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Zwida KH, Kutzler MA. Canine splenic hemangiosarcoma cells express and activate luteinizing hormone receptors in vitro. Am J Vet Res 2022; 83:ajvr.22.07.0120. [DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.22.07.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To determine luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) expression and response to LHR activation in isolated canine splenic hemangiosarcoma cell lines in vitro.
SAMPLES
In vitro cultures of commercially available canine splenic hemangiosarcoma cell lines (EFS, GRACE-HSA, and DAL-4).
PROCEDURES
The percentage of each cell line expressing LHR was determined by immunocytochemistry. Cells were then treated with increasing doses (7.5 ng/mL, 75 ng/mL) of recombinant canine luteinizing hormone (cLH) for 48 hours and evaluated using a cell proliferation assay.
RESULTS
The percentage of cells expressing LHR was 17.2 ± 4.5%, 11.8 ± 3.1%, and 6.9 ± 2.5% in EFS, GRACE-HSA, and DAL-4, respectively. There was significant increase in cell count in the DAL-4 and EFS cell lines following a 48-hour incubation at the highest cLH concentration (P = .028 and P = .019, respectively). There was not a significant increase in cell count in the GRACE-HSA cell line at either cLH concentration.
CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Activation of LHR results in cell proliferation in some canine splenic hemangiosarcoma cell lines. These results may explain why spayed and castrated dogs with high circulating LH concentrations may develop hemangiosarcoma more frequently than intact dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khawla H. Zwida
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Michelle A. Kutzler
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, College of Agricultural Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
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Effects of intrauterine human chorionic gonadotropin administration on endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. Life Sci 2022; 311:121154. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Iaria C, Capparucci F, De Benedetto G, Natale S, Panebianco R, Puleio R, Lanteri G. Gastric leiomyoma in a sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax broodfish. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2020; 137:211-216. [PMID: 32132274 DOI: 10.3354/dao03444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This report describes a spontaneously arising non-infiltrative neoplasm of gastric tunica muscularis in a broodstock sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax from an Italian aquaculture farm. Microscopically, the mass was circumscribed and non-encapsulated and was composed of spindle cells arranged in parallel interlacing bundles or, occasionally, a whirling pattern. Cells had a small quantity of eosinophilic cytoplasm with distinct cell borders. Neoplastic cells were immuno-reactive with smooth muscle actin, vimentin and desmin; S100 was negative. The mucosal epithelium was intact with no neoplastic involvement. A gastric leiomyoma was diagnosed based on the findings. More efforts should be made to study the possible etiology of leiomyoma affecting fish from aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Iaria
- Dept. of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, via F. Stagno d'Alcontres 31, University of Messina, 98165 Messina, Italy
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Delli Carpini G, Verdecchia V, Papiccio M, Grelloni C, Ciavattini A. Comparison of uterine fibroids' growth pattern during pregnancy according to fetal sex: an observational study. Biol Sex Differ 2019; 10:53. [PMID: 31775886 PMCID: PMC6880545 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-019-0266-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To investigate the effect of fetal sex on fibroids' growth during pregnancy according to the hCG serum levels METHODS: Observational study conducted from January 2007 to December 2016 on women with ultrasound identification of uterine fibroids who had a pregnancy within 1 year from diagnosis. The fibroids diameter was determined during the pre-pregnancy ultrasound, early first trimester (5-7 weeks), late first trimester (11-13 weeks), second trimester (19-21 weeks), and third trimester (31-33 weeks). The diameter growth was calculated in each interval between two ultrasounds. The hCG serum levels were determined both in early and late first trimester. The correlation between hCG levels and fibroid diameter was evaluated. Obstetric outcomes collected were gestational weeks at birth and the rate of cesarean section. Neonatal outcomes were birthweight and Apgar score at 1 min. RESULTS Eighty-seven of the included women had a male fetus, and 70 had a female fetus. A progressive increase of fibroid diameter was observed from pre-pregnancy to second trimester for both fetal sexes. In third trimester, the mean ± SD fibroid diameter of female fetuses showed a slowdown, while the mean ± SD fibroid diameter of male fetuses continued to grow. Women carrying a female fetus presented a higher fibroid diameter in early first trimester (33.5 ± 13.3 mm vs 27.4 ± 11.0 mm, p < 0.01), late first trimester (40.2 ± 13.9 mm vs 34.6 ± 11.7 mm, p < 0.01), and second trimester (40.5 ± 14.9 mm vs 34.7 ± 10.3 mm, p < 0.01). The hCG serum levels resulted higher in women with a female fetus: 61406 (50554-71760) mU/ml vs 46016 (37160-56744) mU/ml (p < 0.01). A positive correlation between hCG levels and fibroid diameter was found both for male and female fetuses (male r = 0.77, 95% CI 0.71-0.82, p < 0.01 and female r = 0.82, 95% CI 0.76-0.86, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Women with female fetus seem to have a higher growth of fibroids up to second trimester of pregnancy. This process may be mediated by the higher serum hCG levels found in women expecting a female fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Delli Carpini
