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Zacharjasz J, Sztachera M, Smuszkiewicz M, Piwecka M. Micromanaging the neuroendocrine system - A review on miR-7 and the other physiologically relevant miRNAs in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38858179 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary axis is central to the functioning of the neuroendocrine system and essential for regulating physiological and behavioral homeostasis and coordinating fundamental body functions. The expanding line of evidence shows the indispensable role of the microRNA pathway in regulating the gene expression profile in the developing and adult hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Experiments provoking a depletion of miRNA maturation in the context of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis brought into focus a prominent involvement of miRNAs in neuroendocrine functions. There are also a few individual miRNAs and miRNA families that have been studied in depth revealing their crucial role in mediating the regulation of fundamental processes such as temporal precision of puberty timing, hormone production, fertility and reproduction capacity, and energy balance. Among these miRNAs, miR-7 was shown to be hypothalamus-enriched and the top one highly expressed in the pituitary gland, where it has a profound impact on gene expression regulation. Here, we review miRNA profiles, knockout phenotypes, and miRNA interaction (targets) in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis that advance our understanding of the roles of miRNAs in mammalian neurosecretion and related physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Zacharjasz
- Department of Non-coding RNAs, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marta Sztachera
- Department of Non-coding RNAs, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Michał Smuszkiewicz
- Department of Non-coding RNAs, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Monika Piwecka
- Department of Non-coding RNAs, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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2
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Zou H, Wang P, Zhang J. Role of microRNAs in pituitary gonadotrope cells. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 355:114557. [PMID: 38797341 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The gonadotrope cells within the pituitary control vital processes of reproduction by producing follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Both external stimuli and internal regulatory factors contribute to the regulation of gonadotrope development and function. In recent years, growing evidences indicate that microRNAs (miRNAs), which regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, play critical roles in multiple processes of gonadotrope development and function, including the syntheses of α or β subunits of FSH and LH, the secretion of LH, the regulation of GnRH signaling, and the maintenance of gonadotrope cell kinetics. Here, we review recent advances of miRNAs' expression, functions and mechanisms approached by using miRNA knockout mouse models, in silico analysis and the in vitro cultures of primary pituitary cells and gonadotrope-derived cell lines. By summarizing and discussing different roles of miRNAs in gonadotropes, this minireview helps to gain insights into the complex molecular network in gonadotropes and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zou
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Peimin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinglin Zhang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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3
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McDonald R, Larsen M, Liu Z, Southekal S, Eudy J, Guda C, Kumar TR. RNA-seq analysis identifies age-dependent changes in expression of mRNAs - encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes in mouse gonadotropes. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 574:111971. [PMID: 37301504 PMCID: PMC10528389 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein that is assembled as a heterodimer of α/β subunits in gonadotropes. Each subunit contains two N-glycan chains. Our previous in vivo genetic studies identified that at least one N-glycan chain must be present on the FSHβ subunit for efficient FSH dimer assembly and secretion. Moreover, macroheterogeneity observed uniquely on human FSHβ results in ratiometric changes in age-specific FSH glycoforms, particularly during menopausal transition. Despite the recognition of many prominent roles of sugars on FSH including dimer assembly and secretion, serum half-life, receptor binding and signal transduction, the N-glycosylation machinery in gonadotropes has never been defined. Here, we used a mouse model in which gonadotropes are GFP-labeled in vivo and achieved rapid purification of GFP+ gonadotropes from pituitaries of female mice at reproductively young, middle, and old ages. We identified by RNA-seq analysis 52 mRNAs encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes expressed in 3- and 8-10-month-old mouse gonadotropes. We hierarchically mapped and localized the enzymes to distinct subcellular organelles within the N-glycosylation biosynthetic pathway. Of the 52 mRNAs, we found 27 mRNAs are differentially expressed between the 3- and 8-10-month old mice. We subsequently selected 8 mRNAs which showed varying changes in expression for confirmation of abundance in vivo via qPCR analysis, using more expanded aging time points with distinct 8-month and 14-month age groups. Real time qPCR analysis indicated dynamic changes in expression of N-glycosylation pathway enzyme-encoding mRNAs across the life span. Notably, computational analysis predicted the promoters of genes encoding these 8 mRNAs contain multiple high probability binding sites for estrogen receptor-1 and progesterone receptor. Collectively, our studies define the N-glycome and identify age-specific dynamic changes in mRNAs encoding N-glycosylation pathway enzymes in mouse gonadotropes. Our studies suggest the age-related decline in ovarian steroids may regulate expression of N-glycosylation enzymes in mouse gonadotropes and explain the age-related N-glycosylation shift previously observed on human FSHβ subunit in pituitaries of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary McDonald
- Garduate Program in Integrated Physiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Mark Larsen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Siddesh Southekal
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - James Eudy
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Garduate Program in Integrated Physiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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4
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Ralston BA, Khan L, DeVore SB, Bronnenberg TA, Flock JW, Sequoia AO, Thompson PR, Navratil AM, Cherrington BD. Peptidylarginine deiminase 2 regulates expression of DGCR8 affecting miRNA biogenesis in gonadotrope cells. Reproduction 2023; 166:125-134. [PMID: 37310889 PMCID: PMC10561559 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0482] [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: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In brief DGCR8 microprocessor complex, which is important for miRNA biogenesis, is regulated by peptidylarginine deiminase 2 and expression fluctuates in gonadotrope cells across the mouse estrous cycle. Abstract Canonical miRNA biogenesis requires DGCR8 microprocessor complex subunit, which helps cleave pri-miRNAs into pre-miRNAs. Previous studies found that inhibiting peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD) enzyme activity results in increased DGCR8 expression. PADs are expressed in mouse gonadotrope cells, which play a central role in reproduction by synthesizing and secreting the luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormones. Given this, we tested whether inhibiting PADs alters expression of DGCR8, DROSHA, and DICER in the gonadotrope-derived LβT2 cell line. To test this, LβT2 cells were treated with vehicle or 1 µM pan-PAD inhibitor for 12 h. Our results show that PAD inhibition leads to an increase in DGCR8 mRNA and protein. To corroborate our results, dispersed mouse pituitaries were also treated with 1 µM pan-PAD inhibitor for 12 h which increases DGCR8 expression in gonadotropes. Since PADs epigenetically regulate gene expression, we hypothesized that histone citrullination alters Dgcr8 expression thereby affecting miRNA biogenesis. LβT2 samples were subjected to ChIP using an antibody to citrullinated histone H3, which shows that citrullinated histones are directly associated with Dgcr8. Next, we found that when DGCR8 expression is elevated in LβT2 cells, pri-miR-132 and -212 are reduced, while mature miR-132 and -212 are increased suggesting heightened miRNA biogenesis. In mouse gonadotropes, DGCR8 expression is higher in diestrus as compared to estrus, which is the inverse of PAD2 expression. Supporting this idea, treatment of ovariectomized mice with 17β-estradiol results in an increase in PAD2 expression in gonadotropes with a corresponding decrease in DGCR8. Collectively, our work suggests that PADs regulate DGCR8 expression leading to changes in miRNA biogenesis in gonadotropes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett A. Ralston
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Lamia Khan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Stanley B. DeVore
- University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Trent A. Bronnenberg
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Joseph W. Flock
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Ari O. Sequoia
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Paul R. Thompson
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Program in Chemical Biology, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Amy M. Navratil
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
| | - Brian D. Cherrington
- University of Wyoming, Department of Zoology and Physiology, Laramie, WY 82071, USA
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5
