1
|
Yeung CHC, Au Yeung SL, Kwok MK, Zhao JV, Schooling CM. The influence of growth and sex hormones on risk of alzheimer's disease: a mendelian randomization study. Eur J Epidemiol 2023:10.1007/s10654-023-01015-2. [PMID: 37253999 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-023-01015-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is more prevalent in women, possibly due to sex or growth hormones but existing evidence is inconclusive. We investigated whether genetically predicted sex and growth hormones are associated with risk of Alzheimer's disease. Genetic variants strongly and independently predicting insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were obtained from large, published genome wide associations studies (GWAS) and applied to GWAS of Alzheimer's disease based on clinical diagnosis (cases = 21,982, control = 41,944) from the International Genomics of Alzheimer's Project and the UK Biobank parental (maternal cases = 27,696; paternal cases = 14,338) and siblings' diagnosis (cases = 2,171) as proxy cases. Published GWAS summary statistics were used in our analyses. Estimates were obtained from inverse variance weighting with sensitivity analysis (i.e., MR-Egger, weighted median and MR-PRESSO). Multivariable analyses adjusted for pleiotropic effects and possible sources of selection bias were also performed. Genetically predicted higher total testosterone may reduce the risk of paternal Alzheimer's disease (odds ratio (OR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.76 to 0.97, per SD increase in testosterone) and in meta-analysis for women (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87, 0.98) with directionally similar results from other analyses. SHBG were not associated with Alzheimer's disease. IGF-1 in women was inversely associated with risk of clinical Alzheimer's disease in sensitivity analysis but not in the main analysis. These results suggest genetically predicted higher total testosterone may lower risk of Alzheimer's disease. The role of testosterone and the immune system in Alzheimer's disease could be further investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Ho Ching Yeung
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Shiu Lun Au Yeung
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Man Ki Kwok
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jie V Zhao
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - C Mary Schooling
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vaňková M, Velíková M, Vejražková D, Včelák J, Lukášová P, Rusina R, Vaňková H, Jarolímová E, Kancheva R, Bulant J, Horáčková L, Bendlová B, Hill M. The Role of Steroidomics in the Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108575. [PMID: 37239922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies suggest an association between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to investigate the pathophysiological markers of AD vs. T2DM for each sex separately and propose models that would distinguish control, AD, T2DM, and AD-T2DM comorbidity groups. AD and T2DM differed in levels of some circulating steroids (measured mostly by GC-MS) and in other observed characteristics, such as markers of obesity, glucose metabolism, and liver function tests. Regarding steroid metabolism, AD patients (both sexes) had significantly higher sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), cortisol, and 17-hydroxy progesterone, and lower estradiol and 5α-androstane-3α,17β-diol, compared to T2DM patients. However, compared to healthy controls, changes in the steroid spectrum (especially increases in levels of steroids from the C21 group, including their 5α/β-reduced forms, androstenedione, etc.) were similar in patients with AD and patients with T2DM, though more expressed in diabetics. It can be assumed that many of these steroids are involved in counter-regulatory protective mechanisms that mitigate the development and progression of AD and T2DM. In conclusion, our results demonstrated the ability to effectively differentiate AD, T2DM, and controls in both men and women, distinguish the two pathologies from each other, and differentiate patients with AD and T2DM comorbidities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Vaňková
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Velíková
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Josef Včelák
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Lukášová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Robert Rusina
- Department of Neurology, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Thomayer University Hospital, Ruská 2411, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Vaňková
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 2411, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Jarolímová
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 2411, 100 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Radmila Kancheva
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Josef Bulant
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Horáčková
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Běla Bendlová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ouanes S, Clark C, Richiardi J, Maréchal B, Lewczuk P, Kornhuber J, Kirschbaum C, Popp J. Cerebrospinal Fluid Cortisol and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate, Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology, and Cognitive Decline. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:892754. [PMID: 35875796 PMCID: PMC9301040 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.892754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Elevated cortisol levels have been reported in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and may accelerate the development of brain pathology and cognitive decline. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) has anti-glucocorticoid effects and it may be involved in the AD pathophysiology. Objectives To investigate associations of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cortisol and DHEAS levels with (1) cognitive performance at baseline; (2) CSF biomarkers of amyloid pathology (as assessed by CSF Aβ levels), neuronal injury (as assessed by CSF tau), and tau hyperphosphorylation (as assessed by CSF p-tau); (3) regional brain volumes; and (4) clinical disease progression. Materials and Methods Individuals between 49 and 88 years (n = 145) with mild cognitive impairment or dementia or with normal cognition were included. Clinical scores, AD biomarkers, brain MRI volumetry along with CSF cortisol and DHEAS were obtained at baseline. Cognitive and functional performance was re-assessed at 18 and 36 months from baseline. We also assessed the following covariates: apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype, BMI, and education. We used linear regression and mixed models to address associations of interest. Results Higher CSF cortisol was associated with poorer global cognitive performance and higher disease severity at baseline. Cortisol and cortisol/DHEAS ratio were positively associated with tau and p-tau CSF levels, and negatively associated with the amygdala and insula volumes at baseline. Higher CSF cortisol predicted more pronounced cognitive decline and clinical disease progression over 36 months. Higher CSF DHEAS predicted more pronounced disease progression over 36 months. Conclusion Increased cortisol in the CNS is associated with tau pathology and neurodegeneration, and with decreased insula and amygdala volume. Both CSF cortisol and DHEAS levels predict faster clinical disease progression. These results have implications for the identification of patients at risk of rapid decline as well as for the development of interventions targeting both neurodegeneration and clinical manifestations of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sami Ouanes
- Service of Old Age Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Christopher Clark
- Centre for Gerontopsychiatric Medicine, Geriatric Psychiatry, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Richiardi
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bénédicte Maréchal
- Department of Radiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Piotr Lewczuk
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Clemens Kirschbaum
- Chair of Biopsychology, Technische Universität Dresden, Andreas-Schubert-Bau, Dresden, Germany
| | - Julius Popp
- Service of Old Age Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Centre for Gerontopsychiatric Medicine, Geriatric Psychiatry, University Hospital of Psychiatry Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Julius Popp,
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
ENT-A010, a Novel Steroid Derivative, Displays Neuroprotective Functions and Modulates Microglial Responses. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030424. [PMID: 35327616 PMCID: PMC8946810 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Tackling neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation is particularly challenging due to the complexity of central nervous system (CNS) disorders, as well as the limited drug accessibility to the brain. The activation of tropomyosin-related kinase A (TRKA) receptor signaling by the nerve growth factor (NGF) or the neurosteroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may combat neurodegeneration and regulate microglial function. In the present study, we synthesized a C-17-spiro-cyclopropyl DHEA derivative (ENT-A010), which was capable of activating TRKA. ENT-A010 protected PC12 cells against serum starvation-induced cell death, dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons against NGF deprivation-induced apoptosis and hippocampal neurons against Aβ-induced apoptosis. In addition, ENT-A010 pretreatment partially restored homeostatic features of microglia in the hippocampus of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated mice, enhanced Aβ phagocytosis, and increased Ngf expression in microglia in vitro. In conclusion, the small molecule ENT-A010 elicited neuroprotective effects and modulated microglial function, thereby emerging as an interesting compound, which merits further study in the treatment of CNS disorders.
Collapse
|
5
|
Scassellati C, Galoforo AC, Esposito C, Ciani M, Ricevuti G, Bonvicini C. Promising Intervention Approaches to Potentially Resolve Neuroinflammation And Steroid Hormones Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease and Its Neuropsychiatric Symptoms. Aging Dis 2021; 12:1337-1357. [PMID: 34341712 PMCID: PMC8279527 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a biological process by which the central nervous system responds to stimuli/injuries affecting its homeostasis. So far as this reactive response becomes exacerbated and uncontrolled, it can lead to neurodegeneration, compromising the cognitive and neuropsychiatric domains. Parallelly, modifications in the hypothalamic signaling of neuroprotective hormones linked also to the inflammatory responses of microglia and astrocytes can exacerbate these processes. To complicate the picture, modulations in the gut microbiota (GM) can induce changes in neuroinflammation, altering cognitive and neuropsychiatric functioning. We conducted a web-based search on PubMed. We described studies regarding the cross-talk among microglia and astrocytes in the neuroinflammation processes, along with the role played by the steroid hormones, and how this can reflect on cognitive decline/neurodegeneration, in particular on Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and its neuropsychiatric manifestations. We propose and support the huge literature showing the potentiality of complementary/alternative therapeutic approaches (nutraceuticals) targeting the sustained inflammatory response, the dysregulation of hypothalamic system and the GM composition. NF-κB and Keap1/Nrf2 are the main molecular targets on which a list of nutraceuticals can modulate the altered processes. Since there are some limitations, we propose a new intervention natural treatment in terms of Oxygen-ozone (O2-O3) therapy that could be potentially used for AD pathology. Through a meta-analytic approach, we found a significant modulation of O3 on inflammation-NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome/Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4)/Interleukin IL-17α signalling, reducing mRNA (p<0.00001 Odd Ratio (OR)=-5.25 95% CI:-7.04/-3.46) and protein (p<0.00001 OR=-4.85 95%CI:-6.89/-2.81) levels, as well as on Keap1/Nrf2 pathway. Through anti-inflammatory, immune, and steroid hormones modulation and anti-microbial activities, O3 at mild therapeutic concentrations potentiated with nutraceuticals and GM regulators could determine combinatorial effects impacting on cognitive and neurodegenerative domains, neuroinflammation and neuroendocrine signalling, directly or indirectly through the mediation of GM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catia Scassellati
- Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Carlo Galoforo
- Oxygen-Ozone Therapy Scientific Society (SIOOT), Gorle, Italy.
