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Feng Y, Huang Z, Ma X, Zong X, Wu CY, Lee RH, Lin HW, Hamblin MR, Zhang Q. Activation of testosterone-androgen receptor mediates cerebrovascular protection by photobiomodulation treatment in photothrombosis-induced stroke rats. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14574. [PMID: 38421088 PMCID: PMC10851319 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Numerous epidemiological studies have reported a link between low testosterone levels and an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease in men. However, there is ongoing controversy surrounding testosterone replacement therapy due to potential side effects. PBMT has been demonstrated to improve cerebrovascular function and promote testosterone synthesis in peripheral tissues. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms that could connect PBMT with testosterone and vascular function in the brain of photothrombosis (PT)-induced stroke rats remain largely unknown. METHODS We measured behavioral performance, cerebral blood flow (CBF), vascular permeability, and the expression of vascular-associated and apoptotic proteins in PT-induced stroke rats treated with flutamide and seven consecutive days of PBM treatment (350 mW, 808 nM, 2 min/day). To gain further insights into the mechanism of PBM on testosterone synthesis, we used testosterone synthesis inhibitors to study their effects on bEND.3 cells. RESULTS We showed that PT stroke caused a decrease in cerebrovascular testosterone concentration, which was significantly increased by 7-day PBMT (808 nm, 350 mW/cm2 , 42 J/cm2 ). Furthermore, PBMT significantly increased cerebral blood flow (CBF) and the expression of vascular-associated proteins, while inhibiting vascular permeability and reducing endothelial cell apoptosis. This ultimately mitigated behavioral deficits in PT stroke rats. Notably, treatment with the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide reversed the beneficial effects of PBMT. Cellular experiments confirmed that PBMT inhibited cell apoptosis and increased vascular-associated protein expression in brain endothelial cell line (bEnd.3) subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD). However, these effects were inhibited by flutamide. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed that PBMT-induced testosterone synthesis in bEnd.3 cells was partly mediated by 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 5 (17β-HSD5). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence that PBMT attenuates cerebrovascular injury and behavioral deficits associated with testosterone/AR following ischemic stroke. Our findings suggest that PBMT may be a promising alternative approach for managing cerebrovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Feng
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Zhihai Huang
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Xiaohui Ma
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Xuemei Zong
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Celeste Yin‐Chieh Wu
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Reggie Hui‐Chao Lee
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Hung Wen Lin
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
| | - Michael R. Hamblin
- Wellman Center for PhotomedicineMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Quanguang Zhang
- Department of NeurologyLouisiana State University Health Sciences CenterShreveportLouisianaUSA
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Rajizadeh MA, Khaksari M, Bejeshk MA, Amirkhosravi L, Jafari E, Jamalpoor Z, Nezhadi A. The Role of Inhaled Estradiol and Myrtenol, Alone and in Combination, in Modulating Behavioral and Functional Outcomes Following Traumatic Experimental Brain Injury: Hemodynamic, Molecular, Histological and Behavioral Study. Neurocrit Care 2023; 39:478-498. [PMID: 37100976 DOI: 10.1007/s12028-023-01720-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important and growing cause of disability worldwide, and its cognitive consequences may be particularly significant. This study assessed the neuroprotective impacts of estradiol (E2), myrtenol (Myr), and the combination of the two on the neurological outcome, hemodynamic parameters, learning and memory, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level, phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K/AKT) signaling, and inflammatory and oxidative factors in the hippocampus after TBI. METHODS Eighty-four adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 12 groups with seven rats in each (six groups to measure intracranial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, brain water content, and veterinary coma scale, and six groups for behavioral and molecular studies): sham, TBI, TBI/vehicle, TBI/Myr, TBI/E2, and TBI/Myr + E2 (Myr 50 mg/kg and E2 33.3 μg/kg via inhalation for 30 min after TBI induction). Brain injury was induced by using Marmarou's method. Briefly, a 300-g weight was dropped down from a 2-m height through a free-falling tube onto the head of the anesthetized animals. RESULTS Veterinary coma scale, learning and memory, brain water content, intracranial pressure, and cerebral perfusion pressure were impaired following TBI, and inflammation and oxidative stress were raised in the hippocampus after TBI. The BDNF level and PI3K/AKT signaling were impaired due to TBI. Inhalation of Myr and E2 had protective effects against all negative consequences of TBI by decreasing brain edema and the hippocampal content of inflammatory and oxidant factors and also by improving BDNF and PI3K/AKT in the hippocampus. Based on these data, there were no differences between alone and combination administrations. CONCLUSIONS Our results propose that Myr and E2 have neuroprotective effects on cognition impairments due to TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Rajizadeh
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Abbas Bejeshk
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Elham Jafari
- Pathology and Stem Cell Research Center, Pathology Department, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Jamalpoor
- Trauma Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Nezhadi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Bernstein SR, Kelleher C, Khalil RA. Gender-based research underscores sex differences in biological processes, clinical disorders and pharmacological interventions. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115737. [PMID: 37549793 PMCID: PMC10587961 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Earlier research has presumed that the male and female biology is similar in most organs except the reproductive system, leading to major misconceptions in research interpretations and clinical implications, with serious disorders being overlooked or misdiagnosed. Careful research has now identified sex differences in the cardiovascular, renal, endocrine, gastrointestinal, immune, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems. Also, several cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological disorders have shown differences in prevalence and severity between males and females. Genetic variations in the sex chromosomes have been implicated in several disorders at young age and before puberty. The levels of the gonadal hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone and their receptors play a role in the sex differences between adult males and premenopausal women. Hormonal deficiencies and cell senescence have been implicated in differences between postmenopausal and premenopausal women. Specifically, cardiovascular disorders are more common in adult men vs premenopausal women, but the trend is reversed with age with the incidence being greater in postmenopausal women than age-matched men. Gender-specific disorders in females such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension-in-pregnancy and gestational diabetes have attained further research recognition. Other gender-related research areas include menopausal hormone therapy, the "Estrogen Paradox" in pulmonary arterial hypertension being more predominant but less severe in young females, and how testosterone may cause deleterious effects in the kidney while having vasodilator effects in the coronary circulation. This has prompted the National Institutes of Health (NIH) initiative to consider sex as a biological variable in research. The NIH and other funding agencies have provided resources to establish state-of-the-art centers for women health and sex differences in biology and disease in several academic institutions. Scientific societies and journals have taken similar steps to organize specialized conferences and publish special issues on gender-based research. These combined efforts should promote research to enhance our understanding of the sex differences in biological systems beyond just the reproductive system, and provide better guidance and pharmacological tools for the management of various clinical disorders in a gender-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia R Bernstein
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Caroline Kelleher
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Age-related decrease in serum dihydrotestosterone concentration is accompanied by impaired vascular status. Exp Gerontol 2023; 173:112104. [PMID: 36693531 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2023.112104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effect of androgens on the cardiovascular system in humans is ambiguous. Moreover, still little is known about the effects of the most potent androgen, dihydrotestosterone, on arterial stiffness and endothelial function. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether age-dependent alterations in serum concentration of dihydrotestosterone and its circulating metabolite are accompanied by changes in endothelial function and arterial stiffness. METHODS In 12 young and 11 older men, basal serum concentrations of testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAE-S), androstenedione (AE), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and androstanediol glucuronide (ADG) were analyzed in relation to vascular status including cIMT - carotid intima media thickness, cAI - central augmentation index, crPWV - carotid radial pulse wave velocity, SI - stiffness index, endothelial and inflammatory markers. RESULTS Although concentration of testosterone was not different between young and older group, it was demonstrated that DHT, DHEA-S, AE and ADG were significantly lower in older men in comparison to young men (p < 0.01). Interestingly the most surprising difference was found for DHT concentration, that was as much as 61 % lower in aged men that displayed significantly higher values of cIMT, AI, crPWV and SI (p < 10-4), suggestive of arterial stiffness. Furthermore, DHT was negatively correlated to all arterial wall parameters (cAI, crPWV, SI and cIMT), c-reactive protein (CRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) concentration, as well as positively correlated to markers of endothelial function (MNA and 6-keto-PGF1α) in all studied individuals (n = 23). CONCLUSIONS We have shown that ageing leads to a significant decrease in DHT concentration that is accompanied by impaired arterial wall characteristics and worsened endothelial function. Therefore more attention should be paid to the DHT, DHEA-S and ADG concentrations as a biomarkers for vascular dysfunction in ageing men.
