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Navin AK, Aruldhas MM, Mani KK, Navaneethabalakrishnan S, Venkatachalam S, Banu SK. Unraveling Hypothalamus-Pituitary dysregulation: Hypergonadotropism in F 1 progeny due to prenatal exposure to hexavalent chromium. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23699. [PMID: 38532648 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23699] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The endocrine disruptor hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is a proven reproductive toxicant. We recently demonstrated that prenatal Cr(VI) exposure causes testicular resistance to gonadotropins, resulting in hypergonadotropic hypoandrogenism in F1 rats. However, the mechanism driving hypergonadotropism in F1 rats exposed to Cr(VI) prenatally remains an enigma. Therefore, we hypothesized that 'Prenatal Cr(VI) exposure may disrupt steroid hormones-mediated negative feedback regulation of the hypothalamic GnRH, and its receptor in the pituitary of F1 rats, leading to hypergonadotropism.' We administered potassium dichromate (50, 100, or 200 mg/L) to pregnant rats through drinking water between days 9 and 14, and their male F1 offspring were euthanized at 60 days of age. Prenatal Cr(VI) exposure in F1 rats resulted in the accumulation of Cr in the hypothalamus and pituitary. Western blot detected decreased hypothalamic GnRH, Kisspeptin1, and its receptor GPR54, along with diminished ERα, AR, aromatase, and 5α reductase, and GnRH regulatory transcription factors Pit-1 and GATA-4 proteins. Immunohistochemical studies revealed increased immunopositivity of GnRH receptor, AR, 5α reductase, ERα, ERβ, and aromatase proteins in the pituitary, whereas decreased Kisspeptin1, GPR54, and inhibin β. Our findings imply that Cr(VI) exposure during the prenatal period disrupts the hypothalamic Kisspeptin-GPR54-Pit-1/GATA4-GnRH network, boosting the pituitary GnRH receptor. We conclude that prenatal exposure to Cr(VI) alters GnRH expression in the hypothalamus and its receptor in the pituitary of F1 progeny through interfering with the negative feedback effect of androgens and estrogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit Kumar Navin
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. A.L.M. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Taramani-Velachery Link Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mariajoseph Michael Aruldhas
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. A.L.M. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Taramani-Velachery Link Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kathiresh Kumar Mani
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. A.L.M. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Taramani-Velachery Link Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shobana Navaneethabalakrishnan
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. A.L.M. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Taramani-Velachery Link Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sankar Venkatachalam
- Department of Anatomy, Dr. A.L.M. Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani Campus, Taramani-Velachery Link Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sakhila K Banu
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, TAMU-4458, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Cruz-Cano N, Sánchez-Rivera U, Álvarez-Rodríguez C, Loya-Zurita R, Castro-Camacho Y, Martínez-Torres M. Immunolocalization of activin and inhibin at different stages of follicular development in the lizard Sceloporus torquatus. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19333. [PMID: 37681184 PMCID: PMC10481300 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19333] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The activins and inhibins are glycoproteins with a role in the follicular development of vertebrates, that are found in follicular fluid and somatic follicular cells, with a different pattern among taxa. The principal function of activin (Act) is to modulate the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and secretion, whereas inhibin (Inh) downregulates it. Both factors are modulators of intraovarian follicular recruitment, oocyte maturation, cell proliferation, and steroidogenic activity. Our aim was to characterize the immunolocalization of Act and Inh in the ovarian follicles during the reproductive cycle of the lizard Sceloporus torquatus. Act was detected in the granulosa cells and oocyte cortex in the different stages of follicular development. On the other hand, we identified Inh in the oocyte cortex and the cytoplasm of pyriform and small cells of previtellogenic follicles. Also, we found immunoreactivity in the oocyte cortex, theca, and small cells of vitellogenic and preovulatory follicles. Our data provide evidence that Act and Inh have changes related to the stage of follicular development. This dynamic appears to be conserved among vertebrates and is fundamental to ensure an adequate follicular development in this specie.
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Affiliation(s)
- N.B. Cruz-Cano
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Edificio D, 1° Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - U.Á. Sánchez-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - C. Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - R.E. Loya-Zurita
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - Y.J. Castro-Camacho
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - M. Martínez-Torres
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
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Kolnes AJ, Øystese KAB, Sjöstedt E, Olarescu NC, Heck A, Pahnke J, Dahlberg D, Berg-Johnsen J, Ringstad G, Casar-Borota O, Bollerslev J, Jørgensen AP. TGFBR3L is associated with gonadotropin production in non-functioning gonadotroph pituitary neuroendocrine tumours. Pituitary 2023:10.1007/s11102-023-01310-x. [PMID: 36952069 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-023-01310-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transforming growth factor-beta receptor 3-like (TGFBR3L) is a pituitary enriched membrane protein selectively detected in gonadotroph cells. TGFBR3L is named after transforming growth factor-beta receptor 3 (TGFBR3), an inhibin A co-receptor in mice, due to sequence identity to the C-terminal region. We aimed to characterize TGFBR3L detection in a well-characterized, prospectively collected cohort of non-functioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumours (NF-PitNETs) and correlate it to clinical data. METHODS 144 patients operated for clinically NF-PitNETs were included. Clinical, radiological and biochemical data were recorded. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for FSHβ and LHβ was scored using the immunoreactive score (IRS), TGFBR3L and TGFBR3 were scored by the percentage of positive stained cells. RESULTS TGFBR3L staining was selectively present in 52% of gonadotroph tumours. TGFBR3L was associated to IRS of LHβ (median 2 [IQR 0-3] in TGFBR3L negative and median 6 [IQR 3-9] in TGFBR3L positive tumours, p < 0.001), but not to the IRS of FSHβ (p = 0.32). The presence of TGFBR3L was negatively associated with plasma gonadotropin concentrations in males (P-FSH median 5.5 IU/L [IQR 2.9-9.6] and median 3.0 [IQR 1.8-5.6] in TGFBR3L negative and positive tumours respectively, p = 0.008) and P-LH (median 2.8 IU/L [IQR 1.9-3.7] and median 1.8 [IQR 1.1-3.0] in TGFBR3L negative and positive tumours respectively, p = 0.03). TGFBR3 stained positive in 22% (n = 25) of gonadotroph tumours with no correlation to TGFBR3L. CONCLUSION TGFBR3L was selectively detected in half (52%) of gonadotroph NF-PitNETs. The association to LHβ staining and plasma gonadotropins suggests that TGFBR3L may be involved in hormone production in gonadotroph NF-PitNETs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Jensen Kolnes
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristin Astrid Berland Øystese
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway.
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Evelina Sjöstedt
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nicoleta Cristina Olarescu
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ansgar Heck
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jens Pahnke
- Department of Pathology, Section of Neuropathology, University of Oslo and Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Pahnke lab (Drug Discovery and Chemical Biology), Lübeck Institute of Dermatology, LIED, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Latvia, Rīga, Latvia
| | - Daniel Dahlberg
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jon Berg-Johnsen
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurosurgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir Ringstad
- Department of Radiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olivera Casar-Borota
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jens Bollerslev
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Sognsvannsveien 20, 0372, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anders Palmstrøm Jørgensen
- Section of Specialized Endocrinology, Department of Endocrinology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Makowczenko KG, Jastrzebski JP, Kiezun M, Paukszto L, Dobrzyn K, Smolinska N, Kaminski T. Adaptation of the Porcine Pituitary Transcriptome, Spliceosome and Editome during Early Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065946. [PMID: 36983019 PMCID: PMC10053595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological mechanisms of the porcine reproduction are relatively well-known. However, transcriptomic changes and the mechanisms accompanying transcription and translation processes in various reproductive organs, as well as their dependence on hormonal status, are still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to gain a principal understanding of alterations within the transcriptome, spliceosome and editome occurring in the pituitary of the domestic pig (Sus scrofa domestica L.), which controls basic physiological processes in the reproductive system. In this investigation, we performed extensive analyses of data obtained by high-throughput sequencing of RNA from the gilts' pituitary anterior lobes during embryo implantation and the mid-luteal phase of the estrous cycle. During analyses, we obtained detailed information on expression changes of 147 genes and 43 long noncoding RNAs, observed 784 alternative splicing events and also found the occurrence of 8729 allele-specific expression sites and 122 RNA editing events. The expression profiles of the selected 16 phenomena were confirmed by PCR or qPCR techniques. As a final result of functional meta-analysis, we acquired knowledge regarding intracellular pathways that induce changes in the processes accompanying transcription and translation regulation, which may induce modifications in the secretory activity of the porcine adenohypophyseal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karol G Makowczenko
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jan P Jastrzebski
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kiezun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Lukasz Paukszto
- Department of Botany and Nature Protection, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Plac Lodzki 1, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamil Dobrzyn
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nina Smolinska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Kaminski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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5
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Review: Role and regulatory mechanism of inhibin in animal reproductive system. Theriogenology 2023; 202:10-20. [PMID: 36878034 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.016] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin (INH) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the gonads that inhibit the synthesis and secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Increasing evidence indicates that INH plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system including follicle development, ovulation rate, corpus luteum formation and ablation, steroid hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis, subsequently affecting the reproductive capacity of animals such as litter size and egg production. There are currently three main views on how INH inhibits FSH synthesis and secretion: influencing the activity of adenylate cyclase, the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor or gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the competition system of inhibin-activin. This review discusses the current findings on the structure, function, and mechanism of action of INH in the reproductive system of animals.
