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Draskau MK, Rosenmai AK, Bouftas N, Johansson HKL, Panagiotou EM, Holmer ML, Elmelund E, Zilliacus J, Beronius A, Damdimopolou P, van Duursen M, Svingen T. AOP Report: An Upstream Network for Reduced Androgen Signaling Leading to Altered Gene Expression of Androgen Receptor-Responsive Genes in Target Tissues. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024. [PMID: 39206816 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) can aid with chemical risk assessment by providing plausible links between chemical activity at the molecular level and effect outcomes in intact organisms. Because AOPs can be used to infer causality between upstream and downstream events in toxicological pathways, the AOP framework can also facilitate increased uptake of alternative methods and new approach methodologies to help inform hazard identification. However, a prevailing challenge is the limited number of fully developed and endorsed AOPs, primarily due to the substantial amount of work required by AOP developers and reviewers. Consequently, a more pragmatic approach to AOP development has been proposed where smaller units of knowledge are developed and reviewed independent of full AOPs. In this context, we have developed an upstream network comprising key events (KEs) and KE relationships related to decreased androgen signaling, converging at a nodal KE that can branch out to numerous adverse outcomes (AOs) relevant to androgen-sensitive toxicological pathways. Androgen signaling represents an extensively studied pathway for endocrine disruption. It is linked to numerous disease outcomes and can be affected by many different endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Still, pathways related to disrupted androgen signaling remain underrepresented in the AOP-wiki, and endorsed AOPs are lacking. Given the pivotal role of androgen signaling in development and function across vertebrate taxa and life stages of both sexes, this upstream AOP network serves as a foundational element for developing numerous AOPs. By connecting the upstream network with various downstream AOs, encompassing different species, it can also facilitate cross-species extrapolations for hazard and risk assessment of chemicals. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;00:1-9. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica K Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anna K Rosenmai
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nora Bouftas
- Environmental Health and Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eleftheria M Panagiotou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marie L Holmer
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Emilie Elmelund
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Johanna Zilliacus
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Beronius
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauliina Damdimopolou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Majorie van Duursen
- Environmental Health and Toxicology, Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
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Feng GJ, Xu Q, Zhao QG, Han BX, Yan SS, Zhu J, Pei YF. The genetic architecture of age at menarche and its causal effects on other traits. J Hum Genet 2024:10.1038/s10038-024-01287-w. [PMID: 39147824 DOI: 10.1038/s10038-024-01287-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Age at menarche (AAM) is a sign of puberty of females. It is a heritable trait associated with various adult diseases. However, the genetic mechanism that determines AAM and links it to disease risk is poorly understood. Aiming to uncover the genetic basis for AAM, we conducted a joint association study in up to 438,089 women from 3 genome-wide association studies of European and East Asian ancestries. A series of bioinformatical analyses and causal inference were then followed to explore in-depth annotations at the associated loci and infer the causal relationship between AAM and other complex traits/diseases. This largest meta-analysis identified a total of 21 novel AAM associated loci at the genome wide significance level (P < 5.0 × 10-8), 4 of which were European ancestry-specific loci. Functional annotations prioritized 33 candidate genes at newly identified loci. Significant genetic correlations were observed between AAM and 67 complex traits. Further causal inference demonstrated the effects of AAM on 13 traits, including forced vital capacity (FVC), high blood pressure, age at first live birth, etc, indicating that earlier AAM causes lower FVC, worse lung function, hypertension and earlier age at first (last) live birth. Enrichment analysis identified 5 enriched tissues, including the hypothalamus middle, hypothalamo hypophyseal system, neurosecretory systems, hypothalamus and retina. Our findings may provide useful insights that elucidate the mechanisms determining AAM and the genetic interplay between AAM and some traits of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Juan Feng
- The First People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Jiangsu, PR China
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Qi-Gang Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Bai-Xue Han
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Shan-Shan Yan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Suzhou Ninth Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, 2666 Lu‑dang Rd., Wujiang District, Suzhou, 215200, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yu-Fang Pei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Preventive and Translational Medicine for Geriatric Diseases, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, PR China.
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Hong L, Xiao S, Diao L, Lian R, Chen C, Zeng Y, Liu S. Decreased AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 induced by androgen excess inhibits human endometrial stromal cell decidualization in PCOS. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:324. [PMID: 39080028 PMCID: PMC11335245 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05362-5] [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: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. Ovulatory dysfunction is recognized as a primary infertile factor, however, even when ovulation is medically induced and restored, PCOS patients continue to experience reduced cumulative pregnancy rates and a higher spontaneous miscarriage rate. Hyperandrogenism, a hallmark feature of PCOS, affects ovarian folliculogenesis, endometrial receptivity, and the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Decidualization denotes the transformation that the stromal compart of the endometrium must undergo to accommodate pregnancy, driven by the rising progesterone levels and local cAMP production. However, studies on the impact of hyperandrogenism on decidualization are limited. In this study, we observed that primary endometrial stromal cells from women with PCOS exhibit abnormal responses to progesterone during in vitro decidualization. A high concentration of testosterone inhibits human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) decidualization. RNA-Seq analysis demonstrated that pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) expression was significantly lower in the endometrium of PCOS patients with hyperandrogenism compared to those without hyperandrogenism. We also characterized that the expression of PDK4 is elevated in the endometrium stroma at the mid-secretory phase. Artificial decidualization could enhance PDK4 expression, while downregulation of PDK4 leads to abnormal decidualization both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, testosterone excess inhibits IGFBP1 and PRL expression, followed by phosphorylating of AMPK that stimulates PDK4 expression. Based on co-immunoprecipitation analysis, we observed an interaction between SIRT1 and PDK4, promoting glycolysis to facilitate decidualization. Restrain of AR activation resumes the AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 pathway suppressed by testosterone excess, indicating that testosterone primarily acts on decidualization through AR stimulation. Androgen excess in the endometrium inhibits decidualization by disrupting the AMPK/SIRT1/PDK4 signaling pathway. These data demonstrate the critical roles of endometrial PDK4 in regulating decidualization and provide valuable information for understanding the underlying mechanism during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Hong
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Shan Xiao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruochun Lian
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Cong Chen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China.
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, Guangdong, China.
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Aldeli N, Murphy D, Hanano A. Impact of dioxins on reproductive health in female mammals. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1392257. [PMID: 38774538 PMCID: PMC11106427 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1392257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Extensive research has been conducted to investigate the toxicological impact of dioxins on mammals, revealing profound effects on the female reproductive system in both humans and animals. Dioxin exposure significantly disrupts the intricate functions of the ovary, a pivotal organ responsible for reproductive and endocrine processes. This disruption manifests as infertility, premature ovarian failure, and disturbances in sex steroid hormone levels. Comprehensive studies, encompassing accidental human exposure and experimental animal data, have raised a wealth of information with consistent yet varied conclusion influenced by experimental factors. This review begins by providing an overarching background on the ovary, emphasizing its fundamental role in reproductive health, particularly in ovarian steroidogenesis and hormone receptor regulation. Subsequently, a detailed examination of the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and its role in governing ovarian function is presented. The review then outlines the sources and toxicity of dioxins, with a specific focus on AhR involvement in mediating reproductive toxicity in mammals. Within this context, the impact of dioxins, notably 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), on Folliculogenesis and Preimplantation embryos is discussed. Furthermore, the review delves into the disruptions of the female hormonal system caused by TCDD and their ramifications in endometriosis. Notably, variations in the effects of TCDD on the female reproductive and hormonal system are highlighted in relation to TCDD dose, animal species, and age. As a forward-looking perspective, questions arise regarding the potential involvement of molecular mechanisms beyond AhR in mediating the female reproductive toxicity of dioxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour Aldeli
- Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science, Al Furat University, Deir-ez-Zor, Syria
| | - Denis Murphy
- School of Applied Sciences, University of South Wales, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Abdulsamie Hanano
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Atomic Energy Commission of Syria (AECS), Damascus, Syria
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Li N, Wu J, Qi X, Yang Q, Liu R, Yang Y, Li C, Huang M, Lin M, Wang C, Cha Z, Hou X, Luo L, Ge F, Chen W. Correlation between androgen receptor expression and pathological response rate in pre-operative HER2-positive breast cancer patients. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:10109-10117. [PMID: 37264265 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04904-x] [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: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In this study, we aimed to explore the potential significance of AR expression in HER2-positive breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant targeted therapy. Specifically, we investigated the correlation between AR expression levels and pathological complete response (pCR) rates. Our objective was to determine whether there were significant differences in pCR rates among HER2-positive breast cancer patients with different levels of AR expression. METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of 258 HER-2 positive breast cancer patients who underwent neoadjuvant dual-blocked standard therapy (following the NCCN Guideline 2021) at three breast cancer centers in southwest China. We analyzed the clinicopathological features and pCR rates of these patients. The cut-off value for AR expression level was calculated as the median value of 70%. We used the chi-square test to investigate the correlation between AR expression level and pCR rate, as well as other clinicopathological features. RESULTS Out of the 258 patients analyzed, 154 (59.69%) achieved pCR. Based on the cut-off value of 70%, AR expression level was classified as low (AR ≤ 70%) or high (AR > 70%) expression. Our analysis revealed a significant correlation between AR expression level and pCR rate in HER2-positive breast cancer patients (P = 0.031). We also found a significant association between pCR rate and clinical stage (P = 0.033) and chemotherapy regimen (P = 0.034). Furthermore, subgroup analyses showed that the pCR rate was higher in patients with high AR expression levels compared to those with low AR expression levels. Additionally, we observed that patients with an ER/AR ratio of less than 1 had a higher pCR rate than those with an ER/AR ratio greater than 1 (P = 0.038). CONCLUSION Our study findings suggest that HER2-positive breast cancer patients with high AR expression levels may achieve higher pCR rates when treated with neoadjuvant dual-blocked therapy. Overall, our results support the idea that AR expression levels have a significant correlation with pCR rates in HER2-positive breast cancer patients receiving this particular form of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Jingxuan Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaowei Qi
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Qianxi Yang
- First Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Ruimin Liu
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Chenxi Li
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Mingqing Huang
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Mengping Lin
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Chenxi Wang
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhuocen Cha
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaochen Hou
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Lin Luo
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China
| | - Fei Ge
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China.
| | - Wenlin Chen
- Third Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming, 650118, Yunnan, China.