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Khaksari M, Raji-Amirhasani A, Bashiri H, Ebrahimi MN, Azizian H. Protective effects of combining SERMs with estrogen on metabolic parameters in postmenopausal diabetic cardiovascular dysfunction: The role of cytokines and angiotensin II. Steroids 2022; 183:109023. [PMID: 35358567 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The beneficial effects of the administration of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and estrogen (E2), alone or in combination with each other, have been reported in postmenopausal diabetic cardiovascular dysfunction. In the present study, we determined the mechanism of action of SERMs and E2 on inflammatory balance, angiotensin II (Ang II) serum levels, and glycemic profile in a postmenopausal diabetic rat model. METHODS Ovariectomized rats with type 2 diabetes received daily SERMs (tamoxifen and raloxifene) and E2 for one month. After treatment, cardiovascular risk indices, glycemic profile, and serum Ang II, TNF-α and IL-10 levels were measured. RESULTS Type 2 diabetes caused an abnormal glycemic profile, which was exacerbated by ovariectomy. All treatments inhibited the effects of diabetes and ovariectomy on the glycemic profile, with combined treatments (SERMs + E2) showing stronger effects. Cardiovascular risk indices that became abnormal by diabetes and worsened by ovariectomy were improved in all treatment modalities. Also, combined treatment reduced serum Ang II, TNF-α, and the ratio of TNF-α to IL-10, indicating an improvement in inflammatory balance. CONCLUSION Our study showed the administration of SERMs and E2, alone or in combination, could be an effective alternative in the treatment of menopausal diabetes, and generally, the beneficial effects of combined treatments were more effective than the effects of E2 or SERMs alone. It appears that E2 or SERMs benefit the cardiovascular system by improving inflammatory balance and reducing Ang II levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khaksari
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Alireza Raji-Amirhasani
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hamideh Bashiri
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Hossein Azizian
- Neurobiomedical Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Ahmadpour D, Mhaouty-Kodja S, Grange-Messent V. Effects and underlying cellular pathway involved in the impairment of the neurovascular unit following exposure of adult male mice to low doses of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate alone or in an environmental phthalate mixture. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 207:112235. [PMID: 34678253 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that adult male mice exposure to low doses of di (2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) impacts the blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity and surrounding parenchyma in the medial preoptic area (mPOA), a key hypothalamic area involved in the male sexual behavior. BBB leakage was associated with a decrease in the endothelial tight junction accessory protein, zona occludens-1, and caveolae protein Cav-1, added to an inflammatory profile including glial activation accompanied by enhanced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase. As this failure of BBB functionality in the mPOA could participate, at least in part, in reported alteration of sexual behavior following DEHP exposure, we explored the cellular pathway connecting cerebral capillaries and neurons. Two-month-old C57BL/6J male mice were orally exposed for 6 weeks to DEHP alone (5 and 50 μg/kg/day) or to DEHP (5 μg/kg/day) in an environmental phthalate mixture. The presence of androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor-α (ERα) were first evidenced in brain capillaries. Protein levels of AR but not of ERα were reduced in cerebral capillaries after phthalate exposure. The amounts of basement membrane and cell-matrix interaction components were decreased, while matrix metalloprotease MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities were increased. Fluorojade® labelling suggested that exposure to phthalates also lead to a neurodegenerative process in the mPOA. Altogether, the data suggest that environmental exposure to endocrine disruptors such as phthalates, could alter AR/Cav-1 interaction, impacting a Cav-1/nitric oxide/MMP pathway. This would lead to disruption of the glio-neurovascular coupling which is essential to neuronal functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delnia Ahmadpour
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Sakina Mhaouty-Kodja
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Grange-Messent
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, INSERM, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, 75005, Paris, France.
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7
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Koukoulis GN, Filiponi M, Gougoura S, Befani C, Liakos P, Bargiota Α. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone modulate the redox homeostasis of endothelium. Cell Biol Int 2022; 46:660-670. [DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George N Koukoulis
- Research Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
| | - Maria Filiponi
- Research Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
| | - Sofia Gougoura
- Research Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
| | - Christina Befani
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
| | - Panagiotis Liakos
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
| | - Αlexandra Bargiota
- Research Laboratory, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Larissa University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly41500BiopolisLarissaGreece
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8
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Rehnström M, Ahnstedt H, Krause DN, Edvinsson ML, Haanes KA, Edvinsson L. Ovariectomy Reduces Vasocontractile Responses of Rat Middle Cerebral Arteries After Focal Cerebral Ischemia. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2022; 79:e122-e128. [PMID: 34654785 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Effects of sex hormones on stroke outcome are not fully understood. A deleterious consequence of cerebral ischemia is upregulation of vasoconstrictor receptors in cerebral arteries that exacerbate stroke injury. Here, we tested the hypothesis that female sex hormones alter vasocontractile responses after experimental stroke in vivo or after organ culture in vitro, a model of vasocontractile receptor upregulation. Female rats with intact ovaries and ovariectomized (OVX) females treated with 17β-estradiol, progesterone, or placebo were subjected to transient, unilateral middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by reperfusion (I/R). The maximum contractile response, measured my wire myography, in response to the endothelin B receptor agonist sarafotoxin 6c was increased in female arteries after I/R, but the maximum response was significantly lower in arteries from OVX females. Maximum contraction mediated by the serotonin agonist 5-carboxamidotryptamine was diminished after I/R, with arteries from OVX females showing a greater decrease in maximum contractile response. Contraction elicited by angiotensin II was similar in all arteries. Neither estrogen nor progesterone treatment of OVX females affected I/R-induced changes in endothelin B- and 5-carboxamidotryptamine-induced vasocontraction. These findings suggest that sex hormones do not directly influence vasocontractile alterations that occur after ischemic stroke; however, loss of ovarian function does impact this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimmi Rehnström
- Department of Experimental Vasc Res, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Hilda Ahnstedt
- Department of Experimental Vasc Res, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Diana N Krause
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | | | | | - Lars Edvinsson
- Department of Experimental Vasc Res, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Research, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Denmark
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Khanna A, Thomas J, John F, Maliakel B, Krishnakumar IM. Safety and influence of a novel extract of fenugreek on healthy young women: a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-021-00296-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seed is a popular kitchen spice and medicinal herb with wide applications in Indian folklore. Earlier studies have shown that the hydro-ethanolic extracts of fenugreek are efficient in the management of a number of hormone related disorders in women, including post and peri-menopausal discomforts, sexual dysfunctions, lactation and even in amenorrhea. However, systematic informations on their safety and influence on hormonal balance are limited.
Results
Forty-eight healthy menstruating women aged 20 to 48 were randomized either to FHE (n = 24) or placebo (n = 24) and supplemented with 250 mg × 2/day for 42 days. FHE did not produce any side effects or adverse events. It offered significant (P < 0.05) beneficial effects to sexual problems (41.6%) and irritability (40%) among the participants who had higher sexual dysfunctions scores (> 1) when monitored by the validated Menopausal Rating Scale (MRS) scale. Further, hormone analysis indicated an enhancement in estradiol (P = 0.040), free testosterone (P = 0.025), and total testosterone (P = 0.012) in FHE group in comparison to placebo. There were no significant changes in progesterone (P = 0.174) and FSH (P = 0.879) upon FHE supplementation. The hematological and biochemical safety parameters were also at par with the safety of the extract.
Conclusion
Thus, the supplementation of FHE may be considered as a natural alternative for sexual issues in women.
Trial registration
CTRI/2018/09/015614 dated 05/09/2018.
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Woodward HJ, Zhu D, Hadoke PWF, MacRae VE. Regulatory Role of Sex Hormones in Cardiovascular Calcification. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4620. [PMID: 33924852 PMCID: PMC8125640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD), including aortic stenosis, atherosclerosis and cardiovascular calcification, are well documented. High levels of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular calcification, whilst estrogen, the primary female sex hormone, is considered cardioprotective. Current understanding of sexual dimorphism in cardiovascular calcification is still very limited. This review assesses the evidence that the actions of sex hormones influence the development of cardiovascular calcification. We address the current question of whether sex hormones could play a role in the sexual dimorphism seen in cardiovascular calcification, by discussing potential mechanisms of actions of sex hormones and evidence in pre-clinical research. More advanced investigations and understanding of sex hormones in calcification could provide a better translational outcome for those suffering with cardiovascular calcification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly J. Woodward
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
| | - Dongxing Zhu
- Guangzhou Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Vascular Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510260, China
| | - Patrick W. F. Hadoke
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK;
| | - Victoria E. MacRae
- The Roslin Institute & R(D)SVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK;