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Ji J, Zhou Y, Li Z, Zhuang J, Ze Y, Hong F. Impairment of ovarian follicular development caused by titanium dioxide nanoparticles exposure involved in the TGF-β/BMP/Smad pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2023; 38:185-192. [PMID: 36219784 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) have been shown to induce reproductive system damages in animals. To better underline how TiO2 NPs act in reproductive system, female mice were exposed to 2.5, 5, or 10 mg/kg TiO2 NPs by gavage administration for 60 days, the ovary injuries, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels as well as ovarian follicular development-related molecule expression were investigated. The results showed that TiO2 NPs exposure resulted in reduction of ovary weight and inhibition of ovarian follicular development. Furthermore, the suppression of follicular development was demonstrated to be closely related to higher FSH and LH levels, and higher expression of activin, follistatin, BMP2, BMP4, TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 as well as decreased inhibin-α expression in mouse ovary in a dose-dependent manner. It implies that the impairment of ovarian follicular development caused by TiO2 NPs exposure may be mediated by TGF-β signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Ji
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Regional Modern Agriculture & Environmental Protection, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
| | - Yingjun Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
| | - Zhengpeng Li
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Regional Modern Agriculture & Environmental Protection, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
| | - Juan Zhuang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
| | - Yuguan Ze
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Fashui Hong
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Regional Modern Agriculture & Environmental Protection, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
- School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, China
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7
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Genetic analysis of activin/inhibin β subunits in zebrafish development and reproduction. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010523. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are both dimeric proteins sharing the same β subunits that belong to the TGF-β superfamily. They are well known for stimulating and inhibiting pituitary FSH secretion, respectively, in mammals. In addition, activin also acts as a mesoderm-inducing factor in frogs. However, their functions in development and reproduction of other species are poorly defined. In this study, we disrupted all three activin/inhibin β subunits (βAa, inhbaa; βAb, inhbab; and βB, inhbb) in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. The loss of βAa/b but not βB led to a high mortality rate in the post-hatching stage. Surprisingly, the expression of fshb but not lhb in the pituitary increased in the female βA mutant together with aromatase (cyp19a1a) in the ovary. The single mutant of βAa/b showed normal folliculogenesis in young females; however, their double mutant (inhbaa-/-;inhbab-/-) showed delayed follicle activation, granulosa cell hypertrophy, stromal cell accumulation and tissue fibrosis. The ovary of inhbaa-/- deteriorated progressively after 180 dpf with reduced fecundity and the folliculogenesis ceased completely around 540 dpf. In addition, tumor- or cyst-like tissues started to appear in the inhbaa-/- ovary after about one year. In contrast to females, activin βAa/b mutant males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As for activin βB subunit, the inhbb-/- mutant exhibited normal folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertility in both sexes; however, the fecundity of mutant females decreased dramatically at 270 dpf with accumulation of early follicles. In summary, the activin-inhibin system plays an indispensable role in fish reproduction, in particular folliculogenesis and ovarian homeostasis.
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Orchard P, Manickam N, Ventresca C, Vadlamudi S, Varshney A, Rai V, Kaplan J, Lalancette C, Mohlke KL, Gallagher K, Burant CF, Parker SCJ. Human and rat skeletal muscle single-nuclei multi-omic integrative analyses nominate causal cell types, regulatory elements, and SNPs for complex traits. Genome Res 2021; 31:2258-2275. [PMID: 34815310 PMCID: PMC8647829 DOI: 10.1101/gr.268482.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle accounts for the largest proportion of human body mass, on average, and is a key tissue in complex diseases and mobility. It is composed of several different cell and muscle fiber types. Here, we optimize single-nucleus ATAC-seq (snATAC-seq) to map skeletal muscle cell-specific chromatin accessibility landscapes in frozen human and rat samples, and single-nucleus RNA-seq (snRNA-seq) to map cell-specific transcriptomes in human. We additionally perform multi-omics profiling (gene expression and chromatin accessibility) on human and rat muscle samples. We capture type I and type II muscle fiber signatures, which are generally missed by existing single-cell RNA-seq methods. We perform cross-modality and cross-species integrative analyses on 33,862 nuclei and identify seven cell types ranging in abundance from 59.6% to 1.0% of all nuclei. We introduce a regression-based approach to infer cell types by comparing transcription start site-distal ATAC-seq peaks to reference enhancer maps and show consistency with RNA-based marker gene cell type assignments. We find heterogeneity in enrichment of genetic variants linked to complex phenotypes from the UK Biobank and diabetes genome-wide association studies in cell-specific ATAC-seq peaks, with the most striking enrichment patterns in muscle mesenchymal stem cells (∼3.5% of nuclei). Finally, we overlay these chromatin accessibility maps on GWAS data to nominate causal cell types, SNPs, transcription factor motifs, and target genes for type 2 diabetes signals. These chromatin accessibility profiles for human and rat skeletal muscle cell types are a useful resource for nominating causal GWAS SNPs and cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Orchard
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Nandini Manickam
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Christa Ventresca
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Swarooparani Vadlamudi
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Arushi Varshney
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Vivek Rai
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Jeremy Kaplan
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Claudia Lalancette
- Epigenomics Core, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Karen L Mohlke
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Katherine Gallagher
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Charles F Burant
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Stephen C J Parker
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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9
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Bohaczuk SC, Cassin J, Slaiwa TI, Thackray VG, Mellon PL. Distal Enhancer Potentiates Activin- and GnRH-Induced Transcription of FSHB. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6213400. [PMID: 33824966 PMCID: PMC8157479 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
FSH is critical for fertility. Transcription of FSHB, the gene encoding the beta subunit, is rate-limiting in FSH production and is regulated by both GnRH and activin. Activin signals through SMAD transcription factors. Although the mechanisms and importance of activin signaling in mouse Fshb transcription are well-established, activin regulation of human FSHB is less well understood. We previously reported a novel enhancer of FSHB that contains a fertility-associated single nucleotide polymorphism (rs10031006) and requires a region resembling a full (8 base-pair) SMAD binding element (SBE). Here, we investigated the role of the putative SBE within the enhancer in activin and GnRH regulation of FSHB. In mouse gonadotrope-derived LβT2 cells, the upstream enhancer potentiated activin induction of both the human and mouse FSHB proximal promoters and conferred activin responsiveness to a minimal promoter. Activin induction of the enhancer required the SBE and was blocked by the inhibitory SMAD7, confirming involvement of the classical SMAD signaling pathway. GnRH induction of FSHB was also potentiated by the enhancer and dependent on the SBE, consistent with known activin/GnRH synergy regulating FSHB transcription. In DNA pull-down, the enhancer SBE bound SMAD4, and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated SMAD4 enrichment at the enhancer in native chromatin. Combined activin/GnRH treatment elevated levels of the active transcriptional histone marker, histone 3 lysine 27 acetylation, at the enhancer. Overall, this study indicates that the enhancer is directly targeted by activin signaling and identifies a novel, evolutionarily conserved mechanism by which activin and GnRH can regulate FSHB transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Bohaczuk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Cassin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Theresa I Slaiwa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA. E-mail:
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Bethea CL, Cameron JL. Neuro-pharmacological reinstatement of ovulation and associated neurobiology in a macaque model of functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:175-188. [PMID: 33319240 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa296] [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: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the underlying neuropathology in a cynomolgus macaque model of functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA) and can it be normalized to restore ovulation? SUMMARY ANSWER Anovulatory monkeys exhibited increased hypothalamic norepinephrine (NE), kisspeptin and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in the early follicular phase, but administration of the NE reuptake inhibitor (NRI), reboxetine (REB), restored ovulation during stress and normalized NE, kisspeptin and GnRH. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Female cynomolgus macaques, like women, show individual reproductive sensitivity to modest psychosocial and metabolic stress. During stress, resilient females ovulate through two menstrual cycles whereas stress-sensitive (SS) macaques immediately cease ovulation. On Day 5 of a non-stressed menstrual cycle, resilient macaques have less NE synthesizing enzyme [dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH)], kisspeptin and GnRH innervation of the medial basal hypothalamus but more endogenous serotonin than SS macaques. Stress increased DBH/NE, kisspeptin and GnRH but did not alter serotonin. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In a longitudinal design, 27 adult (7-13 years) female cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis) with three different levels of sensitivity to stress were monitored with daily vaginal swabs and frequent serum progesterone (P) measurements. Three 90-day experimental periods called 'Cycle Sets' were monitored. A Cycle Set consisted of one ovulatory menstrual cycle without stress, and two cycles, or 60 days, with modest stress. Each Cycle Set was followed by a rest period. During a Cycle Set, individuals were either untreated (placebo) or administered escitalopram (CIT) or REB. Ultimately, half of each sensitivity group was euthanized during stress with CIT or REB treatment and the hypothalamus was obtained. Neurobiological endpoints were compared between CIT and REB treatment groups in stress resilient and SS monkeys. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The monkeys were housed at the University of Pittsburgh primate facility for the duration of the experiments. Upon euthanasia, their brains and serum samples were shipped to the Oregon National Primate Research Center. The hypothalamus was examined with immunohistochemistry for the expression of DBH (a marker for NE axons), kisspeptin and GnRH. P was measured in the serum samples by radioimmunoassay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Daily administration of REB restored ovulation in 9 of 10 SS animals during stress. Of note, REB significantly increased P secretion during stress in the most sensitive group (P = 0.032), which indicates ovulation. CIT lacked efficacy. REB significantly reduced DBH/NE, kisspeptin and GnRH axon density in the hypothalamus relative to CIT treatment (P = 0.003. 0.018 and 0.0001, respectively) on Day 5 of the menstrual cycle in resilient and sensitive groups. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The US FDA has not approved REB for human use, although it is used in Europe for the treatment of depression/anxiety as EdronaxTR. Whether REB could be useful for the treatment of FHA in women has not been determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FINDINGS The use of an NRI to treat FHA is a novel approach and the potential reinstatement of ovulation could be straightforward compared to current treatment protocols. The underlying neurobiology provides a compelling case for treating the origin of the pathology, i.e. elevated NE, rather than circumventing the hypothalamus altogether with gonadotropins, which have associated risks such as hyperstimulation syndrome or multiple births. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Portions of this study were supported by NIH grant HD062864 to C.L.B., NIH grant HD62618 to J.L.C. and C.L.B. and 1P51 OD011092 for the operation of the Oregon National Primate Research Center. There were no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Bethea
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.,Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97201, USA