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Falahati-Pour SK, Pourmasumi S, Mirhashemi ES. Ovarian Endocrine Status and ART 0utcomes in Women within PCOS Based on Different Testosterone Levels. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2023; 27:440-444. [PMID: 38107733 PMCID: PMC10723604 DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_360_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It is estimated that in women at reproductive age, the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is about 5-21%. In PCOS cases with ovulation dysfunction, assisted reproductive techniques (ART) are useful for infertility treatment. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the ART outcome in infertile PCOS women based on different testosterone levels. Finally, the relationships between testosterone in different levels and reproductive parameters including endocrine status, the response of ovaries, and pregnancy outcomes were assessed. Methods In this retrospective study, 352 infertile PCOS women were examined. The women were categorised into five groups according to their testosterone levels: A = T < 0.4, B = 0.4 < T > 0.6, C = 0.6 < T > 0.8, D = 0.8 < T > 1.0 and E = T > 1.0 ng/dL. All study cases were in similar hyper-stimulation protocol and finally, hormonal profile and ART outcomes were compared between testosterone levels. P value ≤ 0.05 was statistically significant. Results In testosterone levels >1.0, the levels of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and luteinising hormone (LH) were higher than in other testosterone level groups. AMH (P = 0.05) and LH (P = 0.001) levels showed significant differences. No correlation was present between testosterone levels and ART outcomes, including stimulation duration, endometrial thickness, oocyte numbers, numbers of matured oocytes, number of obtained embryos, fertilisation rate, implantation rate clinical pregnancy and abortion rate. Conclusions Serum testosterone levels did not show any correlation with pregnancy outcomes in ART cycles of PCOS. However, basal testosterone levels are a good predictor for ovarian reserve and ovarian response. Consequently, we suggest that some prospective studies must be designed to approve the role of testosterone in the prediction of the outcome of pregnancy in ART cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Soheila Pourmasumi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit (CRDU), Ali-Ibn Abi-Talib Hospital, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Elham Sadat Mirhashemi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Jiang Y, Cheng Y, Xia M, Zhang B, Ding Q, Lu L, Wang JR, Mei X. Dehydroepiandrosterone Cocrystals with Improved Solubility and Bioavailability. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112478. [PMID: 36432669 PMCID: PMC9699216 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an FDA-approved food supplement used as an assisted reproductive sex hormone. The bioavailability is severely limited by its poor solubility (23 µg/mL). Herein, we aimed to modulate its solubility through cocrystallization. Eight cocrystals of DHEA with pyrocatechol (CAT), hydroquinone (HQ), resorcinol (RES), phloroglucinol (PG), 1,5-dihydroxy naphthalene (DHN), p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), gallic acid (GA), and 5-hydroxyisophthalic acid (5HIPA) were designed and synthesized. Some basic characterization tools, including powder X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, were also applied in our work for basic analyses of cocrystals. It is indicated that DHEA-GA exhibits its superiority in dissolution and pharmacokinetic behaviors. While the area under the curve values of DHEA-GA is improved at the ratio of 2.2, the corresponding bioavailability of DHEA is expected to be accordingly increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihua Jiang
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yinxiang Cheng
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mengyuan Xia
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bingrui Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qiaoce Ding
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Liye Lu
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jian-Rong Wang
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- Correspondence: (J.-R.W.); (X.M.)
| | - Xuefeng Mei
- Pharmaceutical Analytical & Solid-State Chemistry Research Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
- Correspondence: (J.-R.W.); (X.M.)
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Dang L, Zhang C, Su B, Ning N, Huang Q, Zhou S, Wu M, Ma W, Wang M, Cui P, Li Y, Wang S. Mechanisms of action of Zishen Yutai pills in treating premature ovarian failure determined by integrating UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS and network pharmacology analysis. BMC Complement Med Ther 2022; 22:281. [PMID: 36289509 PMCID: PMC9597968 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-022-03763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Zishen Yutai (ZSYT) pill, a patent Chinese medicine, has been widely used in the treatment of infertility, abortion, and adjunctive treatment of in vitro fertilization (IVF) for decades. Recently, the results of clinical observations showed that premature ovarian failure (POF) patients exhibited improved expression of steroids and clinical symptoms associated with hormone disorders after treatment with Zishen Yutai pills. However, the pharmacological mechanism of action of these pills remains unclear. Methods The compounds of Zishen Yutai pills found in blood circulation were identified via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS) technique in the serum of POF mice after oral administration of Zishen Yutai pills. The potential targets of compounds were screened using Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database, Traditional Chinese Medicine Database@Taiwan, Drugbank Database, PubChem, HIT, Pharmapper, and Swiss Target Prediction. The target genes associated with POF were collected from Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man Database, PharmGkb, Genecards, Therapeutic Target Database, and Genetic Association Database. The overlapping genes between the potential targets of Zishen Yutai pills’ compounds and the target genes associated with POF were clarified via protein-protein interaction (PPI), pathway, and network analysis. Results Nineteen compounds in Zishen Yutai pills were detected in the serum of POF mice after oral administration. A total of 695 Zishen Yutai (ZSYT) pill-related targets were screened, and 344 POF-related targets were collected. From the results of Zishen Yutai (ZSYT) pill-POF PPI analysis, CYP19A1, AKR1C3, ESR1, AR, and SRD5A2 were identified as key targets via network analysis, indicating their core role in the treatment of POF with Zishen Yutai pills. Moreover, the pathway enrichment results suggested that Zishen Yutai pills treated POF primarily by regulating neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and ovarian steroidogenesis. Conclusions Via virtual screening, we found that regulation of neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, steroid hormone biosynthesis, and ovarian steroidogenesis was the potential therapeutic mechanism of Zishen Yutai pills in treating POF. Our study suggested that combining the analysis of Zishen Yutai pills’ compounds in blood in vivo in the POF model and network pharmacology prediction might offer a tool to characterize the mechanism of Zishen Yutai pills in the POF. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03763-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Dang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China ,Post-Doctoral Research Center of Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Chunbo Zhang
- Post-Doctoral Research Center of Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Biru Su
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Na Ning
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Qiuling Huang
- Guangzhou Baiyunshan Zhongyi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Su Zhou
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Meng Wu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Wenqing Ma
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Man Wang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Pengfei Cui
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Yan Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei China
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9
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Zhao Y, Li XN, Zhang H, Cui JG, Wang JX, Chen MS, Li JL. Phthalate-induced testosterone/androgen receptor pathway disorder on spermatogenesis and antagonism of lycopene. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 439:129689. [PMID: 36104915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is an attracting growing concern owing to decline in sperm quality of men worldwide. Phthalates, in particular to di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) or its main metabolite mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), affect male reproductive development and function, which mainly accounts for reduction in male fertility. Lycopene (LYC) is a natural antioxidant agent that has been recognized as a possible therapeutic option for treating male infertility. Testosterone (T)/androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathway is involved in maintaining spermatogenesis and male fertility. How DEHP causes spermatogenesis disturbance and whether LYC could prevent DEHP-induced male reproductive toxicity have remained unclear. Using in vivo and vitro approaches, we demonstrated that DEHP caused T biosynthesis reduction in Leydig cell and secretory function disorder in Sertoli cell, and thereby resulted in spermatogenic impairment. Results also showed that MEHP caused mitochondrial damage and oxidative damage, which imposes a serious threat to the progress of spermatogenesis. However, LYC supplement reversed these changes. Mechanistically, DEHP contributed to male infertility via perturbing T/AR signaling pathway during spermatogenesis. Overall, our study reveals critical role for T/AR signal transduction in male fertility and provides promising insights into the protective role of LYC in phthalate-induced male reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Gen Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jia-Xin Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Ming-Shan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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10
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Racial Disparity in Quadruple Negative Breast Cancer: Aggressive Biology and Potential Therapeutic Targeting and Prevention. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14184484. [PMID: 36139643 PMCID: PMC9497140 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14184484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Quadruple negative breast cancer (QNBC), a subgroup of triple negative BC, has emerged as a highly aggressive BC subtype that disproportionately afflicts and impacts Black/African-American (AA) women. In this article, we review molecular distinctions in Black/AA and White/European-American (EA) QNBC biology as well as address potential non-genetic risk factors that could be underlying this racially disparate burden. We aim to provide deeper insight and provide a framework for novel discovery of actionable therapeutic targets and identify lifestyle changes to improve outcomes for Black/AA QNBC patients. Abstract Black/African-American (AA) women, relative to their White/European-American (EA) counterparts, experience disproportionately high breast cancer mortality. Central to this survival disparity, Black/AA women have an unequal burden of aggressive breast cancer subtypes, such as triple-negative breast cancer (ER/PR-, HER2-wild type; TNBC). While TNBC has been well characterized, recent studies have identified a highly aggressive androgen receptor (AR)-negative subtype of TNBC, quadruple-negative breast cancer (ER/PR-, HER2-wildtype, AR-; QNBC). Similar to TNBC, QNBC disproportionately impacts Black/AA women and likely plays an important role in the breast cancer survival disparities experienced by Black/AA women. Here, we discuss the racial disparities of QNBC and molecular signaling pathways that may contribute to the aggressive biology of QNBC in Black/AA women. Our immediate goal is to spotlight potential prevention and therapeutic targets for Black/AA QNBC; ultimately our goal is to provide greater insight into reducing the breast cancer survival burden experienced by Black/AA women.