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Ahmadpour D, Grange-Messent V. Involvement of Testosterone Signaling in the Integrity of the Neurovascular Unit in the Male: Review of Evidence, Contradictions, and Hypothesis. Neuroendocrinology 2021; 111:403-420. [PMID: 32512571 DOI: 10.1159/000509218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Age-related central nervous system function decline and increased susceptibility of females compared to males with respect to prevalence of several neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases are both based on the principle that hormonal factors could be involved. These cerebral disorders are characterized by an alteration of blood-brain barrier (BBB) properties and chronic neuroinflammation, which lead to disease progression. Neuroinflammation, in turn, contributes to BBB dysfunction. The BBB and its environment, called the neurovascular unit (NVU), are crucial for cerebral homeostasis and neuronal function. Interestingly, sex steroids influence BBB properties and modulate neuroinflammatory responses. To date however, the majority of work reported has focused on the effects of estrogens on BBB function and neuroinflammation in female mammals. In contrast, the effects of testosterone signaling on the NVU in males are still poorly studied. The aim of this review was to summarize and discuss the literature, providing insights and contradictions to highlight hypothesis and the need for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delnia Ahmadpour
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1130, CNRS UMR 8246, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Paris, France
| | - Valérie Grange-Messent
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM U1130, CNRS UMR 8246, Neuroscience Paris-Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, Paris, France,
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12
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Barnes JN, Charkoudian N. Integrative cardiovascular control in women: Regulation of blood pressure, body temperature, and cerebrovascular responsiveness. FASEB J 2020; 35:e21143. [PMID: 33151577 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001387r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the past several decades, it has become increasingly clear that women have distinct cardiovascular profiles compared to men. In this review, our goal is to provide an overview of the literature regarding the influences of female sex and reproductive hormones (primarily estradiol) on mechanisms of cardiovascular control relevant to regulation of blood pressure, body temperature, and cerebral blood flow. Young women tend to have lower resting blood pressure compared with men. This sex difference is reversed at menopause, when women develop higher sympathetic nerve activity and the risk of systemic hypertension increases sharply as postmenopausal women age. Vascular responses to thermal stress, including cutaneous vasodilation and vasoconstriction, are also affected by reproductive hormones in women, where estradiol appears to promote vasodilation and heat dissipation. The influence of reproductive hormones on cerebral blood flow and sex differences in the ability of the cerebral vasculature to increase its blood flow (cerebrovascular reactivity) are relatively new areas of investigation. Sex and hormonal influences on integrative blood flow regulation have further implications during challenges to physiological homeostasis, including exercise. We propose that increasing awareness of these sex-specific mechanisms is important for optimizing health care and promotion of wellness in women across the life span.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill N Barnes
- Bruno Balke Biodynamics Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Nisha Charkoudian
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA, USA
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13
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Amirkhosravi L, Khaksari M, Soltani Z, Esmaeili-Mahani S, Asadi Karam G, Hoseini M. E2-BSA and G1 exert neuroprotective effects and improve behavioral abnormalities following traumatic brain injury: The role of classic and non-classic estrogen receptors. Brain Res 2020; 1750:147168. [PMID: 33096091 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The role of classical and non-classical estrogen receptors (ERs) in mediating the neuroprotective effects of this hormone on brain edema and long-term behavioral disorders was evaluated after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Ovariectomized rats were divided as follows: E2 (17 β-estradiol), E2-BSA (E2 conjugated to bovine serum albumin), G1 [G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor agonist (GPER)] or their vehicle was injected following TBI, whereas ICI (classical estrogen receptor antagonist), G15 (GPER antagonist), ICI + G15, and their vehicle were injected before the induction of TBI and the injection of E2 and E2-BSA. Brain water (BWC) and Evans blue (EB) contents were measured 24 h and 5 h after TBI, respectively. Intracranial pressure (ICP) and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) were measured before and at different times after TBI. Locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, and spatial memory were assessed on days 3, 7, 14, and 21 after injury. E2, E2-BSA, and G1 prevented the increase of BWC and EB content after TBI, and these effects were inhibited by ICI and G15. ICI and G15 also inhibited the beneficial effects of E2, E2-BSA on ICP, as well as CPP, after trauma. E2, E2-BSA, and G1 prevented the cognitive deficiency and behavioral abnormalities induced by TBI. Similar to the above parameters, ICI and G15 also reversed this E2 and E2-BSA effects on days 3, 7, 14, and 21. Our findings indicated that the beneficial effects of E2-BSA and E2 were inhibited by both ICI and G15, suggesting that GPER and classic ERs were involved in mediating the long-term effects of E2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladan Amirkhosravi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran; Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khaksari
- Neuroscience and Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Centers, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Zahra Soltani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman, Iran
| | - Saeed Esmaeili-Mahani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Asadi Karam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Hoseini
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Abi-Ghanem C, Robison LS, Zuloaga KL. Androgens' effects on cerebrovascular function in health and disease. Biol Sex Differ 2020; 11:35. [PMID: 32605602 PMCID: PMC7328272 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-020-00309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens affect the cerebral vasculature and may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. Men are at a greater risk for stroke and vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) compared to women throughout much of the lifespan. The cerebral vasculature is a target for direct androgen actions, as it expresses several sex steroid receptors and metabolizing enzymes. Androgens’ actions on the cerebral vasculature are complex, as they have been shown to have both protective and detrimental effects, depending on factors such as age, dose, and disease state. When administered chronically, androgens are shown to be pro-angiogenic, promote vasoconstriction, and influence blood-brain barrier permeability. In addition to these direct effects of androgens on the cerebral vasculature, androgens also influence other vascular risk factors that may contribute to sex differences in cerebrovascular diseases. In men, low androgen levels have been linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and obesity, which greatly increase the risk of stroke and VCID. Thus, a better understanding of androgens’ interactions with the cerebral vasculature under physiological and pathological conditions is of key importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charly Abi-Ghanem
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Lisa S Robison
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA
| | - Kristen L Zuloaga
- Department of Neuroscience & Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Avenue, MC-136, Albany, NY, 12208, USA.
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15
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Genetic Variations of CYP19A1 Gene and Stroke Susceptibility: A Case-Control Study in the Chinese Han Population. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2020; 75:344-350. [PMID: 31895872 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the association between genetic variations of CYP19A1 and stroke susceptibility in the Chinese Han population. METHODS A total of 477 stroke patients and 480 healthy controls were recruited in this study. The genotyping of CYP19A1 polymorphisms (rs4646, rs6493487, rs1062033, rs17601876, and rs3751599) was performed by the Agena MassARRAY platform. Under logistic regression models, we evaluated the associations of CYP19A1 polymorphisms and stroke susceptibility by odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. RESULTS Our study showed that rs4646 (codominant: P = 0.020; recessive: P = 0.016) and rs17601876 (allele: P = 0.044; codominant: P = 0.011; dominant: P = 0.009; recessive: P = 0.046) significantly decreased the risk of stroke. In the stratification analysis, rs4646 is associated with decreased stroke risk among the individuals older than 64 years (codominant: P = 0.028; recessive: P = 0.010) and women (codominant: P = 0.029; recessive: P = 0.029), whereas rs1062033 increased stroke risk in the subgroup of age 64 years and younger (recessive: P = 0.042). The rs17601876 polymorphism has a strong relationship with stroke susceptibility, which is age and gender dependent. In haplotype analysis, we found a block (rs17601876 and rs3751599), and Ars17601876Grs3751599 haplotype is related to an increased stroke risk (P < 0.05). In addition, CYP19A1 variations had effects on clinical characteristics. CONCLUSION CYP19A1 polymorphisms were significantly associated with stroke susceptibility in the Chinese Han population.
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16
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Robison LS, Gannon OJ, Salinero AE, Zuloaga KL. Contributions of sex to cerebrovascular function and pathology. Brain Res 2018; 1710:43-60. [PMID: 30580011 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sex differences exist in how cerebral blood vessels function under both physiological and pathological conditions, contributing to observed sex differences in risk and outcomes of cerebrovascular diseases (CBVDs), such as vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID) and stroke. Throughout most of the lifespan, women are protected from CBVDs; however, risk increases following menopause, suggesting sex hormones may play a significant role in this protection. The cerebrovasculature is a target for sex hormones, including estrogens, progestins, and androgens, where they can influence numerous vascular functions and pathologies. While there is a plethora of information on estrogen, the effects of progestins and androgens on the cerebrovasculature are less well-defined. Estrogen decreases cerebral tone and increases cerebral blood flow, while androgens increase tone. Both estrogens and androgens enhance angiogenesis/cerebrovascular remodeling. While both estrogens and androgens attenuate cerebrovascular inflammation, pro-inflammatory effects of androgens under physiological conditions have also been demonstrated. Sex hormones exert additional neuroprotective effects by attenuating oxidative stress and maintaining integrity and function of the blood brain barrier. Most animal studies utilize young, healthy, gonadectomized animals, which do not mimic the clinical conditions of aging individuals likely to get CBVDs. This is also concerning, as sex hormones appear to mediate cerebrovascular function differently based on age and disease state (e.g. metabolic syndrome). Through this review, we hope to inspire others to consider sex as a key biological variable in cerebrovascular research, as greater understanding of sex differences in cerebrovascular function will assist in developing personalized approaches to prevent and treat CBVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa S Robison
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States.
| | - Olivia J Gannon
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States.
| | - Abigail E Salinero
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States.
| | - Kristen L Zuloaga
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Albany Medical College, 47 New Scotland Ave, Albany, NY 12208, United States.
