell-based method that uses an enzyme complementation approach.Methods: Bipartite domains of the NanoLuc luciferase enzyme were fused to the human AR to quantitatively measure ligand-dependent AR homodimerization. 128 chemicals with known endocrine activity profiles including 43 AR reference chemicals were screened in agonist and antagonist modes and compared to the legacy assays. Test chemicals were rescreened in both modes using a retrofit method to incorporate robust cytochrome P450 (CYP) metabolism to assess CYP-mediated shifts in bioactivity.Results: The AR2 assay is amenable to high-throughput screening with excellent robust Z’-factors (rZ’) for both agonist (0.94) and antagonist (0.85) modes. The AR2 assay successfully classified known agonists (balanced accuracy = 0.92) and antagonists (balanced accuracy = 0.79–0.88) as well as or better than the legacy assays with equal or higher estimated potencies. The subsequent reevaluation of the 128 chemicals tested in the presence of individual human CYP enzymes changed the activity calls for five compounds and shifted the estimated potencies for several others.Discussion: This study shows the AR2 assay is well suited to replace the previous AR dimerization assays in a revised computational model to predict AR bioactivity for parent chemicals and their metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evan C. Brown
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science Education Fellow, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Daniel R. Hallinger
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Steven O. Simmons
- Rapid Assay Development Branch, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Steven O. Simmons,
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Khalilzadeh E, Aliyoldashi M, Abdkarimi B, Azarpey F, Vafaei Saiah G, Hazrati R, Caspani O. Reversal of cold intolerance by testosterone in orchiectomized mice after tibial nerve transection. Behav Brain Res 2023; 441:114269. [PMID: 36574845 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.114269] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cold intolerance is a debilitating effect of nerve injury, has a strong impact on the life of patients and no advisable treatment exists against it. Testosterone influences pain pathways and has analgesic effects. A recent study showed testosterone as being an agonist of TRPM8, the predominant ion channel that contributes to cold hypersensitivity after injury. We investigated the effect of testosterone on cold sensitivity after nerve injury. Specifically, using the double plate test (DPT) (thermo-neutral-plate: 31 ºC and cold-plate: 18 ºC) we determined the thermal preference of mice at different points during the study design consisting of: orchiectomy, tibial nerve transection (TNT) (30 days after orchiectomy), 15-days-repeated subcutaneous injections of testosterone enanthate (250 or 500 µg/kg/day) or vehicle (started 12 h after TNT surgery). Different parameters such as time spent on cold plates, distance traveled, animal speed on the cold- and thermo-neutral-plates were determined in naïve, sham and neuropathic animals. Neither orchiectomy nor sham TNT surgery generate effects on cold intolerance and animal activity while TNT surgery decreased the time spent on the cold-plate and the distance traveled during DPT. Testosterone administration reversed the effect of nerve injury, decreasing the cold hypersensitivity and increasing activity of TNT mice. However, the effect of testosterone on cold avoidance reduced with time and at 14 days after TNT surgery, a higher dose was needed to reverse the effect generated by nerve injury. This indicates that although testosterone administration has a positive effect on cold intolerance, it might not be suitable for prolongated treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emad Khalilzadeh
- Division of physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Neurophysiology Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Ludolf-Krehl-Str., 68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Mohammadhassan Aliyoldashi
- Division of physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Babak Abdkarimi
- Division of physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farzin Azarpey
- Division of physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Neurophysiology Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Ludolf-Krehl-Str., 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Gholamreza Vafaei Saiah
- Division of physiology, Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Hazrati
- Brain Research Center, Laval University, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ombretta Caspani
- Neurophysiology Department, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Ludolf-Krehl-Str., 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Drea CM, Davies CS. Meerkat manners: Endocrine mediation of female dominance and reproductive control in a cooperative breeder. Horm Behav 2022; 145:105245. [PMID: 35988450 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105245] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue (Hormones and Hierarchies). To gain more balanced understanding of sexual selection and mammalian sexual differentiation processes, this review addresses behavioral sex differences and hormonal mediators of intrasexual competition in the meerkat (Suricata suricatta) - a cooperative breeder unusual among vertebrates in its female aggression, degree of reproductive skew, and phenotypic divergence. Focused on the evolution, function, mechanism, and development of female dominance, the male remains a key reference point throughout. Integrated review of endocrine function does not support routine physiological suppression in subordinates of either sex, but instead a ramp up of weight, reproduction, aggression, and sex steroids, particularly androgens, in dominant females. Important and timely questions about female competition are thus addressed by shifting emphasis from mediators of reproductive suppression to mediators of reproductive control, and from organizational and activational roles of androgens in males to their roles in females. Unusually, we ask not only how inequity is maintained, but how dominance is acquired within a lifetime and across generations. Antiandrogens administered in the field to males and pregnant dominant females confirm the importance of androgen-mediated food competition. Moreover, effects of maternal endocrine milieu on offspring development reveal a heritable, androgenic route to female aggression, likely promoting reproductive priority along dominant matrilines. Integrating endocrine measures with long-term behavioral, ecological, morphological, and life-history data on normative and experimental individuals, across life stages and generations, provides better appreciation of the role of naturally circulating androgens in regulating the female phenotype, and sheds new light on the evolution of female dominance, reproductive inequity, and cooperative breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Drea
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0383, USA; Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Northern Cape, South Africa.
| | - Charli S Davies
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0383, USA; Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Northern Cape, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Miranda JP, Lardone MC, Rodríguez F, Cutler GB, Santos JL, Corvalán C, Pereira A, Mericq V. Genome-Wide Association Study and Polygenic Risk Scores of Serum DHEAS Levels in a Chilean Children Cohort. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e1727-e1738. [PMID: 34748635 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adrenarche reflects the developmental growth of the adrenal zona reticularis, which produces increasing adrenal androgen secretion (eg, dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA]/dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate [DHEAS]) from approximately age 5 to 15 years. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that the study of the genetic determinants associated with variations in serum DHEAS during adrenarche might detect genetic variants influencing the rate or timing of this process. METHODS Genome-wide genotyping was performed in participants of the Chilean pediatric Growth and Obesity Chilean Cohort Study (GOCS) cohort (n = 788). We evaluated the genetic determinants of DHEAS levels at the genome-wide level and in targeted genes associated with steroidogenesis. To corroborate our findings, we evaluated a polygenic risk score (PRS) for age at pubarche, based on the discovered variants, in children from the same cohort. RESULTS We identified one significant variant at the genome-wide level in the full cohort, close to the GALR1 gene (P = 3.81 × 10-8). In addition, variants suggestive of association (P < 1 × 10-5) were observed in PRLR, PITX1, PTPRD, NR1H4, and BCL11B. Stratifying by sex, we found variants suggestive of association in SERBP1 and CAMTA1/VAMP3 for boys and near ZNF98, TRPC6, and SULT2A1 for girls. We also found significant reductions in age at pubarche in those children with higher PRS for greater DHEAS based on these newly identified variants. CONCLUSION Our results disclose one variant associated with DHEAS concentrations at the level of genome-wide association study significance, and several variants with a suggestive association that may be involved in the genetic regulation of adrenarche.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Patricio Miranda
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes, and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile & Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - María Cecilia Lardone
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fernando Rodríguez
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - José Luis Santos
- Department of Nutrition, Diabetes, and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Corvalán
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ana Pereira
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Verónica Mericq
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
A Metabolomics Analysis of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Risk in the Cancer Prevention Study II. Metabolites 2021; 11:metabo11020095. [PMID: 33578791 PMCID: PMC7916573 DOI: 10.3390/metabo11020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but its incidence can only be partially explained through established risk factors. Our aim was to use metabolomics to identify novel risk factors for breast cancer and to validate recently reported metabolite-breast cancer findings. We measured levels of 1275 metabolites in prediagnostic serum in a nested case-control study of 782 postmenopausal breast cancer cases and 782 matched controls. Metabolomics analysis was performed by Metabolon Inc using ultra-performance liquid chromatography and a Q-Exactive high resolution/accurate mass spectrometer. Controls were matched by birth date, date of blood draw, and race/ethnicity. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of breast cancer at the 90th versus 10th percentile (modeled on a continuous basis) of metabolite levels were estimated using conditional logistic regression, with adjustment for age. Twenty-four metabolites were significantly associated with breast cancer risk at a false discovery rate <0.20. For the nine metabolites positively associated with risk, the ORs ranged from 1.75 (95% CI: 1.29–2.36) to 1.45 (95% CI: 1.13–1.85), and for the 15 metabolites inversely associated with risk, ORs ranged from 0.59 (95% CI: 0.43–0.79) to 0.69 (95% CI: 0.55–0.87). These metabolites largely comprised carnitines, glycerolipids, and sex steroid metabolites. Associations for three sex steroid metabolites validated findings from recent studies and the remainder were novel. These findings contribute to growing data on metabolite-breast cancer associations by confirming prior findings and identifying novel leads for future validation efforts.