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11
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Wu X, Feng W, Yang M, Liu X, Gao M, Li X, Gan L, He T. HC-1119, a deuterated Enzalutamide, inhibits Migration, Invasion and Metastasis of the AR-positive triple-negative breast Cancer cells. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:9231-9240. [PMID: 35960413 PMCID: PMC9515013 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07749-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) are aggressive, and they develop metastasis at earlier stages, relapse more frequently, and exhibits poorer prognosis than other subtypes of breast cancer. Due to the lack of estrogen receptor for endocrine therapy and HER2 for targeted therapy, new targeted therapies for TNBCs are urgently needed. Enzalutamide is a second-generation androgen receptor (AR) inhibitor, and HC-1119 is a new synthetic deuterated enzalutamide. Owing to the isotope effect, HC-1119 has many advantages over enzalutamide, including slow metabolism, high plasma concentration and low brain exposure. However, the efficacy of HC-1119 in inhibition of AR function in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not been studied. In this study, we found high-level AR expression in both Hs578T and SUM159PT TNBC cell lines. Activation of AR by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in both cell lines increased AR protein, induced AR-nuclear localization, enhanced cell migration and invasion in culture, and promoted liver metastasis in mice. Importantly, cotreatment with HC-1119 of these cells efficiently abolished all of these effects of DHT on both Hs578T and SUM159PT cells. These results indicate that HC-1119 is a very effective new second-generation AR antagonist that can inhibit the migration, invasion and metastasis of the AR-positive TNBC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuehong Wu
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Mindong Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, 355000, Fuan, Fujian Province, China
| | - Wanru Feng
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mao Yang
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xunxi Liu
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mengdi Gao
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xinghai Li
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
- Hinova Pharmaceuticals Inc, No. 2-3, 4th Floor, Rongyao Tower 1, 5 South Keyuan Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Gan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
| | - Tao He
- Institute for Cancer Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
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12
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Brouard V, Drouault M, Elie N, Guénon I, Hanoux V, Bouraïma-Lelong H, Delalande C. Effects of bisphenol A and estradiol in adult rat testis after prepubertal and pubertal exposure. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 111:211-224. [PMID: 35700937 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, male fertility has been decreasing worldwide. Many studies attribute this outcome to endocrine disruptors exposure such as bisphenol A (BPA), which is a chemical compound used in plastics synthesis and exhibiting estrogenic activity. In order to assess how the window of exposure modulates the effects of BPA on the testis, prepubertal (15 dpp to 30 dpp) and pubertal (60 dpp to 75 dpp) male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to BPA (50 µg/kg bw/day), 17-β-estradiol (E2) (20 µg/kg bw/day) as a positive control, or to a combination of these compounds. For both periods of exposure, the rats were sacrificed and their testes were collected at 75 dpp. The histological analysis and the quantification of the gene expression of testis cell markers by RT-qPCR confirmed the complete spermatogenesis in all groups for both periods of exposure. However, our results suggest a deleterious effect of BPA on the blood-testis barrier in adults after pubertal exposure as BPA and BPA+E2 treatments induced a decrease in caveolin-1 and connexin-43 gene expression; which are proteins of the junctional complexes. As none of these effects were found after a prepubertal exposure, these results suggested the reversibility of BPA's effects. Caution must be taken when transposing this finding to humans and further studies are needed in this regard. However, from a regulatory perspective, this study emphasizes the importance of taking into account different periods of exposure, as they present different sensitivities to BPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nicolas Elie
- Normandie Univ, UNICAEN, SF 4206 ICORE, CMABIO3, 14000 Caen, France
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13
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AOP key event relationship report: Linking decreased androgen receptor activation with decreased granulosa cell proliferation of gonadotropin-independent follicles. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:136-147. [PMID: 35868514 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
We recently proposed to formally recognize Key Event Relationships (KERs) as building blocks of Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) that can be independently developed and peer-reviewed. Here, we follow this approach and provide an independent KER from AOP345, which describes androgen receptor (AR) antagonism leading to decreased female fertility. This KER connects AR antagonism to reduced granulosa cell proliferation of gonadotropin-independent follicles (KER2273). We have developed both the KER and the two adjacent Key Events (KEs). A systematic approach was used to ensure that all relevant supporting evidence for KER2273 was retrieved. Supporting evidence for the KER highlights the importance of AR action during the early stages of follicular development. Both biological plausibility and empirical evidence are presented, with the latter also assessed for quality. We believe that tackling isolated KERs instead of whole AOPs will accelerate the AOP development. Faster AOP development will lead to the development of simple test methods that will aid screening of chemicals, endocrine disruptor identification, risk assessment, and subsequent regulation.
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14
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Venkatesh VS, Grossmann M, Zajac JD, Davey RA. The role of the androgen receptor in the pathogenesis of obesity and its utility as a target for obesity treatments. Obes Rev 2022; 23:e13429. [PMID: 35083843 PMCID: PMC9286619 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Obesity is associated with hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis dysregulation in males. Here, we summarize recent evidence derived from clinical trials and studies in preclinical animal models regarding the role of androgen receptor (AR) signaling in the pathophysiology of males with obesity. We also discuss therapeutic strategies targeting the AR for the treatment of obesity and their limitations and provide insight into the future research necessary to advance this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun S Venkatesh
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria.,Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jeffrey D Zajac
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria.,Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rachel A Davey
- Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria
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15
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Sarila G, Hutson JM, Vikraman J. Testicular descent: A review of a complex, multistaged process to identify potential hidden causes of UDT. J Pediatr Surg 2022; 57:479-487. [PMID: 34229874 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE What causes normal descent of the testis in a fetus, and what goes wrong with this complex process to cause undescended testes (UDT), or cryptorchidism? Over the last 2 decades, most authors searching for the cause(s) of UDT have looked at the 2 main hormones involved, insulin-like hormone 3 (Insl3) and testosterone (T)/ dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and their known upstream (hypothalamic-pituitary axis) and intracellular 'downstream' pathways. Despite these detailed searches, the genetic causes of UDT remain elusive, which suggest the aetiology is multifactorial, and/or we are looking in the wrong place. METHODS In this review we highlight the intricate morphological steps involved in testicular descent, which we propose may contain the currently 'idiopathic' causes of UDT. By integrating decades of research, we have underlined many areas that have been overlooked in the search for causes of UDT. RESULTS It is quite likely that the common causes of UDT are still hidden in these areas, and we suggest examining these processes is worthwhile in the hope of finding the common genetic anomalies that lead to cryptorchidism. Given the fact that a fibrous barrier preventing descent is often described at orchidopexy, examination of the extracellular matrix enzymes needed to allow gubernacular migration may be a fruitful place to start. CONCLUSION This review of the complex anatomical steps and hormonal regulation of testicular descent highlights many areas of morphology and signalling pathways that have been overlooked in the search for causes of UDT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulcan Sarila
- Surgery, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John M Hutson
- Surgery, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Urology Department, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Jaya Vikraman
- Surgery, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Pedersen EB, Christiansen S, Svingen T. AOP key event relationship report: Linking androgen receptor antagonism with nipple retention. Curr Res Toxicol 2022; 3:100085. [PMID: 36090961 PMCID: PMC9459418 DOI: 10.1016/j.crtox.2022.100085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
A full AOP KER description linking AR antagonism with nipple retention in rodents. Described KER 2133 is a non-adjacent KER of an intended AOP delineating anti-androgenicity as a mode for nipple retention. A case study for developing and publishing independent units of information under the AOP framework.
In rat developmental and reproductive toxicity studies, nipple/areola retention (NR) in male offspring is a biomarker for reduced androgen signaling during development. This is because nipples normally regress in male rats in response to androgen signaling during critical stages of development. NR is thus included as a mandatory endpoint in several OECD test guidelines for assessment of chemicals, particularly as a readout for anti-androgenic effects relevant for reproductive toxicity. With the growing interest in developing Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) to aid in chemical risk assessment, a more pragmatic approach has been proposed, whereby essential units of knowledge could be developed independently of complete AOPs, not least emergent key event relationships (KERs). Herein, we have developed a KER linking “androgen receptor antagonism” and “increased areola/nipple retention”. The KER is based on a literature review conducted in a transparent semi-systematic manner in peer-reviewed databases with pre-defined inclusion criteria. Twenty-seven papers were included for development of the KER. The results support a qualitative relationship between the two key events (KEs) with a high weight of evidence; i.e., a causal relationship between androgen receptor (AR) antagonism and nipple retention in male rats exists.
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17
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The Roles of Luteinizing Hormone, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and Testosterone in Spermatogenesis and Folliculogenesis Revisited. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312735. [PMID: 34884539 PMCID: PMC8658012 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis involve cell–cell interactions and gene expression orchestrated by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH regulates the proliferation and maturation of germ cells independently and in combination with LH. In humans, the requirement for high intratesticular testosterone (T) concentration in spermatogenesis remains both a dogma and an enigma, as it greatly exceeds the requirement for androgen receptor (AR) activation. Several data have challenged this dogma. Here we report our findings on a man with mutant LH beta subunit (LHβ) that markedly reduced T production to 1–2% of normal., but despite this minimal LH stimulation, T production by scarce mature Leydig cells was sufficient to initiate and maintain complete spermatogenesis. Also, in the LH receptor (LHR) knockout (LuRKO) mice, low-dose T supplementation was able to maintain spermatogenesis. In addition, in antiandrogen-treated LuRKO mice, devoid of T action, the transgenic expression of a constitutively activating follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) mutant was able to rescue spermatogenesis and fertility. Based on rodent models, it is believed that gonadotropin-dependent follicular growth begins at the antral stage, but models of FSHR inactivation in women contradict this claim. The complete loss of FSHR function results in the complete early blockage of folliculogenesis at the primary stage, with a high density of follicles of the prepubertal type. These results should prompt the reassessment of the role of gonadotropins in spermatogenesis, folliculogenesis and therapeutic applications in human hypogonadism and infertility.