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Wang H, Liu Z, Larsen M, Hastings R, Gunewardena S, Kumar TR. Identification of follicle-stimulating hormone-responsive genes in Sertoli cells during early postnatal mouse testis development. Andrology 2023; 11:860-871. [PMID: 37208854 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13459] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the mouse testis, Sertoli cells rapidly divide during a narrow window of time pre-pubertally and differentiate thereafter. The number of Sertoli cells determines the testis size and germ cell-carrying capacity. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) binds its cognate FSH-receptors expressed on Sertoli cells and acts as a mitogen to regulate their proliferation. Fshb-/- mutant adult male mice have reduced Sertoli cell number and testis size and reduced sperm number and motility. However, FSH-responsive genes in early postnatal mouse Sertoli cells are unknown. OBJECTIVES To identify FSH-responsive genes in early postnatal mouse Sertoli cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS A fluorescence-activated cell sorting method was developed to rapidly purify Sertoli cells from control and Fshb-/- mice carrying a Sox9 GfpKI allele. These pure Sertoli cells were used for large-scale gene expression analyses. RESULTS We show that mouse Sertoli cells rarely divide beyond postnatal day 7. Our in vivo BrdU labeling studies indicate loss of FSH results in a 30% reduction in Sertoli cell proliferation in mice at 5 days of age. Flowsorted GFP+ Sertoli cells with maximal Fshr expression were 97%-98% pure and mostly devoid of Leydig and germ cells as assessed by Taqman qPCR quantification of gene expression and immunolabeling of the corresponding cell-specific markers. Large-scale gene expression analysis identified several differentially regulated genes in flow-sorted GFP+ Sertoli cells obtained from testis of control and Fshb-/- mice at 5 days of age. The top 25 networks identified by pathway analysis include those related to the cell cycle, cell survival and most importantly, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and molecular transport. DISCUSSION Several of the FSH-responsive genes identified in this study could serve as useful markers for Sertoli cell proliferation in normal physiology, toxicant-induced Sertoli cell/testis injury, and other pathological conditions. CONCLUSION Our studies reveal that FSH-regulates macromolecular metabolism and molecular transport networks of genes in early postnatal Sertoli cells most likely in preparation for establishment of functional associations with germ cells to successfully coordinate spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Mark Larsen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard Hastings
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Sumedha Gunewardena
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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6
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Roa J, Ruiz-Cruz M, Ruiz-Pino F, Onieva R, Vazquez MJ, Sanchez-Tapia MJ, Ruiz-Rodriguez JM, Sobrino V, Barroso A, Heras V, Velasco I, Perdices-Lopez C, Ohlsson C, Avendaño MS, Prevot V, Poutanen M, Pinilla L, Gaytan F, Tena-Sempere M. Dicer ablation in Kiss1 neurons impairs puberty and fertility preferentially in female mice. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4663. [PMID: 35945211 PMCID: PMC9363423 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32347-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Kiss1 neurons, producing kisspeptins, are essential for puberty and fertility, but their molecular regulatory mechanisms remain unfolded. Here, we report that congenital ablation of the microRNA-synthesizing enzyme, Dicer, in Kiss1 cells, causes late-onset hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in both sexes, but is compatible with pubertal initiation and preserved Kiss1 neuronal populations at the infantile/juvenile period. Yet, failure to complete puberty and attain fertility is observed only in females. Kiss1-specific ablation of Dicer evokes disparate changes of Kiss1-cell numbers and Kiss1/kisspeptin expression between hypothalamic subpopulations during the pubertal-transition, with a predominant decline in arcuate-nucleus Kiss1 levels, linked to enhanced expression of its repressors, Mkrn3, Cbx7 and Eap1. Our data unveil that miRNA-biosynthesis in Kiss1 neurons is essential for pubertal completion and fertility, especially in females, but dispensable for initial reproductive maturation and neuronal survival in both sexes. Our results disclose a predominant miRNA-mediated inhibitory program of repressive signals that is key for precise regulation of Kiss1 expression and, thereby, reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Roa
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ruiz-Cruz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Ruiz-Pino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Rocio Onieva
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Maria J Vazquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Maria J Sanchez-Tapia
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Jose M Ruiz-Rodriguez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Veronica Sobrino
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Alexia Barroso
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Violeta Heras
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Velasco
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Cecilia Perdices-Lopez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Claes Ohlsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Soledad Avendaño
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, 59000, Lille, France
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, 20520, Turku, Finland
| | - Leonor Pinilla
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Francisco Gaytan
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain. .,Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, 20520, Turku, Finland.
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7
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Liu Z, Wang H, Larsen M, Gunewardana S, Cendali FI, Reisz JA, Akiyama H, Behringer RR, Ma Q, Hammoud SS, Kumar TR. The solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) is regulated by LH/androgen and required for cystine/glutathione homeostasis in mouse Sertoli cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 549:111641. [PMID: 35398053 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates testosterone production from Leydig cells. Both LH and testosterone play important roles in spermatogenesis and male fertility. To identify LH - and testosterone - responsive transporter genes that play key roles in spermatogenesis, we performed large-scale gene expression analyses on testes obtained from adult control and Lhb knockout mice. We found a significant reduction in cystine/glutamate transporter encoding Slc7a11 mRNA in testes of Lhb null mice. We observed that Slc7a11/SLC7A11 expression was initiated pre-pubertally and developmentally regulated in mouse testis. Immunolocalization studies confirmed that SLC7A11 was mostly expressed in Sertoli cells in testes of control and germ cell-deficient mice. Western blot analyses indicated that SLC7A11 was significantly reduced in testes of mutant mice lacking either LH or androgen receptor selectively in Sertoli cells. Genetic and pharmacological rescue of Lhb knockout mice restored the testicular expression of Slc7a11 comparable to that observed in controls. Additionally, Slc7a11 mRNA was significantly suppressed upon Sertoli cell/testicular damage induced in mice by cadmium treatment. Knockdown of Slc7a11 in vitro in TM4 Sertoli cells or treatment of mice with sulfasalazine, a SLC7A11 inhibitor caused a significant reduction in intracellular cysteine and glutathione levels but glutamate content remained unchanged as determined by metabolomic analysis. Knockdown of Slc7a11 resulted in compensatory upregulation of other glutamate transporters belonging to the Slc1a family presumably to maintain intracellular glutamate levels. Collectively, our studies identified that SLC7A11 is an LH/testosterone-regulated transporter that is required for cysteine/glutathione but not glutamate homeostasis in mouse Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenghui Liu
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Huizen Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Mark Larsen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Sumedha Gunewardana
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Francesca I Cendali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Julie A Reisz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Haruhiko Akiyama
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Molecular Genetics, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Qianyi Ma
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - S Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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8
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Sánchez-Garrido MA, García-Galiano D, Tena-Sempere M. Early programming of reproductive health and fertility: novel neuroendocrine mechanisms and implications in reproductive medicine. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:346-375. [PMID: 35187579 PMCID: PMC9071071 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis, environmental changes taking place during early maturational periods may alter normal development and predispose to the occurrence of diverse pathologies later in life. Indeed, adverse conditions during these critical developmental windows of high plasticity have been reported to alter the offspring developmental trajectory, causing permanent functional and structural perturbations that in the long term may enhance disease susceptibility. However, while solid evidence has documented that fluctuations in environmental factors, ranging from nutrient availability to chemicals, in early developmental stages (including the peri-conceptional period) have discernible programming effects that increase vulnerability to develop metabolic perturbations, the impact and eventual mechanisms involved, of such developmental alterations on the reproductive phenotype of offspring have received less attention. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review will summarize recent advances in basic and clinical research that support the concept of DOHaD in the context of the impact of nutritional and hormonal perturbations, occurring during the periconceptional, fetal and early postnatal stages, on different aspects of reproductive function in both sexes. Special emphasis will be given to the effects of early nutritional stress on the timing of puberty and adult gonadotropic function, and to address the underlying neuroendocrine pathways, with particular attention to involvement of the Kiss1 system in these reproductive perturbations. The implications of such phenomena in terms of reproductive medicine will also be considered. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive MEDLINE search, using PubMed as main interface, of research articles and reviews, published mainly between 2006 and 2021, has been carried out. Search was implemented using multiple terms, focusing on clinical and preclinical data from DOHaD studies, addressing periconceptional, gestational and perinatal programming of reproduction. Selected studies addressing early programming of metabolic function have also been considered, when relevant. OUTCOMES A solid body of evidence, from clinical and preclinical studies, has documented the impact of nutritional and hormonal fluctuations during the periconceptional, prenatal and early postnatal periods on pubertal maturation, as well as adult gonadotropic function and fertility. Furthermore, exposure to environmental chemicals, such as bisphenol A, and maternal stress has been shown to negatively influence pubertal development and gonadotropic function in adulthood. The underlying neuroendocrine pathways and mechanisms involved have been also addressed, mainly by preclinical studies, which have identified an, as yet incomplete, array of molecular and neurohormonal effectors. These include, prominently, epigenetic regulatory mechanisms and the hypothalamic Kiss1 system, which likely contribute to the generation of reproductive alterations in conditions of early nutritional and/or metabolic stress. In addition to the Kiss1 system, other major hypothalamic regulators of GnRH neurosecretion, such as γ-aminobutyric acid and glutamate, may be targets of developmental programming. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This review addresses an underdeveloped area of reproductive biology and medicine that may help to improve our understanding of human reproductive disorders and stresses the importance, and eventual pathogenic impact, of early determinants of puberty, adult reproductive function and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Angel Sánchez-Garrido
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Cordoba, Spain
| | - David García-Galiano
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
- Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Cordoba, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
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9
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Lieu CV, Loganathan N, Belsham DD. Mechanisms Driving Palmitate-Mediated Neuronal Dysregulation in the Hypothalamus. Cells 2021; 10:3120. [PMID: 34831343 PMCID: PMC8617942 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus maintains whole-body homeostasis by integrating information from circulating hormones, nutrients and signaling molecules. Distinct neuronal subpopulations that express and secrete unique neuropeptides execute the individual functions of the hypothalamus, including, but not limited to, the regulation of energy homeostasis, reproduction and circadian rhythms. Alterations at the hypothalamic level can lead to a myriad of diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and infertility. The excessive consumption of saturated fatty acids can induce neuroinflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and resistance to peripheral signals, ultimately leading to hyperphagia, obesity, impaired reproductive function and disturbed circadian rhythms. This review focuses on the how the changes in the underlying molecular mechanisms caused by palmitate exposure, the most commonly consumed saturated fatty acid, and the potential involvement of microRNAs, a class of non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, can result in detrimental alterations in protein expression and content. Studying the involvement of microRNAs in hypothalamic function holds immense potential, as these molecular markers are quickly proving to be valuable tools in the diagnosis and treatment of metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calvin V. Lieu
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 3247A, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (C.V.L.); (N.L.)
| | - Neruja Loganathan
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 3247A, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (C.V.L.); (N.L.)
| | - Denise D. Belsham
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building 3247A, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (C.V.L.); (N.L.)
- Departments of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
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10
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Vazquez MJ, Daza-Dueñas S, Tena-Sempere M. Emerging Roles of Epigenetics in the Control of Reproductive Function: Focus on Central Neuroendocrine Mechanisms. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab152. [PMID: 34703958 PMCID: PMC8533971 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is an essential function for perpetuation of the species. As such, it is controlled by sophisticated regulatory mechanisms that allow a perfect match between environmental conditions and internal cues to ensure adequate pubertal maturation and achievement of reproductive capacity. Besides classical genetic regulatory events, mounting evidence has documented that different epigenetic mechanisms operate at different levels of the reproductive axis to finely tune the development and function of this complex neuroendocrine system along the lifespan. In this mini-review, we summarize recent evidence on the role of epigenetics in the control of reproduction, with special focus on the modulation of the central components of this axis. Particular attention will be paid to the epigenetic control of puberty and Kiss1 neurons because major developments have taken place in this domain recently. In addition, the putative role of central epigenetic mechanisms in mediating the influence of nutritional and environmental cues on reproductive function will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Jesus Vazquez
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Silvia Daza-Dueñas
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Cordoba (IMIBIC), 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia, 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004 Cordoba, Spain.,Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
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11
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Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Gnrhr: A Checkpoint for Metabolic Control of Female Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073312. [PMID: 33805020 PMCID: PMC8038027 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The proper expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors (GnRHRs) by pituitary gonadotropes is critical for maintaining maximum reproductive capacity. GnRH receptor expression must be tightly regulated in order to maintain the normal pattern of expression through the estrous cycle in rodents, which is believed to be important for interpreting the finely tuned pulses of GnRH from the hypothalamus. Much work has shown that Gnrhr expression is heavily regulated at the level of transcription. However, researchers have also discovered that Gnrhr is regulated post-transcriptionally. This review will discuss how RNA-binding proteins and microRNAs may play critical roles in the regulation of GnRHR expression. We will also discuss how these post-transcriptional regulators may themselves be affected by metabolic cues, specifically with regards to the adipokine leptin. All together, we present evidence that Gnrhr is regulated post-transcriptionally, and that this concept must be further explored in order to fully understand the complex nature of this receptor.
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12
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Dicing the Disease with Dicer: The Implications of Dicer Ribonuclease in Human Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197223. [PMID: 33007856 PMCID: PMC7583940 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene expression dictates fundamental cellular processes and its de-regulation leads to pathological conditions. A key contributor to the fine-tuning of gene expression is Dicer, an RNA-binding protein (RBPs) that forms complexes and affects transcription by acting at the post-transcriptional level via the targeting of mRNAs by Dicer-produced small non-coding RNAs. This review aims to present the contribution of Dicer protein in a wide spectrum of human pathological conditions, including cancer, neurological, autoimmune, reproductive and cardiovascular diseases, as well as viral infections. Germline mutations of Dicer have been linked to Dicer1 syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that predisposes to the development of both benign and malignant tumors, but the exact correlation of Dicer protein expression within the different cancer types is unclear, and there are contradictions in the data. Downregulation of Dicer is related to Geographic atrophy (GA), a severe eye-disease that is a leading cause of blindness in industrialized countries, as well as to psychiatric and neurological diseases such as depression and Parkinson's disease, respectively. Both loss and upregulation of Dicer protein expression is implicated in severe autoimmune disorders, including psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and autoimmune thyroid diseases. Loss of Dicer contributes to cardiovascular diseases and causes defective germ cell differentiation and reproductive system abnormalities in both sexes. Dicer can also act as a strong antiviral with a crucial role in RNA-based antiviral immunity. In conclusion, Dicer is an essential enzyme for the maintenance of physiology due to its pivotal role in several cellular processes, and its loss or aberrant expression contributes to the development of severe human diseases. Further exploitation is required for the development of novel, more effective Dicer-based diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, with the goal of new clinical benefits and better quality of life for patients.