- Obstetrics and Gynecologic Section, Department of Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via F. Corridoni, 11-60123, Ancona, Italy
| | - Valeria Verdecchia
- Obstetrics and Gynecologic Section, Department of Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via F. Corridoni, 11-60123, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maria Papiccio
- Obstetrics and Gynecologic Section, Department of Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via F. Corridoni, 11-60123, Ancona, Italy
| | - Camilla Grelloni
- Obstetrics and Gynecologic Section, Department of Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via F. Corridoni, 11-60123, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Ciavattini
- Obstetrics and Gynecologic Section, Department of Odontostomatologic and Specialized Clinical Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via F. Corridoni, 11-60123, Ancona, Italy.
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5
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Ajabnoor GMA, Mohammed NA, Banaganapalli B, Abdullah LS, Bondagji ON, Mansouri N, Sahly NN, Vaidyanathan V, Bondagji N, Elango R, Shaik NA. Expanded Somatic Mutation Spectrum of MED12 Gene in Uterine Leiomyomas of Saudi Arabian Women. Front Genet 2018; 9:552. [PMID: 30619444 PMCID: PMC6302612 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MED12, a subunit of mediator complex genes is known to harbor genetic mutations, (mostly in exon 2), causal to the genesis of uterine leiomyomas among Caucasian, African American, and Asian women. However, the precise relationship between genetic mutations vs. protein or disease phenotype is not well-explained. Therefore, we sought to replicate the MED12 mutation frequency in leiomyomas of Saudi Arabian women, who represents ethnically and culturally distinct population. We performed molecular screening of MED12 gene (in 308 chromosomes belonging to 154 uterine biopsies), analyzed the genotype-disease phenotype correlations and determined the biophysical characteristics of mutated protein through diverse computational approaches. We discovered that >44% (34/77) leiomyomas of Arab women carry a spectrum of MED12 mutations (30 missense, 1 splice site, and 3 indels). In addition to known codon 44, we observed novel somatic mutations in codons 36, 38, and 55. Most genetically mutated tumors (27/30; 90%) demonstrated only one type of genetic change, highlighting that even single allele change in MED12 can have profound impact in transforming the normal uterine myometrium to leiomyomas. An interesting inverse correlation between tumor size and LH is observed when tumor is positive to MED12 mutation (p < 0.05). Our computational investigations suggest that amino acid substitution mutations in exon-2 region of MED12 might contribute to potential alterations in phenotype as well as the stability of MED12 protein. Our study, being the first one from Arab world, confirms the previous findings that somatic MED12 mutations are critical to development and progression of uterine leiomyomas irrespective of the ethnic background. We recommend that mutation screening, particularly codon 44 of MED12 can assist in molecular diagnostics of uterine leiomyomas in majority of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghada M A Ajabnoor
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nesma Amin Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Babajan Banaganapalli
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Layla Saleh Abdullah
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ola Nabeel Bondagji
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nisma Mansouri
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nora Naif Sahly
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Venkatesh Vaidyanathan
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nabeel Bondagji
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramu Elango
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Noor Ahmad Shaik
- Princess Al-Jawhara Al-Brahim Center of Excellence in Research of Hereditary Disorders, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Genetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Zhao R, Zhang T, Xi W, Sun X, Zhou L, Guo Y, Zhao C, Bao Y. Human chorionic gonadotropin promotes cell proliferation through the activation of c-Met in gastric cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:4271-4278. [PMID: 30197669 PMCID: PMC6126336 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormones and their receptors affect the development process of gastric cancer. Previous studies have revealed that human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is expressed in gastric cancer tissue. However, the mechanism by which hCG exerts its effects on gastric cancer cells had not been reported. In the present study, the expression of hCG and its receptor was detected in gastric cancer tissues and para-carcinoma tissues of 62 patients with gastric carcinoma. Following the treatment of gastric cancer cells SGC-7901 with hCG, a cell counting kit-8 assay, flow cytometry, a colony formation assay and a xenograft tumor model in nude mice were used to detect the effect of hCG on cell proliferation; and the expression of c-Met was determined by western blot analysis. The expression of hCG and its receptor were significantly higher in gastric cancer tissues compared with that of the matched para-carcinoma tissue (P<0.01). Proliferation of SGC-7901 cells treated with hCG was significant higher and the number of cells at the G2/M phase of the cell cycle increased compared with the control cells. Hepatocyte growth factor transmembrane protein receptor expression was increased in hCG-treated cells compared with the control cells, which relies on the protein kinase A signaling pathway. The present study revealed the potential function of hCG in the development of gastric cancer, suggesting that hCG may be a molecular marker and potential drug target in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhao