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18
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Control of testes mass by androgen receptor paralogs in a cichlid. J Comp Physiol B 2021; 192:107-114. [PMID: 34643776 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-021-01417-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormones play numerous important and diverse roles in the differentiation and development of vertebrate primary and secondary reproductive characteristics. However, the exact role of androgen receptors-which bind circulating androgens-in this regulatory pathway is unclear. Teleost fishes further complicate this question by having two paralogs of the androgen receptor (ARα and ARβ) resulting from a duplication of their ancestral genome. We investigated the functional role of these two ARs on adult testes mass, by eliminating receptor function of one or both paralogs using CRISPR/Cas9 genome edited Astatotilapia burtoni, an African cichlid fish. Fish with two or more functional AR alleles were more likely to be male compared to fish with one or fewer, suggesting that the two paralogs may play redundant roles in the A. burtoni sex determination system. We replicated previous work showing that fish lacking functional ARβ possess testes smaller than wild-type fish, while fish lacking ARα possess testes larger than wild-type fish. However, we found novel evidence supporting a complex relationship between the two AR paralogs in the regulation of testes mass. For instance, the effects of ARα mutation on testes mass are eliminated in homozygous ARβ mutants but the reverse is not true. These results suggest a dynamic relationship between these two AR paralogs where ARβ functions may be permissive to ARα functions in the control of testes mass. This mechanism may contribute to the robust physiological plasticity displayed by A. burtoni and other social teleost fishes.
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19
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The Use of Androgen Priming in Women with Reduced Ovarian Reserve Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology. Semin Reprod Med 2021; 39:207-219. [PMID: 34500477 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Androgen priming with either dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) or testosterone has been suggested as an adjunct to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Numerous studies have investigated the effects of both DHEA and testosterone on IVF outcome. The results were inconsistent, and the quality of most studies is substandard. Meta-analyses have consistently reported that DHEA does appear to significantly improve IVF outcome in women with predicted or proven poor ovarian response (POR), but these have included some normal responders and/or nonrandomized studies. Our meta-analyses including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) incorporating only women with DOR or POR suggest that DHEA confers no benefit. While meta-analyses of RCTs on the use of testosterone in women with DOR or POR showed an improved IVF outcome, most studies included are of low quality with high risk of bias. When analysis of data from studies of only low-risk bias was performed, such a benefit with testosterone was not observed. Although recruitment may well be a challenge, a large, well-designed RCT is, however, still warranted to investigate whether or not androgen priming with either DHEA or testosterone should be recommended as an adjuvant treatment for women with DOR or POR undergoing IVF.
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20
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Perinatal exposure to known endocrine disrupters alters ovarian development and systemic steroid hormone profile in rats. Toxicology 2021; 458:152821. [PMID: 34051340 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2021.152821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Disrupted ovarian development induced by chemical exposure may impair fertility later in life. Since androgens are essential for early ovarian development, we speculated that perinatal exposure to a binary mixture of the known anti-androgens DEHP and procymidone could alter steroid synthesis, disrupt ovarian follicle recruitment and ultimately maturation in female rat offspring. Wistar rat dams were exposed by oral gavage from gestation day 7 to postnatatal day 22 to two mixture doses known to alter reproductive development in male offspring (low: 10 mg/kg bw/day of procymidone and 30 mg/kg bw/day of DEHP; high: 20 mg/kg bw/day of procymidone and 60 mg/kg bw/day of DEHP). The Effects on plasma steroid hormones, ovarian follicle distribution and expression of markers related to steroid synthesis were examined in female offspring. In prepubertal offspring, we observed an increased number of newly recruited (primary) follicles in exposed animals compared to controls, and the plasma steroid hormone profile was altered by exposure: levels of progesterone, corticosterone and estrone were dose dependently elevated, whereas androgen levels were unaffected. In adulthood, a trend towards a smaller number of early-stage follicles may point to accelerated loss of follicle reserves, which is disconcerting. The changes in follicle distribution in exposed ovaries may reflect the combined influence of androgen receptor antagonism and altered ovarian steroid synthesis. This study adds to a growing body of evidence showing altered ovarian development following exposure to human relevant chemicals with possible severe consequences for female fertility.
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21
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Shi H, Cheer K, Simanainen U, Lesmana B, Ma D, Hew JJ, Parungao RJ, Li Z, Cooper MS, Handelsman DJ, Maitz PK, Wang Y. The contradictory role of androgens in cutaneous and major burn wound healing. BURNS & TRAUMA 2021; 9:tkaa046. [PMID: 33928173 PMCID: PMC8058007 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkaa046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Wound healing is a complex process involving four overlapping phases: haemostasis, inflammation, cell recruitment and matrix remodeling. In mouse models, surgical, pharmacological and genetic approaches targeting androgen actions in skin have shown that androgens increase interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α production and reduce wound re-epithelization and matrix deposition, retarding cutaneous wound healing. Similarly, clinical studies have shown that cutaneous wound healing is slower in men compared to women. However, in major burn injury, which triggers not only local wound-healing processes but also systemic hypermetabolism, the role of androgens is poorly understood. Recent studies have claimed that a synthetic androgen, oxandrolone, increases protein synthesis, improves lean body mass and shortens length of hospital stay. However, the possible mechanisms by which oxandrolone regulates major burn injury have not been reported. In this review, we summarize the current findings on the roles of androgens in cutaneous and major burn wound healing, as well as androgens as a potential therapeutic treatment option for patients with major burn injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaikai Shi
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Kenny Cheer
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Ulla Simanainen
- Andrology, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Brian Lesmana
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Duncan Ma
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Jonathan J Hew
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Roxanne J Parungao
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Zhe Li
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia.,Burns and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Mark S Cooper
- Adrenal Steroid Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - David J Handelsman
- Andrology, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Peter K Maitz
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia.,Burns and Reconstructive Surgery Unit, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Yiwei Wang
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital, Gate, 3 Hospital road, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
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22
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Roy S, Huang B, Sinha N, Wang J, Sen A. Androgens regulate ovarian gene expression by balancing Ezh2-Jmjd3 mediated H3K27me3 dynamics. PLoS Genet 2021; 17:e1009483. [PMID: 33784295 PMCID: PMC8034747 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1009483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventionally viewed as male hormone, androgens play a critical role in female fertility. Although androgen receptors (AR) are transcription factors, to date very few direct transcriptional targets of ARs have been identified in the ovary. Using mouse models, this study provides three critical insights about androgen-induced gene regulation in the ovary and its impact on female fertility. First, RNA-sequencing reveals a number of genes and biological processes that were previously not known to be directly regulated by androgens in the ovary. Second, androgens can also influence gene expression by decreasing the tri-methyl mark on lysine 27 of histone3 (H3K27me3), a gene silencing epigenetic mark. ChIP-seq analyses highlight that androgen-induced modulation of H3K27me3 mark within gene bodies, promoters or distal enhancers have a much broader impact on ovarian function than the direct genomic effects of androgens. Third, androgen-induced decrease of H3K27me3 is mediated through (a) inhibiting the expression and activity of Enhancer of Zeste Homologue 2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase that promotes tri-methylation of K27 and (b) by inducing the expression of a histone demethylase called Jumonji domain containing protein-3 (JMJD3/KDM6B), responsible for removing the H3K27me3 mark. Androgens through the PI3K/Akt pathway, in a transcription-independent fashion, increase hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1α) protein levels, which in turn induce JMJD3 expression. Furthermore, proof of concept studies involving in vivo knockdown of Ar in the ovary and ovarian (granulosa) cell-specific Ar knockout mouse model show that ARs regulate the expression of key ovarian genes through modulation of H3K27me3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sambit Roy
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Binbin Huang
- Department of Computational Mathematics, Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Niharika Sinha
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Jianrong Wang
- Department of Computational Mathematics, Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
| | - Aritro Sen
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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23
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Gisela S B, M Virginia A, Gabriela A A, M Virginia T, Enrique H L, Laura K, Véronica L B. Androgen receptor and uterine histoarchitecture in a PCOS rat model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110973. [PMID: 32781251 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with hyperandrogenemia and uterine abnormalities. Our aim was to investigate the uterine effects of PCOS that are mediated through the androgen receptor (AR). After weaning, female rats were treated with sesame oil (Control), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), or DHEA + flutamide (FLU, an AR antagonist) for 20 consecutive days. On postnatal day 41, serum, ovarian and uterine tissues were collected. DHEA and DHEA + FLU rats showed increased testosterone levels. DHEA rats showed increased epithelial height, glandular density, subepithelial stroma and myometrial thickness, associated with decreased nuclei density. These rats also showed increased uterine water content, with decreased aquaporin (AQP) 3, 7 and 8 expression in the uterine epithelium and increased AQP8 expression in the myometrium. DHEA rats also showed decreased uterine collagen remodeling, decreased cell proliferation in the subepithelial stroma, and increased apoptosis in the luminal and glandular epithelium and in the myometrium. They also showed an increase in insulin-like growth factor-1 and a decrease in phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate 3-phosphatase. The uterine stroma of DHEA rats showed no changes in progesterone receptor or estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and increased AR expression. DHEA + FLU rats showed a smaller increase in the myometrial thickness, an increase in the uterine water content without AQP8 induction and a smaller decrease in collagen remodeling. These rats also showed no apoptosis induction and decreased proliferation in the myometrium, decreased ERα in the subepithelial stroma and myometrium and no modifications in AR. Our results demonstrate that the uterine cell turnover and collagen remodeling in DHEA rats are regulated through AR, directly or indirectly associated with ERα expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bracho Gisela S
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Acosta M Virginia
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Altamirano Gabriela A
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Tschopp M Virginia
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Luque Enrique H
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Kass Laura