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13
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Han DX, Sun XL, Wang CJ, Yu ZW, Zheng Y, Huang YJ, Wang WH, Jiang H, Gao Y, Yuan B, Zhang JB. Differentially expressed lncRNA-m433s1 regulates FSH secretion by functioning as a miRNA sponge in male rat anterior pituitary cells†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:416-425. [PMID: 31201415 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important regulators that have multiple functions in a variety of biological processes. However, the contributions of lncRNAs to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion remain largely unknown. In this study, we first identified a novel lncRNA, lncRNA-m433s1, as an intergenic lncRNA located in the cytoplasm. We next used MS2-RIP assays to demonstrate that lncRNA-m433s1 interacted with miR-433. Furthermore, we detected the levels of lncRNA-m433s1, miR-433, and Fshβ expression, FSH concentrations, and apoptosis upon overexpression and knockdown of lncRNA-m433s1, revealing that lncRNA-m433s1 upregulated Fshβ expression. Globally, lncRNA-m433s1 reduced the inhibitory effect of miR-433 on Fshβ and further regulated FSH secretion as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR-433. This ceRNA model will provide novel insight into the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs associated with rat reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Xu Han
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Xu-Lei Sun
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Chang-Jiang Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Ze-Wen Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Jie Huang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Hua Wang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Hao Jiang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Bao Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Animals, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, P.R. China
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14
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Simon LE, Liu Z, Bousfield GR, Kumar TR, Duncan FE. Recombinant FSH glycoforms are bioactive in mouse preantral ovarian follicles. Reproduction 2020; 158:517-527. [PMID: 31600726 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive aging is characterized by a rise in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels during peri-menopause. N-linked glycans are co-translationally attached to the Asn7 and Asn24 residues on the FSHβ subunit. Differences in the number of N-glycans on the FSHβ subunit result in distinct glycoforms: hypo-glycosylated (FSH21/18, glycans absent on either Asn24 or Asn7, respectively) or fully-glycosylated (FSH24, glycans present on both Asn7 and Asn24). The relative abundance of FSH glycoforms changes with advanced reproductive age, shifting from predominantly FSH21/18 in younger women to FSH24 in older women. Previous in vitro studies in granulosa cell lines and in vivo studies using Fshb-null mice showed these glycoforms elicit differential bioactivities. However, the direct effects of FSH glycoforms on the mouse ovarian follicle have not yet been determined. In this study, we isolated secondary follicles from pre-pubertal mice and treated them with 20- or 100 ng/mL purified recombinant FSH glycoforms for 1 h or 18-20 h. Analysis of phosphorylated PKA substrates showed that glycoforms were bioactive in follicles following 1-h treatment, although differential bioactivity was only observed with the 100 ng/mL dose. Treatment of follicles with 100 ng/mL of each glycoform also induced distinct expression patterns of FSH-responsive genes as assessed by qPCR, consistent with differential function. Our results, therefore, indicate that FSH glycoforms are bioactive in isolated murine follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah E Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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15
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Xiong S, Tian J, Ge S, Li Z, Long Z, Guo W, Huang P, He Y, Xiao T, Gui JF, Mei J. The microRNA-200 cluster on chromosome 23 is required for oocyte maturation and ovulation in zebrafish†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:769-778. [PMID: 32697314 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive process is usually controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis in vertebrates, while Kiss/gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) system in the hypothalamus is required for mammalian reproduction but dispensable for fish reproduction. The regulation of follicle stimulating hormone/luteinizing hormone (LH) expression in fish species is still unknown. Here, we identified miR-200s on chromosome 23 (chr23-miR-200s) as important regulators for female zebrafish reproduction. Knockout of chr23-miR-200s (chr23-miR-200s-KO) resulted in dysregulated expression of luteinizing hormone beta lhb (luteinizing hormone beta) and some hormone genes in the pituitary as revealed by comparative transcriptome profiling, leading to failure of oocyte maturation and ovulation as well as defects in reproductive duct development. Chr23-miR-200s mainly expressed in the pituitary and regulated lhb expression by targeting the transcription repressor wt1a. Injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) could rescue the defects of oocyte maturation in chr23-miR-200s-KO zebrafish, whereas GnRH or LHRH-A2 could not, suggesting that Chr23-miR-200s regulated lhb expression in a GnRH-independent pathway. It was remarkable that either injection of carp pituitary extraction, or co-injection of hCG with synthetic oxytocin and vasotocin could greatly rescue the defects of both oocyte maturation and ovulation in chr23-miR-200s-KO zebrafish. Altogether, our findings highlight an important function of chr23-miR-200s in controlling oocyte maturation by regulation LH expression, and oxytocin and vasotocin are potentially responsible for the ovulation in fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Xiong
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Featured Aquatic Resources Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinsong Tian
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Si Ge
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhe Long
- Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Featured Aquatic Resources Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenjie Guo
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peipei Huang
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan He
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tiaoyi Xiao
- Hunan Engineering Technology Research Center of Featured Aquatic Resources Utilization, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian-Fang Gui
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.,State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Mei
- College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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16
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Ongaro L, Schang G, Zhou Z, Kumar TR, Treier M, Deng CX, Boehm U, Bernard DJ. Human Follicle-Stimulating Hormone ß Subunit Expression Depends on FOXL2 and SMAD4. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5805118. [PMID: 32191302 PMCID: PMC7182064 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), an essential regulator of mammalian fertility, is synthesized by pituitary gonadotrope cells in response to activins. In mice, activins signal via SMAD3, SMAD4, and FOXL2 to regulate transcription of the FSHβ subunit (Fshb) gene. Gonadotrope-specific deletion of Foxl2, alone or in combination with Smad4, renders mice FSH-deficient. Whether human FSHB expression is similarly regulated is not known. Here, we used a combination of transgenic and conditional knockout mouse strains to assess the roles of activins, FOXL2, and SMAD4 in regulation of the human FSHB gene. First, we cultured pituitaries from mice harboring a human FSHB transgene (hFSHB mice) and measured both murine Fshb and human FSHB messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression in response to exogenous activins or two antagonists of endogenous activin-like signaling (follistatin-288 and SB431542). Both murine Fshb and human FSHB expression were stimulated by activins and reduced by the inhibitors. Next, we analyzed human FSHB expression in hFSHB mice carrying floxed Foxl2 and Smad4 alleles. Cre-mediated ablation of FOXL2 and SMAD4 strongly reduced basal and activin-stimulated murine Fshb and human FSHB expression in cultured pituitaries. Finally, the hFSHB transgene was previously shown to rescue FSH production and fertility in Fshb knockout mice. However, gonadotrope-specific Foxl2/Smad4 knockout females carrying the hFSHB transgene have significantly reduced murine Fshb and human FSHB pituitary mRNA levels and are hypogonadal. Collectively, these data suggest that similar to Fshb regulation in mice, FOXL2 and SMAD4 play essential roles in human FSHB expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ziyue Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
| | - Mathias Treier
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC), Genetics of Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Berlin, Germany
| | - Chu-Xia Deng
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, China
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling (PZMS), Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Correspondence: Daniel J. Bernard Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada. E-mail:
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17
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Azhar S, Dong D, Shen WJ, Hu Z, Kraemer FB. The role of miRNAs in regulating adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis. J Mol Endocrinol 2020; 64:R21-R43. [PMID: 31671401 PMCID: PMC7202133 DOI: 10.1530/jme-19-0105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