Collapse
|
6
|
Steroids and TRP Channels: A Close Relationship. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113819. [PMID: 32471309 PMCID: PMC7325571 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are remarkable transmembrane protein complexes that are essential for the physiology of the tissues in which they are expressed. They function as non-selective cation channels allowing for the signal transduction of several chemical, physical and thermal stimuli and modifying cell function. These channels play pivotal roles in the nervous and reproductive systems, kidney, pancreas, lung, bone, intestine, among others. TRP channels are finely modulated by different mechanisms: regulation of their function and/or by control of their expression or cellular/subcellular localization. These mechanisms are subject to being affected by several endogenously-produced compounds, some of which are of a lipidic nature such as steroids. Fascinatingly, steroids and TRP channels closely interplay to modulate several physiological events. Certain TRP channels are affected by the typical genomic long-term effects of steroids but others are also targets for non-genomic actions of some steroids that act as direct ligands of these receptors, as will be reviewed here.
Collapse
|
7
|
Grebe NM, Fitzpatrick C, Sharrock K, Starling A, Drea CM. Organizational and activational androgens, lemur social play, and the ontogeny of female dominance. Horm Behav 2019; 115:104554. [PMID: 31276664 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The role of androgens in shaping "masculine" traits in males is a core focus in behavioral endocrinology, but relatively little is known about an androgenic role in female aggression and social dominance. In mammalian models of female dominance, including the ring-tailed lemur (Lemur catta), links to androgens in adulthood are variable. We studied the development of ring-tailed lemurs to address the behavioral basis and ontogenetic mechanisms of female dominance. We measured behavior and serum androgen concentrations in 24 lemurs (8 males, 16 females) from infancy to early adulthood, and assessed their 'prenatal' androgen milieu using serum samples obtained from their mothers during gestation. Because logistical constraints limited the frequency of infant blood sampling, we accounted for asynchrony between behavioral and postnatal hormone measurements via imputation procedures. Imputation was unnecessary for prenatal hormone measurements. The typical sex difference in androgen concentrations in young lemurs was consistent with adult conspecifics and most other mammals; however, we found no significant sex differences in rough-and-tumble play. Female (but not male) aggression increased beginning at approximately 15 months, coincident with female puberty. In our analyses relating sexually differentiated behavior to androgens, we found no relationship with activational hormones, but several significant relationships with organizational hormones. Notably, associations of prenatal androstenedione and testosterone with behavior were differentiated, both by offspring sex and by type of behavior within offspring sexes. We discuss the importance of considering (1) missing data in behavioral endocrinology research, and (2) organizational androgens other than testosterone in studies of female dominance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Grebe
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
| | | | - Katherine Sharrock
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Anne Starling
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Christine M Drea
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA; University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mendelski MN, Dölling R, Feller FM, Hoffmann D, Ramos Fangmeier L, Ludwig KC, Yücel O, Mährlein A, Paul RJ, Philipp B. Steroids originating from bacterial bile acid degradation affect Caenorhabditis elegans and indicate potential risks for the fauna of manured soils. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11120. [PMID: 31366938 PMCID: PMC6668416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47476-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bile acids are steroid compounds from the digestive tracts of vertebrates that enter agricultural environments in unusual high amounts with manure. Bacteria degrading bile acids can readily be isolated from soils and waters including agricultural areas. Under laboratory conditions, these bacteria transiently release steroid compounds as degradation intermediates into the environment. These compounds include androstadienediones (ADDs), which are C19-steroids with potential hormonal effects. Experiments with Caenorhabditis elegans showed that ADDs derived from bacterial bile acid degradation had effects on its tactile response, reproduction rate, and developmental speed. Additional experiments with a deletion mutant as well as transcriptomic analyses indicated that these effects might be conveyed by the putative testosterone receptor NHR-69. Soil microcosms showed that the natural microflora of agricultural soil is readily induced for bile acid degradation accompanied by the transient release of steroid intermediates. Establishment of a model system with a Pseudomonas strain and C. elegans in sand microcosms indicated transient release of ADDs during the course of bile acid degradation and negative effects on the reproduction rate of the nematode. This proof-of-principle study points at bacterial degradation of manure-derived bile acids as a potential and so-far overlooked risk for invertebrates in agricultural soils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M N Mendelski
- Institute of Zoophysiology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - R Dölling
- Institute of Zoophysiology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - F M Feller
- Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - D Hoffmann
- Institute of Zoophysiology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - L Ramos Fangmeier
- Institute of Zoophysiology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - K C Ludwig
- Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany.,Institute for Pharmaceutical Microbiology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - O Yücel
- Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - A Mährlein
- Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - R J Paul
- Institute of Zoophysiology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany
| | - B Philipp
- Institute of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology, University of Münster (WWU), Münster, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Konings G, Brentjens L, Delvoux B, Linnanen T, Cornel K, Koskimies P, Bongers M, Kruitwagen R, Xanthoulea S, Romano A. Intracrine Regulation of Estrogen and Other Sex Steroid Levels in Endometrium and Non-gynecological Tissues; Pathology, Physiology, and Drug Discovery. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:940. [PMID: 30283331 PMCID: PMC6157328 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the intracrine (or local) regulation of estrogen and other steroid synthesis and degradation expanded in the last decades, also thanks to recent technological advances in chromatography mass-spectrometry. Estrogen responsive tissues and organs are not passive receivers of the pool of steroids present in the blood but they can actively modify the intra-tissue steroid concentrations. This allows fine-tuning the exposure of responsive tissues and organs to estrogens and other steroids in order to best respond to the physiological needs of each specific organ. Deviations in such intracrine control can lead to unbalanced steroid hormone exposure and disturbances. Through a systematic bibliographic search on the expression of the intracrine enzymes in various tissues, this review gives an up-to-date view of the intracrine estrogen metabolisms, and to a lesser extent that of progestogens and androgens, in the lower female genital tract, including the physiological control of endometrial functions, receptivity, menopausal status and related pathological conditions. An overview of the intracrine regulation in extra gynecological tissues such as the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, brain, colon and bone is given. Current therapeutic approaches aimed at interfering with these metabolisms and future perspectives are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gonda Konings
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Linda Brentjens
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Bert Delvoux
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | | | - Karlijn Cornel
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | | | - Marlies Bongers
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Roy Kruitwagen
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Sofia Xanthoulea
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Andrea Romano