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Bosquiazzo Véronica L
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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24
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Nagahama Y, Chakraborty T, Paul-Prasanth B, Ohta K, Nakamura M. Sex determination, gonadal sex differentiation, and plasticity in vertebrate species. Physiol Rev 2020; 101:1237-1308. [PMID: 33180655 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00044.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A diverse array of sex determination (SD) mechanisms, encompassing environmental to genetic, have been found to exist among vertebrates, covering a spectrum from fixed SD mechanisms (mammals) to functional sex change in fishes (sequential hermaphroditic fishes). A major landmark in vertebrate SD was the discovery of the SRY gene in 1990. Since that time, many attempts to clone an SRY ortholog from nonmammalian vertebrates remained unsuccessful, until 2002, when DMY/dmrt1by was discovered as the SD gene of a small fish, medaka. Surprisingly, however, DMY/dmrt1by was found in only 2 species among more than 20 species of medaka, suggesting a large diversity of SD genes among vertebrates. Considerable progress has been made over the last 3 decades, such that it is now possible to formulate reasonable paradigms of how SD and gonadal sex differentiation may work in some model vertebrate species. This review outlines our current understanding of vertebrate SD and gonadal sex differentiation, with a focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. An impressive number of genes and factors have been discovered that play important roles in testicular and ovarian differentiation. An antagonism between the male and female pathway genes exists in gonads during both sex differentiation and, surprisingly, even as adults, suggesting that, in addition to sex-changing fishes, gonochoristic vertebrates including mice maintain some degree of gonadal sexual plasticity into adulthood. Importantly, a review of various SD mechanisms among vertebrates suggests that this is the ideal biological event that can make us understand the evolutionary conundrums underlying speciation and species diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshitaka Nagahama
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Tapas Chakraborty
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,South Ehime Fisheries Research Center, Ehime University, Ainan, Japan.,Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan.,Karatsu Satellite of Aqua-Bioresource Innovation Center, Kyushu University, Karatsu, Japan
| | - Bindhu Paul-Prasanth
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan.,Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine, Amrita Vishwa Vidapeetham, Kochi, Kerala, India
| | - Kohei Ohta
- Laboratory of Marine Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Fukouka, Japan
| | - Masaru Nakamura
- Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.,Research Center, Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Okinawa, Japan
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25
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Cara AL, Myers MG, Elias CF. Lack of AR in LepRb Cells Disrupts Ambulatory Activity and Neuroendocrine Axes in a Sex-Specific Manner in Mice. Endocrinology 2020; 161:bqaa110. [PMID: 32609838 PMCID: PMC7383963 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa110] [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: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Disorders of androgen imbalance, such as hyperandrogenism in females or hypoandrogenism in males, increase risk of visceral adiposity, type 2 diabetes, and infertility. Androgens act upon androgen receptors (AR) which are expressed in many tissues. In the brain, AR are abundant in hypothalamic nuclei involved in regulation of reproduction and energy homeostasis, yet the role of androgens acting via AR in specific neuronal populations has not been fully elucidated. Leptin receptor (LepRb)-expressing neurons coexpress AR predominantly in hypothalamic arcuate and ventral premammillary nuclei (ARH and PMv, respectively), with low colocalization in other LepRb neuronal populations, and very low colocalization in the pituitary gland and gonads. Deletion of AR from LepRb-expressing cells (LepRbΔAR) has no effect on body weight, energy expenditure, and glucose homeostasis in male and female mice. However, LepRbΔAR female mice show increased body length later in life, whereas male LepRbΔAR mice show an increase in spontaneous ambulatory activity. LepRbΔAR mice display typical pubertal timing, estrous cycles, and fertility, but increased testosterone levels in males. Removal of sex steroid negative feedback action induced an exaggerated rise in luteinizing hormone in LepRbΔAR males and follicle-stimulating hormone in LepRbΔAR females. Our findings show that AR can directly affect a subset of ARH and PMv neurons in a sex-specific manner and demonstrate specific androgenic actions in the neuroendocrine hypothalamus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra L Cara
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Martin G Myers
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Carol F Elias
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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26
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Gao XY, Liu Y, Lv Y, Huang T, Lu G, Liu HB, Zhao SG. Role of Androgen Receptor for Reconsidering the "True" Polycystic Ovarian Morphology in PCOS. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8993. [PMID: 32488141 PMCID: PMC7265442 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65890-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) is one of the key features of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The diagnosis of PCOM according to the Rotterdam criteria (≥12 antral follicles per ovary) is debated because of the high prevalence of PCOM in the general population. Androgen receptor (AR) is associated with the PCOS phenotype and might as well play a role during folliculogenesis. This study is aimed to investigate the expression of the AR in PCOS granulosa cells (GCs) and its relationship with the PCOM phenotype. Methods: 106 PCOS cases and 63 controls were included from the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University. The diagnosis of PCOS was following the Rotterdam criteria (2003). Total RNA was extracted from GCs retrieved from ovarian stimulation. The expression of AR was amplified by means of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The AR expression was significantly decreased in PCOS cases, especially in the tPCOM subgroup (≥20 antral follicles per ovary). Correlation analyses showed that AR expression was significantly correlated with serum FSH levels in controls and non-tPCOM. In the tPCOM subgroup, the AR expression was significantly correlated with serum LH levels. Interestingly, the significance of these correlations gradually disappeared as the threshold of antral follicles increased above 24 for PCOM. Conclusions:AR was differently expressed in PCOS and especially in the tPCOM subtype. The correlation of AR expression with serum FSH and LH might be associated with the number of follicles in PCOM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Ying Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yue Lv
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Gang Lu
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hong-Bin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shi-Gang Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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27
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Brązert M, Kranc W, Nawrocki MJ, Sujka-Kordowska P, Konwerska A, Jankowski M, Kocherova I, Celichowski P, Jeseta M, Ożegowska K, Antosik P, Bukowska D, Skowroński MT, Bruska M, Pawelczyk L, Zabel M, Piotrowska-Kempisty H, Nowicki M, Kempisty B. New markers for regulation of transcription and macromolecule metabolic process in porcine oocytes during in vitro maturation. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:1537-1551. [PMID: 32016446 PMCID: PMC7002967 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.10963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is essential for proper fertilization, embryo implantation and early development. While the physiological conditions of these processes are relatively well-known, its exact molecular mechanisms remain widely undiscovered. Oocyte growth, differentiation and maturation are therefore the subject of scientific debate. Precious literature has indicated that the oocyte itself serves a regulatory role in the mechanisms underlying these processes. Hence, the present study performed expression microarrays to analyze the complete transcriptome of porcine oocytes during their in vitro maturation (IVM). Pig material was used for experimentation, as it possesses similarities to the reproductive processes and general genetic proximities of Sus scrofa to human. Oocytes, isolated from the ovaries of slaughtered animals were assessed via the Brilliant Cresyl Blue test and directed to IVM. A number of oocytes were left to be analyzed as the ‘before IVM’ group. Oocyte mRNA was isolated and used for microarray analysis, which was subsequently validated via RT-qPCR. The current study particularly focused on genes belonging to ‘positive regulation of transcription, DNA-dependent’, ‘positive regulation of gene expression’, ‘positive regulation of macromolecule metabolic process’ and ‘positive regulation of transcription from RNA polymerase II promoter’ ontologies. FOS, VEGFA, ESR1, AR, CCND2, EGR2, ENDRA, GJA1, INHBA, IHH, INSR, APP, WWTR1, SMARCA1, NFAT5, SMAD4, MAP3K1, EGR1, RORA, ECE1, NR5A1, KIT, IKZF2, MEF2C, SH3D19, MITF and PSMB4 were all determined to be significantly altered (fold change, >|2|; P<0.05) among these groups, with their downregulation being observed after IVM. Genes with the most altered expressions were analyzed and considered to be potential markers of maturation associated with transcription regulation and macromolecule metabolism process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Brązert
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Mariusz J Nawrocki
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Patrycja Sujka-Kordowska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Aneta Konwerska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Maurycy Jankowski
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Ievgeniia Kocherova
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Piotr Celichowski
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Michal Jeseta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno 601‑77, Czech Republic
| | - Katarzyna Ożegowska
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Paweł Antosik
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Dorota Bukowska
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Mariusz T Skowroński
- Veterinary Center, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun 87‑100, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Bruska
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Leszek Pawelczyk
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑535, Poland
| | - Maciej Zabel
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Department of Human Morphology and Embryology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw 50‑368, Poland
| | | | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan 60‑781, Poland
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28
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Anestis A, Zoi I, Papavassiliou AG, Karamouzis MV. Androgen Receptor in Breast Cancer-Clinical and Preclinical Research Insights. Molecules 2020; 25:E358. [PMID: 31952272 PMCID: PMC7024330 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25020358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 01/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The Androgen Receptor (AR) is emerging as an important factor in the pathogenesis of breast cancer (BC), which is the most common malignancy among females worldwide. The concordance of more than 70% of AR expression in primary and metastatic breast tumors implies that AR may be a new marker and a potential therapeutic target among AR-positive breast cancer patients. Biological insight into AR-positive breast cancer reveals that AR may cross-talk with several vital signaling pathways, including key molecules and receptors. AR exhibits different behavior depending on the breast cancer subtype. Preliminary clinical research using AR-targeted drugs, which have already been FDA-approved for prostate cancer (PC), has given promising results for AR-positive breast cancer patients. However, since the prognostic and predictive value of AR positivity remains uncertain, it is difficult to identify and stratify patients that would benefit from AR-targeted therapies. Herein, through a review of preclinical studies, clinical studies, and clinical trials, we summarize the biology of AR, its prognostic and predictive value, as well as its therapeutic implications by breast cancer molecular subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aristomenis Anestis
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (I.Z.); (A.G.P.)
| | - Ilianna Zoi
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (I.Z.); (A.G.P.)
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (I.Z.); (A.G.P.)
| | - Michalis V. Karamouzis
- Molecular Oncology Unit, Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.A.); (I.Z.); (A.G.P.)