| | - Judy L Cameron
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
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11
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Bohaczuk SC, Thackray VG, Shen J, Skowronska-Krawczyk D, Mellon PL. FSHB Transcription is Regulated by a Novel 5' Distal Enhancer With a Fertility-Associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphism. Endocrinology 2021; 162:5917511. [PMID: 33009549 PMCID: PMC7846141 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone, signal the gonads to regulate male and female fertility. FSH is critical for female fertility as it regulates oocyte maturation, ovulation, and hormone synthesis. Multiple genome-wide association studies (GWAS) link a 130 Kb locus at 11p14.1, which encompasses the FSH beta-subunit (FSHB) gene, with fertility-related traits that include polycystic ovary syndrome, age of natural menopause, and dizygotic twinning. The most statistically significant single nucleotide polymorphism from several GWAS studies (rs11031006) resides within a highly conserved 450 bp region 26 Kb upstream of the human FSHB gene. Given that sequence conservation suggests an important biological function, we hypothesized that the region could regulate FSHB transcription. In luciferase assays, the conserved region enhanced FSHB transcription and gel shifts identified a binding site for Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) contributing to its function. Analysis of mouse pituitary single-cell ATAC-seq demonstrated open chromatin at the conserved region exclusive to a gonadotrope cell-type cluster. Additionally, enhancer-associated histone markers were identified by immunoprecipitation of chromatin from mouse whole pituitary and an immortalized mouse gonadotrope-derived LβT2 cell line at the conserved region. Furthermore, we found that the rs11031006 minor allele upregulated FSHB transcription via increased SF1 binding to the enhancer. All together, these results identify a novel upstream regulator of FSHB transcription and indicate that rs11031006 can modulate FSH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie C Bohaczuk
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jia Shen
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Dorota Skowronska-Krawczyk
- Shiley Eye Institute, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Ophthalmology, Center for Translational Vision Research, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA. E-mail:
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12
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Tang S, Liang XF, He S, Alam MS, Luo H, Kuang Y. Activin A affects feeding by promoting the inner diameter and muscle development of the pharynx and oesophagus in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2020; 97:1624-1631. [PMID: 32785965 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.14493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Activin A belongs to the superfamily of transforming growth factor-β and plays an important role in hormone regulation and tissue development. However, few research studies have been conducted on the effect of activin A on feeding organs in fish. In this study, the zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae were treated with 1 ng ml-1 activin A for 8 days continuously. The haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining section results revealed that the transverse inner diameter of the pharynx and oesophagus significantly increased on the third and eighth days after treatment compared with the control group (P < 0.05). On the eighth day, the cross-sectional area of the pharyngeal muscle increased by 8638 μm2 compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The RNA in situ hybridization results also showed that the expression of skeletal muscle-specific genes (myog and myod) was significantly increased in pharyngeal muscle on the eighth day. Furthermore, the qRT-PCR results showed the expression of gh gene was significantly increased on the eighth day (P < 0.05). At the same time, more larvae in activin A group were able to feed larger brine shrimp (Artemia) than in the control group on the eighth day. In conclusion, activin A could affect feeding by promoting the inner diameter and muscle development of the pharynx and oesophagus in zebrafish larvae. This study is the first to report that the development of the pharynx and oesophagus can directly affect food intake in fish larvae, which provides a theoretical basis for the study of food intake of fish at an early stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shulin Tang
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Xu-Fang Liang
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Shan He
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Muhammad Shoaib Alam
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Haocan Luo
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
| | - Yulan Kuang
- College of Fisheries, Chinese Perch Research Center, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Innovation Base for Chinese Perch Breeding, Key Lab of Freshwater Animal Breeding, Ministry of Agriculture, Wuhan, China
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13
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Ajayi AF, Akhigbe RE. The physiology of male reproduction: Impact of drugs and their abuse on male fertility. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13672. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso Nigeria
| | - Roland Eghoghosoa Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology College of Medicine Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Ogbomoso Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories Oasis of Grace Hospital Osogbo Nigeria
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14
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Padmanabhan V, Cardoso RC. Neuroendocrine, autocrine, and paracrine control of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 500:110632. [PMID: 31682864 PMCID: PMC7433377 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary that plays a central role in controlling ovarian folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis in females. Moreover, recent studies strongly suggest that FSH exerts extragonadal actions, particularly regulating bone mass and adiposity. Despite its crucial role, the mechanisms regulating FSH secretion are not completely understood. It is evident that hypothalamic, ovarian, and pituitary factors are involved in the neuroendocrine, paracrine, and autocrine regulation of FSH production. Large animal models, such as the female sheep, represent valuable research models to investigate specific aspects of FSH secretory processes. This review: (i) summarizes the role of FSH controlling reproduction and other biological processes; (ii) discusses the hypothalamic, gonadal, and pituitary regulation of FSH secretion; (iii) considers the biological relevance of the different FSH isoforms; and (iv) summarizes the distinct patterns of FSH secretion under different physiological conditions.
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15
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Paracrine/autocrine control of spermatogenesis by gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 492:110440. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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16
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de la Fuente‐Granada M, Olguín‐Alor R, Ortega‐Francisco S, Bonifaz LC, Soldevila G. Inhibins regulate peripheral regulatory T cell induction through modulation of dendritic cell function. FEBS Open Bio 2019; 9:137-147. [PMID: 30652081 PMCID: PMC6325588 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.12555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously reported that the absence of inhibins results in impaired dendritic cell (DC) maturation and function, leading to decreased T cell activation and diminished delayed-type hypersensitivity responses. Here, we investigated the role of inhibins in peripheral regulatory T cell (Treg) induction in vitro and in vivo. Inhibin deficient (Inhα-/-) mice showed an increased percentage of peripherally induced Tregs in colonic lamina propria and mesenteric lymph nodes, compared to Inhα+/+ mice, which correlated with increased expression of PD-L1 in CD103+ and CD8α+ DCs. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated bone marrow-derived and ex vivo spleen- and lymph node-purified CD11c+ Inhα-/- DCs induced higher Tregs in vitro. Moreover, in vivo anti-DEC205-ovalbumin (OVA) DC targeting of mice with adoptively transferred OVA-specific T cells showed enhanced induced peripheral Treg conversion in Inhα-/- mice. These data identify inhibins as key regulators of peripheral T cell tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roxana Olguín‐Alor
- Departamento de InmunologíaInstituto de Investigaciones BiomédicasUNAMMexico CityMexico
- Laboratorio Nacional de Citometría de FlujoInstituto de Investigaciones BiomédicasUNAMMexico CityMexico
| | | | - Laura C. Bonifaz
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en InmunoquímicaInstituto Mexicano del Seguro SocialCentro Médico Nacional Siglo XXIMexico CityMexico
| | - Gloria Soldevila
- Departamento de InmunologíaInstituto de Investigaciones BiomédicasUNAMMexico CityMexico
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17
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Castonguay R, Lachey J, Wallner S, Strand J, Liharska K, Watanabe AE, Cannell M, Davies MV, Sako D, Troy ME, Krishnan L, Mulivor AW, Li H, Keates S, Alexander MJ, Pearsall RS, Kumar R. Follistatin-288-Fc Fusion Protein Promotes Localized Growth of Skeletal Muscle. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2018; 368:435-445. [PMID: 30563942 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.118.252304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Follistatin is an endogenous glycoprotein that promotes growth and repair of skeletal muscle by sequestering inhibitory ligands of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and may therefore have therapeutic potential for neuromuscular diseases. Here, we sought to determine the suitability of a newly engineered follistatin fusion protein (FST288-Fc) to promote localized, rather than systemic, growth of skeletal muscle by capitalizing on the intrinsic heparin-binding ability of the follistatin-288 isoform. As determined by surface plasmon resonance and cell-based assays, FST288-Fc binds to activin A, activin B, myostatin (growth differentiation factor GDF8), and GDF11 with high affinity and neutralizes their activity in vitro. Intramuscular administration of FST288-Fc in mice induced robust, dose-dependent growth of the targeted muscle but not of surrounding or contralateral muscles, in contrast to the systemic effects of a locally administered fusion protein incorporating activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB-Fc). Furthermore, systemic administration of FST288-Fc in mice did not alter muscle mass or body composition as determined by NMR, which again contrasts with the pronounced systemic activity of ActRIIB-Fc when administered by the same route. Subsequent analysis revealed that FST288-Fc in the circulation undergoes rapid proteolysis, thereby restricting its activity to individual muscles targeted by intramuscular administration. These results indicate that FST288-Fc can produce localized growth of skeletal muscle in a targeted manner with reduced potential for undesirable systemic effects. Thus, FST288-Fc and similar agents may be beneficial in the treatment of disorders with muscle atrophy that is focal, asymmetric, or otherwise heterogeneous.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Huiming Li
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Ravi Kumar
- Acceleron Pharma, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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18
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Cole CL, Kleckner IR, Jatoi A, Schwarz E, Dunne RF. The Role of Systemic Inflammation in Cancer-Associated Muscle Wasting and Rationale for Exercise as a Therapeutic Intervention. JCSM CLINICAL REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.17987/jcsm-cr.v3i2.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Progressive skeletal muscle wasting in cancer cachexia involves a process of dysregulated protein synthesis and breakdown. This catabolism may be the result of mal-nutrition, and an upregulation of both pro-inflammatory cytokines and the ubiquitin proteasome pathway (UPP), which can subsequently increase myostatin and activin A release. The skeletal muscle wasting associated with cancer cachexia is clinically significant, it can contribute to treatment toxicity or the premature discontinuation of treatments resulting in increases in morbidity and mortality. Thus, there is a need for further investigation into the pathophysiology of muscle wasting in cancer cachexia to develop effective prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. Several studies have identified a central role for chronic-systemic inflammation in initiating and perpetuating muscle wasting in patients with cancer. Interestingly, while exercise has shown efficacy in improving muscle quality, only recently have investigators begun to assess the impact that exercise has on chronic-systemic inflammation. To put this new information into context with established paradigms, here we review several biological pathways (e.g. dysfunctional inflammatory response, hypothalamus pituitary adrenal axis, and increased myostatin/activin A activity) that may be responsible for the muscle wasting in patients with cancer. Additionally, we discuss the potential impact that exercise has on these pathways in the treatment of cancer cachexia. Exercise is an attractive intervention for muscle wasting in this population, partially because it disrupts chronic-systemic inflammation mediated catabolism. Most importantly, exercise is a potent stimulator of muscle synthesis, and therefore this therapy may reverse muscle damage caused by cancer cachexia.