miRNAs are endogenous noncoding single-stranded small RNAs of ~22 nucleotides in length that post-transcriptionally repress the expression of their various target genes. They contribute to the regulation of a variety of physiologic processes including embryonic development, differentiation and proliferation, apoptosis, metabolism, hemostasis and inflammation. In addition, aberrant miRNA expression is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases including cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic diseases. Steroid hormones regulate virtually every aspect of metabolism, and acute and chronic steroid hormone biosynthesis is primarily regulated by tissue-specific trophic hormones involving transcriptional and translational events. In addition, it is becoming increasingly clear that steroidogenic pathways are also subject to post-transcriptional and post-translational regulations including processes such as phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, protein‒protein interactions and regulation by specific miRNAs, although the latter is in its infancy state. Here, we summarize the recent advances in miRNA-mediated regulation of steroidogenesis with emphasis on adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salman Azhar
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Dachuan Dong
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Wen-Jun Shen
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Zhigang Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology and College of Life Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fredric B Kraemer
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Gerontology and Metabolism, Stanford University, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Stanford Diabetes Research Center, Stanford, California, USA
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18
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Zhao H, Ge J, Wei J, Liu J, Liu C, Ma C, Zhao X, Wei Q, Ma B. Effect of FSH on E 2/GPR30-mediated mouse oocyte maturation in vitro. Cell Signal 2019; 66:109464. [PMID: 31704004 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2019.109464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian oocyte restores meiosis can be stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) under normal physiological conditions. G-protein coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), an non-classical estrogen membrane receptor, has been widely reported in teleost oocyte maturation. However, it remains unknown whether GPR30 involves the role of FSH in mammalian cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation. Here, we used mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) as a model to investigate how FSH affects the in vitro maturation of mouse oocytes mediated by 17β-estradiol (E2)/GPR30signaling. Our study reveals that FSH starts regulating mouse cumulus expansion precisely at 8h in in vitro culture. ELISA measurement of E2 levels in culture medium revealed that FSH activated aromatase to promote E2 production in vitro in cultured mouse COCs. Moreover, the results of real-time quantitative PCR indicated that FSH-induced in vitro maturation of mouse oocytes was regulated by the estrogen-signaling pathway mediated by GPR30; FSH treatment markedly increased the mRNA expression of HAS2, PTGS2, and GREM1 in COCs. Exploration of the underlying mechanism suggested that E2 produced by mouse COCs regulated the phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) through GPR30 and thereby promoted mouse cumulus-cell expansion and oocyte maturation. In conclusion, our study reveals that FSH induced estrogen production in mouse COCs through aromatase, and that aromatase/GPR30/ERK1/2 signaling is involved in FSH-induced cumulus expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Junbang Ge
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Bio-X Institutes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncai Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Milon A, Knapczyk-Stwora K, Pawlicki P, Duliban M, Gorowska-Wojtowicz E, Kotula-Balak M, Bilinska B. Effect of estrogen-related receptor silencing on miRNA protein machinery expression, global methylation, and deacetylation in bank vole (Myodes glareolus) and mouse tumor Leydig cells. Theriogenology 2019; 139:178-190. [PMID: 31421412 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The function of estrogen-related receptor (ERR) in testicular cells is at the beginning of exploration. Our previous findings showed that expression pattern of estrogen-related receptor (ERR) in mouse Leydig cell depends on physiological status of the cell. Exogenous hormones/hormonally active chemicals affect ERR expression. In Leydig cells in vitro, ERRα and ERRγ show opposing regulatory properties. The aim of this study was to examine the role of ERR in epigenetic processes in cells with altered level of secreted estrogens; mouse tumor Leydig cells and bank vole Leydig cells, respectively. In Leydig cells, ERRα and ERRγ were silenced via siRNA. mRNA and protein expression and protein localization of molecules required for miRNA biogenesis and function (Exportin 5, Dicer, Drosha and Argonaute 2; Ago2) were studied with the use of qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry. Global DNA methylation and histone deacetylation status together with estradiol secretion were determined with fluorometric, and immunoenzymatic assays. Regardless of ERR type knockdown in tumor Leydig cells, downregulation (P < 0.05; P < 0.01; P < 0.001) of Exportin5, Dicer, Drosha but not Ago2 was revealed while at protein level only Drosha was downregulated (P < 0.01) by both ERRα and ERRγ. Oppositely, Exportin5, Dicer and Ago2 showed ERR type-dependent regulation (downregulation; P < 0.01 by ERRα and upregulation; P < 0.01; P < 0.001 by ERRγ). In ERR-silenced vole Leydig cells, expression of Exportin5, endonucleases and Ago2 was not changed. Immunolocalization of Dicer and Ago2 was independent of the cell origin in contrast to localization of Exportin5 and Drosha which was dependent on the cell origin and ERR type knockdown. Absence of ERR effected on cell methylation status (ERRα increased it; P < 0.01 while ERRγ decreased it; P < 0.01, P < 0.001) but it not changed histone deacetylates activity. ERRα and ERRγ silencing decreased (P < 0.01, P < 0.001) estradiol secretion in both tumor and vole Leydig cells. In mouse and bank vole Leydig cell, Exportin5, Dicer, Drosha and Ago2 expression as well as methylation status are regulated by ERR in a manner related to receptor type, molecule type, cell origin and level of secreted estrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Milon
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Knapczyk-Stwora
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Michal Duliban
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewelina Gorowska-Wojtowicz
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland; University Centre of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
| | - Barbara Bilinska
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
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20
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MiR-125b-2 Knockout in Testis Is Associated with Targeting to the PAP Gene, Mitochondrial Copy Number, and Impaired Sperm Quality. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20010148. [PMID: 30609807 PMCID: PMC6337273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been reported that the miR-125 family plays an important role in regulating embryo development. However, the function of miR-125b-2 in spermatogenesis remains unknown. In this study, we used a model of miR-125b knockout (KO) mice to study the relationship between miR-125b-2 and spermatogenesis. Among the KO mice, the progeny test showed that the litter size decreased significantly (p = 0.0002) and the rate of non-parous females increased significantly from 10% to 38%. At the same time, the testosterone concentration increased significantly (p = 0.007), with a remarkable decrease for estradiol (p = 0.02). Moreover, the sperm count decreased obviously (p = 0.011) and the percentage of abnormal sperm increased significantly (p = 0.0002). The testicular transcriptome sequencing revealed that there were 173 up-regulated genes, including Papolb (PAP), and 151 down-regulated genes in KO mice compared with wild type (WT). The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene ontology (GO) analysis showed that many of these genes were involved in sperm mitochondrial metabolism and other cellular biological processes. Meanwhile, the sperm mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) copy number increased significantly in the KO mice, but there were no changes observed in the mtDNA integrity and mutations of mt-Cytb, as well as the mt-ATP6 between the WT mice and KO mice. In the top 10 up-regulated genes, PAP, as a testis specific expressing gene, affect the process of spermatogenesis. Western blotting and the Luciferase assay validated that PAP was the target of miR-125b-5p. Intriguingly, we also found that both miR-125b and PAP were only highly expressed in the germ cells (GC) instead of in the Leydig cells (LC) and Sertoli cells (SC). Additionally, miR-125b-5p down regulated the secretion of testosterone in the TM3 cell by targeting PAP (p = 0.021). Our study firstly demonstrated that miR-125b-2 regulated testosterone secretion by directly targeting PAP, and increased the sperm mtDNA copy number to affect semen quality. The study indicated that miR-125b-2 had a positive influence on the reproductive performance of animals by regulating the expression of the PAP gene, and could be a potential drugs and diagnostic target for male infertility.