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Laikon General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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29
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Løssl K, Freiesleben NLC, Wissing ML, Birch Petersen K, Holt MD, Mamsen LS, Anderson RA, Andersen CY. Biological and Clinical Rationale for Androgen Priming in Ovarian Stimulation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:627. [PMID: 33013703 PMCID: PMC7498541 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen receptors are expressed by all stages of growing follicles, and follicular fluid androgen levels are positively correlated to granulosa cell androgen receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor expression. Thus, androgens may promote follicular growth, accumulation and/or responsiveness to gonadotropins. This is explored therapeutically in the concept of androgen priming, to improve the ovarian response to stimulation in assisted reproduction. Androgen effects may be achieved in two different ways, either directly by providing exogenous androgen or by providing luteinizing hormone (LH) activity [i.e., LH or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)] to stimulate local ovarian production of androgen. The androgen concentrations in follicular fluid by far exceed the levels in female circulation and it has recently been shown that there was no correlation between serum testosterone levels and follicular fluid androgen levels. There is some evidence that administration of exogenous dehydroepiandrosterone or testosterone increases live birth rates, but an optimal protocol has not been established and such adjuvant treatment should be considered experimental. Furthermore, studies exploring long-term administration of LH activity, achieving LH levels comparable to those seen in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, are awaited. The aim of the present review is to discuss critically the most suitable approach for androgen priming from a biological and clinical standpoint, and to evaluate current approaches and results obtained in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Løssl
- The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | | | | | - Linn Salto Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Richard A. Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Claus Yding Andersen
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30
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Cunha GR, Sinclair A, Ricke WA, Robboy SJ, Cao M, Baskin LS. Reproductive tract biology: Of mice and men. Differentiation 2019; 110:49-63. [PMID: 31622789 PMCID: PMC7339118 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The study of male and female reproductive tract development requires expertise in two separate disciplines, developmental biology and endocrinology. For ease of experimentation and economy, the mouse has been used extensively as a model for human development and pathogenesis, and for the most part similarities in developmental processes and hormone action provide ample justification for the relevance of mouse models for human reproductive tract development. Indeed, there are many examples describing the phenotype of human genetic disorders that have a reasonably comparable phenotype in mice, attesting to the congruence between mouse and human development. However, anatomic, developmental and endocrinologic differences exist between mice and humans that (1) must be appreciated and (2) considered with caution when extrapolating information between all animal models and humans. It is critical that the investigator be aware of both the similarities and differences in organogenesis and hormone action within male and female reproductive tracts so as to focus on those features of mouse models with clear relevance to human development/pathology. This review, written by a team with extensive expertise in the anatomy, developmental biology and endocrinology of both mouse and human urogenital tracts, focusses upon the significant human/mouse differences, and when appropriate voices a cautionary note regarding extrapolation of mouse models for understanding development of human male and female reproductive tracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald R Cunha
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA; George M. O'Brien Center of Research Excellence, Department of Urology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 93705, USA; Department of Pathology, Duke University, Davison Building, Box 3712, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Adriane Sinclair
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Will A Ricke
- George M. O'Brien Center of Research Excellence, Department of Urology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 93705, USA
| | - Stanley J Robboy
- Department of Pathology, Duke University, Davison Building, Box 3712, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mei Cao
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Laurence S Baskin
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
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31
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Pregnancy following diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency: a systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:467-476. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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32
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Lelono A, Riedstra B, Groothuis T. Ejaculate testosterone levels affect maternal investment in red junglefowl (Gallus gallus gallus). Sci Rep 2019; 9:12126. [PMID: 31431647 PMCID: PMC6702165 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48563-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Substantial concentrations of testosterone are not only present in a male’s circulation, but also in its ejaculate. Surprisingly, the regulation of ejaculate T and its effects on females and their offspring, potentially a cryptic paternal trait, are not known. We found lower circulating and higher ejaculate T concentrations in subordinate red junglefowl (Gallus gallus gallus) males compared to dominant males, suggestive of an adaptive trade-off in T allocation to circulation and their ejaculate. Subsequently, we artificially inseminated females with either testosterone enriched (TE) or control ejaculates (CE) in a cross-over design. TE females produced heavier eggs than CE females. Offspring growth and tonic immobility were affected in a sex-specific way by TE. TE sons were heavier with shorter TI duration than CE sons, and TE daughters were lighter than CE daughters but daughters did not differ in TI score. However, the chicks competitiveness was not influenced by the TE nor CE. This indicates a previously unknown function of ejaculate testosterone as well as a new form of interaction between a cryptic paternal trait and a maternal effect that may be widespread in the animal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmoro Lelono
- Behavioural Biology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands. .,Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Jember, 68121, Jember, East Java, Indonesia.
| | - Bernd Riedstra
- Behavioural Biology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ton Groothuis
- Behavioural Biology, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
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33
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Venema CM, Bense RD, Steenbruggen TG, Nienhuis HH, Qiu SQ, van Kruchten M, Brown M, Tamimi RM, Hospers GAP, Schröder CP, Fehrmann RSN, de Vries EGE. Consideration of breast cancer subtype in targeting the androgen receptor. Pharmacol Ther 2019; 200:135-147. [PMID: 31077689 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a drug target in breast cancer, and AR-targeted therapies have induced tumor responses in breast cancer patients. In this review, we summarized the role of AR in breast cancer based on preclinical and clinical data. Response to AR-targeted therapies in unselected breast cancer populations is relatively low. Preclinical and clinical data show that AR antagonists might have a role in estrogen receptor (ER)-negative/AR-positive tumors. The prognostic value of AR for patients remains uncertain due to the use of various antibodies and cut-off values for immunohistochemical assessment. To get more insight into the role of AR in breast cancer, we additionally performed a retrospective pooled analysis to determine the prognostic value of the AR using mRNA profiles of 7270 primary breast tumors. Our analysis shows that a higher AR mRNA level is associated with improved disease outcome in patients with ER-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative tumors, but with worse disease outcome in HER2-positive subgroups. In conclusion, next to AR expression, incorporation of additional tumor characteristics will potentially make AR targeting a more valuable therapeutic strategy in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clasina M Venema
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rico D Bense
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tessa G Steenbruggen
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde H Nienhuis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Si-Qi Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands; The Breast Center, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Michel van Kruchten
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Myles Brown
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Rulla M Tamimi
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Geke A P Hospers
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carolina P Schröder
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rudolf S N Fehrmann
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth G E de Vries
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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34
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Dević Pavlić S, Tramišak Milaković T, Panić Horvat L, Čavlović K, Vlašić H, Manestar M, Smiljan Severinski N, Radojčić Badovinac A. Genes for anti-Müllerian hormone and androgen receptor are underexpressed in human cumulus cells surrounding morphologically highly graded oocytes. SAGE Open Med 2019; 7:2050312119865137. [PMID: 31360520 PMCID: PMC6637837 DOI: 10.1177/2050312119865137] [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: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of genes crucial for the quality of the oocyte and whether expression levels of these genes in cumulus cells can be biological markers for the quality of the oocyte, zygote or embryo, or even for achievement of pregnancy after the assisted reproductive technology procedure. We examined the expression profile of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) gene and its respective receptors: anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 (AMHR2), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and androgen receptor (AR) in cumulus cells (CCs) surrounding the oocyte, as well as AMH concentrations in follicular fluid of the associated follicle. The obtained gene expression levels were correlated with the morphological quality of the associated oocyte, zygote and embryo as well as with assisted reproductive technology outcome following the intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure. Methods: This study involved 129 cumulus cells and 35 follicular fluid samples, taken from 58 patients undergoing the intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure. Oocytes, zygotes and embryos were assessed for morphological quality. The relative gene expression of AMH, AMHR2, FSHR and AR was calculated using the delta–delta Ct method. Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in follicular fluids were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The results yielded suggest a relationship between AMH, AR and oocyte morphology: AMH and AR gene expression levels in CCs surrounding morphologically optimal oocytes were significantly lower than in CCs surrounding oocytes with suboptimal morphology (p = 0.011 and p = 0.008, respectively). Statistically significant positive correlation was found between mRNA expression levels of AMH and FSHR (p < 0.001), AMH and AR (p = 0.001), AMHR2 and FSHR (p < 0.001), AMHR2 and AR (p < 0.001), as well as between FSHR and AR (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Assessed results point to AMH and AR relation with oocyte maturity, but not with its fertilization potential, or with embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda Panić Horvat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Kristina Čavlović
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Vlašić
- Šparac Gynecology and Obstetrics Polyclinic, Split, Croatia
| | - Miljenko Manestar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | - Anđelka Radojčić Badovinac
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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35
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Tang H, Chen Y, Wang L, Yin Y, Li G, Guo Y, Liu Y, Lin H, Cheng CHK, Liu X. Fertility impairment with defective spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in male zebrafish lacking androgen receptor. Biol Reprod 2019; 98:227-238. [PMID: 29228103 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The pivotal role of androgen receptor (AR) in regulating male fertility has attracted much research attention in the past two decades. Previous studies have shown that total AR knockout would lead to incomplete spermatogenesis and lowered serum testosterone levels in mice, resulting in azoospermia and infertility. However, the precise physiological role of ar in controlling fertility of male fish is still poorly understood. In this study, we have established an ar knockout zebrafish line by transcription activator-like effectors nucleases. Homozygous ar mutant male fish with smaller testis size were found to be infertile when tested by natural mating. Intriguingly, a small amount of mature spermatozoa was observed in the ar mutant fish. These mature spermatozoa could fertilize healthy oocytes, albeit with a lower fertilization rate, by in vitro fertilization. Moreover, the expression levels of most steroidogenic genes in the testes were significantly elevated in the ar mutants. In contrast, the levels of estradiol and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) were significantly decreased in the ar mutants, indicating that steroidogenesis was defective in the mutants. Furthermore, the protein level of LHβ in the serum decreased markedly in the ar mutants when compared with wild-type fish, probably due to the positive feedback from the diminished steroid hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haipei Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Le Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yike Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gaofei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoran Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Christopher H K Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences Core Laboratory, The Chinese University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaochun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Institute of Aquatic Economic Animals and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Improved Variety Reproduction in Aquatic Economic Animals, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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36
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Circulating miRNA Profiling of Women at High Risk for Ovarian Cancer. Transl Oncol 2019; 12:714-725. [PMID: 30856556 PMCID: PMC6411608 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Survival of epithelial ovarian cancer patients remains poor without significant change over many decades. There is a need to better identify women at high risk (HR) for ovarian cancer. We propose that miRNA dysregulation may play critical roles in the early stages of ovarian cancer development. Circulating miRNAs may represent an important biomarker in this context, and miRNA profiling of serum in women at HR compared to those at low risk (LR) may give insights in tumor initiation pathways. There is also rationale for a specific focus on regulation of the androgen and its related hypoxia pathways in tumor initiation. We hypothesized that subsets of these pathway related miRNAs may be downregulated in the HR state. Serum from four HR and five LR women were sequenced and analyzed for 2083 miRNAs. We found 137 miRNAs dysregulated between the HR and LR groups, of which 36 miRNAs were overexpressed in HR and the vast majority (101 miRNAs or 74%) downregulated in the HR, when compared to LR serum. mRNA targets for the differentially expressed miRNAs were analyzed from three different miRNA-mRNA interaction resources. Functional association analysis of hypoxia and androgen pathway mRNA targets of dysregulated miRNAs in HR serum revealed that all but one of the miRNAs that target 52 hypoxia genes were downregulated in HR compared to LR serum. Androgen pathway analysis also had a similar expression pattern where all but one of the miRNAs that target these 135 identified genes were downregulated in HR serum. Overall, there were 91 differentially expressed miRNA-mRNA pairings in the hypoxia analysis. In the androgen-related analysis, overall, there were 429 differentially expressed miRNA-mRNA pairs. Our pilot study suggests that almost all miRNAs that are conserved and/or validated are downregulated in the HR compared to LR serum. This study, which requires validation, suggests that, via miRNA dysregulation, involvement of both hypoxia and its related androgen pathways may contribute to the HR state. This pilot study is the first report to our knowledge that studies circulating miRNA profiling of HR and LR women.