- GROW–School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Smyth KN, Caruso NM, Davies CS, Clutton-Brock TH, Drea CM. Social and endocrine correlates of immune function in meerkats: implications for the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:180435. [PMID: 30225031 PMCID: PMC6124081 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Social status can mediate effects on the immune system, with profound consequences for individual health; nevertheless, most investigators of status-related disparities in free-ranging animals have used faecal parasite burdens to proxy immune function in the males of male-dominant species. We instead use direct measures of innate immune function (complement and natural antibodies) to examine status-related immunocompetence in both sexes of a female-dominant species. The meerkat is a unique model for such a study because it is a cooperatively breeding species in which status-related differences are extreme, evident in reproductive skew, morphology, behaviour, communication and physiology, including that dominant females naturally express the greatest total androgen (androstenedione plus testosterone) concentrations. We found that, relative to subordinates, dominant animals had reduced serum bacteria-killing abilities; also, relative to subordinate females, dominant females had reduced haemolytic complement activities. Irrespective of an individual's sex or social status, androstenedione concentrations (but not body condition, age or reproductive activity) negatively predicted concurrent immunocompetence. Thus, dominant meerkats of both sexes are immunocompromised. Moreover, in female meerkats, androstenedione perhaps acting directly or via local conversion, may exert a double-edged effect of promoting dominance and reproductive success at the cost of increased parasitism and reduced immune function. Given the prominent signalling of dominance in female meerkats, these findings may relate to the immunocompetence handicap hypothesis (ICHH); however, our data would suggest that the endocrine mechanism underlying the ICHH need not be mediated solely by testosterone and might explain trade-offs in females, as well as in males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kendra N. Smyth
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
| | - Nicholas M. Caruso
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
| | - Charli S. Davies
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
| | - Tim H. Clutton-Brock
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Christine M. Drea
- University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Kalahari Research Trust, Kuruman River Reserve, Van Zylsrus, Northern Cape, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Anand-Ivell R, Cohen A, Nørgaard-Pedersen B, Jönsson BAG, Bonde JP, Hougaard DM, Lindh CH, Toft G, Lindhard MS, Ivell R. Amniotic Fluid INSL3 Measured During the Critical Time Window in Human Pregnancy Relates to Cryptorchidism, Hypospadias, and Phthalate Load: A Large Case-Control Study. Front Physiol 2018; 9:406. [PMID: 29740335 PMCID: PMC5928321 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.00406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The period of the first to second trimester transition in human pregnancy represents a sensitive window for fetal organogenesis, particularly in regard to the development of the male reproductive system. This is a time of relative analytical inaccessibility. We have used a large national biobank of amniotic fluid samples collected at routine amniocentesis to determine the impacts of exogenous endocrine disruptor load on specific fetal biomarkers at this critical time. While adrenal and testicular steroids are highly correlated, they are also mostly positively influenced by increasing phthalate load, represented by the metabolites 7cx-MMeHP and 5cx-MEPP, by perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exposure, and by smoking, suggesting an adrenal stress response. In contrast, the testis specific biomarkers insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and androstenedione are negatively impacted by the phthalate endocrine disruptors. Using a case-control design, we show that cryptorchidism and hypospadias are both significantly associated with increased amniotic concentration of INSL3 during gestational weeks 13-16, and some, though not all steroid biomarkers. Cases are also linked to a specifically increased variance in the Leydig cell biomarker INSL3 compared to controls, an effect exacerbated by maternal smoking. No influence of phthalate metabolites or PFOS was evident on the distribution of cases and controls. Considering that several animal and human studies have shown a negative impact of phthalate load on fetal and cord blood INSL3, respectively, the present results suggest that such endocrine disruptors may rather be altering the relative dynamics of testicular development and consequent hormone production, leading to a desynchronization of tissue organization during fetal development. Being born small for gestational age appears not to impact on the testicular biomarker INSL3 in second trimester amniotic fluid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Arieh Cohen
- Section of Neonatal Screening and Hormones, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bent Nørgaard-Pedersen
- Section of Neonatal Screening and Hormones, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bo A. G. Jönsson
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jens-Peter Bonde
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David M. Hougaard
- Section of Neonatal Screening and Hormones, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian H. Lindh
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Toft
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Morten S. Lindhard
- Perinatal Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Pediatrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Richard Ivell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Snaterse G, Visser JA, Arlt W, Hofland J. Circulating steroid hormone variations throughout different stages of prostate cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2017; 24:R403-R420. [PMID: 28924064 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Steroid hormones play a central role in the maintenance and progression of prostate cancer. The androgen receptor is the primary driver of tumor cell proliferation and is activated by the androgens testosterone and 5α-dihydrotestosterone. Inhibition of this pathway through medical or surgical castration improves survival in the majority of advanced prostate cancer patients. However, conversion of adrenal androgen precursors and alternative steroidogenic pathways have been found to contribute to tumor progression and resistance to treatment. The emergence of highly accurate detection methods allows us to study steroidogenic mechanisms in more detail, even after treatment with potent steroidogenic inhibitors such as the CYP17A1 inhibitor abiraterone. A clear overview of steroid hormone levels in patients throughout the local, metastatic and castration-resistant stages of prostate cancer and treatment modalities is key toward a better understanding of their role in tumor progression and treatment resistance. In this review, we summarize the currently available data on steroid hormones that have been implicated in the various stages of prostate cancer. Additionally, this review addresses the implications of these findings, highlights important studies in this field and identifies current gaps in literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gido Snaterse
- Section of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jenny A Visser
- Section of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems ResearchUniversity of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Johannes Hofland
- Section of EndocrinologyDepartment of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems ResearchUniversity of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Neunzig J, Milhim M, Schiffer L, Khatri Y, Zapp J, Sánchez-Guijo A, Hartmann MF, Wudy SA, Bernhardt R. The steroid metabolite 16(β)-OH-androstenedione generated by CYP21A2 serves as a substrate for CYP19A1. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 167:182-191. [PMID: 28065637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 01/02/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The 21-hydroxylase (CYP21A2) is a steroidogenic enzyme crucial for the synthesis of mineralo- and glucocorticoids. It is described to convert progesterone as well as 17-OH-progesterone, through a hydroxylation at position C21, into 11-deoxycorticosterone (DOC) and 11-deoxycortisol (RSS), respectively. In this study we unraveled CYP21A2 to have a broader steroid substrate spectrum than assumed. Utilizing a reconstituted in vitro system, consisting of purified human CYP21A2 and human cytochrome P450 reductase (CPR) we demonstrated that CYP21A2 is capable to metabolize DOC, RSS, androstenedione (A4) and testosterone (T). In addition, the conversion of A4 rendered a product whose structure was elucidated through NMR spectroscopy, showing a hydroxylation at position C16-beta. The androgenic properties of this steroid metabolite, 16(β)-OH-androstenedione (16bOHA4), were investigated and compared with A4. Both steroid metabolites were shown to be weak agonists for the human androgen receptor. Moreover, the interaction of 16bOHA4 with the aromatase (CYP19A1) was compared to that of A4, indicating that the C16 hydroxyl group does not influence the binding with CYP19A1. In contrast, the elucidation of the kinetic parameters showed an increased Km and decreased kcat value resulting in a 2-fold decreased catalytic efficiency compared to A4. These findings were in accordance with our docking studies, revealing a similar binding conformation and distance to the heme iron of both steroids. Furthermore, the product of 16bOHA4, presumably 16-hydroxy-estrone (16bOHE1), was investigated with regard to its estrogenic activity, which was negligible compared to estradiol and estrone. Finally, 16bOHA4 was found to be present in a patient with 11-hydroxylase deficiency and in a patient with an endocrine tumor. Taken together, this study provides novel information on the steroid hormone biosynthesis and presents a new method to detect further potential relevant novel steroid metabolites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Neunzig