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19
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Ahmad I, Jagtap DD, Selvaa Kumar C, Balasinor NH, Babitha Rani AM, Agarwal D, Saharan N. Molecular characterization of inhibin-A: Structure and expression analysis in Clarias batrachus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 261:104-114. [PMID: 29438674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The inhibins are disulphide-linked heterodimeric glycoproteins that belong to the TGFβ superfamily. Inhibins have been well studied in mammals but the information about their structure and function is very limited in lower vertebrates. The aim of the present study was to characterize inhibin-A and to understand its receptor binding interaction, and to evaluate its biological function in Clarias batrachus. Structure prediction of inhibin-A revealed two glycosylation sites on inhibin-α (Asp262 and Asn334). Docking of inhibin-A with its receptor; betaglycan and Act RIIA showed that residues Ser321, Gly324 and Leu325 of inhibin-α are involved in high affinity binding with betaglycan while inhibin-βA bound to Act RIIA by forming hydrogen bonds. The mRNA transcript analysis of various tissues indicated the presence of higher to moderate expression of inhibin-α and inhibin-βA in the gonads and the extra-gonadal tissues. Further, stage specific expression showed decreased levels of inhibin-α in the gonads during the annual reproductive cycles. Inhibin-βA, activin-βB and Act RIIA increased in the brain during spawning while FSHr increased in the gonads during the preparatory phase. Our study provides molecular, structural and functional insights of inhibin-A for the first time in C. batrachus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irshad Ahmad
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Dhanashree D Jagtap
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - C Selvaa Kumar
- Bioinformatics Department, School of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, D.Y. Patil University, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai 400614, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - A M Babitha Rani
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Deepak Agarwal
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Neelam Saharan
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India.
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20
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Coss D. Regulation of reproduction via tight control of gonadotropin hormone levels. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:116-130. [PMID: 28342855 PMCID: PMC6457911 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. GnRH from the hypothalamus regulates synthesis and secretion of gonadotropins, LH and FSH, which then control steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. In females, serum LH and FSH levels exhibit rhythmic changes throughout the menstrual or estrous cycle that are correlated with pulse frequency of GnRH. Lack of gonadotropins leads to infertility or amenorrhea. Dysfunctions in the tightly controlled ratio due to levels slightly outside the normal range occur in a larger number of women and are correlated with polycystic ovaries and premature ovarian failure. Since the etiology of these disorders is largely unknown, studies in cell and mouse models may provide novel candidates for investigations in human population. Hence, understanding the mechanisms whereby GnRH regulates gonadotropin hormone levels will provide insight into the physiology and pathophysiology of the reproductive system. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of GnRH regulation of gonadotropin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, United States.
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21
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Hernández-Ramírez LC, Trivellin G, Stratakis CA. Cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling in the anterior pituitary gland in health and disease. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:72-86. [PMID: 28822849 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [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: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was the first among the so-called "second messengers" to be described. It is conserved in most organisms and functions as a signal transducer by mediating the intracellular effects of multiple hormones and neurotransmitters. In this review, we first delineate how different members of the cAMP pathway ensure its correct compartmentalization and activity, mediate the terminal intracellular effects, and allow the crosstalk with other signaling pathways. We then focus on the pituitary gland, where cAMP exerts a crucial function by controlling the responsiveness of the cells to hypothalamic hormones, neurotransmitters and peripheral factors. We discuss the most relevant physiological functions mediated by cAMP in the different pituitary cell types, and summarize the defects affecting this pathway that have been reported in the literature. We finally discuss how a deregulated cAMP pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of pituitary disorders and how it affects the response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Hernández-Ramírez
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, CRC, Room 1E-3216, Bethesda, MD 20892-1862, USA
| | - Giampaolo Trivellin
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, CRC, Room 1E-3216, Bethesda, MD 20892-1862, USA
| | - Constantine A Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology and Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), 10 Center Drive, CRC, Room 1E-3216, Bethesda, MD 20892-1862, USA.
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22
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Leso V, Fontana L, Marinaccio A, Leopold K, Fanali C, Lucchetti D, Sgambato A, Iavicoli I. Palladium nanoparticle effects on endocrine reproductive system of female rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2018; 37:1069-1079. [PMID: 29405765 DOI: 10.1177/0960327118756722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The widespread industrial application of nanomaterials (NMs) has dramatically increased the likelihood of environmental and occupational exposure of humans to such xenobiotics. This issue, together with the increasing public health interest in understanding the effects of chemicals on endocrine system, encouraged to investigate the disruptive potential of NMs on the endocrine function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of palladium nanoparticles (Pd-NPs) on the female reproductive system of Wistar rats, intravenously exposed to different doses (0.12, 1.2, and 12 µg/kg), through the assessment of possible quantitative changes in the serum concentrations of several sex hormones. Our results demonstrated that the highest exposure doses significantly reduced the estradiol and testosterone concentrations, while increased the luteinizing hormone levels in treated animals compared to controls. Such alterations are indicative for an abnormal reproductive axis function. However, further investigations are needed to clarify the role of the different NP physicochemical properties in determining such effects, and possible underlining molecular mechanisms, as well as their relevance for the development of diseases in the female reproductive system. Overall, this may be helpful to define accurate risk assessment and management strategies to protect the health of the general and occupational populations exposed to Pd-NPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Leso
- 1 Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - L Fontana
- 2 Institute of Public Health, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - A Marinaccio
- 3 Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, Unit of Occupational and Environmental Epidemiology, Italian Workers' Compensation Authority, Rome, Italy
| | - K Leopold
- 4 Institute of Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - C Fanali
- 5 Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - D Lucchetti
- 5 Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - A Sgambato
- 5 Institute of General Pathology, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - I Iavicoli
- 1 Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Kawashima I, Kawamura K. Regulation of follicle growth through hormonal factors and mechanical cues mediated by Hippo signaling pathway. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2017; 64:3-11. [PMID: 29224376 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1411990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The ovary is an interesting organ that shows major structural changes within a short period of time during each reproductive cycle. Follicle development is controlled by local paracrine and systemic endocrine factors. Many hormonal and molecular analyses have been conducted to find the mechanisms underlying structural changes in ovaries, However, exact mechanisms still remain to be determined. Recent development of mechanobiology facilitates the understanding on the contribution of physical forces and changes in the mechanical properties of cells and tissues to physiology and pathophysiology. The Hippo signaling pathway is one of the key players in mechanotransduction, providing an understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which cells sense and respond to mechanical signals to regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis for maintaining optimal organ sizes. Our group recently demonstrated the involvement of the Hippo signaling pathway in the regulation of ovarian follicle development. Fragmentation of ovarian cortex into small cubes changed cytoskeletal actin dynamics and induced disruption of the Hippo signaling pathway, leading to the production of CCN growth factors and anti-apoptotic BIRC. These factors, in turn, stimulated secondary follicle growth in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we summarized hormonal regulation of follicular structural changes and further focused on the role of Hippo signaling in the regulation of follicle development. We also suggest a new strategy of infertility treatments in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency based on mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikko Kawashima
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , St. Marianna University School of Medicine , Kawasaki City , Kanagawa , Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kawamura
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , St. Marianna University School of Medicine , Kawasaki City , Kanagawa , Japan
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Nakajima T, Hata R, Kunieda Y, Kondo T. Distribution of Smad mRNA and proteins in the rat brain. J Chem Neuroanat 2017; 90:11-39. [PMID: 29196107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Smad proteins are known to transduce the action of TGF-β superfamily proteins including TGF-βs, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). In this study, we examined the expression of Smad1, -2, -3, -4, -5, and -8 mRNA in the rat brain by means of RT-PCR and in situ hybridization (ISH). In addition, we examined the nuclear accumulation of Smad1, -2, -3, -5, and -8 proteins after intracerebroventricular injection of TGF-β1, activin A, or BMP6 with immunohistochemistry to investigate whether TGF-β, activin, and/or BMP activate Smads in the rat brain. RT-PCR analysis revealed that Smad1, -2, -3, -4, -5, and -8 mRNA was expressed in the brain and that the Smad3 and Smad8 mRNA differed in the expression level between brain regions. For example, there were high levels of expression of Smad3 mRNA in the cerebral cortex, caudate putamen/globus pallidus, and cerebellum, but low levels in the thalamus and midbrain. Expression of Smad8 mRNA was higher in the midbrain, cerebellum, and pons/medulla oblongata in comparison to the olfactory bulb, cerebral cortex, caudate putamen/globus pallidus, hippocampus/dentate gyrus, and thalamus. ISH signals for Smad1 mRNA were widely detected in the brain except for a small number of regions including the olfactory tubercle, posterior region of hypothalamus, and cerebellar nuclei. ISH signals for Smad2 mRNA were abundantly observed in several brain regions including the olfactory bulb, piriform cortex, basal ganglia, cingulate cortex, epithalamus, including the pineal gland and medial habenular nuclei, hypothalamus, inferior colliculi of the midbrain, and some nuclei in the pons, cerebellar cortex, and choroid plexus. ISH signals for Smad3 mRNA were also abundantly observed in several brain regions. Especially strong signals for Smad3 mRNA were observed in the olfactory tubercle, piriform cortex, basal ganglia, dentate gyrus, and cingulate cortex. ISH signals for Smad5 and Smad8 mRNA were restricted to a small number of brain regions, the signal intensity of which was weak. ISH signals for Smad4 mRNA were detected in all regions examined. Intracerebroventricular injection of activin A induced nuclear accumulation of Smad2 and Smad3 immunoreactivity in neurons. In contrast, intracerebroventricular injection of TGF-β1 or BMP6 did not induce nuclear accumulation of the immunoreactivity for any Smad in neurons. These results suggest that activin-Smad signaling plays an important role in brain homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Nakajima
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan.