- University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Ciro Esposito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Italy.
- Nephrology and dialysis unit, ICS S. Maugeri SPA SB Hospital, Pavia, Italy.
- P.D. High School in Geriatrics, University of Pavia, Italy.
| | - Miriam Ciani
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Ricevuti
- P.D. High School in Geriatrics, University of Pavia, Italy.
- Department of Drug Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy.
- St. Camillus Medical University, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristian Bonvicini
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tao T, Liu GJ, Shi X, Zhou Y, Lu Y, Gao YY, Zhang XS, Wang H, Wu LY, Chen CL, Zhuang Z, Li W, Hang CH. DHEA Attenuates Microglial Activation via Induction of JMJD3 in Experimental Subarachnoid Haemorrhage. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:243. [PMID: 31779639 PMCID: PMC6883548 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1641-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microglia are resident immune cells in the central nervous system and central to the innate immune system. Excessive activation of microglia after subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) contributes greatly to early brain injury, which is responsible for poor outcomes. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid hormone enriched in the brain, has recently been found to regulate microglial activation. The purpose of this study was to address the role of DHEA in SAH. Methods We used in vivo models of endovascular perforation and in vitro models of haemoglobin exposure to illustrate the effects of DHEA on microglia in SAH. Results In experimental SAH mice, exogenous DHEA administration increased DHEA levels in the brain and modulated microglial activation. Ameliorated neuronal damage and improved neurological outcomes were also observed in the SAH mice pretreated with DHEA, suggesting neuronal protective effects of DHEA. In cultured microglia, DHEA elevated the mRNA and protein levels of Jumonji d3 (JMJD3, histone 3 demethylase) after haemoglobin exposure, downregulated the H3K27me3 level, and inhibited the transcription of proinflammatory genes. The devastating proinflammatory microglia-mediated effects on primary neurons were also attenuated by DHEA; however, specific inhibition of JMJD3 abolished the protective effects of DHEA. We next verified that DHEA-induced JMJD3 expression, at least in part, through the tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA)/Akt signalling pathway. Conclusions DHEA has a neuroprotective effect after SAH. Moreover, DHEA increases microglial JMJD3 expression to regulate proinflammatory/anti-inflammatory microglial activation after haemoglobin exposure, thereby suppressing inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guang-Jie Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- Department of Neurology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong-Yue Gao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang-Sheng Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100032, China
| | - Han Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ling-Yun Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chun-Lei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zong Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chun-Hua Hang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Yilmaz C, Karali K, Fodelianaki G, Gravanis A, Chavakis T, Charalampopoulos I, Alexaki VI. Neurosteroids as regulators of neuroinflammation. Front Neuroendocrinol 2019; 55:100788. [PMID: 31513776 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a physiological protective response in the context of infection and injury. However, neuroinflammation, especially if chronic, may also drive neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), display inflammatory activation of microglia and astrocytes. Intriguingly, the central nervous system (CNS) is a highly steroidogenic environment synthesizing steroids de novo, as well as metabolizing steroids deriving from the circulation. Neurosteroid synthesis can be substantially affected by neuroinflammation, while, in turn, several steroids, such as 17β-estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and allopregnanolone, can regulate neuroinflammatory responses. Here, we review the role of neurosteroids in neuroinflammation in the context of MS, AD, PD and TBI and describe underlying molecular mechanisms. Moreover, we introduce the concept that synthetic neurosteroid analogues could be potentially utilized for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Canelif Yilmaz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kanelina Karali
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Georgia Fodelianaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Achille Gravanis
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Triantafyllos Chavakis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioannis Charalampopoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation of Research & Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Vasileia Ismini Alexaki