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - M Milhim
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - L Schiffer
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Y Khatri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - J Zapp
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - A Sánchez-Guijo
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - M F Hartmann
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - S A Wudy
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - R Bernhardt
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Technical and Natural Sciences III, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
DeQuattro ZA, Hemming JDC, Barry TP. Effects of androstenedione exposure on fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) reproduction and embryonic development. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2015; 34:2549-2554. [PMID: 26053090 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Revised: 01/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
High concentrations (300 ng/L) of androstenedione (A4) were identified in snowmelt runoff from fields fertilized with manure from livestock feeding operations in Wisconsin, USA. In fishes, A4 is an active androgen and substrate for biosynthesis of functional androgens (e.g., testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone) and estrogens (e.g., estradiol-17β). Thus, A4 has the potential to be a powerful endocrine disruptor. This hypothesis was tested by exposing reproductively mature fathead minnows to 0.0 ng/L, 4.5 ng/L, 74 ng/L, and 700 ng/L A4 for 26 d in a flow-through system. Various reproductive endpoints were measured including fecundity, fertilization success, secondary sexual characteristics, gonadosomatic index (GSI), and hepatic vitellogenin messenger RNA (mRNA) expression. In addition, fertilized embryos from the reproduction assay were used in an embryonic development assay to assess A4 effects on development and hatchability. In males, A4 significantly increased Vtg mRNA expression (estrogenic effect), significantly reduced GSI, and had no effect on tubercle expression (p = 0.067). In females, A4 induced tubercle development (androgenic effect) with no effects on GSI. Fecundity was not significantly impacted. Exposure to A4 had no effect on fertilization, embryonic development, or hatchability. These data indicate that exogenous A4, at environmentally relevant concentrations, can significantly modulate the reproductive physiology of the fathead minnows in a sex-specific manner and that A4 should be monitored as an endocrine disruptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A DeQuattro
- Department of Zoology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Jocelyn D C Hemming
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laboratory of Fish Endocrinology and Aquaculture, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Terence P Barry
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Schmidt A, Meissner RS, Gentile MA, Chisamore MJ, Opas EE, Scafonas A, Cusick TE, Gambone C, Pennypacker B, Hodor P, Perkins JJ, Bai C, Ferraro D, Bettoun DJ, Wilkinson HA, Alves SE, Flores O, Ray WJ. Identification of an anabolic selective androgen receptor modulator that actively induces death of androgen-independent prostate cancer cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 143:29-39. [PMID: 24565564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2014.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) initially responds to inhibition of androgen receptor (AR) signaling, but inevitably progresses to hormone ablation-resistant disease. Much effort is focused on optimizing this androgen deprivation strategy by improving hormone depletion and AR antagonism. However we found that bicalutamide, a clinically used antiandrogen, actually resembles a selective AR modulator (SARM), as it partially regulates 24% of endogenously 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-responsive genes in AR(+) MDA-MB-453 breast cancer cells. These data suggested that passive blocking of all AR functions is not required for PCa therapy. Hence, we adopted an active strategy that calls for the development of novel SARMs, which induce a unique gene expression profile that is intolerable to PCa cells. Therefore, we screened 3000 SARMs for the ability to arrest the androgen-independent growth of AR(+) 22Rv1 and LNCaP PCa cells but not AR(-) PC3 or DU145 cells. We identified only one such compound; the 4-aza-steroid, MK-4541, a potent and selective SARM. MK-4541 induces caspase-3 activity and cell death in both androgen-independent, AR(+) PCa cell lines but spares AR(-) cells or AR(+) non-PCa cells. This activity correlates with its promoter context- and cell-type dependent transcriptional effects. In rats, MK-4541 inhibits the trophic effects of DHT on the prostate, but not the levator ani muscle, and triggers an anabolic response in the periosteal compartment of bone. Therefore, MK-4541 has the potential to effectively manage prostatic hypertrophic diseases owing to its antitumor SARM-like mechanism, while simultaneously maintaining the anabolic benefits of natural androgens.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Anabolic Agents/chemistry
- Anabolic Agents/pharmacology
- Androgen Receptor Antagonists/pharmacology
- Androgens/pharmacology
- Animals
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Azasteroids/chemistry
- Azasteroids/pharmacology
- Blotting, Western
- Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
- Breast Neoplasms/pathology
- Carbamates/chemistry
- Carbamates/pharmacology
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Combinatorial Chemistry Techniques
- Female
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Prostatic Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Prostatic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/drug therapy
- Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/metabolism
- Prostatic Neoplasms, Castration-Resistant/pathology
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Receptors, Androgen/chemistry
- Receptors, Androgen/metabolism
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azriel Schmidt
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA.
| | | | | | | | - Evan E Opas
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Angela Scafonas
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Tara E Cusick
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA; Departments of Medicinal Chemistry, West Point, PA 19486, USA; Departments of Molecular Profiling Merck & Co., West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Carlo Gambone
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | | | - Paul Hodor
- Departments of Molecular Profiling Merck & Co., West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - James J Perkins
- Departments of Medicinal Chemistry, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Chang Bai
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Damien Ferraro
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - David J Bettoun
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | | | - Stephen E Alves
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - Osvaldo Flores
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA
| | - William J Ray
- Departments of Molecular Endocrinology, West Point, PA 19486, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zheng Y, Yu B, Alexander D, Steffen LM, Boerwinkle E. Human metabolome associates with dietary intake habits among African Americans in the atherosclerosis risk in communities study. Am J Epidemiol 2014; 179:1424-33. [PMID: 24801555 DOI: 10.1093/aje/kwu073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human metabolome is a measurable outcome of interactions among an individual's inherited genome, microbiome, and dietary intake. We explored the relationship between dietary intake and serum untargeted metabolomic profiles in a subsample of 1,977 African Americans from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study in 1987-1989. For each metabolite, we conducted linear regression to estimate its relationships with each food group and food category. Potential confounding factors included age, sex, body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m)(2)), energy intake, kidney function, and food groups. We used a modified Bonferroni correction to determine statistical significance. In total, 48 pairs of diet-metabolite associations were identified, including multiple novel associations. The food group "sugar-rich foods and beverages" was inversely associated with 5 metabolites in the 2-hydroxybutyrate-related subpathway and positively associated with 5 γ-glutamyl dipeptides. The hypothesized mechanism of these associations may be through oxidative stress. "Sugar-rich foods and beverages" were also inversely associated with 7 unsaturated long-chain fatty acids. These findings suggest that the contribution of a sugar-rich dietary pattern to increased cardiovascular disease risk may be partially attributed to oxidative stress and disordered lipid profiles. Metabolomics may reveal novel metabolic biomarkers of dietary intake and provide insight into biochemical pathways underlying nutritional effects on disease development.