| | - Ryusuke Hata
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Yuji Kunieda
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kondo
- Department of Integrated Structural Biosciences, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
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Monsivais D, Matzuk MM, Pangas SA. The TGF-β Family in the Reproductive Tract. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2017; 9:cshperspect.a022251. [PMID: 28193725 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a022251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family has a profound impact on the reproductive function of various organisms. In this review, we discuss how highly conserved members of the TGF-β family influence the reproductive function across several species. We briefly discuss how TGF-β-related proteins balance germ-cell proliferation and differentiation as well as dauer entry and exit in Caenorhabditis elegans. In Drosophila melanogaster, TGF-β-related proteins maintain germ stem-cell identity and eggshell patterning. We then provide an in-depth analysis of landmark studies performed using transgenic mouse models and discuss how these data have uncovered basic developmental aspects of male and female reproductive development. In particular, we discuss the roles of the various TGF-β family ligands and receptors in primordial germ-cell development, sexual differentiation, and gonadal cell development. We also discuss how mutant mouse studies showed the contribution of TGF-β family signaling to embryonic and postnatal testis and ovarian development. We conclude the review by describing data obtained from human studies, which highlight the importance of the TGF-β family in normal female reproductive function during pregnancy and in various gynecologic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Martin M Matzuk
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Pharmacology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, Texas 77030
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26
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Fung RSK, Bai J, Yuen KWY, Wong AOL. Activin/follistatin system in grass carp pituitary cells: - Regulation by local release of growth hormone and luteinizing hormone and its functional role in growth hormone synthesis and secretion. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179789. [PMID: 28662143 PMCID: PMC5491050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotrophin regulation by activin/follistatin system is well-documented, but the corresponding effect on growth hormone (GH) has not been fully characterized and with little information available in lower vertebrates, especially in fish models. In grass carp, local interactions of GH and luteinizing hormone (LH) can induce GH release and gene expression at pituitary level via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms. To shed light on the role of activin/follistatin system in GH regulation by local actions of GH and LH, grass carp activin βA and βB were cloned, shown to be single-copy genes expressed in the pituitary, and confirmed to encode activin proteins capable of transactivating promoter with activin-responsive elements. In grass carp pituitary cells, activin A and B were effective in reducing GH secretion and GH cell content with concurrent drop in GH mRNA level whereas the opposite was true for follistatin, the activin-binding protein known to neutralize the effects of endogenous activin. Treatment with activin A and B not only could suppress basal but also inhibit GH mRNA expression induced by GH and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a functional analogue of LH in fish model. Apparently, down-regulation of GH mRNA by activin was mediated by reducing GH transcript stability with concurrent inhibition on GH promoter activity via the SMAD pathway. In reciprocal experiments, GH treatment was found to up-regulate activin βA, activin βB and follistatin mRNA levels in carp pituitary cells but the opposite was noted by removing endogenous GH with GH antiserum. Interestingly, parallel treatment with hCG could also inhibit basal as well as GH-induced activin βA, activin βB and follistatin gene expression. These results, as a whole, indicate that the pituitary activin/follistatin system can serve as a regulatory target for local interactions of GH and LH and contribute to GH regulation by autocrine/paracrine mechanisms in the carp pituitary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger S. K. Fung
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin Bai
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Karen W. Y. Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
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Perakakis N, Farr OM, Tuccinardi D, Upadhyay J, Mantzoros CS. Research advances in metabolism 2016. Metabolism 2017; 67:41-53. [PMID: 28081777 PMCID: PMC5871911 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2016.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Perakakis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Olivia M Farr
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Dario Tuccinardi
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jagriti Upadhyay
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Section of Endocrinology, Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02130, USA
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Section of Endocrinology, Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02130, USA
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28
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Fung RSK, Jin B, He M, Yuen KWY, Wong AOL. Grass Carp Follisatin: Molecular Cloning, Functional Characterization, Dopamine D1 Regulation at Pituitary Level, and Implication in Growth Hormone Regulation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:211. [PMID: 28883808 PMCID: PMC5574371 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin is involved in pituitary hormone regulation and its pituitary actions can be nullified by local production of its binding protein follistatin. In our recent study with grass carp, local release of growth hormone (GH) was shown to induce activin expression at pituitary level, which in turn could exert an intrapituitary feedback to inhibit GH synthesis and secretion. To further examine the activin/follistatin system in the carp pituitary, grass carp follistatin was cloned and confirmed to be single-copy gene widely expressed at tissue level. At the pituitary level, follistatin signals could be located in carp somatotrophs, gonadotrophs, and lactotrophs. Functional expression also revealed that carp follistatin was effective in neutralizing activin's action in stimulating target promoter with activin-responsive elements. In grass carp pituitary cells, follistatin co-treatment was found to revert activin inhibition on GH mRNA expression. Meanwhile, follistatin mRNA levels could be up-regulated by local production of activin but the opposite was true for dopaminergic activation with dopamine (DA) or its agonist apomorphine. Since GH stimulation by DA via pituitary D1 receptor is well-documented in fish models, the receptor specificity for follistatin regulation by DA was also investigated. Using a pharmacological approach, the inhibitory effect of DA on follistatin gene expression was confirmed to be mediated by pituitary D1 but not D2 receptor. Furthermore, activation of D1 receptor by the D1-specific agonist SKF77434 was also effective in blocking follistatin mRNA expression induced by activin and GH treatment both in carp pituitary cells as well as in carp somatotrophs enriched by density gradient centrifugation. These results, as a whole, suggest that activin can interact with dopaminergic input from the hypothalamus to regulate follistatin expression in carp pituitary, which may contribute to GH regulation by activin/follistatin system via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger S. K. Fung
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Bai Jin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Mulan He
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Karen W. Y. Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- *Correspondence: Anderson O. L. Wong,
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29
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Anastasilakis AD, Polyzos SA, Skouvaklidou EC, Kynigopoulos G, Saridakis ZG, Apostolou A, Triantafyllou GA, Karagiozoglou-Lampoudi T, Mantzoros CS. Circulating follistatin displays a day-night rhythm and is associated with muscle mass and circulating leptin levels in healthy, young humans. Metabolism 2016; 65:1459-65. [PMID: 27621181 PMCID: PMC5022793 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Follistatin may affect lean and fat mass and be implicated in metabolic diseases. We aimed to elucidate physiological predictors of circulating follistatin variation in healthy young humans. PROCEDURES This was an observational, cross-sectional study with two additional prospective observational arms (circadian, seasonal sub-studies) and one prospective interventional arm (mixed meal sub-study). Healthy, young individuals of both sexes (n=122) were subjected to anthropometric and body composition measurements and their eating and exercise behavior profiles were assessed by validated questionnaires. Sub-groups were subjected to standardized meal ingestion (n=36), day-night rhythm (n=20) and seasonal variation (n=20) studies. Main outcome of the study were circulating follistatin levels. RESULTS At baseline follistatin levels were correlated with creatinine (r=0.24; p=0.01), creatine phosphokinase (rs=0.22; p=0.02), and with lean body mass (rs=0.19; p=0.04) and were higher in males than females (p=0.004) after adjustment for leptin, which was its major predictor. Follistatin levels showed a circadian (p<0.001), but not a seasonal, variation, and were also affected by the phase of menstrual cycle in females (p=0.034). Follistatin levels were not affected by dietary or exercise habits but levels increased after a standardized meal ingestion (250kcal) (p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS In healthy young individuals circulating follistatin levels are correlated with muscle mass. Follistatin levels are associated with circulating leptin levels and display a day-night rhythm and a menstrual cycle, but not a seasonal, variation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stergios A Polyzos
- Department of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ippokration General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Aggeliki Apostolou
- Nutrition-Dietetics Department, Alexander Technological Education Institute of Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
| | - Georgios A Triantafyllou
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thomai Karagiozoglou-Lampoudi
- Nutrition-Dietetics Department, Alexander Technological Education Institute of Thessaloniki, Central Macedonia, Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Namwanje M, Brown CW. Activins and Inhibins: Roles in Development, Physiology, and Disease. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2016; 8:cshperspect.a021881. [PMID: 27328872 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a021881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Since their original discovery as regulators of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion and erythropoiesis, the TGF-β family members activin and inhibin have been shown to participate in a variety of biological processes, from the earliest stages of embryonic development to highly specialized functions in terminally differentiated cells and tissues. Herein, we present the history, structures, signaling mechanisms, regulation, and biological processes in which activins and inhibins participate, including several recently discovered biological activities and functional antagonists. The potential therapeutic relevance of these advances is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Namwanje
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Chester W Brown
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030 Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
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32
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Martinez-Barbera JP, Andoniadou CL. Concise Review: Paracrine Role of Stem Cells in Pituitary Tumors: A Focus on Adamantinomatous Craniopharyngioma. Stem Cells 2016; 34:268-76. [PMID: 26763580 PMCID: PMC4864894 DOI: 10.1002/stem.2267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The existence of tissue‐specific progenitor/stem cells in the adult pituitary gland of the mouse has been demonstrated recently using genetic tracing experiments. These cells have the capacity to differentiate into all of the different cell lineages of the anterior pituitary and self‐propagate in vitro and can therefore contribute to normal homeostasis of the gland. In addition, they play a critical role in tumor formation, specifically in the etiology of human adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma, a clinically relevant tumor that is associated with mutations in CTNNB1 (gene encoding β‐catenin). Mouse studies have shown that only pituitary embryonic precursors or adult stem cells are able to generate tumors when targeted with oncogenic β‐catenin, suggesting that the cell context is critical for mutant β‐catenin to exert its oncogenic effect. Surprisingly, the bulk of the tumor cells are not derived from the mutant progenitor/stem cells, suggesting that tumors are induced in a paracrine manner. Therefore, the cell sustaining the mutation in β‐catenin and the cell‐of‐origin of the tumors are different. In this review, we will discuss the in vitro and in vivo evidence demonstrating the presence of stem cells in the adult pituitary and analyze the evidence showing a potential role of these stem cells in pituitary tumors. Stem Cells2016;34:268–276