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Clinic Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bicikova M, Macova L, Kolatorova L, Hill M, Novotny J, Jandova D, Starka L. Physiological changes after spa treatment - a focus on endocrinology. Physiol Res 2018; 67:S525-S530. [PMID: 30484679 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The paper presents the results of our effort to reveal objective parameters for evaluation of the spa treatment for patients with anxiety-depressive disorders. The study was based on our previous experience with neuroactive steroids and neurosteroids, which play a crucial role in the psychological well-being of patients by maintaining balance of the organism. A total number of 94 steroids were determinated in a group of 70 female patients diagnosed with anxiety-depressive disorders. Patients underwent a month spa treatment while maintaining unchanged medication dosing with SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). The other investigated factors contributing to improving the health of treated subjects were amino-acid homocysteine and serotonin. The blood samples were collected at the beginning and the end of the spa treatment. Serotonin in all patients increased by a relative 23 % (results given as relative differences in percent), while homocysteine decreased by 17.1 %. Statistically significant increases were found in 21 steroids, which indicate activation of the adrenal cortex. It can be assumed, that the overall improvement in the mental condition of patients, which was proved by questionnaire from Knobloch and Hausner, the increase in immune suppressive substances and anti-autoimmune responses, will maintain for a longer time after the spa treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Bicikova
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
DHEA inhibits acute microglia-mediated inflammation through activation of the TrkA-Akt1/2-CREB-Jmjd3 pathway. Mol Psychiatry 2018; 23:1410-1420. [PMID: 28894299 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, produced by the adrenals, the gonads and the brain. DHEA was previously shown to bind to the nerve growth factor receptor, tropomyosin-related kinase A (TrkA), and to thereby exert neuroprotective effects. Here we show that DHEA reduces microglia-mediated inflammation in an acute lipopolysaccharide-induced neuro-inflammation model in mice and in cultured microglia in vitro. DHEA regulates microglial inflammatory responses through phosphorylation of TrkA and subsequent activation of a pathway involving Akt1/Akt2 and cAMP response element-binding protein. The latter induces the expression of the histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27) demethylase Jumonji d3 (Jmjd3), which thereby controls the expression of inflammation-related genes and microglial polarization. Together, our data indicate that DHEA-activated TrkA signaling is a potent regulator of microglia-mediated inflammation in a Jmjd3-dependent manner, thereby providing the platform for potential future therapeutic interventions in neuro-inflammatory pathologies.
Collapse
|
10
|
STÁRKA L. The Origin of 7α-Hydroxy-Dehydroepiandrosterone and Its Physiological Role: a History of Discoveries. Physiol Res 2017; 66:S285-S294. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly 60 years has elapsed since the first isolation and identification of 7α-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, and in that time much information has been gained on its occurrence, metabolism, ontogeny, immunomodulatory activity, cell proliferation, cortisol control in local tissues and neuroactivity. Additional knowledge about this steroid may elucidate its role in obesity, neurodegenerative disturbances such as Alzheimer’s disease, or psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or depression. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the available literature on 7α-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L. STÁRKA
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lambert WS, Carlson BJ, Formichella CR, Sappington RM, Ahlem C, Calkins DJ. Oral Delivery of a Synthetic Sterol Reduces Axonopathy and Inflammation in a Rodent Model of Glaucoma. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:45. [PMID: 28223915 PMCID: PMC5293777 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of optic neuropathies associated with aging and sensitivity to intraocular pressure (IOP). The disease is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Early progression in glaucoma involves dysfunction of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons, which comprise the optic nerve. Deficits in anterograde transport along RGC axons to central visual structures precede outright degeneration, and preventing these deficits is efficacious at abating subsequent progression. HE3286 is a synthetic sterol derivative that has shown therapeutic promise in models of inflammatory disease and neurodegenerative disease. We examined the efficacy of HE3286 oral delivery in preventing loss of anterograde transport in an inducible model of glaucoma (microbead occlusion). Adult rats received HE3286 (20 or 100 mg/kg) or vehicle daily via oral gavage for 4 weeks. Microbead occlusion elevated IOP ~30% in all treatment groups, and elevation was not affected by HE3286 treatment. In the vehicle group, elevated IOP reduced anterograde axonal transport to the superior colliculus, the most distal site in the optic projection, by 43% (p = 0.003); HE3286 (100 mg/kg) prevented this reduction (p = 0.025). HE3286 increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the optic nerve head and retina, while decreasing inflammatory and pathogenic proteins associated with elevated IOP compared to vehicle treatment. Treatment with HE3286 also increased nuclear localization of the transcription factor NFκB in collicular and retinal neurons, but decreased NFκB in glial nuclei in the optic nerve head. Thus, HE3286 may have a neuroprotective influence in glaucoma, as well as other chronic neurodegenerations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendi S Lambert
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Eye Institute Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Brian J Carlson
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Eye Institute Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Cathryn R Formichella
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Eye Institute Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rebecca M Sappington
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Eye Institute Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - David J Calkins
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, The Vanderbilt Eye Institute Nashville, TN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Vaňková M, Hill M, Velíková M, Včelák J, Vacínová G, Dvořáková K, Lukášová P, Vejražková D, Rusina R, Holmerová I, Jarolímová E, Vaňková H, Kancheva R, Bendlová B, Stárka L. Preliminary evidence of altered steroidogenesis in women with Alzheimer's disease: Have the patients "OLDER" adrenal zona reticularis? J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2016; 158:157-177. [PMID: 26704533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents more than half of total dementias. Various factors including altered steroid biosynthesis may participate in its pathophysiology. We investigated how the circulating steroids (measured by GC-MS and RIA) may be altered in the presence of AD. Sixteen women with AD and 22 age- and BMI-corresponding controls aged over 65 years were enrolled in the study. The steroid levels (47 steroids and steroid polar conjugates) and their ratios in AD female patients indicated increased CYP11A1 activity, weakened activity of the CYP17A1C17,20 lyase metabolic step and attenuated sulfotransferase SULT2A1 activity at higher activity of the CYP17A1 17-hydroxylase step. The patients showed diminished HSD3B2 activity for C21 steroids, abated conversion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone to cortisol, and significantly elevated cortisol. The women with AD had also attenuated steroid 7α-hydroxylation forming immunoprotective Δ(5)-C19 steroids, attenuated aromatase activity forming estradiol that induces autoimmunity and a shift from the 3β-hydroxy-5α/β-reduced C19 steroids to their neuroinhibitory and antiinflammatory GABAergic 3α-hydroxy- counterparts and showed higher levels of the 3α-hydroxy-5α/β-reduced C21 steroids and pregnenolone sulfate (improves cognitive abilities but may be both protective and excitotoxic). Our preliminary data indicated functioning of alternative "backdoor" pathway in women with AD showing higher levels of both 5α/β-reduced C21 steroids but reduced levels of both 5α/β-reduced C21 steroids, which implied that the alternative "backdoor" pathway might include both 5α- and 5β-reduced steroids. Our study suggested relationships between AD status in women based on the age of subjects and levels of 10 steroids measured by GC-MS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Vaňková
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Marta Velíková
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Josef Včelák
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Gabriela Vacínová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Petra Lukášová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Robert Rusina
- Department of Neurology, Thomayer's Hospital, Vídeňská 800, Prague 140 59, Czech Republic.
| | - Iva Holmerová
- Faculty of Humanities, Charles University in Prague, Ovocný trh 5, Prague 110 00, Czech Republic.
| | - Eva Jarolímová
- Faculty of Humanities, Charles University in Prague, Ovocný trh 5, Prague 110 00, Czech Republic.
| | - Hana Vaňková
- Faculty of Humanities, Charles University in Prague, Ovocný trh 5, Prague 110 00, Czech Republic; Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Ovocný trh 5, Prague 110 00, Czech Republic.