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17
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Chistiakov DA, Myasoedova VA, Melnichenko AA, Grechko AV, Orekhov AN. Role of androgens in cardiovascular pathology. Vasc Health Risk Manag 2018; 14:283-290. [PMID: 30410343 PMCID: PMC6198881 DOI: 10.2147/vhrm.s173259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular effects of android hormones in normal and pathological conditions can lead to either positive or negative effects. The reason for this variation is unknown, but may be influenced by gender-specific effects of androids, heterogeneity of the vascular endothelium, differential expression of the androgen receptor in endothelial cells (ECs) and route of androgen administration. Generally, androgenic hormones are beneficial for ECs because these hormones induce nitric oxide production, proliferation, motility, and growth of ECs and inhibit inflammatory activation and induction of procoagulant, and adhesive properties in ECs. This indeed prevents endothelial dysfunction, an essential initial step in the development of vascular pathologies, including atherosclerosis. However, androgens can also activate endothelial production of some vasoconstrictors, which can have detrimental effects on the vascular endothelium. Androgens also activate proliferation, migration, and recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), thereby contributing to vascular repair and restoration of the endothelial layer. In this paper, we consider effects of androgen hormones on EC and EPC function in physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitry A Chistiakov
- Department of Neurochemistry, Division of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, Serbsky Federal Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Narcology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Veronika A Myasoedova
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia,
| | - Alexandra A Melnichenko
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia,
| | - Andrey V Grechko
- Federal Scientific Clinical Center for Resuscitation and Rehabilitation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N Orekhov
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia, .,Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Skolkovo Innovative Center, Moscow, Russia,
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18
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Rasinger J, Carroll T, Maranghi F, Tassinari R, Moracci G, Altieri I, Mantovani A, Lundebye AK, Hogstrand C. Low dose exposure to HBCD, CB-153 or TCDD induces histopathological and hormonal effects and changes in brain protein and gene expression in juvenile female BALB/c mice. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 80:105-116. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
Background Migraine is two to three times more prevalent in women than in men, but the mechanisms involved in this gender disparity are still poorly understood. In this respect, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) plays a key role in migraine pathophysiology and, more recently, the functional interactions between ovarian steroid hormones, CGRP and the trigeminovascular system have been recognized and studied in more detail. Aims To provide an overview of CGRP studies that have addressed gender differences utilizing animal and human migraine preclinical research models to highlight how the female trigeminovascular system responds differently in the presence of varying ovarian steroid hormones. Conclusions Gender differences are evident in migraine. Several studies indicate that fluctuations of ovarian steroid hormone (mainly estrogen) levels modulate CGRP in the trigeminovascular system during different reproductive milestones. Such interactions need to be considered when conducting future animal and human experiments, since these differences may contribute to the development of gender-specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Labastida-Ramírez
- 1 Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eloísa Rubio-Beltrán
- 1 Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carlos M Villalón
- 2 Departamento de Farmacobiología, Cinvestav-I.P.N. (Unidad Sur), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Antoinette MaassenVanDenBrink
- 1 Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Boutas I, Pergialiotis V, Salakos N, Korou LM, Mitousoudis A, Kalampokas E, Deligeoroglou E, Gregoriou O, Perrea DN, Creatsas G, Kourkoulis S. Assessment of bone metabolism and biomechanical properties of the femur, following treatment with anastrozole and letrozole in an experimental model of menopause. Oncol Lett 2017; 14:3494-3502. [PMID: 28943895 PMCID: PMC5592877 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.6596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of anastrozole and letrozole supplementation following surgically induced menopause on bone metabolism and biomechanical properties. A total of 45 Wistar rats underwent ovariectomy and were then randomly allocated to receive no treatment, anastrozole or letrozole. At 2 and 4 months following the initiation of the present study, the serum levels of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) were determined, and the animals were sacrificed at the end of the 4-month period to assess the biomechanical properties of the femoral bones. The applied force and the deflection of the central section were recorded during the test. Taking advantage of these quantities, the fracture force, the stiffness of the bone and the energy absorbed until fracture were determined. At 2 months following the initiation of the experimental protocol, the mean OPG levels were significantly increased in the control group compared with the anastrozole-treated group (P<0.01). Similarly, RANKL levels were significantly increased in the control rats compared with the anastrozole-treated animals (P<0.001) and animals that received letrozole (P<0.05). Notably, these trends were not observed at the end of the experiment (4 months). A biomechanical study of the femoral bones revealed significantly decreased stiffness among animals that received anastrozole (P<0.05) and letrozole (P<0.01) compared with their control counterparts. The results of the present study indicate that treatment with anastrozole and letrozole significantly increases the levels of OPG and RANKL in bone, an effect that appears to be directly associated with the biomechanical properties of bones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Boutas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece.,Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research 'N.S. Christeas', National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vasilios Pergialiotis
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research 'N.S. Christeas', National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nicolaos Salakos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Laskarina-Maria Korou
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research 'N.S. Christeas', National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Mitousoudis
- Department of Mechanics, Laboratory of Testing and Materials-Unit of Biomechanics, National Technical University of Athens, 15773 Athens, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Kalampokas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Odysseas Gregoriou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Despina N Perrea
- Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research 'N.S. Christeas', National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - George Creatsas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Stavros Kourkoulis
- Department of Mechanics, Laboratory of Testing and Materials-Unit of Biomechanics, National Technical University of Athens, 15773 Athens, Greece
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21
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Kwakowsky A, Milne MR, Waldvogel HJ, Faull RL. Effect of Estradiol on Neurotrophin Receptors in Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons: Relevance for Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E2122. [PMID: 27999310 PMCID: PMC5187922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17122122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Revised: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The basal forebrain is home to the largest population of cholinergic neurons in the brain. These neurons are involved in a number of cognitive functions including attention, learning and memory. Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) are particularly vulnerable in a number of neurological diseases with the most notable being Alzheimer's disease, with evidence for a link between decreasing cholinergic markers and the degree of cognitive impairment. The neurotrophin growth factor system is present on these BFCNs and has been shown to promote survival and differentiation on these neurons. Clinical and animal model studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) on neurodegeneration in BFCNs. It is believed that E2 interacts with neurotrophin signaling on cholinergic neurons to mediate these beneficial effects. Evidence presented in our recent study confirms that altering the levels of circulating E2 levels via ovariectomy and E2 replacement significantly affects the expression of the neurotrophin receptors on BFCN. However, we also showed that E2 differentially regulates neurotrophin receptor expression on BFCNs with effects depending on neurotrophin receptor type and neuroanatomical location. In this review, we aim to survey the current literature to understand the influence of E2 on the neurotrophin system, and the receptors and signaling pathways it mediates on BFCN. In addition, we summarize the physiological and pathophysiological significance of E2 actions on the neurotrophin system in BFCN, especially focusing on changes related to Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Kwakowsky
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Michael R Milne
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland Brain Institute, Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, QLD, Australia.
| | - Henry J Waldvogel
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Richard L Faull
- Centre for Brain Research, Department of Anatomy and Medical Imaging, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
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22
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Androgen actions on endothelium functions and cardiovascular diseases. JOURNAL OF GERIATRIC CARDIOLOGY : JGC 2016; 13:183-96. [PMID: 27168746 PMCID: PMC4854959 DOI: 10.11909/j.issn.1671-5411.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The roles of androgens on cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology are controversial as both beneficial and detrimental effects have been reported. Although the reasons for this discrepancy are unclear, multiple factors such as genetic and epigenetic variation, sex-specificity, hormone interactions, drug preparation and route of administration may contribute. Recently, growing evidence suggests that androgens exhibit beneficial effects on cardiovascular function though the mechanism remains to be elucidated. Endothelial cells (ECs) which line the interior surface of blood vessels are distributed throughout the circulatory system, and play a crucial role in cardiovascular function. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are considered an indispensable element for the reconstitution and maintenance of an intact endothelial layer. Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an initiating step in development of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. The modulation of endothelial functions by androgens through either genomic or nongenomic signal pathways is one possible mechanism by which androgens act on the cardiovascular system. Obtaining insight into the mechanisms by which androgens affect EC and EPC functions will allow us to determine whether androgens possess beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. This in turn may be critical in the prevention and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. This article seeks to review recent progress in androgen regulation of endothelial function, the sex-specificity of androgen actions, and its clinical applications in the cardiovascular system.
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23
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Izvolskaia MS, Tillet Y, Sharova VS, Voronova SN, Zakharova LA. Disruptions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in rat offspring following prenatal maternal exposure to lipopolysaccharide. Stress 2016; 19:198-205. [PMID: 26941006 DOI: 10.3109/10253890.2016.1149695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Postnatal treatment with bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) changes the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) surge in rats. Exposure to an immune challenge in the critical periods of development has profound and long-lasting effects on the stress response, immune, metabolic, and reproductive functions. Prenatal LPS treatment delays the migration of GnRH neurons associated with increased cytokine release in maternal and fetal compartments. We investigated the effects of a single maternal exposure to LPS (18 μg/kg, i.p.) on day 12 (embryonic day (E)12) of pregnancy on reproductive parameters in rat offspring. Hypothalamic GnRH content, plasma luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and estradiol concentrations were measured in both male and female offsprings at different stages of postnatal development by RIA and ELISA (n = 10 each per group). Body weight and in females day of vaginal opening (VO) were recorded. In offspring exposed to LPS prenatally, compared with controls, body weight was decreased in both sexes at P5 and P30; in females, VO was delayed; hypothalamic GnRH content was decreased at postnatal days 30-60 (P30-P60) in both sexes; plasma LH concentration was decreased at P14-P60 in females; plasma concentrations of testosterone/estradiol were increased at P14 in females, and plasma estradiol was increased at P14 in males. Hence activation of the maternal immune system by LPS treatment at a prenatal critical period leads to decreased GnRH and LH levels in pre- and postpubertal life and sex steroid imbalance in the prepubertal period, and delayed sexual maturation of female offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina S Izvolskaia