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pedro Martinez-Barbera
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Birth Defects Research Centre, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cynthia L Andoniadou
- Craniofacial Development and Stem Cell Biology, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, United Kingdom
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33
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Böhne A, Sengstag T, Salzburger W. Comparative transcriptomics in East African cichlids reveals sex- and species-specific expression and new candidates for sex differentiation in fishes. Genome Biol Evol 2015; 6:2567-85. [PMID: 25364805 PMCID: PMC4202336 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evu200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Males and females of the same species differ largely in gene expression, which accounts for most of the morphological and physiological differences and sex-specific phenotypes. Here, we analyzed sex-specific gene expression in the brain and the gonads of cichlid fishes from Lake Tanganyika belonging to four different lineages, so-called tribes (Eretmodini, Ectodini, Haplochromini, and Lamprologini), using the outgroup Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) as reference. The comparison between male and female brains revealed few differences between the sexes, consistent in all investigated species. The gonads, on the other hand, showed a large fraction of differentially expressed transcripts with the majority of them showing the same direction of expression in all four species. All here-studied cichlids, especially the three investigated mouth-breeding species, showed a trend toward more male- than female biased transcripts. Transcripts, which were female-biased in expression in all four species, were overrepresented on linkage group (LG)1 in the reference genome and common male-biased transcripts showed accumulation on LG23, the presumable sex chromosomes of the Nile tilapia. Sex-specific transcripts contained candidate genes for sex determination and differentiation in fishes,especially members of the transforming growth factor-b-superfamily and the Wnt-pathway and also prominent members of the sox-, dm-domain-, and high mobility group-box families. We further confirmed our previous finding on species/lineage-specific gene expression shifts in the sex steroid pathway, including synthesizing enzymes as the aromatase cyp19a1 and estrogen and androgen receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Böhne
- Zoological Institute, University of Basel, Switzerland
- *Corresponding author: E-mail:
| | - Thierry Sengstag
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics and sciCORE Computing Center, University of Basel, Switzerland
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Zhao C, Qiao C, Tang RH, Jiang J, Li J, Martin CB, Bulaklak K, Li J, Wang DW, Xiao X. Overcoming Insulin Insufficiency by Forced Follistatin Expression in β-cells of db/db Mice. Mol Ther 2015; 23:866-874. [PMID: 25676679 PMCID: PMC4427879 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2015.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes poses a substantial burden to society as it can lead to serious complications and premature death. The number of cases continues to increase worldwide. Two major causes of diabetes are insulin resistance and insulin insufficiency. Currently, there are few antidiabetic drugs available that can preserve or protect β-cell function to overcome insulin insufficiency in diabetes. We describe a therapeutic strategy to preserve β-cell function by overexpression of follistatin (FST) using an AAV vector (AAV8-Ins-FST) in diabetic mouse model. Overexpression of FST in the pancreas of db/db mouse increased β-cell islet mass, decreased fasting glucose level, alleviated diabetic symptoms, and essentially doubled lifespan of the treated mice. The observed islet enlargement was attributed to β-cell proliferation as a result of bioneutralization of myostatin and activin by FST. Overall, our study indicates overexpression of FST in the diabetic pancreas preserves β-cell function by promoting β-cell proliferation, opening up a new therapeutic avenue for the treatment of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxia Zhao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Cardiovascular Division of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunping Qiao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ru-Hang Tang
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jiangang Jiang
- Cardiovascular Division of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianbin Li
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Carrie Bette Martin
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Karen Bulaklak
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Juan Li
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dao Wen Wang
- Cardiovascular Division of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Xiao
- Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Nickel nanoparticles exposure and reproductive toxicity in healthy adult rats. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:21253-69. [PMID: 25407529 PMCID: PMC4264223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms151121253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nickel is associated with reproductive toxicity. However, the reproductive toxicity of nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) is unclear. Our goal was to determine the association between nickel nanoparticle exposure and reproductive toxicity. According to the one-generation reproductive toxicity standard, rats were exposed to nickel nanoparticles by gavage and we selected indicators including sex hormone levels, sperm motility, histopathology, and reproductive outcome etc. Experimental results showed nickel nanoparticles increased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), and lowered etradiol (E2) serum levels at a dose of 15 and 45 mg/kg in female rats. Ovarian lymphocytosis, vascular dilatation and congestion, inflammatory cell infiltration, and increase in apoptotic cells were found in ovary tissues in exposure groups. For male rats, the weights decreased gradually, the ratio of epididymis weight over body weight increased, the motility of rat sperm changed, and the levels of FSH and testosterone (T) diminished. Pathological results showed the shedding of epithelial cells of raw seminiferous tubule, disordered arrangement of cells in the tube, and the appearance of cell apoptosis and death in the exposure group. At the same time, Ni NPs resulted in a change of the reproductive index and the offspring development of rats. Further research is needed to elucidate exposure to human populations and mechanism of actions.
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Akhter N, CarlLee T, Syed MM, Odle AK, Cozart MA, Haney AC, Allensworth-James ML, Beneš H, Childs GV. Selective deletion of leptin receptors in gonadotropes reveals activin and GnRH-binding sites as leptin targets in support of fertility. Endocrinology 2014; 155:4027-42. [PMID: 25057790 PMCID: PMC4164926 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The adipokine, leptin (LEP), is a hormonal gateway, signaling energy stores to appetite-regulatory neurons, permitting reproduction when stores are sufficient. Dual-labeling for LEP receptors (LEPRs) and gonadotropins or GH revealed a 2-fold increase in LEPR during proestrus, some of which was seen in LH gonadotropes. We therefore investigated LEPR functions in gonadotropes with Cre-LoxP technology, deleting the signaling domain of the LEPR (Lepr-exon 17) with Cre-recombinase driven by the rat LH-β promoter (Lhβ-cre). Selectivity of the deletion was validated by organ genotyping and lack of LEPR and responses to LEP by mutant gonadotropes. The mutation had no impact on growth, body weight, the timing of puberty, or pregnancy. Mutant females took 36% longer to produce their first litter and had 50% fewer pups/litter. When the broad impact of the loss of gonadotrope LEPR on all pituitary hormones was studied, mutant diestrous females had reduced serum levels of LH (40%), FSH (70%), and GH (54%) and mRNA levels of Fshβ (59%) and inhibin/activin β A and β B (25%). Mutant males had reduced serum levels of GH (74%), TSH (31%), and prolactin (69%) and mRNA levels of Gh (31%), Ghrhr (30%), Fshβ (22%), and glycoprotein α-subunit (Cga) (22%). Serum levels of LEP and ACTH and mRNA levels of Gnrhr were unchanged. However, binding to GnRH receptors was reduced in LEPR-null LH or FSH gonadotropes by 82% or 89%, respectively, in females (P < .0001) and 27% or 53%, respectively, in males (P < .03). This correlated with reductions in GnRH receptor protein immunolabeling, suggesting that LEP's actions may be posttranscriptional. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of LEP to gonadotropes with GnRH-binding sites and activin as potential targets. LEP may modulate population growth, adjusting the number of offspring to the availability of food supplies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Akhter
- Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
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Aizen J, Kowalsman N, Niv MY, Levavi-Sivan B. Characterization of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) gonadotropins by modeling and immunoneutralization. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2014; 207:28-33. [PMID: 24954479 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2014.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In fish, both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) play important roles in reproduction. Here we explored the structure and differential specificity of tilapia (t) gonadotropins (GTHs) to delineate their physiological relevance and the nature of their regulation. We generated structural models of tGTHs and GTH receptors (R) that enabled us to better understand the hormone-receptor interacting region. In tilapia, FSH release is under the control of the hypothalamic decapeptide GnRH, an effect that was abolished by specific bioneutralizing antisera [anti-recombinant (r) tFSHβ]. These antisera also reduced the basal secretion and delayed GnRH-stimulated production of 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), and dramatically reduced LH levels. Immunoneutralization of tLH using anti-rtLHβ significantly reduced its GnRH-stimulated levels. Basal 11KT and FSH levels were also reduced. Taken together, these results suggest a feedback mechanism between FSH and LH release in tilapia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Aizen
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Department of Animal Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Noga Kowalsman
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Masha Y Niv
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel; The Fritz Haber Research Center for Molecular Dynamics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Berta Levavi-Sivan
- The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Department of Animal Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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Jung JW, Ahn C, Shim SY, Gray PC, Kwiatkowski W, Choe S. Regulation of FSHβ induction in LβT2 cells by BMP2 and an Activin A/BMP2 chimera, AB215. J Endocrinol 2014; 223:35-45. [PMID: 25100748 DOI: 10.1530/joe-14-0317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Activins and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) share activin type 2 signaling receptors but utilize different type 1 receptors and Smads. We designed AB215, a potent BMP2-like Activin A/BMP2 chimera incorporating the high-affinity type 2 receptor-binding epitope of Activin A. In this study, we compare the signaling properties of AB215 and BMP2 in HEK293T cells and gonadotroph LβT2 cells in which Activin A and BMP2 synergistically induce FSHβ. In HEK293T cells, AB215 is more potent than BMP2 and competitively blocks Activin A signaling, while BMP2 has a partial blocking activity. Activin A signaling is insensitive to BMP pathway antagonism in HEK293T cells but is strongly inhibited by constitutively active (CA) BMP type 1 receptors. By contrast, the potencies of AB215 and BMP2 are indistinguishable in LβT2 cells and although AB215 blocks Activin A signaling, BMP2 has no inhibitory effect. Unlike HEK293T, Activin A signaling is strongly inhibited by BMP pathway antagonism in LβT2 cells but is largely unaffected by CA BMP type 1 receptors. BMP2 increases phospho-Smad3 levels in LβT2 cells, in both the absence and the presence of Activin A treatment, and augments Activin A-induced FSHβ. AB215 has the opposite effect and sharply decreases basal phospho-Smad3 levels and blocks Smad2 phosphorylation and FSHβ induction resulting from Activin A treatment. These findings together demonstrate that while AB215 activates the BMP pathway, it has opposing effects to those of BMP2 on FSHβ induction in LβT2 cells apparently due to its ability to block Activin A signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Woo Jung