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37
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Houbrechts AM, Van Houcke J, Darras VM. Disruption of deiodinase type 2 in zebrafish disturbs male and female reproduction. J Endocrinol 2019; 241:JOE-18-0549.R3. [PMID: 30817317 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones are crucial mediators of many aspects of vertebrate life, including reproduction. The key player is the biologically active 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), whose local bio-availability is strictly regulated by deiodinase enzymes. Deiodinase type 2 (Dio2) is present in many tissues and is the main enzyme for local T3 production. To unravel its role in different physiological processes, we generated a mutant zebrafish line, completely lacking Dio2 activity. Here we focus on the reproductive phenotype studied at the level of offspring production, gametogenesis, functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and sex steroid production. Homozygous Dio2-deficient zebrafish were hypothyroid, displayed a delay in sexual maturity, and the duration of their reproductive period was substantially shortened. Fecundity and fertilization were also severely reduced. Gamete counts pointed to a delay in oogenesis at onset of sexual maturity and later on to an accumulation of oocytes in mutant ovaries due to inhibition of ovulation. Analysis of spermatogenesis showed a strongly decreased number of spermatogonia A at onset of sexual maturity. Investigation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis revealed that dysregulation was largely confined to the gonads with significant upregulation of igf3, and a strong decrease in sex steroid production concomitant with alterations in gene expression in steroidogenesis/steroid signaling pathways. Rescue of the phenotype by T3 supplementation starting at 4 weeks resulted in normalization of reproductive activity in both sexes. The combined results show that reproductive function in mutants is severely hampered in both sexes, thereby linking the loss of Dio2 activity and the resulting hypothyroidism to reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Houbrechts
- A Houbrechts, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jolien Van Houcke
- J Van houcke, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Veerle M Darras
- V Darras, Laboratory of Comparative Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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38
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Li J, Huang D, Sun X, Li X, Cheng CHK. Zinc mediates the action of androgen in acting as a downstream effector of luteinizing hormone on oocyte maturation in zebrafish†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:468-478. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Duo Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiao Sun
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
| | - Xuehui Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Christopher H K Cheng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong, China
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39
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Handelsman DJ, Hirschberg AL, Bermon S. Circulating Testosterone as the Hormonal Basis of Sex Differences in Athletic Performance. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:803-829. [PMID: 30010735 PMCID: PMC6391653 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 229] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Elite athletic competitions have separate male and female events due to men's physical advantages in strength, speed, and endurance so that a protected female category with objective entry criteria is required. Prior to puberty, there is no sex difference in circulating testosterone concentrations or athletic performance, but from puberty onward a clear sex difference in athletic performance emerges as circulating testosterone concentrations rise in men because testes produce 30 times more testosterone than before puberty with circulating testosterone exceeding 15-fold that of women at any age. There is a wide sex difference in circulating testosterone concentrations and a reproducible dose-response relationship between circulating testosterone and muscle mass and strength as well as circulating hemoglobin in both men and women. These dichotomies largely account for the sex differences in muscle mass and strength and circulating hemoglobin levels that result in at least an 8% to 12% ergogenic advantage in men. Suppression of elevated circulating testosterone of hyperandrogenic athletes results in negative effects on performance, which are reversed when suppression ceases. Based on the nonoverlapping, bimodal distribution of circulating testosterone concentration (measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry)-and making an allowance for women with mild hyperandrogenism, notably women with polycystic ovary syndrome (who are overrepresented in elite athletics)-the appropriate eligibility criterion for female athletic events should be a circulating testosterone of <5.0 nmol/L. This would include all women other than those with untreated hyperandrogenic disorders of sexual development and noncompliant male-to-female transgender as well as testosterone-treated female-to-male transgender or androgen dopers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angelica L Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stephane Bermon
- Laboratoire Motricité Humaine, Education, Sport, Santé, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.,Health and Science Department, International Association of Athletics Federations, Monaco
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40
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Kensler KH, Beca F, Baker GM, Heng YJ, Beck AH, Schnitt SJ, Hazra A, Rosner BA, Eliassen AH, Hankinson SE, Brown M, Tamimi RM. Androgen receptor expression in normal breast tissue and subsequent breast cancer risk. NPJ Breast Cancer 2018; 4:33. [PMID: 30276234 PMCID: PMC6155011 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-018-0085-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormone signaling is critical in the development of breast cancers, although the role of the androgen receptor remains unclear. This study evaluated androgen receptor (AR) expression in normal breast tissue as a potential marker of breast cancer risk. We conducted a nested case-control study of women with benign breast disease (BBD) within the Nurses' Health Studies. Epithelial AR expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry in normal tissue from the BBD biopsy and the percent of positive nuclei was estimated in ordinal categories of 10% for 78 breast cancer cases and 276 controls. Logistic regression models adjusting for the matching factors and BBD lesion type were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for the association between AR expression (tertiles: ≤10%, 11-30%, and >30%) and breast cancer risk. AR expression in normal breast tissue was not associated with subsequent breast cancer risk (ORT3vsT1 = 0.9, 95% CI = 0.4-1.8, p trend = 0.68). In comparison with low AR/low ER women, ORs of 0.4 (95% CI = 0.1-1.2) for high AR/high ER women, 1.8 (95% CI = 0.4-7.8) for low AR/high ER women, and 0.7 (95% CI = 0.3-1.6) for high AR/low ER women were observed (p interaction = 0.21). Ki67 did not modify the association between AR expression and breast cancer risk (p interaction = 0.75). There was little evidence for an overall association between AR expression in normal breast tissue and breast cancer risk. These findings did not show that the AR association varied by Ki67 expression in normal breast tissue, though there was suggestive heterogeneity by ER expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin H Kensler
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,2Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Francisco Beca
- 3Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94035 USA
| | - Gabrielle M Baker
- 4Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Yujing J Heng
- 4Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | | | - Stuart J Schnitt
- 5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,7Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Aditi Hazra
- 5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,8Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Bernard A Rosner
- 5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,9Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,10Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - A Heather Eliassen
- 2Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,9Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Susan E Hankinson
- 2Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,9Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,11Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Massachusetts School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Amherst, MA 01003 USA
| | - Myles Brown
- 1Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215 USA.,5Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215 USA
| | - Rulla M Tamimi
- 2Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115 USA.,9Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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Comparative mRNA and miRNA expression in European mouflon (Ovis musimon) and sheep (Ovis aries) provides novel insights into the genetic mechanisms for female reproductive success. Heredity (Edinb) 2018; 122:172-186. [PMID: 29784930 PMCID: PMC6327046 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-018-0090-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolific breeds of domestic sheep (Ovis aries) are important genetic resources due to their reproductive performance, which is characterized by multiple lambs per birth and out-of-season breeding. However, the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying the important reproductive traits, particularly from the evolutionary genomics perspective, has impeded the efficient advancement of sheep breeding. Here, for the first time, by performing RNA-sequencing we built a de novo transcriptome assembly of ovarian and endometrial tissues in European mouflon (Ovis musimon) and performed an mRNA–miRNA integrated expression profiling analysis of the wild species and a highly prolific domestic sheep breed, the Finnsheep. We identified several novel genes with differentially expressed mRNAs (e.g., EREG, INHBA, SPP1, AMH, TDRD5, and ZP2) between the wild and domestic sheep, which are functionally involved in oocyte and follicle development and fertilization, and are significantly (adjusted P-value < 0.05) enriched in the Gene Ontology (GO) terms of various reproductive process, including the regulation of fertilization, oogenesis, ovarian follicle development, and sperm–egg recognition. Additionally, we characterized 58 differentially expressed miRNAs and 210 associated target genes that are essential for the regulation of female reproduction cycles through specific regulatory networks [e.g., (miR-136, miR-374a, miR-9-5p)-(EREG, INHBA)]. Furthermore, our integrated mRNA and miRNA expression profiling analysis elucidated novel direct and indirect miRNA/mRNA causal regulatory relationships related to the reproductive traits of the Ovis species. This study provides in-depth insights into the genomic evolution underlying the reproductive traits of the Ovis species and valuable resources for ovine genomics.