- a Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia and
| | - Yves Tillet
- b UMR 7247 INRA CNRS, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Universite de Tours PRC INRA , Nouzilly , France
| | - Viktoria S Sharova
- a Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia and
| | - Svetlana N Voronova
- a Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia and
| | - Lyudmila A Zakharova
- a Koltsov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences , Moscow , Russia and
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Tostes RC, Carneiro FS, Carvalho MHC, Reckelhoff JF. Reactive oxygen species: players in the cardiovascular effects of testosterone. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2015; 310:R1-14. [PMID: 26538238 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00392.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are essential for the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and sexual function and for overall health and well being. Testosterone, the predominant and most important androgen, not only affects the male reproductive system, but also influences the activity of many other organs. In the cardiovascular system, the actions of testosterone are still controversial, its effects ranging from protective to deleterious. While early studies showed that testosterone replacement therapy exerted beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease, some recent safety studies point to a positive association between endogenous and supraphysiological levels of androgens/testosterone and cardiovascular disease risk. Among the possible mechanisms involved in the actions of testosterone on the cardiovascular system, indirect actions (changes in the lipid profile, insulin sensitivity, and hemostatic mechanisms, modulation of the sympathetic nervous system and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system), as well as direct actions (modulatory effects on proinflammatory enzymes, on the generation of reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide bioavailability, and on vasoconstrictor signaling pathways) have been reported. This mini-review focuses on evidence indicating that testosterone has prooxidative actions that may contribute to its deleterious actions in the cardiovascular system. The controversial effects of testosterone on ROS generation and oxidant status, both prooxidant and antioxidant, in the cardiovascular system and in cells and tissues of other systems are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita C Tostes
- University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Fernando S Carneiro
- University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jane F Reckelhoff
- University of Mississippi Medical Center, Women's Health Research Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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25
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Son SW, Lee JS, Kim HG, Kim DW, Ahn YC, Son CG. Testosterone depletion increases the susceptibility of brain tissue to oxidative damage in a restraint stress mouse model. J Neurochem 2015; 136:106-17. [PMID: 26385432 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Wan Son
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; College of Health Science; Korea University; Seongbuk-Gu Seoul Korea
| | - Jin-Seok Lee
- Liver and Immunology Research Center; Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Oriental Medical Collage of Daejeon University; Jung-gu Daejeon South Korea
| | - Hyeong-Geug Kim
- Liver and Immunology Research Center; Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Oriental Medical Collage of Daejeon University; Jung-gu Daejeon South Korea
| | - Dong-Woon Kim
- Department of Anatomy; Brain Research Institute; Chungnam National University School of Medicine; Daejeon South Korea
| | - Yo-Chan Ahn
- Department of Health Service Management; Daejeon University; Dong-gu Daejeon Korea
| | - Chang-Gue Son
- Department of Biomedical Engineering; College of Health Science; Korea University; Seongbuk-Gu Seoul Korea
- Liver and Immunology Research Center; Daejeon Oriental Hospital of Oriental Medical Collage of Daejeon University; Jung-gu Daejeon South Korea
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26
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Khaksari M, Abbasloo E, Dehghan F, Soltani Z, Asadikaram G. The brain cytokine levels are modulated by estrogen following traumatic brain injury: Which estrogen receptor serves as modulator? Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 28:279-87. [PMID: 26112336 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The present study was designed to explore whether administration of estrogen affects brain cytokine levels in TBI. We also sought determine which one of type of classical estrogen receptors (ERs) is involved. Ovariectomized female rats were divided in to eight groups. Estrogen or vehicle was administered following TBI (E2 and oil groups). Antagonist of ER(ICI 182, 780) or vehicle was also administered following TBI (ICI and DMSO groups). The ICI or vehicle was administered either before induction of TBI and administration of estrogen (ICI+E2 and DMSO+E2 groups). TBI was induced by Marmarou's method. In addition to brain water content, the levels of brain proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were measured 24 hours post- TBI. Present results demonstrated that, estrogen reduced TBI- induced brain edema. The antiedema effect of estrogen was attenuated by ICI. The brain measures of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in TBI were also reduced by estrogen. The anti-inflammatory effect of estrogen was attenuated by ICI. The inhibition level of estrogen by ICI was 53.2%, 12.09% and 48.45% for IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, respectively. Estrogen also elevated IL-10 in TBI. ICI inversely controlled the effect of estrogen on IL-10, by 33.84%. This effect was not observed once ICI was used alone. The estrogen administration following TBI probably results in proinflammatory cytokines reduction, and inversely enhancement of anti-inflammatory cytokines. In our study, the neuroprotective effect of estrogen is proposed to be mediated by both ERα and ERα, and accordingly the inhibition of neuroprotective effect of estrogen by ICI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khaksari
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Elham Abbasloo
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Dehghan
- Physiology Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Soltani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Asadikaram
- Dept. of Biochemistry, Medical School of Afzalipour, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Zuloaga KL, Davis CM, Zhang W, Alkayed NJ. Role of aromatase in sex-specific cerebrovascular endothelial function in mice. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2014; 306:H929-37. [PMID: 24508640 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00698.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Stroke risk and outcome are strongly modified by estrogen. In addition to ovaries, estrogen is produced locally in peripheral tissue by the enzyme aromatase, and extragonadal synthesis becomes the major source of estrogen after menopause. Aromatase gene deletion in female mice exacerbates ischemic brain damage after stroke. However, it is not clear which cell type is responsible for this effect, since aromatase is expressed in multiple cell types, including cerebrovascular endothelium. We tested the hypothesis that cerebrovascular aromatase contributes to sex differences in cerebrovascular endothelial function. Cerebrocortical microvascular responses to the endothelium-dependent vasodilator ACh were compared between male and female wild-type (WT) and aromatase knockout (ArKO) mice by measuring laser-Doppler perfusion in vivo through a closed cranial window. Additional studies were performed in WT mice treated with the aromatase inhibitor fadrozole or vehicle. WT female mice had significantly greater responses to ACh compared with WT males (P < 0.001), which was associated with higher aromatase expression in female compared with male cerebral vessels (P < 0.05). ACh responses were significantly lower in ArKO compared with WT females (P < 0.05) and in WT females treated with fadrozole versus vehicle (P < 0.001). Conversely, ACh responses were significantly higher in ArKO versus WT males (P < 0.05). Levels of phosphorylated endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were lower in ArKO versus WT female brains, but were not altered by aromatase deletion in males. We conclude that cerebrovascular endothelial aromatase plays an important and sexually dimorphic role in cerebrovascular function and that aromatase inhibitors in clinical use may have cardiovascular consequences in both males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen L Zuloaga
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine and The Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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28
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Khalil RA. Estrogen, vascular estrogen receptor and hormone therapy in postmenopausal vascular disease. Biochem Pharmacol 2013; 86:1627-42. [PMID: 24099797 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2013.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 09/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is less common in premenopausal women than men of the same age or postmenopausal women, suggesting vascular benefits of estrogen. Estrogen activates estrogen receptors ERα, ERβ and GPR30 in endothelium and vascular smooth muscle (VSM), which trigger downstream signaling pathways and lead to genomic and non-genomic vascular effects such as vasodilation, decreased VSM contraction and growth and reduced vascular remodeling. However, randomized clinical trials (RCTs), such as the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) and Heart and Estrogen/progestin Replacement Study (HERS), have shown little vascular benefits and even adverse events with menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), likely due to factors related to the MHT used, ER profile, and RCT design. Some MHT forms, dose, combinations or route of administration may have inadequate vascular effects. Age-related changes in ER amount, distribution, integrity and post-ER signaling could alter the vascular response to MHT. The subject's age, preexisting CVD, and hormone environment could also reduce the effects of MHT. Further evaluation of natural and synthetic estrogens, phytoestrogens, and selective estrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs), and the design of appropriate MHT combinations, dose, route and 'timing' could improve the effectiveness of conventional MHT and provide alternative therapies in the peri-menopausal period. Targeting ER using specific ER agonists, localized MHT delivery, and activation of specific post-ER signaling pathways could counter age-related changes in ER. Examination of the hormone environment and conditions associated with hormone imbalance such as polycystic ovary syndrome may reveal the causes of abnormal hormone-receptor interactions. Consideration of these factors in new RCTs such as the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) could enhance the vascular benefits of estrogen in postmenopausal CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratory, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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29
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Role of nuclear receptors in the regulation of drug transporters in the brain. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2013; 34:361-72. [PMID: 23769624 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette membrane-associated drug efflux transporters and solute carrier influx transporters, expressed at the blood-brain barrier, blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier, and in brain parenchyma, are important determinants of drug disposition in the central nervous system. Targeting the regulatory pathways that govern the expression of these transporters could provide novel approaches to selectively alter drug permeability into the brain. Nuclear receptors are ligand-activated transcription factors which regulate the gene expression of several metabolic enzymes and drug efflux/influx transporters. Although efforts have primarily been focused on investigating these regulatory pathways in peripheral organs (i.e., liver and intestine), recent findings demonstrate their significance in the brain. This review addresses the role of nuclear receptors in the regulation of drug transporter functional expression in the brain. An in-depth understanding of these pathways could guide the development of novel pharmacotherapy with either enhanced efficacy in the central nervous system or minimal associated neurotoxicity.