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Chihoon Ahn
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Sun Young Shim
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Peter C Gray
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Witek Kwiatkowski
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
| | - Senyon Choe
- Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA Joint Center for BiosciencesSongdo Global University Campus, 187 Songdo-dong, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 406-840, KoreaStructural Biology LaboratoryClayton Foundation Laboratories for Peptide BiologyThe Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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Makanji Y, Zhu J, Mishra R, Holmquist C, Wong WPS, Schwartz NB, Mayo KE, Woodruff TK. Inhibin at 90: from discovery to clinical application, a historical review. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:747-94. [PMID: 25051334 PMCID: PMC4167436 DOI: 10.1210/er.2014-1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
When it was initially discovered in 1923, inhibin was characterized as a hypophysiotropic hormone that acts on pituitary cells to regulate pituitary hormone secretion. Ninety years later, what we know about inhibin stretches far beyond its well-established capacity to inhibit activin signaling and suppress pituitary FSH production. Inhibin is one of the major reproductive hormones involved in the regulation of folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis. Although the physiological role of inhibin as an activin antagonist in other organ systems is not as well defined as it is in the pituitary-gonadal axis, inhibin also modulates biological processes in other organs through paracrine, autocrine, and/or endocrine mechanisms. Inhibin and components of its signaling pathway are expressed in many organs. Diagnostically, inhibin is used for prenatal screening of Down syndrome as part of the quadruple test and as a biochemical marker in the assessment of ovarian reserve. In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of our current understanding of the biological role of inhibin, its relationship with activin, its signaling mechanisms, and its potential value as a diagnostic marker for reproductive function and pregnancy-associated conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yogeshwar Makanji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Y.M., J.Z., C.H., W.P.S.W., T.K.W.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60610; Center for Molecular Innovation and Drug Discovery (R.M., C.H.), Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208; and Department of Molecular Biosciences (N.B.S., K.E.M., T.K.W.), Center for Reproductive Science, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208
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Silva RN, Bueno PG, Avó LRS, Nonaka KO, Selistre-Araújo HS, Leal AMO. Effect of physical training on liver expression of activin A and follistatin in a nonalcoholic fatty liver disease model in rats. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 47:746-52. [PMID: 25075578 PMCID: PMC4143201 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20143869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver and is associated with obesity and insulin resistance. Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF)-β superfamily and inhibits hepatocyte growth. Follistatin antagonizes the biological actions of activin. Exercise is an important therapeutic strategy to reduce the metabolic effects of obesity. We evaluated the pattern of activin A and follistatin liver expression in obese rats subjected to swimming exercise. Control rats (C) and high-fat (HF) diet-fed rats were randomly assigned to a swimming training group (C-Swim and HF-Swim) or a sedentary group (C-Sed and HF-Sed). Activin βA subunit mRNA expression was significantly higher in HF-Swim than in HF-Sed rats. Follistatin mRNA expression was significantly lower in C-Swim and HF-Swim than in either C-Sed or HF-Sed animals. There was no evidence of steatosis or inflammation in C rats. In contrast, in HF animals the severity of steatosis ranged from grade 1 to grade 3. The extent of liver parenchyma damage was less in HF-Swim animals, with the severity of steatosis ranging from grade 0 to grade 1. These data showed that exercise may reduce the deleterious effects of a high-fat diet on the liver, suggesting that the local expression of activin-follistatin may be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- R N Silva
- Departamento de Fisioterapia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - P G Bueno
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - L R S Avó
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - K O Nonaka
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - H S Selistre-Araújo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - A M O Leal
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
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41
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Pincas H, Choi SG, Wang Q, Jia J, Turgeon JL, Sealfon SC. Outside the box signaling: secreted factors modulate GnRH receptor-mediated gonadotropin regulation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 385:56-61. [PMID: 23994024 PMCID: PMC3964483 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Revised: 08/13/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Control of gene expression following activation of membrane receptors results from the regulation of intracellular signaling pathways and transcription factors. Accordingly, research to elucidate the regulatory control circuits and cellular data processing mechanisms focuses on intracellular mechanisms. While autocrine and paracrine signaling are acknowledged in endocrinology, secreted factors are not typically recognized as fundamental components of the pathways connecting cell surface receptors to gene control in the nucleus. Studies of the gonadotrope suggest that extracellular regulatory loops may play a central role in the regulation of gonadotropin gene expression by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor activation. We review emerging evidence for this phenomenon, which we refer to as exosignaling, in gonadotropin gene control and in other receptor-mediated signaling systems. We propose that basic signaling circuit modules controlling gene expression can be seamlessly distributed across intracellular and exosignaling components that together orchestrate the precise physiological control of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Pincas
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Systems Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
| | - Soon Gang Choi
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Systems Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Systems Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
| | - Jingjing Jia
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Systems Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
| | - Judith L Turgeon
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
| | - Stuart C Sealfon
- Department of Neurology, Center for Translational Systems Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States.
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Yaden BC, Croy JE, Wang Y, Wilson JM, Datta-Mannan A, Shetler P, Milner A, Bryant HU, Andrews J, Dai G, Krishnan V. Follistatin: a novel therapeutic for the improvement of muscle regeneration. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2014; 349:355-71. [PMID: 24627466 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.113.211169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Follistatin (FST) is a member of the tissue growth factor β family and is a secreted glycoprotein that antagonizes many members of the family, including activin A, growth differentiation factor 11, and myostatin. The objective of this study was to explore the use of an engineered follistatin therapeutic created by fusing FST315 lacking heparin binding activity to the N terminus of a murine IgG1 Fc (FST315-ΔHBS-Fc) as a systemic therapeutic agent in models of muscle injury. Systemic administration of this molecule was found to increase body weight and lean muscle mass after weekly administration in normal mice. Subsequently, we tested this agent in several models of muscle injury, which were chosen based on their severity of damage and their ability to reflect clinical settings. FST315-ΔHBS-Fc treatment proved to be a potent inducer of muscle remodeling and regeneration. FST315-ΔHBS-Fc induced improvements in muscle repair after injury/atrophy by modulating the early inflammatory phase allowing for increased macrophage density, and Pax7-positive cells leading to an accelerated restoration of myofibers and muscle function. Collectively, these data demonstrate the benefits of a therapeutically viable form of FST that can be leveraged as an alternate means of ameliorating muscle regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C Yaden
- Department of Biology, School of Science, Center for Regenerative Biology and Medicine, Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, Indiana (B.C.Y., J.M.W., G.D.); and Musculoskeletal Research (B.C.Y., Y.W., P.S., A.M., H.U.B., J.A., V.K.), Departments of Drug Disposition Development/Commercialization, and Biotechnology Discovery Research (J.E.C., A.D.-M.), and Translational Sciences-Molecular Pathology, Lilly Research Laboratories, Indianapolis, Indiana (J.M.W.)
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Fortin J, Boehm U, Weinstein MB, Graff JM, Bernard DJ. Follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis and fertility are intact in mice lacking SMAD3 DNA binding activity and SMAD2 in gonadotrope cells. FASEB J 2013; 28:1474-85. [PMID: 24308975 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-237818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The activin/inhibin system regulates follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and release by pituitary gonadotrope cells in mammals. In vitro cell line data suggest that activins stimulate FSH β-subunit (Fshb) transcription via complexes containing the receptor-regulated SMAD proteins SMAD2 and SMAD3. Here, we used a Cre-loxP approach to determine the necessity for SMAD2 and/or SMAD3 in FSH synthesis in vivo. Surprisingly, mice with conditional mutations in both Smad2 and Smad3 specifically in gonadotrope cells are fertile and produce FSH at quantitatively normal levels. Notably, however, we discovered that the recombined Smad3 allele produces a transcript that encodes the entirety of the SMAD3 C-terminal Mad homology 2 (MH2) domain. This protein behaves similarly to full-length SMAD3 in Fshb transcriptional assays. As the truncated protein lacks the N-terminal Mad homology 1 (MH1) domain, these results show that SMAD3 DNA-binding activity as well as SMAD2 are dispensable for normal FSH synthesis in vivo. Furthermore, the observation that deletion of proximal exons does not remove all SMAD3 function may facilitate interpretation of divergent phenotypes previously described in different Smad3 knockout mouse lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- 1Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Rm. 1315, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada. J.F.,
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Nakajima T, Yanagihara M, Nishii H. Temporal and regional patterns of Smad activation in the rat hippocampus following global ischemia. J Neurol Sci 2013; 337:25-37. [PMID: 24290497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2013.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the temporal and regional patterns of Smad activation in the rat hippocampus following global ischemia. We also examined the association between Smad activation and ischemia-induced pathology in the hippocampus. We found that 1) Smad1, -2, -3, and -5 proteins were detected in the rat hippocampus by means of western blot and immunohistochemistry; 2) after 5 min of ischemia, Smad2 and Smad3 proteins accumulated in the nuclei of pyramidal cells in the CA1 region, which is vulnerable to ischemia; 3) after 3 min of ischemia, which was non-lethal, there was no such nuclear accumulation of Smad2 and Smad3 in the CA1 region; 4) following injection of activin A, nuclear accumulation of Smad2 and Smad3 was induced not only in pyramidal cells of the CA1 region, but also in pyramidal cells of the CA3 region as well as in granule cells of the DG region; 5) activin A-induced nuclear accumulation of Smad2 and Smad3 neither caused degeneration of hippocampal neurons nor prevented degeneration induced by ischemia. These results suggest that in the hippocampus, ischemia-induced activation of Smad2 and Smad3 is associated with the response to stress but is not related to neuronal survival or death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Nakajima
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan.