Collapse
|
17
|
Zheng Y, Yu B, Alexander D, Steffen LM, Nettleton JA, Boerwinkle E. Metabolomic patterns and alcohol consumption in African Americans in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. Am J Clin Nutr 2014; 99:1470-8. [PMID: 24760976 PMCID: PMC4021786 DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.113.074070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effects of alcohol consumption on health and disease are complex and involve a number of cellular and metabolic processes. OBJECTIVE We examined the association between alcohol consumption habits and metabolomic profiles. DESIGN We conducted a cross-sectional study to explore the association of alcohol consumption habits measured by using a questionnaire with serum metabolites measured by using untargeted mass spectrometry in 1977 African Americans from the Jackson field center in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study. The whole sample was split into a discovery set (n = 1500) and a replication set (n = 477). Alcohol consumption habits were treated as an ordinal variable, with nondrinkers as the reference group and quartiles of current drinkers as ordinal groups with higher values. For each metabolite, a linear regression was conducted to estimate its relation with alcohol consumption habits separately in both sets. A modified Bonferroni procedure was used in the discovery set to adjust the significance threshold (P < 1.9 × 10⁻⁴). RESULTS In 356 named metabolites, 39 metabolites were significantly associated with alcohol consumption habits in both discovery and replication sets. In general, alcohol consumption was associated with higher levels of most metabolites such as those in amino acid and lipid pathways and with lower levels of γ-glutamyl dipeptides. Three pathways, 2-hydroxybutyrate-related metabolites, γ-glutamyl dipeptides, and lysophosphatidylcholines, which are considered to be involved in inflammation and oxidation, were associated with incident cardiovascular diseases. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the largest metabolomic study thus far conducted in nonwhites. Metabolomic biomarkers of alcohol consumption were identified and replicated. The results lend new insight into potential mediating effects between alcohol consumption and future health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zheng
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| | - Bing Yu
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| | - Danny Alexander
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| | - Lyn M Steffen
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| | - Jennifer A Nettleton
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| | - Eric Boerwinkle
- From the Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX (YZ, BY, JAN, and EB); Metabolon Inc, Durham, NC (DA); the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN (LMS); and the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (EB)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Liimatta J, Laakso S, Utriainen P, Voutilainen R, Palvimo JJ, Jääskeläinen T, Jääskeläinen J. Serum androgen bioactivity is low in children with premature adrenarche. Pediatr Res 2014; 75:645-50. [PMID: 24522103 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2014.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical findings in children with premature adrenarche (PA) correlate only partly with circulating levels of adrenal androgens. It is not known whether the prepubertal low circulating concentrations of testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone, together with those of adrenal androgens, are capable of activating the androgen receptor. METHODS This cross-sectional study was performed at a university hospital. Circulating androgen bioactivity was measured in 67 prepubertal children with clinical signs of PA and 94 control children using a novel androgen bioassay. RESULTS Circulating androgen bioactivity was low in the PA and control children. In the subgroup of children (n = 28) with serum T concentration over the assay sensitivity (0.35 nmol/l) and a signal in the androgen bioassay, we found a positive correlation between androgen bioactivity and serum T (r = 0.50; P < 0.01) and the free androgen index (r = 0.61; P < 0.01) and a negative correlation with serum sex hormone-binding globulin concentration (r = -0.41; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Peripheral metabolism of adrenal androgen precursors may be required for any androgenic effects in PA. However, the limitations in the sensitivity of the bioassay developed herein may hide some differences between the PA and control children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jani Liimatta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Saila Laakso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Pauliina Utriainen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Raimo Voutilainen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jorma J Palvimo
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tiina Jääskeläinen
- 1] Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland [2] Institute of Dentistry, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jarmo Jääskeläinen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Swanson EM, McElhinny TL, Dworkin I, Weldele ML, Glickman SE, Holekamp KE. Ontogeny of sexual size dimorphism in the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta). J Mammal 2013. [DOI: 10.1644/12-mamm-a-277.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
20
|
Kumagai J, Hofland J, Erkens-Schulze S, Dits NFJ, Steenbergen J, Jenster G, Homma Y, de Jong FH, van Weerden WM. Intratumoral conversion of adrenal androgen precursors drives androgen receptor-activated cell growth in prostate cancer more potently than de novo steroidogenesis. Prostate 2013; 73:1636-50. [PMID: 23996639 DOI: 10.1002/pros.22655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite an initial response to hormonal therapy, patients with advanced prostate cancer (PC) almost always progress to castration-resistant disease (CRPC). Although serum testosterone (T) is reduced by androgen deprivation therapy, intratumoral T levels in CRPC are comparable to those in prostate tissue of eugonadal men. These levels could originate from intratumoral conversion of adrenal androgens and/or from de novo steroid synthesis. However, the relative contribution of de novo steroidogenesis to AR-driven cell growth is unknown. METHODS The relative contribution of androgen biosynthetic pathways to activate androgen receptor (AR)-regulated cell growth and expression of PSA, FKBP5, and TMPRSS2 was studied at physiologically relevant levels of adrenal androgen precursors and intermediates of de novo androgen biosynthesis in human prostate cancer cell lines, PC346C, VCaP, and LNCaP. RESULTS In PC346C and VCaP, responses to pregnenolone and progesterone were absent or minimal, while large effects of adrenal androgen precursors were found. VCaP CRPC clones overexpressing CYP17A1 did not acquire an increased ability to use pregnenolone or progesterone to activate AR. In contrast, all precursors stimulated growth and gene expression in LNCaP cells, presumably resulting from the mutated AR in these cells. CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that at physiological levels of T precursors PC cells can generally convert adrenal androgens, while de novo steroidogenesis is not generally possible in PC cells and is not able to support AR transactivation and PC growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinpei Kumagai
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kaikkonen S, Paakinaho V, Sutinen P, Levonen AL, Palvimo JJ. Prostaglandin 15d-PGJ(2) inhibits androgen receptor signaling in prostate cancer cells. Mol Endocrinol 2012. [PMID: 23192983 DOI: 10.1210/me.2012-1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen signaling, in particular overexpression of the androgen receptor (AR), is critical for the growth and progression of prostate cancer. Because the AR is amenable to targeting by small-molecule inhibitors, it remains the major druggable target for the advanced disease. Inflammation has also been implicated in the cancerous growth in the prostate. Here we show that 15-deoxy-Δ(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15d-PGJ(2)), an endogenously produced antiinflammatory prostaglandin, targets the AR and acts as a potent AR inhibitor, rapidly repressing AR target genes, such as FKBP51 and TMPRSS2 in prostate cancer cells. However, exposure of prostate cancer cells to 15d-PGJ(2) does not simply evoke a general inhibition of nuclear receptor activity or transcription because under the same conditions, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ is activated by 15d-PGJ(2). Moreover, 15d-PGJ(2) rapidly triggers modifications of AR by small ubiquitin-related modifier-2/3 (SUMO-2/3), which may modulate the repressing effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on AR-dependent transcription. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicate that the inhibitory effect of 15d-PGJ(2) on FKBP51 and TMPRSS2 expression occurs in parallel with the inhibition of the AR binding to the regulatory regions of these genes. However, the DNA-binding activity is not the only AR function targeted by 15d-PGJ(2) because the prostaglandin also blunted the androgen-dependent interaction between the AR amino and carboxy termini. In conclusion, our results identify 15d-PGJ(2) as a potent and direct inhibitor of androgen signaling, suggesting novel possibilities in restricting the AR activity in prostate cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Kaikkonen
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Eastern Finland, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dart DA, Brooke GN, Sita-Lumsden A, Waxman J, Bevan CL. Reducing prohibitin increases histone acetylation, and promotes androgen independence in prostate tumours by increasing androgen receptor activation by adrenal androgens. Oncogene 2011; 31:4588-98. [PMID: 22179832 PMCID: PMC3427022 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancers, initially responsive to anti-androgen therapies, often advance to a hormone-refractory “castrate resistant” stage (CRPC). However the androgen receptor (AR) pathway remains active and key for cell growth and gene expression within tumours, even in the apparent absence of hormone. Proposed mechanisms to explain progression, including AR amplification/mutation, are insufficient to completely explain CRPC and possible roles of AR cofactors such as prohibitin are poorly understood. We investigated whether prohibitin loss could sensitise prostate cancer cells and tumours to adrenal gland-derived androgens which persist even after androgen ablation, hence contribute to development of CRPC. Using a pair of prostate cancer cell lines, inducibly expressing ectopic cDNA or RNAi for PHB, responses to different androgens and hormone concentrations were studied both in vitro and in vivo. PHB was found at the promoters of several genes, both AR and non AR-regulated, and knockdown increased histone acetylation at these promoters. Further, PHB knockdown increased rate of AR ligand-induced chromatin binding, and binding rate and occupancy of AR upon the PSA promoter. This resulted in increased cell growth and AR activity in response to all androgens, including promoting a response to the weaker adrenal androgens previously absent at physiological concentrations. In vivo this had functional consequences such that PHB knockdown resulted in androstenedione being sufficient to promote tumour growth, under conditions mimicking those in patients undergoing androgen ablation therapy. We conclude that reduction in prohibitin levels is sufficient to lower the threshold of AR activity in vitro and in vivo; this may be via a general increase in histone acetylation that could potentially affect signalling by other transcription factors. Prohibitin loss may provide a mechanism for progression to CRPC by sensitizing prostate cancer cells to “castrate” conditions i.e. low levels of testicular androgens in the continued presence of weak adrenal and dietary androgens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D A Dart