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Gonzales RJ. Androgens and the cerebrovasculature: modulation of vascular function during normal and pathophysiological conditions. Pflugers Arch 2013; 465:627-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-013-1267-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Zuloaga KL, Swift SN, Gonzales RJ, Wu TJ, Handa RJ. The androgen metabolite, 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol, decreases cytokine-induced cyclooxygenase-2, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 expression, and P-glycoprotein expression in male human brain microvascular endothelial cells. Endocrinology 2012; 153:5949-60. [PMID: 23117931 PMCID: PMC3512076 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
P-glycoprotein (Pgp), a multiple drug resistance transporter expressed by vascular endothelial cells, is a key component of the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to increase after inflammation. The nonaromatizable androgen, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), decreases inflammatory markers in vascular smooth muscle cells, independent of androgen receptor (AR) stimulation. The principal metabolite of DHT, 5α-androstane-3β,17β-diol (3β-diol), activates estrogen receptor (ER)β and similarly decreases inflammatory markers in vascular cells. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that either DHT or 3β-diol decrease cytokine-induced proinflammatory mediators, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), to regulate Pgp expression in male primary human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs). Using RT-qPCR, the mRNAs for AR, ERα, and ERβ and steroid metabolizing enzymes necessary for DHT conversion to 3β-diol were detected in male HBMECs demonstrating that the enzymes and receptors for production of and responsiveness to 3β-diol are present. Western analysis showed that 3β-diol reduced COX-2 and Pgp expression; the effect on Pgp was inhibited by the ER antagonist, ICI-182,780. IL-1β-caused an increase in COX-2 and VCAM-1 that was reduced by either DHT or 3β-diol. 3β-diol also decreased cytokine-induced Pgp expression. ICI-182,780 blocked the effect of 3β-diol on COX-2 and VCAM-1, but not Pgp expression. Therefore, in cytokine-stimulated male HBMECs, the effect of 3β-diol on proinflammatory mediator expression is ER dependent, whereas its effect on Pgp expression is ER independent. These studies suggest a novel role of 3β-diol in regulating blood-brain barrier function and support the concept that 3β-diol can be protective against proinflammatory mediator stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen L Zuloaga
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2157, USA
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Campelo AE, Cutini PH, Massheimer VL. Cellular actions of testosterone in vascular cells: mechanism independent of aromatization to estradiol. Steroids 2012; 77:1033-40. [PMID: 22728893 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
In this work we investigated the role of testosterone on cellular processes involved in vascular disease, and whether these effects depend on its local conversion to estradiol. Cultures of rat aortic endothelial and smooth muscle cells in vitro treated with physiological concentrations of testosterone were employed. Testosterone rapidly increased endothelial nitric oxide production. To evaluate whether this non genomic action was dependent on testosterone aromatization we used an aromatase inhibitor. Anastrozole compound did not modify the fast increase in nitric oxide production elicited by testosterone. The hormonal effect was completely blocked by an androgen receptor antagonist (flutamide); meanwhile it wasn't modified by the presence of an estrogen receptor antagonist (ICI182780).The possibility of intracellular estradiol synthesis was ruled out when no differences were found in estradiol measurements performed in culture incubation medium from control and testosterone treated cells. The 5α-reductase inhibitor finasteride partially suppressed the enhancement in nitric oxide production, suggesting that the effect of testosterone was partially due to dihydrotestosterone conversion. Testosterone stimulated muscle cell proliferation independent of local conversion to estradiol. When cellular events that play key roles in vascular disease development were analyzed, testosterone prevented monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells induced by a proinflammatory stimulus (bacterial lipopolysaccharides), and prompted muscle cell migration in presence of a cell motility inducer. In summary, testosterone modulates vascular behavior through its direct action on vascular cells independent of aromatization to estradiol. The cellular actions exhibited by the steroid varied whether cells were under basal or inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián E Campelo
- Cátedra de Bioquímica Clínica II, Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, San Juan 670, B8000ICN Bahía Blanca, Argentina
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Polymorphisms in the maternal sex steroid pathway are associated with behavior problems in male offspring. Psychiatr Genet 2012; 22:115-22. [PMID: 22336992 DOI: 10.1097/ypg.0b013e328351850b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Slight perturbations in maternal sex steroid production and metabolism may interfere with normal fetal neurodevelopment. The balance of maternal estrogens and androgens may have direct fetal effects, may influence the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, or may alter local hormonal activity within the fetal brain. We investigated maternal functional polymorphisms of CYP17, CYP19, and CYP1B1, which control three major enzymatic steps in sex steroid biosynthesis and metabolism, in relation to childhood behaviors. METHODS The Mount Sinai Children's Environmental Health Study enrolled a multiethnic urban pregnancy cohort from 1998 to 2002 (n=404). DNA was obtained from maternal blood (n=149) and from neonatal cord blood (n=53). At each visit, mothers completed the Behavior Assessment System for Children, a parent-reported questionnaire used to evaluate children for behavior problems. We focused on problem behaviors more commonly associated with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (Hyperactivity, Attention Problems, Externalizing Behaviors, Conduct Disorder, Poor Adaptability) to determine whether maternal genetic variants in sex steroid production and metabolism influence sexually dimorphic behaviors in offspring. RESULTS The more active gene variants were significantly associated with Attention Problems and poorer Adaptive Skills in male compared with female offspring. The CYP19 variant allele was also significantly associated with worse scores for boys on the Hyperactivity, Externalizing Problems Composite, and Adaptive Skills Composite scales (P<0.05). CONCLUSION We observed maladaptive behaviors in the male offspring of mothers who carried functional polymorphisms in the sex steroid pathway. The strongest associations were in domains commonly affected in attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
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Suman M, Giacomello M, Corain L, Ballarin C, Montelli S, Cozzi B, Peruffo A. Estradiol effects on intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis in bovine brain-derived endothelial cells. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 350:109-18. [PMID: 22814863 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1460-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens diversely affect various physiological processes by genomic or non-genomic mechanisms, in both excitable and non-excitable cells. Additional to the trophic effects of estrogens promoting cell growth and differentiation, recent experimental evidence highlights their involvement in the regulation of intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis. The effects of estrogens on excitable cells are well documented. However, these steroids also influence numerous physiological events in non-excitable cells, such as fibroblasts or vascular endothelial cells. We have focused our attention on an immortalized endothelial-like cell line derived from fetal bovine cerebellum. Estradiol (E(2)) effects on intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis were tested by varying the exposure time to the hormone (8, 24, 48 h). Calcium measurements were performed with genetically encoded Ca(2+) probes (Cameleons) targeted to the main subcellular compartments involved in intracellular Ca(2+) homeostasis (cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria). Mitochondrial Ca(2+) uptake significantly decreased after 48-h exposure to E(2), whereas cytosolic and endoplasmic reticulum responses were unaffected. The effect of E(2) on mitochondrial Ca(2+) handling was blocked by ICI 182,780, a pure estrogen receptor antagonist, suggesting that the effect was estrogen-receptor-mediated. To evaluate whether the decrease of Ca(2+) uptake affected mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), cells were monitored in the presence of tetra-methyl-rhodamine-methylester; no significant changes were seen between cells treated with E(2) and controls. To investigate a mechanism of action, we assessed the possibile involvement of the permeability transition pore (PTP), an inner mitochondrial membrane channel influencing energy metabolism and cell viability. We treated cells with CyclosporinA (CsA), which binds to the matrix chaperone cyclophilin-D and regulates PTP opening. CsA reversed the effects of a 48-h treatment with E(2), suggesting a possible transcriptional modulation of proteins involved in the mitochondrial permeability transition process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Suman
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro-Agripolis, Italy
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35
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Zuloaga KL, O’Connor DT, Handa RJ, Gonzales RJ. Estrogen receptor beta dependent attenuation of cytokine-induced cyclooxygenase-2 by androgens in human brain vascular smooth muscle cells and rat mesenteric arteries. Steroids 2012; 77:835-44. [PMID: 22542504 PMCID: PMC3809122 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2012.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2012] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Androgens may provide protective effects in the vasculature under pathophysiological conditions. Our past studies have shown that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) decreases expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) during cytokine, endotoxin, or hypoxic stimulation in human vascular smooth muscle cells, in an androgen receptor (AR)-independent fashion. Classically DHT is regarded as a pure AR agonist; however, it can be endogenously metabolized to 5α-androstane-3β, 17β-diol (3β-diol), which has recently been shown to be a selective estrogen receptor (ERβ) agonist. Therefore, we hypothesized that DHT's anti-inflammatory properties following cytokine stimulation are mediated through ERβ. Using primary human brain vascular smooth muscle cells (HBVSMC), we tested whether DHT's effect on IL-1β induced COX-2 expression was mediated via AR or ERβ. The metabolism of DHT to 3β-diol is a viable pathway in HBVSMC since mRNA for enzymes necessary for the synthesis and metabolism of 3β-diol [3alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, CYP7B1] was detected. In addition, the expression of AR, ERα, and ERβ mRNA was detected. When applied to HBVSMC, DHT (10nM; 18 h) attenuated IL-1β-induced increases in COX-2 protein expression. The AR antagonist bicalutamide did not block DHT's ability to reduce COX-2. Both the non-selective estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780 (1 μM) and the selective ERβ antagonist PHTPP (1 μM) inhibited the effect of DHT, suggesting that DHT actions are ERβ-mediated. In HBVSMC and in rat mesenteric arteries, 3β-diol, similar to DHT, reduced cytokine-induced COX-2 levels. In conclusion, DHT appears to be protective against the progression of vascular inflammation through metabolism to 3β-diol and activation of ERβ.