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Abstract
The hypothalamic decapeptide, GnRH, is the gatekeeper of mammalian reproductive development and function. Activation of specific, high-affinity cell surface receptors (GnRH receptors) on gonadotropes by GnRH triggers signal transduction cascades to stimulate the coordinated synthesis and secretion of the pituitary gonadotropins FSH and LH. These hormones direct gonadal steroidogenesis and gametogenesis, making their tightly regulated production and secretion essential for normal sexual maturation and reproductive health. FSH and LH are glycoprotein heterodimers comprised of a common α-subunit and a unique β-subunit (FSHβ and LHβ, respectively), which determines the biological specificity of the gonadotropins. The unique β-subunit is the rate-limiting step for the production of the mature gonadotropins. Therefore, FSH synthesis is regulated at the transcriptional level by Fshb gene expression. The overarching goal of this review is to expand our understanding of the mechanisms and pathways underlying the carefully orchestrated control of FSH synthesis and secretion by GnRH, focusing on the transcriptional regulation of the Fshb gene. Identification of these regulatory mechanisms is not only fundamental to our understanding of normal reproductive function but will also provide a context for the elucidation of the pathophysiology of reproductive disorders and infertility to lead to potential new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Stamatiades
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Yale New Haven Health, Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, Connecticut
- School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Rona S Carroll
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence: Ursula B. Kaiser, MD, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 221 Longwood Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02115. E-mail:
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22
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Yin L, Ran J, Lian T, Yang C, Li S, Liu Y. EFFECTS OF VITAMIN E SUPPLEMENTATION ON SERUM HORMONES AND GENE EXPRESSION OF ANTI-SEASON BREEDING XINGGUO GREY GEESE (ANSER CYGNOIDES). BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2018-0892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- L Yin
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - J Ran
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - T Lian
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - C Yang
- Sichuan Animal Science Academy, China
| | - S Li
- Jiangxi Academy of Agricultural Science, China
| | - Y Liu
- Sichuan Agricultural University, China
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23
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Gareev IF, Beylerli OA. A STUDY OF THE ROLE OF MICRORNA IN PITUITARY ADENOMA. ADVANCES IN MOLECULAR ONCOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.17650/2313-805x-2018-5-2-8-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are a new class of small non-coding RNAs, a length of 18–22 nucleotides that play a decisive role as posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. Due to the large number of genes, regulated microRNAs, microRNAs are involved in many cellular processes. The study of the impairment of the expression of the target genes of microRNA, often associated with changes in important biological characteristics, provides a significant understanding of the role of microRNAs in oncogenesis. New evidence suggests that aberrant microRNA expression or dysregulation of endogenous microRNAs affects the onset and development of tumors, including adenomas of the pituitary gland. In this review, the significance of some microRNAs in the pathology of the pituitary adenoma will be assessed, as well as data on the study of microRNAs as therapeutic targets and new biomarkers.
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24
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Gilbert SB, Roof AK, Rajendra Kumar T. Mouse models for the analysis of gonadotropin secretion and action. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 32:219-239. [PMID: 29779578 PMCID: PMC5973545 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins are pituitary gonadotrope-derived glycoprotein hormones. They act by binding to G-protein coupled receptors on gonads. Gonadotropins play critical roles in reproduction by regulating both gametogenesis and steroidogenesis. Although biochemical and physiological studies provided a wealth of knowledge, gene manipulation techniques using novel mouse models gave new insights into gonadotropin synthesis, secretion and action. Both gain of function and loss of function mouse models for understanding gonadotropin action in a whole animal context have already been generated. Moreover, recent studies on gonadotropin actions in non-gonadal tissues challenged the central dogma of classical gonadotropin actions in gonads and revealed new signaling pathways in these non-gonadal tissues. In this Chapter, we have discussed our current understanding of gonadotropin synthesis, secretion and action using a variety of genetically engineered mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Babcock Gilbert
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Allyson K Roof
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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25
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Reproductive role of miRNA in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Mol Cell Neurosci 2018; 88:130-137. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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26
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Das N, Kumar TR. Molecular regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis, secretion and action. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R131-R155. [PMID: 29437880 PMCID: PMC5851872 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays fundamental roles in male and female fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein expressed by gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary. The hormone-specific FSHβ-subunit is non-covalently associated with the common α-subunit that is also present in the luteinizing hormone (LH), another gonadotrophic hormone secreted by gonadotrophs and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by thyrotrophs. Several decades of research led to the purification, structural characterization and physiological regulation of FSH in a variety of species including humans. With the advent of molecular tools, availability of immortalized gonadotroph cell lines and genetically modified mouse models, our knowledge on molecular mechanisms of FSH regulation has tremendously expanded. Several key players that regulate FSH synthesis, sorting, secretion and action in gonads and extragonadal tissues have been identified in a physiological setting. Novel post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms have also been identified that provide additional layers of regulation mediating FSH homeostasis. Recombinant human FSH analogs hold promise for a variety of clinical applications, whereas blocking antibodies against FSH may prove efficacious for preventing age-dependent bone loss and adiposity. It is anticipated that several exciting new discoveries uncovering all aspects of FSH biology will soon be forthcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandana Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Author for Correspondence: T. Rajendra Kumar, PhD, Edgar L. and Patricia M. Makowski Professor, Associate Vice-Chair of Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8613, Research Complex 2, Room # 15-3000B, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA, Tel: 303-724-8689,
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27
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Wierinckx A, Roche M, Legras-Lachuer C, Trouillas J, Raverot G, Lachuer J. MicroRNAs in pituitary tumors. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 456:51-61. [PMID: 28089822 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Since the presence of microRNAs was first observed in normal pituitary, the majority of scientific publications addressing their role and the function of microRNAs in the pituitary have been based on pituitary tumor studies. In this review, we briefly describe the involvement of microRNAs in the synthesis of pituitary hormones and we present a comprehensive inventory of microRNA suppressors and inducers of pituitary tumors. Finally, we summarize the functional role of microRNAs in tumorigenesis, progression and aggressiveness of pituitary tumors, mechanisms contributing to the regulation (transcription factors, genomic modifications or epigenetic) or modulation (pharmacological treatment) of microRNAs in these tumors, and the interest of thoroughly studying the expression of miRNAs in body fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Wierinckx
- Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Institut Universitaire de Technologie Lyon1, Université de Lyon, F-69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France; INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; ProfileXpert, SFR-Est, CNRS UMR-S3453, INSERM US7, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France.
| | | | - Catherine Legras-Lachuer
- Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; ProfileXpert, SFR-Est, CNRS UMR-S3453, INSERM US7, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; ViroScan3D, F-01600 Trévoux, France; UMR CNRS 5557 UCBL USC INRA 1193 ENVL, Dynamique Microbienne et Transmission Virale, F-69100 Villeurbanne Cedex, France
| | - Jacqueline Trouillas
- Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Centre de Pathologie Est, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron F-69677, France
| | - Gérald Raverot
- Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; Fédération d'Endocrinologie, Groupement Hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Bron, F-69677, France Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Joël Lachuer
- Université Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France; Institut Universitaire de Technologie Lyon1, Université de Lyon, F-69622 Villeurbanne Cedex, France; INSERM U1052, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; CNRS UMR 5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France; ProfileXpert, SFR-Est, CNRS UMR-S3453, INSERM US7, F-69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France
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28
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Crowley WF, Balasubramanian R. MicroRNA-7a2 suppression causes hypogonadotropism and uncovers signaling pathways in gonadotropes. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:796-797. [PMID: 28218621 DOI: 10.1172/jci92846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as important regulators of a variety of biological processes and pathways. In this issue of the JCI, Ahmed et al. reveal that miR-7a2 is a critical regulator of sexual maturation and reproductive function, as mice lacking miR-7a2 develop hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility. Using a bioinformatics approach, the authors identified several miR-7a2 target genes and pathways that have not been previously associated with gonadotropin biosynthesis and/or secretion. Together, these results identify miR-7a2-regulated genes involved in reproductive hormone biosynthesis pathways and provide a framework for future studies aimed at understanding rare reproductive conditions.