- Androgen Signalling Laboratory, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Schmidt A, Kimmel DB, Bai C, Scafonas A, Rutledge S, Vogel RL, McElwee-Witmer S, Chen F, Nantermet PV, Kasparcova V, Leu CT, Zhang HZ, Duggan ME, Gentile MA, Hodor P, Pennypacker B, Masarachia P, Opas EE, Adamski SA, Cusick TE, Wang J, Mitchell HJ, Kim Y, Prueksaritanont T, Perkins JJ, Meissner RS, Hartman GD, Freedman LP, Harada SI, Ray WJ. Discovery of the selective androgen receptor modulator MK-0773 using a rational development strategy based on differential transcriptional requirements for androgenic anabolism versus reproductive physiology. J Biol Chem 2010; 285:17054-64. [PMID: 20356837 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.099002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) are androgen receptor (AR) ligands that induce anabolism while having reduced effects in reproductive tissues. In various experimental contexts SARMs fully activate, partially activate, or even antagonize the AR, but how these complex activities translate into tissue selectivity is not known. Here, we probed receptor function using >1000 synthetic AR ligands. These compounds produced a spectrum of activities in each assay ranging from 0 to 100% of maximal response. By testing different classes of compounds in ovariectomized rats, we established that ligands that transactivated a model promoter 40-80% of an agonist, recruited the coactivator GRIP-1 <15%, and stabilized the N-/C-terminal interdomain interaction <7% induced bone formation with reduced effects in the uterus and in sebaceous glands. Using these criteria, multiple SARMs were synthesized including MK-0773, a 4-aza-steroid that exhibited tissue selectivity in humans. Thus, AR activated to moderate levels due to reduced cofactor recruitment, and N-/C-terminal interactions produce a fully anabolic response, whereas more complete receptor activation is required for reproductive effects. This bimodal activation provides a molecular basis for the development of SARMs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azriel Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Dart DA, Spencer-Dene B, Gamble SC, Waxman J, Bevan CL. Manipulating prohibitin levels provides evidence for an in vivo role in androgen regulation of prostate tumours. Endocr Relat Cancer 2009; 16:1157-69. [PMID: 19635783 PMCID: PMC2782800 DOI: 10.1677/erc-09-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Current hormonal therapies for prostate cancer are effective initially, but inevitably tumours progress to an advanced, metastatic stage, often referred to as 'androgen independent'. However, the androgen receptor (AR) signalling pathway is still key for their growth. It is speculated that tumours escape hormonal control via reduction in corepressor proteins. Manipulating such proteins is thus a potential therapeutic strategy to halt or even reverse tumour progression. We aimed to elucidate the effects of altering levels of the AR corepressor and androgen-target protein prohibitin (PHB) on prostate tumour growth. Prostate cancer cells incorporating an integrated androgen-responsive reporter gene and stably expressing vectors to inducibly overexpress or knockdown PHB were generated and used to assess effects on androgen signalling (by real time imaging) and tumour growth both in culture and in vivo. PHB overexpression inhibited AR activity and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) expression as well as androgen-dependent growth of cells, inducing rapid accumulation in G(0)/G(1). Conversely, reduction in PHB increased AR activity, PSA expression, androgen-mediated growth and S-phase entry. In vivo, doxycycline-induced PHB regulation resulted in marked changes in AR activity, and showed significant effects upon tumour growth. Overexpression led to tumour growth arrest and protection from hormonal starvation, whereas RNAi knockdown resulted in accelerated tumour growth, even in castrated mice. This study provides proof of principle that i) reduction in PHB promotes both androgen-dependent and 'androgen-independent' tumour growth, and ii) altering AR activity via increasing levels or activity of corepressors is a valid therapeutic strategy for advanced prostate cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Alwyn Dart
- Androgen Signalling Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Bradley Spencer-Dene
- Department of Histopathology, Imperial College London and Experimental Pathology Laboratory, Cancer Research UK, Lincoln's Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3PX,, UK
| | - Simon C Gamble
- Androgen Signalling Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Jonathan Waxman
- Androgen Signalling Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Charlotte L Bevan
- Androgen Signalling Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to C L Bevan;
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Schmidt A, Harada SI, Kimmel DB, Bai C, Chen F, Rutledge SJ, Vogel RL, Scafonas A, Gentile MA, Nantermet PV, McElwee-Witmer S, Pennypacker B, Masarachia P, Sahoo SP, Kim Y, Meissner RS, Hartman GD, Duggan ME, Rodan GA, Towler DA, Ray WJ. Identification of anabolic selective androgen receptor modulators with reduced activities in reproductive tissues and sebaceous glands. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:36367-36376. [PMID: 19846549 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.049734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen replacement therapy is a promising strategy for the treatment of frailty; however, androgens pose risks for unwanted effects including virilization and hypertrophy of reproductive organs. Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) retain the anabolic properties of androgens in bone and muscle while having reduced effects in other tissues. We describe two structurally similar 4-aza-steroidal androgen receptor (AR) ligands, Cl-4AS-1, a full agonist, and TFM-4AS-1, which is a SARM. TFM-4AS-1 is a potent AR ligand (IC(50), 38 nm) that partially activates an AR-dependent MMTV promoter (55% of maximal response) while antagonizing the N-terminal/C-terminal interaction within AR that is required for full receptor activation. Microarray analyses of MDA-MB-453 cells show that whereas Cl-4AS-1 behaves like 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), TFM-4AS-1 acts as a gene-selective agonist, inducing some genes as effectively as DHT and others to a lesser extent or not at all. This gene-selective agonism manifests as tissue-selectivity: in ovariectomized rats, Cl-4AS-1 mimics DHT while TFM-4AS-1 promotes the accrual of bone and muscle mass while having reduced effects on reproductive organs and sebaceous glands. Moreover, TFM-4AS-1 does not promote prostate growth and antagonizes DHT in seminal vesicles. To confirm that the biochemical properties of TFM-4AS-1 confer tissue selectivity, we identified a structurally unrelated compound, FTBU-1, with partial agonist activity coupled with antagonism of the N-terminal/C-terminal interaction and found that it also behaves as a SARM. TFM-4AS-1 and FTBU-1 represent two new classes of SARMs and will allow for comparative studies aimed at understanding the biophysical and physiological basis of tissue-selective effects of nuclear receptor ligands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azriel Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486.
| | - Shun-Ichi Harada
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Donald B Kimmel
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Chang Bai
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Su Jane Rutledge
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Robert L Vogel
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Angela Scafonas
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Michael A Gentile
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Pascale V Nantermet
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Sheila McElwee-Witmer
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Brenda Pennypacker
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Patricia Masarachia
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Soumya P Sahoo
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Merck Research Laboratories, Rahway, New Jersey 07065
| | - Yuntae Kim
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Robert S Meissner
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - George D Hartman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Mark E Duggan
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Gideon A Rodan
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - Dwight A Towler
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| | - William J Ray
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology/Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Veilleux A, Blouin K, Tchernof A. Mechanisms of androgenic action in adipose tissue. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.2217/clp.09.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
|
27
|
Groothuis TGG, Schwabl H. Hormone-mediated maternal effects in birds: mechanisms matter but what do we know of them? Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2008; 363:1647-61. [PMID: 18048291 PMCID: PMC2606725 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2007.0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 305] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, birds have proven to be excellent models to study hormone-mediated maternal effects in an evolutionary framework. Almost all these studies focus on the function of maternal steroid hormones for offspring development, but lack of knowledge about the underlying mechanisms hampers further progress. We discuss several hypotheses concerning these mechanisms, point out their relevance for ecological and evolutionary interpretations, and review the relevant data. We first examine whether maternal hormones can accumulate in the egg independently of changes in hormone concentrations in the maternal circulation. This is important for Darwinian selection and female physiological trade-offs, and possible mechanisms for hormone accumulation in the egg, which may differ among hormones, are reviewed. Although independent regulation of plasma and yolk concentrations of hormones is conceivable, the data are as yet inconclusive for ovarian hormones. Next, we discuss embryonic utilization of maternal steroids, since enzyme and receptor systems in the embryo may have coevolved with maternal effect mechanisms in the mother. We consider dose-response relationships and action pathways of androgens and argue that these considerations may help to explain the apparent lack of interference of maternal steroids with sexual differentiation. Finally, we discuss mechanisms underlying the pleiotropic actions of maternal steroids, since linked effects may influence the coevolution of parent and offspring traits, owing to their role in the mediation of physiological trade-offs. Possible mechanisms here are interactions with other hormonal systems in the embryo. We urge endocrinologists to embark on suggested mechanistic studies and behavioural ecologists to adjust their interpretations to accommodate the current knowledge of mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ton G G Groothuis
- Behavioural Biology, University of Groningen, 9750 AA Haren, The Netherlands.