- Department of Endoscopy Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Tongtong Zhang
- Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Xi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobin Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China
| | - Lingxiao Zhou
- Department of Endoscopy Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuanbiao Guo
- Medical Research Center, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China
| | - Cong Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third People's Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, P.R. China
| | - Yu Bao
- Department of Endoscopy Center, Sichuan Cancer Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
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Vitagliano A, Noventa M, Di Spiezio Sardo A, Saccone G, Gizzo S, Borgato S, Vitale SG, Laganà AS, Nardelli GB, Litta PS, Saccardi C. Uterine fibroid size modifications during pregnancy and puerperium: evidence from the first systematic review of literature. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 297:823-835. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4621-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Sarais V, Cermisoni GC, Schimberni M, Alteri A, Papaleo E, Somigliana E, Vigano' P. Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin as a Possible Mediator of Leiomyoma Growth during Pregnancy: Molecular Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2014. [PMID: 28930160 PMCID: PMC5618662 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18092014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are the most common gynecologic benign tumors. Studies supporting a strong pregnancy-related growth of leiomyomas generally claimed a crucial role of sex steroid hormones. However, sex steroids are unlikely the unique actors involved as estrogen and progesterone achieve a pick serum concentration in the last trimester while leiomyomas show a typical increase during the first trimester. Given the rapid exponential raise in serum human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG) at the beginning of gestation, we conducted a review to assess the potential role of hCG in the striking growth of leiomyomas during initial pregnancy. Fibroid growth during initial pregnancy seems to correlate to the similar increase of serum hCG levels until 12 weeks of gestation. The presence of functional Luteinizing Hormone/human Chorionic Gonadotropin (LH/hCG) receptors was demonstrated on leiomyomas. In vitro treatment of leiomyoma cells with hCG determines an up to 500% increase in cell number after three days. Expression of cyclin E and cyclin-dependent kinase 1 was significantly increased in leiomyoma cells by hCG treatment. Moreover, upon binding to the receptor, hCG stimulates prolactin secretion in leiomyoma cells, promoting cell proliferation via the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade. Fibroid enlargement during initial pregnancy may be regulated by serum hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sarais
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Greta Chiara Cermisoni
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Matteo Schimberni
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Centro Scienze Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico AND Università degli Studi di Milano, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Paola Vigano'
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy.
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9
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Baird DD, Kesner JS, Dunson DB. Luteinizing Hormone in Premenopausal Women May Stimulate Uterine Leiomyomata Development. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 13:130-5. [PMID: 16443507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsgi.2005.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has proliferative effects on uterine smooth muscle and leiomyoma tissue in vitro. We hypothesized that luteinizing hormone (LH) would have the same effect by activating the LH/hCG receptor, and it would follow that premenopausal women with higher basal LH levels would be more likely to have leiomyomata. METHODS Randomly selected women, aged 35 to 49 years, from a prepaid health plan were screened for leiomyomata with pelvic ultrasound. Urine samples collected during the first or last 5 days of the menstrual cycle were analyzed for LH by immunofluorometric assay, and concentrations were corrected for creatinine (n = 523). Logistic regression and Bayes analyses were used to evaluate the association of LH with presence and size of leiomyomata, adjusting for age, and other risk factors. RESULTS Women with higher LH were more likely to have leiomyomata (adjusted odds ratios for second and third tertiles were 1.7 and 2.0 compared with lower tertile; 95% confidence intervals, 1.0 to 2.7 and 1.2 to 3.4, respectively). The association was stronger for large leiomyomata. Bayes analyses designed to estimate LH effects on tumor onset separately from tumor growth showed significantly accelerated tumor onset but little evidence of effects on tumor growth. Age, an independent risk factor for leiomyomata, was not affected by inclusion of LH in the logistic models. CONCLUSIONS As hypothesized, women with higher LH were more likely to have leiomyomata, but this did not explain the age-related increase in leiomyomata during perimenopausal ages. Determining whether LH is causal or a marker for susceptibility will require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna D Baird
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA.