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29
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Ahmed K, LaPierre MP, Gasser E, Denzler R, Yang Y, Rülicke T, Kero J, Latreille M, Stoffel M. Loss of microRNA-7a2 induces hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility. J Clin Invest 2017; 127:1061-1074. [PMID: 28218624 DOI: 10.1172/jci90031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are negative modulators of gene expression that fine-tune numerous biological processes. miRNA loss-of-function rarely results in highly penetrant phenotypes, but rather, influences cellular responses to physiologic and pathophysiologic stresses. Here, we have reported that a single member of the evolutionarily conserved miR-7 family, miR-7a2, is essential for normal pituitary development and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) function in adulthood. Genetic deletion of mir-7a2 causes infertility, with low levels of gonadotropic and sex steroid hormones, small testes or ovaries, impaired spermatogenesis, and lack of ovulation in male and female mice, respectively. We found that miR-7a2 is highly expressed in the pituitary, where it suppresses golgi glycoprotein 1 (GLG1) expression and downstream bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) signaling and also reduces expression of the prostaglandin F2a receptor negative regulator (PTGFRN), an inhibitor of prostaglandin signaling and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Our results reveal that miR-7a2 critically regulates sexual maturation and reproductive function by interconnecting miR-7 genomic circuits that regulate FSH and LH synthesis and secretion through their effects on pituitary prostaglandin and BMP4 signaling.
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30
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Eisenberg I, Nahmias N, Novoselsky Persky M, Greenfield C, Goldman-Wohl D, Hurwitz A, Haimov-Kochman R, Yagel S, Imbar T. Elevated circulating micro-ribonucleic acid (miRNA)-200b and miRNA-429 levels in anovulatory women. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:269-275. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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31
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Yang K, Gao Y, Yang M, Xu Z, Chen Q. Creating conditional dual fluorescence labeled transgenic animals for studying function of small noncoding RNAs. Connect Tissue Res 2017; 58:103-115. [PMID: 27763799 PMCID: PMC5382716 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2016.1247834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Because the function of most noncoding (nc) RNAs is unknown, Cre-lox transgenic mice are useful tools to determine their functions in a tissue or developmental stage-specific manner. However, the technology faces challenges because expression of ncRNA-transgene lacks protein product. No antibody or peptide-tag can be used to trace ncRNA expression in mouse tissues in real time. Furthermore, transgene integration at different locus or orientations in the genome may result in recombination of genomic fragments in the Cre-lox system. Establishing a reliable method that can be used to determine the precise copy number and orientation of the transgene is critical to the field. We developed a fast and straightforward method to determine ncRNA-transgene copy number, orientation, and insertion site in the genome. Furthermore, upon tissue-specific expression of ncRNA, a Cre-loxP-mediated dual-fluorescence expression system facilitates fluorescence signal switching from green to red, which enables real-time monitoring of ncRNA expression by fluorescence signals. As proof of concept, we demonstrate that after microRNA (miRNA)-Flox mice crossed with Col2a1-Cre mice, miRNA transgene expression could be detected successfully by red fluorescence signals in various cartilaginous tissues. This method of creating small ncRNA transgenic mice facilitates both tissue-specific ncRNA expression and real-time visualization of its expression. It is particularly suitable for in vivo studies of the functional roles and lineage tracing of small ncRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Yun Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Mingfu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Zuoshang Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
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Ye RS, Li M, Li CY, Qi QE, Chen T, Cheng X, Wang SB, Shu G, Wang LN, Zhu XT, Jiang QY, Xi QY, Zhang YL. miR-361-3p regulates FSH by targeting FSHB in a porcine anterior pituitary cell model. Reproduction 2016; 153:341-349. [PMID: 27998941 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
FSH plays an essential role in processes involved in human reproduction, including spermatogenesis and the ovarian cycle. While the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms underlying its synthesis and secretion have been extensively studied, little is known about its posttranscriptional regulation. A bioinformatics analysis from our group indicated that a microRNA (miRNA; miR-361-3p) could regulate FSH secretion by potentially targeting the FSHB subunit. Herein, we sought to confirm these findings by investigating the miR-361-3p-mediated regulation of FSH production in primary pig anterior pituitary cells. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) treatment resulted in an increase in FSHB synthesis at both the mRNA, protein/hormone level, along with a significant decrease in miR-361-3p and its precursor (pre-miR-361) levels in time- and dose-dependent manner. Using the Dual-Luciferase Assay, we confirmed that miR-361-3p directly targets FSHB. Additionally, overexpression of miR-361-3p using mimics significantly decreased the FSHB production at both the mRNA and protein levels, with a reduction in both protein synthesis and secretion. Conversely, both synthesis and secretion were significantly increased following miR-361-3p blockade. To confirm that miR-361-3p targets FSHB, we designed FSH-targeted siRNAs, and co-transfected anterior pituitary cells with both the siRNA and miR-361-3p inhibitors. Our results indicated that the siRNA blocked the miR-361-3p inhibitor-mediated upregulation of FSH, while no significant effect on non-target expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that miR-361-3p negatively regulates FSH synthesis and secretion by targeting FSHB, which provides more functional evidence that a miRNA is involved in the direct regulation of FSH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chao-Yun Li
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi-En Qi
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Cheng
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Song-Bo Wang
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gang Shu
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Na Wang
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Tong Zhu
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing-Yan Jiang
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian-Yun Xi
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-Liang Zhang
- Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine IndustrySCAU-Alltech Research Joint Alliance, Guandong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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Wang H, May J, Butnev V, Shuai B, May JV, Bousfield GR, Kumar TR. Evaluation of in vivo bioactivities of recombinant hypo- (FSH 21/18) and fully- (FSH 24) glycosylated human FSH glycoforms in Fshb null mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 437:224-236. [PMID: 27561202 PMCID: PMC5048586 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The hormone - specific FSHβ subunit of the human FSH heterodimer consists of N-linked glycans at Asn7 and Asn24 residues that are co-translationally attached early during subunit biosynthesis. Differences in the number of N-glycans (none, one or two) on the human FSHβ subunit contribute to macroheterogeneity in the FSH heterodimer. The resulting FSH glycoforms are termed hypo-glycosylated (FSH21/18, missing either an Asn24 or Asn7 N-glycan chain on the β - subunit, respectively) or fully glycosylated (FSH24, possessing of both Asn7 and Asn24 N-linked glycans on the β - subunit) FSH. The recombinant versions of human FSH glycoforms (FSH21/18 and FSH24) have been purified and biochemically characterized. In vitro functional studies have indicated that FSH21/18 exhibits faster FSH- receptor binding kinetics and is much more active than FSH24 in every assay tested to date. However, the in vivo bioactivity of the hypo-glycosylated FSH glycoform has never been tested. Here, we evaluated the in vivo bioactivities of FSH glycoforms in Fshb null mice using a pharmacological rescue approach. In Fshb null female mice, both hypo- and fully-glycosylated FSH elicited an ovarian weight gain response by 48 h and induced ovarian genes in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Quantification by real time qPCR assays indicated that hypo-glycosylated FSH21/18 was bioactive in vivo and induced FSH-responsive ovarian genes similar to fully-glycosylated FSH24. Western blot analyses followed by densitometry of key signaling components downstream of the FSH-receptor confirmed that the hypo-glycosylated FSH21/18 elicited a response similar to that by fully-glycosylated FSH24 in ovaries of Fshb null mice. When injected into Fshb null males, hypo-glycosylated FSH21/18 was more active than the fully-glycosylated FSH24 in inducing FSH-responsive genes and Sertoli cell proliferation. Thus, our data establish that recombinant hypo-glycosylated human FSH21/18 glycoform elicits bioactivity in vivo similar to the fully-glycosylated FSH. Our studies may have clinical implications particularly in formulating FSH-based ovarian follicle induction protocols using a combination of different human FSH glycoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Jacob May
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Viktor Butnev
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - Bin Shuai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - Jeffrey V May
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - George R Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive Health and Regenerative Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Mouse Models for the Study of Synthesis, Secretion, and Action of Pituitary Gonadotropins. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:49-84. [PMID: 27697204 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins play fundamental roles in reproduction. More than 30years ago, Cga transgenic mice were generated, and more than 20years ago, the phenotypes of Cga null mice were reported. Since then, numerous mouse strains have been generated and characterized to address several questions in reproductive biology involving gonadotropin synthesis, secretion, and action. More recently, extragonadal expression, and in some cases, functions of gonadotropins in nongonadal tissues have been identified. Several genomic and proteomic approaches including novel mouse genome editing tools are available now. It is anticipated that these and other emerging technologies will be useful to build an integrated network of gonadotropin signaling pathways in various tissues. Undoubtedly, research on gonadotropins will continue to provide new knowledge and allow us transcend from benchside to the bedside.