| | - Masafumi Yanagihara
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
| | - Hideki Nishii
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, 1-58 Rinku-Ohraikita, Izumisano, Osaka 598-8531, Japan
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Myostatin/activin pathway antagonism: Molecular basis and therapeutic potential. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2013; 45:2333-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2013.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Durán-Pastén ML, Fiordelisio T. GnRH-Induced Ca(2+) Signaling Patterns and Gonadotropin Secretion in Pituitary Gonadotrophs. Functional Adaptations to Both Ordinary and Extraordinary Physiological Demands. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2013; 4:127. [PMID: 24137156 PMCID: PMC3786263 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2013.00127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2013] [Accepted: 08/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PITUITARY GONADOTROPHS ARE A SMALL FRACTION OF THE ANTERIOR PITUITARY POPULATION, YET THEY SYNTHESIZE GONADOTROPINS: luteinizing (LH) and follicle-stimulating (FSH), essential for gametogenesis and steroidogenesis. LH is secreted via a regulated pathway while FSH release is mostly constitutive and controlled by synthesis. Although gonadotrophs fire action potentials spontaneously, the intracellular Ca(2+) rises produced do not influence secretion, which is mainly driven by Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), a decapeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus and released in a pulsatile manner into the hypophyseal portal circulation. GnRH binding to G-protein-coupled receptors triggers Ca(2+) mobilization from InsP3-sensitive intracellular pools, generating the global Ca(2+) elevations necessary for secretion. Ca(2+) signaling responses to increasing (GnRH) vary in stereotyped fashion from subthreshold to baseline spiking (oscillatory), to biphasic (spike-oscillatory or spike-plateau). This progression varies somewhat in gonadotrophs from different species and biological preparations. Both baseline spiking and biphasic GnRH-induced Ca(2+) signals control LH/FSH synthesis and exocytosis. Estradiol and testosterone regulate gonadotropin secretion through feedback mechanisms, while FSH synthesis and release are influenced by activin, inhibin, and follistatin. Adaptation to physiological events like the estrous cycle, involves changes in GnRH sensitivity and LH/FSH synthesis: in proestrus, estradiol feedback regulation abruptly changes from negative to positive, causing the pre-ovulatory LH surge. Similarly, when testosterone levels drop after orquiectomy the lack of negative feedback on pituitary and hypothalamus boosts both GnRH and LH secretion, gonadotrophs GnRH sensitivity increases, and Ca(2+) signaling patterns change. In addition, gonadotrophs proliferate and grow. These plastic changes denote a more vigorous functional adaptation in response to an extraordinary functional demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Durán-Pastén
- Departamento de Neurociencia Cognitiva, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), México DF, México
| | - Tatiana Fiordelisio
- Departamento de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), México DF, México
- *Correspondence: Tatiana Fiordelisio, Departamento de Ecología y Recursos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Circuito exterior s/n. Ciudad Universitaria, C.P. 04510 México DF, México e-mail:
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Dutra DB, Bueno PG, Silva RN, Nakahara NH, Selistre-Araújo HS, Nonaka KO, Leal AM. Expression of myostatin, myostatin receptors and follistatin in diabetic rats submitted to exercise. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2013; 39:417-22. [PMID: 22332899 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2012.05690.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Myostatin (MSTN) has been implicated in metabolic adaptation to physiological stimuli, such as physical exercise, which is linked to improved glucose homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of exercise on the expression of MSTN, MSTN receptors (ActRIIB and ALK4) and follistatin (FS) in the muscle and fat of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Control and diabetic rats were randomly assigned to a swimming training group (EC and ED, respectively) and a sedentary group (SC and SD, respectively). Exercising animals swam for 45 min at 0900 and 1700 hours, 5 day/week, for 4 weeks. The mRNA expression of MSTN, ActRIIB, ALK4 and FS mRNA was quantified by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Expression of MSTN and FS mRNA increased in the muscle and subcutaneous fat of SD compared with SC rats. Expression of ActRIIB mRNA was increased in the muscle, mesenteric fat and brown adipose tissue (BAT) of SD compared with SC rats, whereas ALK4 mRNA expression was only increased in the BAT of SD compared with SC rats. After training, MSTN and ActRIIB expression was lower in the BAT of EC compared with SC rats. Expression of MSTN mRNA increased in the mesenteric fat of ED compared with SD rats, whereas FS mRNA expression decreased in the muscle, mesenteric and subcutaneous fat and BAT. Lower ALK4 mRNA expression was noted in the BAT of ED compared with SD rats. These results indicate that MSTN, its receptors and FS expression change in both the muscle and fat of diabetic rats and that the expression of these factors can be modulated by exercise in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela B Dutra
- Department of Physical Therapy, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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Hadji P, Coleman R, Gnant M, Green J. The impact of menopause on bone, zoledronic acid, and implications for breast cancer growth and metastasis. Ann Oncol 2012; 23:2782-2790. [PMID: 22730099 PMCID: PMC3477882 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mds169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/17/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent data from the AZURE, ABCSG-12, and ZO-FAST clinical trials have challenged our understanding of the potential anticancer activity of zoledronic acid (ZOL). Although the results of these studies may appear to be conflicting on the surface, a deeper look into commonalities among the patient populations suggest that some host factors (i.e. patient age and endocrine status) may contribute to the anticancer activity of ZOL. Indeed, data from these large clinical trials suggest that the potential anticancer activity of ZOL may be most robust in a low-estrogen environment. However, this may be only part of the story and many questions remain to be answered to fully explain the phenomenon. Does estrogen override the anticancer activity of ZOL seen in postmenopausal women? Are hormones other than estrogen involved that contribute to this effect? Does the role of bone turnover in breast cancer (BC) growth and progression differ in the presence of various estrogen levels? Here, we present a review of the multitude of factors affected by different endocrine environments in women with BC that may influence the potential anticancer activity of ZOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Hadji
- Department of Gynecology, Endocrinology, and Oncology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - R Coleman
- Academic Unit of Clinical Oncology, Weston Park Hospital, CR-UK/YCR Sheffield Cancer Research Centre, Sheffield, UK
| | - M Gnant
- Department of Surgery, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - J Green
- Department of Oncology, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland.
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Sang Q, Zhang S, Zou S, Wang H, Feng R, Li Q, Jin L, He L, Xing Q, Wang L. Quantitative analysis of follistatin (FST) promoter methylation in peripheral blood of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 26:157-63. [PMID: 23265961 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To date, however, no studies have associated CpG methylation levels of any candidate gene with PCOS susceptibility. Follistatin (FST), an activin-binding protein, is expressed in numerous tissues and is shown to have linkage with PCOS. However, results from case-control association analyses between this gene and PCOS are inconsistent. Thus, this study investigated possible association of methylation levels in the promoter and 5'-untranscribed region (UTR) of the FST gene with PCOS incidence in peripheral blood leukocytes and endometrial tissue. Using mass array quantitative methylation analysis, first the 5'-UTR methylation in FST was analysed in 130 PCOS patients and 120 controls. The methylation level of the FST gene was further studied in endometrium from 24 controls and 24 PCOS patients. This study demonstrates that methylation levels of CpG sites in the FST promoter and 5'-UTR are not associated with PCOS. Nonetheless, this was the first study to quantitatively evaluate the methylation levels of a candidate gene in association with PCOS. Further studies should be performed to examine methylation in other candidate genes. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms involved in PCOS may yield new insights into the pathophysiology of the disorder. Animal models demonstrate that epigenetic reprogramming may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To date, however, no studies have associated CpG methylation levels of any candidate gene with PCOS susceptibility. Follistatin (FST), an activin-binding protein, is expressed in numerous tissues and is a PCOS candidate gene. However, results from association analyses between this gene and PCOS are inconsistent. Thus, we investigated possible association of methylation levels in the promoter and 5'-UTR of the FST gene with PCOS incidence in peripheral blood leukocytes and endometrial tissue. Using mass array quantitative methylation analysis, we firstly analysed 5'-UTR methylation in 40 PCOS patients and 40 controls. We then validated results in a second sample consisting of 90 PCOS patients and 80 controls. The methylation level of the FST gene was further studied in endometrium from 24 controls and 24 PCOS patients. Finally, we quantitatively analysed FST expression in the endometrium using real-time PCR. Our study demonstrated that methylation levels of CpG sites in the FST promoter and 5'-UTR are not associated with PCOS. Nonetheless, as far as is known, this is the first study to quantitatively evaluate the methylation levels of a candidate gene in association with PCOS. Further studies should be performed to examine methylation in other candidate genes. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms involved in PCOS may yield new insights into the pathophysiology of the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Sang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Gahr SA, Weber GM, Rexroad CE. Identification and expression of Smads associated with TGF-β/activin/nodal signaling pathways in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2012; 38:1233-1244. [PMID: 22290475 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-012-9611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The Smad proteins are essential components of the TGF-β/activin/nodal family signaling pathway. We report the identification and expression of transcripts representing three receptor Smads (Smad2a, Smad2b, and Smad3), two common Smads (Smad4a and Smad4b), and one inhibitory Smad (Smad7). Phylogenetic analysis suggests this gene family evolved through the combination of ancient and more recent salmonid genome duplication events. Tissue distribution, embryonic expression, and expression in growth hormone (GH) treated fish were assessed by reverse transcription PCR or qPCR. All six Smad transcripts were ubiquitously expressed in adult tissues. We observed the highest expression of the receptor Smads in unfertilized eggs, generally decreasing during early embryonic development and slightly increasing around 11 days post-fertilization (dpf). Smad7 expression was low for most of embryonic development, with a dramatic increase at the onset of muscle development (6 dpf), and at hatch (24 dpf). Smad4 expression was low during early embryonic development and increased after 14 dpf. The increased expression of Smad4 and Smad7 during late embryonic development may indicate modulation of gene expression by GH axis, which initiates activity during late embryonic development. These data were supported by the modulation of these Smads in the gill filament, stomach, and muscle following a GH treatment. Additionally, these changes are concurrent with the modulation of expression of TGF-β family members. Most significantly, the increased expression of Smad7 in the muscle is simultaneous with increased expression of MSTN1A and not MSTN1B during both embryonic development and following GH treatment. These data indicate a promyogenic role for Smad7 as previously identified in other non-fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Gahr
- Biology Department, St. Vincent College, 300 Fraser Purchase Rd., Latrobe, PA 15650, USA.
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