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MESH Headings
- Androgens/pharmacology
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Brain/cytology
- Cells, Cultured
- Cyclooxygenase 2/metabolism
- Cytokines/pharmacology
- Estrogen Receptor beta/genetics
- Estrogen Receptor beta/metabolism
- Humans
- In Vitro Techniques
- Male
- Mesenteric Arteries/drug effects
- Mesenteric Arteries/metabolism
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/drug effects
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Receptors, Androgen/genetics
- Receptors, Androgen/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rayna J. Gonzales
- Corresponding author. Address: Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, 425 N. 5th Street, Building ABC1, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2157, United States. Tel.: +1 602 827 2143; fax: +1 602 827 2127. (R.J. Gonzales)
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Fucic A, Gamulin M, Ferencic Z, Katic J, Krayer von Krauss M, Bartonova A, Merlo DF. Environmental exposure to xenoestrogens and oestrogen related cancers: reproductive system, breast, lung, kidney, pancreas, and brain. Environ Health 2012; 11 Suppl 1:S8. [PMID: 22759508 PMCID: PMC3388472 DOI: 10.1186/1476-069x-11-s1-s8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The role of steroids in carcinogenesis has become a major concern in environmental protection, biomonitoring, and clinical research. Although historically oestrogen has been related to development of reproductive system, research over the last decade has confirmed its crucial role in the development and homeostasis of other organ systems. As a number of anthropogenic agents are xenoestrogens, environmental health research has focused on oestrogen receptor level disturbances and of aromatase polymorphisms. Oestrogen and xenoestrogens mediate critical points in carcinogenesis by binding to oestrogen receptors, whose distribution is age-, gender-, and tissue-specific. This review brings data about cancer types whose eatiology may be found in environmental exposure to xenoestrogens. Cancer types that have been well documented in literature to be related with environmental exposure include the reproductive system, breast, lung, kidney, pancreas, and brain. The results of our data mining show (a) a significant correlation between exposure to xenoestrogens and increased, gender-related, cancer risk and (b) a need to re-evaluate agents so far defined as endocrine disruptors, as they are also key molecules in carcinogenesis. This revision may be used to further research of cancer aetiology and to improvement of related legislation. Investigation of cancers caused by xenoestrogens may elucidate yet unknown mechanisms also valuable for oncology and the development of new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Fucic
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Ksaverska c 2, Croatia
| | - Marija Gamulin
- University Hospital “Zagreb”, Zagreb, Kispaticeva 12, Croatia
| | - Zeljko Ferencic
- Children’s Hospital “Srebrnjak”, Zagreb, Srebrnjak 100, Croatia
| | - Jelena Katic
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Ksaverska c 2, Croatia
| | | | - Alena Bartonova
- NILU – Norwegian Institute for Air Research, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Domenico F Merlo
- National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Largo R. Benzi 10, Italy
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Zheng H, Li Y, Dai W, Wei C, Sun K, Tong Y. Role of Endogenous Estrogen on the Incidence of Coronary Heart Disease in Men. Angiology 2012; 63:591-6. [PMID: 22241543 DOI: 10.1177/0003319711432626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens protect the vascular system in women, but its effect in men is unclear. We evaluated the impact of estrogen on the male cardiovascular system. Of 140 Chinese males, 55 (aged 61.2 ± 3.5) were cases and 60 (aged 59.5 ± 4.6) were controls. Compared with the control group, only serum estradiol ([E2]; P < .01) levels but not testosterone ([T]; P = .21) were significantly lower in the cases. Linear and multiple regression analysis showed that serum T was positively associated with triglycerides ([TG]; r = .439, P < .01) and d-dimer ( r = .258, P < .05) but negatively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels ( r = −.267, P < .05) and C-reactive protein (CRP; r = −.214, P < .05). Estradiol was highly associated with TG ( r = .783, P < .01) and HDL-C ( r = .515, P < .01) but was negatively related with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C; P < .05), total cholesterol/HDL-C ( P < .05), CRP ( P < .01), and d-dimer ( P < .01). In conclusion, serum E2 and T levels affect coronary heart disease risk factors in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyun Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen Dai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuandong Wei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kaisheng Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yongqing Tong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Zuloaga KL, Gonzales RJ. Dihydrotestosterone attenuates hypoxia inducible factor-1α and cyclooxygenase-2 in cerebral arteries during hypoxia or hypoxia with glucose deprivation. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2011; 301:H1882-90. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00446.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) attenuates cytokine-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in coronary vascular smooth muscle. Since hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) activation can lead to COX-2 production, this study determined the influence of DHT on HIF-1α and COX-2 following hypoxia or hypoxia with glucose deprivation (HGD) in the cerebral vasculature. COX-2 and HIF-1α levels were assessed via Western blot, and HIF-1α activation was indirectly measured via a DNA binding assay. Experiments were performed using cerebral arteries isolated from castrated male rats treated in vivo with placebo or DHT (18 days) followed by hypoxic exposure ex vivo (1% O2), cerebral arteries isolated from castrated male rats treated ex vivo with vehicle or DHT (10 or 100 nM; 18 h) and then exposed to hypoxia ex vivo (1% O2), or primary human brain vascular smooth muscle cells treated with DHT (10 nM; 6 h) or vehicle then exposed to hypoxia or HGD. Under normoxic conditions, DHT increased COX-2 (cells 51%; arteries ex vivo 31%; arteries in vivo 161%) but had no effect on HIF-1α. Following hypoxia or HGD, HIF-1α and COX-2 levels were increased; this response was blunted by DHT (cells HGD: −47% COX-2, −34% HIF-1α; cells hypoxia: −29% COX-2, −54% HIF-1α; arteries ex vivo: −37% COX-2; arteries in vivo: −35% COX-2) and not reversed by androgen receptor blockade. Hypoxia-induced HIF-1α DNA-binding was also attenuated by DHT (arteries ex vivo and in vivo: −55%). These results demonstrate that upregulation of COX-2 and HIF-1α in response to hypoxia is suppressed by DHT via an androgen receptor-independent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen L. Zuloaga
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona; and
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Rayna J. Gonzales
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona; and
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Fucic A, Gamulin M. Interaction between ionizing radiation and estrogen: what we are missing? Med Hypotheses 2011; 77:966-9. [PMID: 21903337 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2011.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2011] [Accepted: 08/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Following complexity as a new approach in science of 21st century biomonitoring of biological effects caused by ionizing radiation received an option of a new dimension. Insight in biological response of mammals to ionizing radiation exposure by integration of genome, non-genome and distant organ bystander effects will significantly change evaluation of health risk and preventive measures. Impact of estrogen on carcinogenesis caused by occupational or accidental exposure to ionizing radiation additionally enables biodosimetry to recognize vulnerable subpopulations according to gender and age. Estrogen, as a potent molecule involved in number of biological pathways during development and adulthood, shows close interaction with pathological processes launched by overexposure to ionizing radiation which should be included in future research and radiation protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Fucic
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Zagreb, Ksaverska c 2, Croatia.
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40
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Abstract
Reproductive effects of sex steroids are well-known; however it is increasingly apparent that these hormones have important actions on non-reproductive tissues such as the vasculature. The latter effects can be relevant throughout the lifespan, not just limited to reproductive years, and are not necessarily restricted to one gender or the other. Our work has established that cerebral blood vessels are a non-reproductive target tissue for sex steroids. We have found that oestrogen and androgens alter vascular tone, endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in cerebral vessels. Often the actions of oestrogen and androgens oppose each other. Moreover, it is clear that cerebral vessels are directly targeted by sex steroids, as they express specific receptors for these hormones. Interestingly, cerebral blood vessels also express enzymes that metabolize sex steroids. These findings suggest that local synthesis of 17ß-estradiol and dihydrotestosterone can occur within the vessel wall. One of the enzymes present, aromatase, converts testosterone to 17ß-estradiol, which would alter the local balance of androgenic and oestrogenic influences. Thus cerebral vessels are affected by circulating sex hormones as well as locally synthesized sex steroids. The presence of vascular endocrine effector mechanisms has important implications for male-female differences in cerebrovascular function and disease. Moreover, the cerebral circulation is a target for gonadal hormones as well as anabolic steroids and therapeutic drugs used to manipulate sex steroid actions. The long-term consequences of these influences are yet to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- D N Krause
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, 92697-4625, USA
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41
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Testosterone dependent androgen receptor stabilization and activation of cell proliferation in primary human myometrial microvascular endothelial cells. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1247-55.e1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 10/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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42
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Marino M, Masella R, Bulzomi P, Campesi I, Malorni W, Franconi F. Nutrition and human health from a sex-gender perspective. Mol Aspects Med 2011; 32:1-70. [PMID: 21356234 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2010] [Revised: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition exerts a life-long impact on human health, and the interaction between nutrition and health has been known for centuries. The recent literature has suggested that nutrition could differently influence the health of male and female individuals. Until the last decade of the 20th century, research on women has been neglected, and the results obtained in men have been directly translated to women in both the medicine and nutrition fields. Consequently, most modern guidelines are based on studies predominantly conducted on men. However, there are many sex-gender differences that are the result of multifactorial inputs, including gene repertoires, sex steroid hormones, and environmental factors (e.g., food components). The effects of these different inputs in male and female physiology will be different in different periods of ontogenetic development as well as during pregnancy and the ovarian cycle in females, which are also age dependent. As a result, different strategies have evolved to maintain male and female body homeostasis, which, in turn, implies that there are important differences in the bioavailability, metabolism, distribution, and elimination of foods and beverages in males and females. This article will review some of these differences underlying the impact of food components on the risk of developing diseases from a sex-gender perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Marino
- Department of Biology, University Roma Tre, Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146 Roma, Italy
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43
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Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality for both men and women in the USA. However, there are differences between the sexes in age-dependent onset, severity, symptoms and outcomes. Basic research into the causes of sex-dependent differences in cardiovascular disease is ongoing and includes investigation into genetic variation in expression and distribution of receptors for the sex steroids; specificity of natural and synthetic ligands that activate the sex steroid receptors; and intracellular mechanisms that are activated by the receptors in all components of the vessel wall and blood elements, which integrate to regulate vascular tone, vascular repair and remodeling in health and disease. In this era of personalized medicine, basic research into mechanisms of sex differences in vascular function will result in improved prevention, detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease in both men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Miller
- Departments of Surgery & Physiology & Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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44
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Mahringer A, Fricker G. BCRP at the blood-brain barrier: genomic regulation by 17β-estradiol. Mol Pharm 2010; 7:1835-47. [PMID: 20735085 DOI: 10.1021/mp1001729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