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Discovery and biological characterization of a novel series of androgen receptor modulators. Br J Pharmacol 2008; 154:440-50. [PMID: 18414397 DOI: 10.1038/bjp.2008.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Selective androgen receptor modulators are of great value in the treatment of prostate cancer. The purpose of this study was to provide a preliminary characterization of a new class of non-steroidal androgen receptor modulators discovered in a high-throughput screening campaign. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Competitive receptor binding, luciferase-based reporter methods, cell proliferation and in vivo assays were employed to evaluate an initial set of compounds from chemistry efforts. KEY RESULTS Forty-nine analogues from the chemistry efforts showed high affinity binding to androgen receptors, agonist and/or antagonist activities in both CV-1 and MDA-MB-453 transfection assays. A proliferation assay in LNCaP cells also exhibited this profile. A representative of these non-steroidal compounds (compound 21) was devoid of activity at other nuclear receptors (oestrogen, progesterone, glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors) in the CV-1 co-transfection assay. At the same time, in an immature castrated rat model, it behaved as an androgen receptor antagonist against the growth of prostate, seminal vesicles and levator ani induced by exogenous androgen. Separation of compound 21 into its enantiomers showed that nearly all the androgen receptor modulating activity and binding resided in the dextrorotatory compound (23) while the laevorotatory isomer (22) possessed weak or little effect depending on the cell type studied. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These non-steroidal compounds may represent a new class of androgen receptor modulators for the treatment of not only prostate cancer but other clinical conditions where androgens and androgen receptors are involved in the pathological processes.
Collapse
|
29
|
Laplante Y, Poirier D. Proliferative effect of androst-4-ene-3,17-dione and its metabolites in the androgen-sensitive LNCaP cell line. Steroids 2008; 73:266-71. [PMID: 18082864 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2006] [Revised: 06/15/2007] [Accepted: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As a therapeutic approach for the treatment of androgen-sensitive diseases, it would be tempting to lower the level of the potent androgens testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by using inhibitors of type 3 and type 5 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17beta-HSDs). However, the efficiency of such a strategy will be optimal only if androst-4-ene-3,17-dione (Delta4-dione), the precursor of T, does not possess per se agonist activity on the androgen receptor (AR). To determine if the proliferative effect previously observed on AR(+) cells for Delta4-dione originates from its direct (per se) action on AR or from its transformation into a metabolite, we started a series of experimentations using the human prostate cancer LNCaP cell line, which expresses a highly sensitive AR. By real-time RT-PCR analysis, we detected type 1 5alpha-reductase (5alpha-R), a small amount of type 5 17beta-HSD, but not type 2 5alpha-R nor type 3 17beta-HSD. We then studied the transformation of labeled Delta4-dione in LNCaP cells after 1-7 days and the most important metabolite detected was 5alpha-androstane-3,17-dione (A-dione), which is the product of 5alpha-R activity. We measured only low levels of androsterone (ADT) and epi-ADT. This result was next confirmed by using an inhibitor of 5alpha-R that completely inhibited the transformation of Delta4-dione into A-dione, and consequently into ADT and epi-ADT. The proliferative effect of Delta4-dione (carefully purified) on LNCaP (AR(+)) cells was next determined in presence or absence of the 5alpha-R inhibitor. Although the cells proliferate in the presence of Delta4-dione only, no cell proliferation was observed with a combination of Delta4-dione and 5alpha-R inhibitor, suggesting that Delta4-dione is not androgenic per se. We next determined that A-dione and epi-ADT stimulated cell growth with the same pattern and potency as Delta4-dione, whereas ADT had a 3.5-fold lower proliferative activity. In conclusion, Delta4-dione is not in itself an agonist steroid on LNCaP (AR(+)) cells, and its proliferative activity appears to be mediated by its transformation into A-dione and/or into epi-ADT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Laplante
- Medicinal Chemistry Division, Oncology and Molecular Endocrinology Research Center, CHUQ-Pavillon CHUL and Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Roy P, Alevizaki M, Huhtaniemi I. In vitro bioassays for androgens and their diagnostic applications. Hum Reprod Update 2007; 14:73-82. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmm038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
|
31
|
Blizzard TA, Gude C, Morgan JD, Chan W, Birzin ET, Mojena M, Tudela C, Chen F, Knecht K, Su Q, Kraker B, Mosley RT, Holmes MA, Rohrer SP, Hammond ML. Androstene-3,5-dienes as ER-β selective SERMs. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2007; 17:6295-8. [PMID: 17890084 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2007.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2007] [Revised: 08/28/2007] [Accepted: 09/04/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A series of androstene-3,5-diene derivatives were prepared. Despite lacking the C-3 hydroxyl previously believed necessary for ER activity, some of the analogs retained surprising affinity for ER-beta. For example, diene 4 retained excellent selectivity and potency as an ER-beta agonist and was more selective for ER-beta over the androgen receptor (AR).
Collapse
|
32
|
Schwabl H, Palacios MG, Martin TE. Selection for rapid embryo development correlates with embryo exposure to maternal androgens among passerine birds. Am Nat 2007; 170:196-206. [PMID: 17874371 DOI: 10.1086/519397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2006] [Accepted: 02/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Greater offspring predation favors evolution of faster development among species. We hypothesized that greater offspring predation exerts selection on mothers to increase levels of anabolic androgens in egg yolks to achieve faster development. Here, we tested whether (1) concentrations of yolk androgens in passerine species were associated with offspring predation and (2) embryo and nestling development rates were associated with yolk androgen concentrations. We examined three androgens that increase in potency along the synthesis pathway: androstenedione (A(4)) to testosterone (T) to 5 alpha -dihydrotestosterone (5 alpha -DHT). Concentrations of none of these steroids were related to clutch size; only A(4) was allometrically related to egg volume. Species that experience greater predation showed higher yolk concentrations of T and 5 alpha -DHT. Higher concentrations of T and particularly 5 alpha -DHT were strongly correlated with faster development during the embryo period and less so during the nestling period. Development rates were most strongly correlated with 5 alpha -DHT, suggesting that potency increases along the androgen synthesis pathway and that effects are mediated by the androgen receptor pathway. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that selection for faster development by time-dependent offspring mortality may be achieved epigenetically by varying embryo exposure to maternal anabolic steroids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hubert Schwabl
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Blizzard TA, Gude C, Chan W, Birzin ET, Mojena M, Tudela C, Chen F, Knecht K, Su Q, Kraker B, Holmes MA, Rohrer SP, Hammond ML. Bridged androstenediol analogs as ER-β selective SERMs. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2007; 17:2944-8. [PMID: 17448656 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2006.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2006] [Revised: 12/08/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A series of bridged androstenediol derivatives was prepared. The bridged compounds exhibited reduced ER-beta selectivity relative to uncyclized analogs.