| | - Radmila Kancheva
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Běla Bendlová
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| | - Luboslav Stárka
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní 8, Prague 116 94, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
VAŇKOVÁ M, HILL M, VELÍKOVÁ M, VČELÁK J, VACÍNOVÁ G, LUKÁŠOVÁ P, VEJRAŽKOVÁ D, DVOŘÁKOVÁ K, RUSINA R, HOLMEROVÁ I, JAROLÍMOVÁ E, VAŇKOVÁ H, BENDLOVÁ B. Reduced Sulfotransferase SULT2A1 Activity in Patients With Alzheimer´s Disease. Physiol Res 2015; 64:S265-73. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroids are important components in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although their role has been studied, the corresponding metabolomic data is limited. In the present study we evaluate the role of steroid sulfotransferase SULT2A1 in the pathophysiology of AD on the basis of circulating steroids (measured by GC-MS), in which the sulfation catalyzed by SULT2A1 dominates over glucuronidation (pregnenolone/sulfate, DHEA/sulfate, androstenediol/sulfate and 5α-reduced pregnane and androstane catabolites). To estimate a general trend of SUL2A1 activity in AD patients we compared the ratios of steroid conjugates to their unconjugated counterparts (C/U) in controls (11 men and 22 women) and AD patients (18 men and 16 women) for individual circulating steroids after adjustment for age and BMI using ANCOVA model including the factors AD status and gender. Decreased C/U ratio for the C19 steroids demonstrate an association between attenuated sulfation of C19 steroids in adrenal zona reticularis and the pathophysiology of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. VAŇKOVÁ
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hansberg-Pastor V, González-Arenas A, Piña-Medina AG, Camacho-Arroyo I. Sex Hormones Regulate Cytoskeletal Proteins Involved in Brain Plasticity. Front Psychiatry 2015; 6:165. [PMID: 26635640 PMCID: PMC4653291 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2015.00165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In the brain of female mammals, including humans, a number of physiological and behavioral changes occur as a result of sex hormone exposure. Estradiol and progesterone regulate several brain functions, including learning and memory. Sex hormones contribute to shape the central nervous system by modulating the formation and turnover of the interconnections between neurons as well as controlling the function of glial cells. The dynamics of neuron and glial cells morphology depends on the cytoskeleton and its associated proteins. Cytoskeletal proteins are necessary to form neuronal dendrites and dendritic spines, as well as to regulate the diverse functions in astrocytes. The expression pattern of proteins, such as actin, microtubule-associated protein 2, Tau, and glial fibrillary acidic protein, changes in a tissue-specific manner in the brain, particularly when variations in sex hormone levels occur during the estrous or menstrual cycles or pregnancy. Here, we review the changes in structure and organization of neurons and glial cells that require the participation of cytoskeletal proteins whose expression and activity are regulated by estradiol and progesterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Hansberg-Pastor
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| | - Aliesha González-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| | - Ana Gabriela Piña-Medina
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México , Mexico City , Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Taveira M, Sousa C, Valentão P, Ferreres F, Teixeira JP, Andrade PB. Neuroprotective effect of steroidal alkaloids on glutamate-induced toxicity by preserving mitochondrial membrane potential and reducing oxidative stress. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 140:106-15. [PMID: 24373792 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2013] [Revised: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Several evidences suggest that enhanced oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis and/or progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate for the first time whether both extracts from tomato plant (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) leaves and their isolated steroidal alkaloids (tomatine and tomatidine) afford neuroprotective effect against glutamate-induced toxicity in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and to elucidate the mechanisms underlying this protection. Steroidal alkaloids from tomato are well known for their cholinesterases' inhibitory capacity and the results showed that both purified extracts and isolated compounds, at non-toxic concentrations for gastric (AGS), intestinal (Caco-2) and neuronal (SH-SY5Y) cells, have the capacity to preserve mitochondria membrane potential and to decrease reactive oxygen species levels of SH-SY5Y glutamate-insulted cells. Moreover, the use of specific antagonists of cholinergic receptors allowed observing that tomatine and tomatidine can interact with nicotinic receptors, specifically with the α7 type. No effect on muscarinic receptors was noticed. In addition to the selective cholinesterases' inhibition revealed by the compounds/extracts, these results provide novel and important insights into their neuroprotective mechanism. This work also demystifies the applicability of these compounds in therapeutics, by demonstrating that their toxicity was overestimated for long time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Taveira
- REQUIMTE/Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n°. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Sousa
- REQUIMTE/Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n°. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Valentão
- REQUIMTE/Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n°. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Federico Ferreres
- CEBAS (CSIC) Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, Department of Food Science and Technology, P.O. Box 164, 30100 Campus University Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - João P Teixeira
- Environmental Health Department, National Institute of Health, Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula B Andrade
- REQUIMTE/Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, n°. 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Human Tau may Modify Glucocorticoids-Mediated Regulation of cAMP-dependent Kinase and Phosphorylated cAMP Response Element Binding Protein. Neurochem Res 2012; 37:935-47. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-011-0686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2011] [Revised: 12/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|