At the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the ABC transporter breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) actively extrudes a variety of therapeutic drugs, including cytostatics, and diminishes their pharmacological efficacy in the brain. Consequently, new strategies to circumvent BCRP-mediated multidrug resistance in the CNS are required. One major approach to increase brain drug levels is to manipulate signaling mechanisms that control transporter expression and function. In the present study, we investigated the long-term effect of 17β-estradiol on BCRP in an ex vivo model of isolated rat brain capillaries. BCRP function and protein expression were decreased after 6 h of incubation with nanomolar concentrations of 17β-estradiol in capillaries from male and female rats. Concomitantly, levels of BCRP mRNA were also reduced by 17β-estradiol suggesting that the transporter is down-regulated via a genomic pathway. Additionally, we identified the presence of both estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes α and β at the rat BBB. Experiments using selective ER agonists and antagonists revealed that ER subtype β is responsible for the hormone-induced reduction of BCRP function and protein expression. These findings were confirmed by the use of ERKO mice. Blocking the proteasome-dependent degradation by lactacystin reversed the 17β-estradiol-mediated decrease of BCRP supposing that transcriptional down-regulation of the efflux transporter is paralleled by protein degradation. This study demonstrates that 17β-estradiol induces the down-regulation of BCRP on transcriptional and translational levels via the activation of ERβ in rat brain capillaries after 6 h. These results could help to improve brain targeting of BCRP substrates in the treatment of CNS diseases such as brain tumors and also contribute to an enlarged understanding of BCRP-drug interactions at a chronic intake of phytoestrogens and oral contraceptives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Mahringer
- Institute of Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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45
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Khandelwal AR, Hebert VY, Dugas TR. Essential role of ER-alpha-dependent NO production in resveratrol-mediated inhibition of restenosis. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2010; 299:H1451-8. [PMID: 20709862 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00369.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Resveratrol (Resv), a red wine polyphenol, is known to exhibit vascular protective effects and reduce vascular smooth muscle cell mitogenesis. Vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of restenosis, the renarrowing of vessels that often occurs after angioplasty and/or stent implantation. Although Resv has been shown to be an estrogen receptor (ER) modulator, the role of the ER in Resv-mediated protection against restenosis has not yet been elucidated in vivo. Therefore, with the use of a mouse carotid artery injury model, our objective was to determine the role of ER in modulating Resv-mediated effects on neointimal hyperplasia. Female wild-type and ER-α(-/-) mice were administered a high-fat diet ± Resv for 2 wk. A carotid artery endothelial denudation procedure was conducted, and the mice were administered a high-fat diet ± Resv for an additional 2 wk. Resv-treated wild-type mice exhibited a dramatic decrease in restenosis, with an increased arterial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) activity and NO production. However, in the ER-α(-/-) mice, Resv failed to afford protection and failed to increase NO production, apparently because of a decreased availability of the NOS cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin. To verify the role of NO in Resv-mediated effects, mice were coadministered Resv plus a nonselective NOS inhibitor, N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME). Cotreatment with l-NAME significantly attenuated the antirestenotic properties of Resv. These data thus suggest that Resv inhibits vascular proliferative responses after injury, predominately through an ER-α-dependent increase in NO production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alok R Khandelwal
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Neuroscience, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, Louisiana 71103, USA
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46
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Abstract
The endothelium is a dynamic interface between the blood vessel and the circulating blood that plays a pivotal role in vascular homeostasis. As such, studies on sex steroid regulation of endothelial function are critical to understanding the role of sex steroids in cardiovascular health and disease. The classical model of steroid action involves liganded steroid receptors binding to specific response elements on target genes to regulate gene transcription. In whole organisms, the time lag between steroid administration and observable effects produced by newly synthesized protein is typically in the order of hours to days. And yet, some effects of steroids, such as vasodilatation, occur within seconds to minutes of steroid administration. Studies in multiple cell types have also shown that steroids can cause the rapid initiation of multiple signaling cascades and second messenger systems, prompting investigations into alternate, transcription independent mechanisms of steroid action. Studies of the endothelium over the past two decades have revealed fundamental mechanisms in rapid sex steroid signaling. In particular, endothelium-dependent vasodilatation by estradiol-induced activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase has proven to be an uniquely informative model to study sex steroid signaling via classical sex steroid receptors localized to the cell membrane. Despite the complexity of feedback and cross talk between rapid sex steroid signaling and other modes of steroid action, recent studies in this field are facilitating the development of steroidal drugs that selectively target the ability of sex steroids to initiate signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee W Y Chow
- Heart Research Institute, 7 Eliza Street, Newtown, Sydney, New South Wales 2042, Australia
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47
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McEwan IJ, McGuinness D, Hay CW, Millar RP, Saunders PTK, Fraser HM. Identification of androgen receptor phosphorylation in the primate ovary in vivo. Reproduction 2010; 140:93-104. [PMID: 20406952 PMCID: PMC2892820 DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, and is important for both male and female reproductive health. The receptor is a target for a number of post-translational modifications including phosphorylation, which has been intensively studied in vitro. However, little is known about the phosphorylation status of the receptor in target tissues in vivo. The common marmoset is a useful model for studying human reproductive functions, and comparison of the AR primary sequence from this primate shows high conservation of serines known to be phosphorylated in the human receptor and corresponding flanking amino acids. We have used a panel of phosphospecific antibodies to study AR phosphorylation in the marmoset ovary throughout the follicular phase and after treatment with GNRH antagonist or testosterone propionate. In normal follicular phase ovaries, total AR (both phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated forms) immunopositive staining was observed in several cell types including granulosa cells of developing follicles, theca cells and endothelial cells lining blood vessels. Receptor phosphorylation at serines 81, 308, and 650 was detected primarily in the granulosa cells of developing follicles, surface epithelium, and vessel endothelial cells. Testosterone treatment lead to a modest increase in AR staining in all stages of follicle studied, while GNRH antagonist had no effect. Neither treatment significantly altered the pattern of phosphorylation compared to the control group. These results demonstrate that phosphorylation of the AR occurs, at a subset of serine residues, in a reproductive target tissue in vivo, which appears refractory to hormonal manipulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iain J McEwan
- MRC Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK.
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48
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Duckles SP, Miller VM. Hormonal modulation of endothelial NO production. Pflugers Arch 2010; 459:841-51. [PMID: 20213497 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-010-0797-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2009] [Revised: 01/27/2010] [Accepted: 01/28/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of endothelium-derived relaxing factor and the subsequent identification of nitric oxide (NO) as the primary mediator of endothelium-dependent relaxations, research has focused on chemical and physical stimuli that modulate NO levels. Hormones represent a class of soluble, widely circulating chemical factors that impact production of NO both by rapid effects on the activity of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) through phosphorylation of the enzyme and longer term modulation through changes in amount of eNOS protein. Hormones that increase NO production including estrogen, progesterone, insulin, and growth hormone do so through both of these common mechanisms. In contrast, some hormones, including glucocorticoids, progesterone, and prolactin, decrease NO bioavailability. Mechanisms involved include binding to repressor response elements on the eNOS gene, competing for co-regulators common to hormones with positive genomic actions, regulating eNOS co-factors, decreasing substrate for eNOS, and increasing production of oxygen-derived free radicals. Feedback regulation by the hormones themselves as well as the ability of NO to regulate hormonal release provides a second level of complexity that can also contribute to changes in NO levels. These effects on eNOS and changes in NO production may contribute to variability in risk factors, presentation of and treatment for cardiovascular disease associated with aging, pregnancy, stress, and metabolic disorders in men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sue P Duckles
- Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA.
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49
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Khalil RA. Potential approaches to enhance the effects of estrogen on senescent blood vessels and postmenopausal cardiovascular disease. Cardiovasc Hematol Agents Med Chem 2010; 8:29-46. [PMID: 20210774 PMCID: PMC2853974 DOI: 10.2174/187152510790796156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2009] [Accepted: 12/24/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is more common in postmenopausal than premenopausal women, suggesting vascular protective effects of estrogen. Vascular estrogen receptors ERalpha, ERbeta and a transmembrane estrogen-binding protein GPR30 have been described. Also, experimental studies have demonstrated vasodilator effects of estrogen on the endothelium, vascular smooth muscle and extracellular matrix. However, randomized clinical trials have not supported vascular benefits of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), possibly due to the subjects' advanced age and age-related changes in estrogen synthesis and metabolic pathways, the vascular ERs number, distribution and integrity, and the post-ER vascular signaling pathways. Current MHT includes natural estrogens such as conjugated equine estrogen, as well as synthetic and semi-synthetic estrogens. New estrogenic formulations and hormone combinations have been developed. Phytoestrogens is being promoted as an alternative MHT. Specific ER modulators (SERMs), and selective agonists for ERalpha such as PPT, ERbeta such as DPN, and GPR30 such as G1 are being evaluated. In order to enhance the vascular effectiveness of MHT, its type, dose, route of administration and timing may need to be customized depending on the subject's age and pre-existing CVD. Also, the potential interaction of estrogen with progesterone and testosterone on vascular function may need to be considered in order to maximize the vascular benefits of MHT on senescent blood vessels and postmenopausal CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raouf A Khalil
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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50
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Dihydrotestosterone stimulates cerebrovascular inflammation through NFkappaB, modulating contractile function. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2009; 29:244-53. [PMID: 18941467 PMCID: PMC2658637 DOI: 10.1038/jcbfm.2008.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Our previous studies show that long-term testosterone treatment augments vascular tone under physiological conditions and exacerbates endotoxin-induced inflammation in the cerebral circulation. However, testosterone can be metabolized by aromatase to estrogen, evoking a balance between androgenic and estrogenic effects. Therefore, we investigated the effect of the nonaromatizable androgen receptor agonist, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), on the inflammatory nuclear factor-kappaB (NFkappaB) pathway in cerebral blood vessels. Cerebral arteries were isolated from orchiectomized male rats treated chronically with DHT in vivo. Alternatively, pial arteries were isolated from orchiectomized males and were exposed ex vivo to DHT or vehicle in culture medium. DHT treatment, in vivo or ex vivo, increased nuclear NFkappaB activation in cerebral arteries and increased levels of the proinflammatory products of NFkappaB activation, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Effects of DHT on COX-2 and iNOS were attenuated by flutamide. In isolated pressurized middle cerebral arteries from DHT-treated rats, constrictions to the selective COX-2 inhibitor NS398 or the selective iNOS inhibitor L-nil, [L-N6-(Iminoethyl)lysine], were increased, confirming a functional consequence of DHT exposure. In conclusion, activation of the NFkappaB-mediated COX-2/iNOS pathway by the selective androgen receptor agonist, DHT, results in a state of vascular inflammation. This effect may contribute to sex-related differences in cerebrovascular pathophysiology.
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