Collapse
|
34
|
Yang CS, Xin HW, Kelley JB, Spencer A, Brautigan DL, Paschal BM. Ligand binding to the androgen receptor induces conformational changes that regulate phosphatase interactions. Mol Cell Biol 2007; 27:3390-404. [PMID: 17325038 PMCID: PMC1899975 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.02411-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2006] [Accepted: 02/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a mechanism for protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) targeting to the androgen receptor (AR) and provide insight into the more general issue of kinase and phosphatase interactions with AR. Simian virus 40 (SV40) small t antigen (ST) binding to N-terminal HEAT repeats in the PP2A A subunit induces structural changes transduced to C-terminal HEAT repeats. This enables the C-terminal HEAT repeats in the PP2A A subunit, including HEAT repeat 13, to discriminate between androgen- and androgen antagonist-induced AR conformations. The PP2A-AR interaction was used to show that an AR mutant in prostate cancer cells (T877A) is activated by multiple ligands without acquiring the same conformation as that induced by androgen. The correlation between androgen binding to AR and increased phosphorylation of the activation function 1 (AF-1) region implies that changes in AR conformation or chaperone composition are causal to kinase access to phosphorylation sites. However, AF-1 phosphorylation sites are kinase accessible prior to androgen binding. This suggests that androgens can enhance the phosphorylation state of AR either by negatively regulating the ability of the ligand-binding domain to bind phosphatases or by inducing an AR conformation that is resistant to phosphatase action. SV40 ST subverts this mechanism by promoting the direct transfer of PP2A onto androgen-bound AR, resulting in multisite dephosphorylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Song Yang
- Center for Cell Signaling, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Moehren U, Papaioannou M, Reeb CA, Hong W, Baniahmad A. Alien interacts with the human androgen receptor and inhibits prostate cancer cell growth. Mol Endocrinol 2007; 21:1039-48. [PMID: 17356171 DOI: 10.1210/me.2006-0468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer cell growth is initially androgen dependent. Androgen antagonists are used in prostate cancer therapy to inactivate the transcriptional activity of the human androgen receptor (hAR) and to inhibit the proliferation of prostate cancer. Here, we have characterized Alien with characteristics of a corepressor as a novel interacting factor for the antagonist bound hAR. Alien is recruited to hAR in the presence of the AR antagonist cyproterone acetate (CPA). The interaction of Alien with hAR is verified in vivo and in vitro by a modified mammalian two-hybrid system, coimmunoprecipitation, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and in vitro binding assays. In contrast to other nuclear receptors, Alien binds to the amino-terminus of hAR with the receptor SUMOylation (small ubiquitin modifier) sites being involved. Furthermore, cellular localization of Alien is changed towards a predominant nuclear localization upon treatment of prostate cancer cells with CPA. Notably, stable expression of Alien in LNCaP cells inhibits both endogenous prostate-specific antigen expression and proliferation of these cells in the presence of CPA but not in the presence of an AR agonist. These findings underline the importance of corepressors for inhibition of prostate cancer cell growth by androgen antagonists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Udo Moehren
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Human Genetics and Anthropology, Kollegiengasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Chen F, Su Q, Torrent M, Wei N, Peekhaus N, McMasters D, Fisher J, Glantschnig H, Hodor P, Flores O, Reszka A. Identification and characterization of a novel nonsecosteroidal vitamin D receptor ligand. Drug Dev Res 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/ddr.20165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
37
|
Abstract
Wolffian ducts (WDs) are the embryonic structures that form the male internal genitalia. These ducts develop in both the male and female embryo. However, in the female they subsequently regress, whereas in the male they are stabilised by testosterone. The WDs then develop into separate but contiguous organs, the epididymis, vas deferens and seminal vesicles. Recently, considerable progress has been made in identifying genes that are involved in these different stages of development which is described in this review. In addition, WD development in (atypical forms of) cystic fibrosis and intersex disorders, such as the complete androgen insensitivity syndrome, 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency and LH-receptor defects, is discussed. The apparent increase in male reproductive tract disorders is briefly discussed from the perspective of the potential endocrine-disrupting effects of the numerous chemicals in the environment to which the developing male foetus can be exposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabine E Hannema
- Department of Paediatrics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Blizzard TA, Gude C, Morgan JD, Chan W, Birzin ET, Mojena M, Tudela C, Chen F, Knecht K, Su Q, Kraker B, Mosley RT, Holmes MA, Sharma N, Fitzgerald PMD, Rohrer SP, Hammond ML. Androstenediol analogs as ER-beta-selective SERMs. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2005; 16:834-8. [PMID: 16309907 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2005.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2005] [Revised: 11/04/2005] [Accepted: 11/04/2005] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
A series of 19-substituted androstenediol derivatives was prepared. Some of the novel analogs were surprisingly potent and selective ligands for ER-beta.
Collapse
|
39
|
Lipfert L, Fisher JE, Wei N, Scafonas A, Su Q, Yudkovitz J, Chen F, Warrier S, Birzin ET, Kim S, Chen HY, Tan Q, Schmidt A, Dininno F, Rohrer SP, Hammond ML, Rodan GA, Freedman LP, Reszka AA. Antagonist-induced, activation function-2-independent estrogen receptor alpha phosphorylation. Mol Endocrinol 2005; 20:516-33. [PMID: 16223974 DOI: 10.1210/me.2005-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) serine 118 (Ser118) phosphorylation modulates activation function-1 (AF1) function. Correct positioning of helix 12 promotes agonist-dependent recruitment of cyclin-dependent kinase-7 to catalyze this event. In this study we show robust cyclin-dependent kinase-7-independent, AF2 antagonist-induced Ser118 phosphorylation. Estradiol (E2) and ICI-182,780 (ICI-780) induce Ser118 phosphorylation of wild-type ERalpha and either of two helix 12 mutants, suggesting AF2-independent action, probably via shedding of 90-kDa heat shock protein. With E2 treatment, the predominantly nuclear, phosphorylated ERalpha in COS-1 cells is detergent soluble. Although levels of ICI-780-induced phosphorylation are profound, Ser118-phosphorylated ERalpha is aggregated over the nucleus or in the cytoplasm, fractionating with the cell debris and making detection in cleared lysates improbable. Selective ER modulators (SERMs) elicit a mixed response with phosphorylated ERalpha in both detergent-soluble and -insoluble compartments. Apparent ligand-induced loss of ERalpha protein from cleared lysates is thus due to ligand-induced redistribution into the pellet, not degradation. The COS-1 response to ICI-780 can be mimicked in MCF-7 cells treated with a proteasome inhibitor to block authentic ligand-induced degradation. With SERMs and antagonists, the magnitude of Ser118-phosphorylated receptor redistribution into the insoluble fraction of COS-1 cells correlates with the magnitude of authentic ERalpha degradation in MCF-7 cells. A strong inverse correlation with ligand-induced uterotropism in vivo (P < 0.0001) and direct correlation with AF2-independent transrepression of the matrix metalloprotease-1 promoter in endometrial cells in vitro are seen. These data suggest that ligand-induced Ser118 phosphorylation of ERalpha can be AF2 independent. Furthermore, they identify translocation of Ser118-phosphorylated ERalpha out of the nucleus, leading to cytoplasmic aggregation, as an antagonist pathway that may precede receptor degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Lipfert
- Molecular Endocrinology and Bone Biology, Merck Research Laboratories, WP26A-1000, West Point, Pennsylvania 19486, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), produced from cholesterol in the adrenals, is the most abundant steroid in our circulation. It is present almost entirely as the sulfate ester, but the free steroid is the form that serves as a precursor of estrogens and androgens, as well as 7- and 16-oxygenated derivatives. Mammalian tissues reduce the 17-keto Group of DHEA to produce androstenediol-a weak estrogen and full-fledged androgen. Its androgen activity is not inhibited by the anti-androgens commonly used to treat prostate cancer. It is probably responsible for the growth of therapy-resistant prostate cancer. DHEA is hydroxylated at the 7 alpha position, and this derivative is oxidized by 11 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase to form 7-keto DHEA. The latter is reduced by the same dehydrogenase to form 7 beta-hydroxy DHEA. When fed to rats, each of the latter three steroids induce the formation of two thermogenic enzymes in the liver. The late-term human fetus produces relatively large amounts of 16 alphahydroxy DHEA, which serves the mother as a precursor of estriol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lardy
- Institute for Enzyme Research, Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53726, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|