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Jia X, Liu Z, Lu X, Tang J, Wu Y, Du Q, He J, Zhang X, Jiang J, Liu W, Zheng Y, Ding Y, Zhu W, Zhang H. Effects of MCLR exposure on sex hormone synthesis and reproduction-related genes expression of testis in male Rana nigromaculata. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 236:12-20. [PMID: 29414332 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.01.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine-arginine (MCLR) is the most popular and toxic variant among microcystins, which can cause severe reproductive toxicity to animals. However, the mechanisms of reproductive toxicity induced by MCLR in amphibians are still not entirely clear. In the current study, toxicity mechanisms of MCLR on the reproductive system of male Rana nigromaculata followed by low concentration (0, 0.1, 1, and 10 μg/L) and short-term (0, 7, and 14 days) MCLR exposure were shown. It was observed that MCLR could be bioaccumulated in the testes of male frogs, and the theoretical bioaccumulation factor values were 0.24 and 0.19 exposed to 1 μg/L and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days, respectively. MCLR exposure significantly decreased testosterone (T) concentrations and increased estradiol (E2) concentrations exposed to 1 and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days. The mRNA levels of HSD17B3 were downregulated, and HSD17B1 and CYP19A1 mRNA expression levels were upregulated, respectively. Only 10 μg/L MCLR group showed significant induction of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content. Moreover, AR and ESR1 mRNA expression levels were significantly upregulated exposed to 1 and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days, respectively. Our results suggested that low-concentration MCLR induced transcription changes of CYP19A1, HSD17B3, and HSD17B1 led to endocrine disorders, and caused interference of spermatogenesis by the decrease of T and abnormal gene expressions of AR and ESR1 in the testes of R. nigromaculata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuying Jia
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Zhengquan Liu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Xiangjun Lu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Juan Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Yingzhu Wu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Qiongxia Du
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Jianbo He
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Xinyun Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Jinxiao Jiang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Wenli Liu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Yuqing Zheng
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Ying Ding
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China
| | - Weiqin Zhu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China
| | - Hangjun Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China.
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43
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Walters KA, Handelsman DJ. Role of androgens in the ovary. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 465:36-47. [PMID: 28687450 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been well established for decades that androgens, namely testosterone (T) plays an important role in female reproductive physiology as the precursor for oestradiol (E2). However, in the last decade a direct role for androgens, acting via the androgen receptor (AR), in female reproductive function has been confirmed. Deciphering the specific roles of androgens in ovarian function has been hindered as complete androgen resistant females cannot be generated by natural breeding. In addition, androgens can be converted into estrogens which has caused confusion when interpreting findings from pharmacological studies, as observed effects could have been mediated via the AR or estrogen receptor. The creation and analysis of genetic mouse models with global and cell-specific disruption of the Ar gene, the sole mediator of pure androgenic action, has now allowed the elucidation of a role for AR-mediated androgen actions in the regulation of normal and pathological ovarian function. This review aims to summarize findings from clinical, animal, pharmacological and novel genetic AR mouse models to provide an understanding of the important roles androgens play in the ovary, as well as providing insights into the human implications of these roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Walters
- Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia.
| | - D J Handelsman
- Andrology Laboratory, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2139, Australia
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Hunter I, Hay CW, Esswein B, Watt K, McEwan IJ. Tissue control of androgen action: The ups and downs of androgen receptor expression. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 465:27-35. [PMID: 28789969 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The hormone testosterone plays crucial roles during male development and puberty and throughout life, as an anabolic regulator of muscle and bone structure and function. The actions of testosterone are mediated, primarily, through the androgen receptor, a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily. The androgen receptor gene is located on the X-chromosome and receptor levels are tightly controlled both at the level of transcription of the gene and post-translationally at the protein level. Sp1 has emerged as the major driver of expression of the androgen receptor gene, while auto-regulation by androgens is associated with both positive and negative regulation in a possible cell-selective manner. Research into the networks of positive and negative regulators of the androgen receptor gene are vital in order to understand the temporal and spatial control of receptor levels and the consequences for healthy aging and disease. A clear understanding of the multiple transcription factors participating in regulation of the androgen receptor gene will likely aid in the development and application of hormone therapies to boast or curb receptor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Hunter
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Colin W Hay
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Bianca Esswein
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK; Friedrich-Schiller-Universitat, Jena, Germany
| | - Kate Watt
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK
| | - Iain J McEwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, Scotland, UK.
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Jiang Z, Zhou B, Li X, Kirby GM, Zhang X. Echinacoside Increases Sperm Quantity in Rats by Targeting the Hypothalamic Androgen Receptor. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3839. [PMID: 29497114 PMCID: PMC5832853 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22211-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major health issue with an estimated prevalence of 4.2% of male infertility worldwide. Our early work demonstrated that Cistanche extracts protect against sperm damage in mice and that echinacoside (ECH) is one of the major active components. Here we report an essential role for ECH, a natural product that reverses or protects against oligoasthenospermia in rats. ECH was assayed by HPLC, the quantity and quality of sperm was evaluated and hormone levels were determined by radioimmunosorbent assay. ECH reduced levels of androgen receptor (AR) and key steroidogenic-related genes as determined by Western blot and qPCR analysis. The interaction between ECH and AR were evaluated by indirect ELISA and molecular docking. The results show that ECH combined with hypothalamic AR in the pocket of Met-894 and Val-713 to inhibit transfer of AR from the cytoplasm to nuclei in the hypothalamus. While negative feedback of sex hormone regulation was inhibited, positive feedback was stimulated to increase the secretion of luteinizing hormone and testosterone subsequently enhancing the quantity of sperm. Taken together, these data demonstrate that ECH blocks AR activity in the hypothalamus to increase the quantity of sperm and protect against oligoasthenospermia in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Jiang
- Research Center of Modern Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Xinping Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Gordon M Kirby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Xiaoying Zhang
- Research Center of Modern Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, Henan, 455000, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
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Zebrafish androgen receptor is required for spermatogenesis and maintenance of ovarian function. Oncotarget 2018; 9:24320-24334. [PMID: 29849943 PMCID: PMC5966271 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) is a nuclear receptor protein family member and inducible transcription factor that modulates androgen target gene expression. Studies using a mouse model confirmed the need for ar in reproductive development, particularly spermatogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of ar in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9 gene targeting technology. Targeted disruption of ar in zebrafish increases the number of female offspring and increases offspring weight. In addition, ar-null male zebrafish have female secondary sex characteristics. More importantly, targeted disruption of ar in zebrafish causes male infertility via defective spermatogenesis and female premature ovarian failure during growth. Mechanistic assays suggest that these effects are caused by fewer proliferated cells and more apoptotic cells in ar-null testes. Moreover, genes involved in reproductive development, estradiol induction and hormone synthesis were dys-regulated in testes and ovaries and the reproductive-endocrine axis was disordered. Our data thus suggest that the zebrafish ar is required for spermatogenesis and maintenance of ovarian function, which confirms evolutionarily conserved functions of ar in vertebrates, as well as indicates that ar-null zebrafish are a suitable model for studying pathologic mechanisms related to androgen disorders.
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Xie R, Chen L, Wu H, Chen T, Wang F, Chen X, Sun H, Li X. GnRH Antagonist Improves Pubertal Cyclophosphamide-Induced Long-Term Testicular Injury in Adult Rats. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:4272575. [PMID: 29983710 PMCID: PMC6015689 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4272575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadal injury following chemotherapy is of increasing importance with the continuous improvement of survival rates. The protection of gonadotropin hormone antagonist (GnRHant) in long-term adult survivors of adolescent cancers and some autoimmune diseases has not yet been evaluated. METHODS The present study was aimed at longitudinally exploring whether the GnRHant could alleviate testicular damage induced by cyclophosphamide (CPA) in a rat model. Pubertal male rats were assigned to receive CPA with and without GnRHant. CPA was administrated at a single dose (100 mg/kg). GnRHant was started one hour prior to CPA injection and continued for four weeks (0.1 mg/kg, 3 times a week). Body and testes weights, testicular hormones, histological changes, and expression of androgen receptor (AR) in the testis were analyzed when rats matured into adulthood and completed a round of spermatogenesis. RESULTS Our results showed that body weight, histological injury, and AR expression in the testis were improved in the GnRHant + CPA group. However, testes weight and testicular hormones (anti-Müllerian hormone, inhibin B, and testosterone) did not markedly change. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the GnRHant administration before and after CPA in pubertal rats can protect long-term testicular injury induced by CPA via increased AR expression in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongrong Xie
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Linqi Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Haiying Wu
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Fengyun Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Xiuli Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
| | - Xiaozhong Li
- Department of Nephrology, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215003, China
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Nanjappa MK, Medrano TI, Prins GS, Chen H, Zirkin BR, Cooke PS. Transdifferentiation of adult rat stem Leydig cells into prostatic and uterine epithelium, but not epidermis. Andrology 2017; 5:1165-1173. [PMID: 29073338 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Stem Leydig cells (SLCs), precursors of testicular Leydig cells that secrete testosterone required for male sexual differentiation, spermatogenesis, and fertility, were recently identified in rat testes. Various types of stem cells have shown the ability to differentiate into other tissues, but there is no information on the plasticity of adult rat SLCs (rSLCs). This study investigated the ability of rSLCs to transdifferentiate into cell types from all three germ layers-prostatic epithelium (endoderm), uterine epithelium (mesoderm), and epidermis (ectoderm)-under the influence of inductive mesenchyme from fetal and neonatal tissues. To differentiate rSLCs into cells of other lineages, mesenchyme from green fluorescent protein (GFP)-expressing mice was used. Tissue recombinants of urogenital sinus mesenchyme (a potent prostate inducer) and rSLCs grafted into adult male hosts formed ductal structures resembling prostate after 5 weeks. Prostate epithelium was of rSLC origin as determined by absence of GFP expression, and expressed characteristic markers of prostatic epithelium. Similarly, uterine mesenchyme + rSLCs tissue recombinants contained a simple columnar epithelium that was histologically similar to normal uterine epithelium and expressed typical uterine epithelial markers, but was of rSLC origin. In contrast, epidermal tissue was absent in fetal dermis + rSLCs recombinants, suggesting rSLCs did not form skin epithelium. Thus, rSLCs can transdifferentiate into uterine and prostatic epithelium, mesodermal, and endodermal derivatives, respectively, but they may have a limited transdifferentiation potential, as shown by their inability to form epidermis, an ectodermal derivative.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Nanjappa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - T I Medrano
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - G S Prins
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - H Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - B R Zirkin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P S Cooke
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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MicroRNAs in Sertoli cells: implications for spermatogenesis and fertility. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:335-346. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2667-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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50
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Pérez-Nevot B, Royo JL, Cortés M, Lendínez AM, Reyes-Palomares A, Jiménez AJ, Ruiz-Galdón M, Reyes-Engel A. Fetal alpha 5-reductase Val89Leu mutation is associated with late miscarriage. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 34:653-658. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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