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Stallings CE, Kapali J, Ellsworth BS. Mouse Models of Gonadotrope Development. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:1-48. [PMID: 27697200 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotrope is central to reproductive function. Gonadotropes develop in a systematic process dependent on signaling factors secreted from surrounding tissues and those produced within the pituitary gland itself. These signaling pathways are important for stimulating specific transcription factors that ultimately regulate the expression of genes and define gonadotrope identity. Proper gonadotrope development and ultimately gonadotrope function are essential for normal sexual maturation and fertility. Understanding the mechanisms governing differentiation programs of gonadotropes is important to improve treatment and molecular diagnoses for patients with gonadotrope abnormalities. Much of what is known about gonadotrope development has been elucidated from mouse models in which important factors contributing to gonadotrope development and function have been deleted, ectopically expressed, or modified. This chapter will focus on many of these mouse models and their contribution to our current understanding of gonadotrope development.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Stallings
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States
| | - J Kapali
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States
| | - B S Ellsworth
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States.
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Fraser R, Lin CJ. Epigenetic reprogramming of the zygote in mice and men: on your marks, get set, go! Reproduction 2016; 152:R211-R222. [PMID: 27601712 PMCID: PMC5097126 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gametogenesis (spermatogenesis and oogenesis) is accompanied by the acquisition of gender-specific epigenetic marks, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and regulation by small RNAs, to form highly differentiated, but transcriptionally silent cell-types in preparation for fertilisation. Upon fertilisation, extensive global epigenetic reprogramming takes place to remove the previously acquired epigenetic marks and produce totipotent zygotic states. It is the aim of this review to delineate the cellular and molecular events involved in maternal, paternal and zygotic epigenetic reprogramming from the time of gametogenesis, through fertilisation, to the initiation of zygotic genome activation for preimplantation embryonic development. Recent studies have begun to uncover the indispensable functions of epigenetic players during gametogenesis, fertilisation and preimplantation embryo development, and a more comprehensive understanding of these early events will be informative for increasing pregnancy success rates, adding particular value to assisted fertility programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupsha Fraser
- The University of EdinburghMRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
| | - Chih-Jen Lin
- The University of EdinburghMRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, Scotland, UK
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A regulatory loop between miR-132 and miR-125b involved in gonadotrope cells desensitization to GnRH. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31563. [PMID: 27539363 PMCID: PMC4990909 DOI: 10.1038/srep31563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The GnRH neurohormone is the main activator of the pituitary gonadotropins, LH and FSH. Here we investigated the contribution of microRNAs in mediating GnRH activation. We first established that miR-125b targets several actors of Gαq/11 signalling pathway, without altering Gαs pathway. We then showed that a Gαs-mediated, PKA-dependent phosphorylation of NSun2 methyltransferase leads to miR-125b methylation and thereby induces its down-regulation. We demonstrated that NSun2 mRNA is a target of miR-132 and that NSun2 may be inactivated by the PP1α phosphatase. Time-course analysis of GnRH treatment revealed an initial NSun2-dependent down-regulation of miR-125b with consecutive up-regulation of LH and FSH expression. Increase of miR-132 and of the catalytic subunit of PP1α then contributed to NSun2 inactivation and to the return of miR-125b to its steady-state level. The Gαq/11-dependent pathway was thus again silenced, provoking the down-regulation of LH, FSH and miR-132. Overall, this study reveals that a regulatory loop that tends to maintain or restore high and low levels of miR-125b and miR-132, respectively, is responsible for gonadotrope cells desensitization to sustained GnRH. A dysregulation of this loop might be responsible for the inverted dynamics of these two miRNAs reported in several neuronal and non-neuronal pathologies.
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Wang H, Hastings R, Miller WL, Kumar TR. Fshb-iCre mice are efficient and specific Cre deleters for the gonadotrope lineage. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 419:124-38. [PMID: 26472536 PMCID: PMC4684453 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Genetic analysis of development and function of the gonadotrope cell lineage within mouse anterior pituitary has been greatly facilitated by at least three currently available Cre strains in which Cre was either knocked into the Gnrhr locus or expressed as a transgene from Cga and Lhb promoters. However, in each case there are some limitations including CRE expression in thyrotropes within pituitary or ectopic expression outside of pituitary, for example in some populations of neurons or gonads. Hence, these Cre strains often pose problems with regard to undesirable deletion of alleles in non-gonadotrope cells, fertility and germline transmission of mutant alleles. Here, we describe generation and characterization of a new Fshb-iCre deleter strain using 4.7 kb of ovine Fshb promoter regulatory sequences driving iCre expression exclusively in the gonadotrope lineage within anterior pituitary. Fshb-iCre mice develop normally, display no ectopic CRE expression in gonads and are fertile. When crossed onto a loxP recombination-mediated red to green color switch reporter mouse genetic background, in vivo CRE recombinase activity is detectable in gonadotropes at more than 95% efficiency and the GFP-tagged gonadotropes readily purified by fluorescence activated cell sorting. We demonstrate the applicability of this Fshb-iCre deleter strain in a mouse model in which Dicer is efficiently and selectively deleted in gonadotropes. We further show that loss of DICER-dependent miRNAs in gonadotropes leads to profound suppression of gonadotropins resulting in male and female infertility. Thus, Fshb-iCre mice serve as a new genetic tool to efficiently manipulate gonadotrope-specific gene expression in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology
| | | | - William L Miller
- Department of Molecular and Structural Biochemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology; Center for Reproductive Sciences, Institute for Reproductive Health and Regenerative Medicine; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA.
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Abstract
microRNAs constitute a large family of approximately 21-nucleotide-long, noncoding RNAs. They emerged more than 20 years ago as key posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. The regulatory role of these small RNA molecules has recently begun to be explored in the human reproductive system. microRNAs have been shown to play an important role in control of reproductive functions, especially in the processes of oocyte maturation, folliculogenesis, corpus luteum function, implantation, and early embryonic development. Knockout of Dicer, the cytoplasmic enzyme that cleaves the pre-miRNA to its mature form, results in postimplantation embryonic lethality in several animal models, attributing to these small RNA vital functions in reproduction and development. Another intriguing characteristic of microRNAs is their presence in body fluids in a remarkably stable form that is protected from endogenous RNase activity. In this chapter we will describe the current knowledge on microRNAs, specifically relating to human gonadal cells. We will focus on their role in the ovarian physiologic process and ovulation dysfunction, regulation of spermatogenesis and male fertility, and putative involvement in human normal and aberrant trophoblast differentiation and invasion through the process of placentation.
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