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Ciavattini A, Delli Carpini G, Clemente N, Moriconi L, Gentili C, Di Giuseppe J. Growth trend of small uterine fibroids and human chorionic gonadotropin serum levels in early pregnancy: an observational study. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:1255-1260. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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12
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Rao CV. Therapeutic Potential of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Against Painful Bladder Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis. Reprod Sci 2016; 23:1451-1458. [PMID: 27004802 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116639139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis is a debilitating chronic bladder disease that primarily affects women. The disease is due to a damage of urothelial cell lining. As a result, potassium particles and other toxic substances in urine can leak into bladder mucosa, causing the symptoms of lower abdominal/pelvic discomfort, pain, increased urination frequency, urgency, nocturia, and so on, all of which can substantially reduce the quality of daily life. There are multiple symptom reliving therapies. Among them, only pentosan polysulfate sodium, sold under the brand name of Elmiron, has been approved for oral use by US Food and Drug Administration. It provides the relief after several months of use. Based on the scientific leads presented in this article, we propose that human chorionic gonadotropin has a therapeutic potential that is worth investigating for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Rao
- Departments of Cellular Biology and Pharmacology, Molecular and Human Genetics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproduction and Development Program, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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Atwood CS, Bowen RL. The endocrine dyscrasia that accompanies menopause and andropause induces aberrant cell cycle signaling that triggers re-entry of post-mitotic neurons into the cell cycle, neurodysfunction, neurodegeneration and cognitive disease. Horm Behav 2015; 76:63-80. [PMID: 26188949 PMCID: PMC4807861 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2015.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "SBN 2014". Sex hormones are physiological factors that promote neurogenesis during embryonic and fetal development. During childhood and adulthood these hormones support the maintenance of brain structure and function via neurogenesis and the formation of dendritic spines, axons and synapses required for the capture, processing and retrieval of information (memories). Not surprisingly, changes in these reproductive hormones that occur with menopause and during andropause are strongly correlated with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. In this connection, much evidence now indicates that Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves aberrant re-entry of post-mitotic neurons into the cell cycle. Cell cycle abnormalities appear very early in the disease, prior to the appearance of plaques and tangles, and explain the biochemical, neuropathological and cognitive changes observed with disease progression. Intriguingly, a recent animal study has demonstrated that induction of adult neurogenesis results in the loss of previously encoded memories while decreasing neurogenesis after memory formation during infancy mitigated forgetting. Here we review the biochemical, epidemiological and clinical evidence that alterations in sex hormone signaling associated with menopause and andropause drive the aberrant re-entry of post-mitotic neurons into an abortive cell cycle that leads to neurite retraction, neuron dysfunction and neuron death. When the reproductive axis is in balance, gonadotropins such as luteinizing hormone (LH), and its fetal homolog, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), promote pluripotent human and totipotent murine embryonic stem cell and neuron proliferation. However, strong evidence supports menopausal/andropausal elevations in the LH:sex steroid ratio as driving aberrant mitotic events. These include the upregulation of tumor necrosis factor; amyloid-β precursor protein processing towards the production of mitogenic Aβ; and the activation of Cdk5, a key regulator of cell cycle progression and tau phosphorylation (a cardinal feature of both neurogenesis and neurodegeneration). Cognitive and biochemical studies confirm the negative consequences of a high LH:sex steroid ratio on dendritic spine density and human cognitive performance. Prospective epidemiological and clinical evidence in humans supports the premise that rebalancing the ratio of circulating gonadotropins:sex steroids reduces the incidence of AD. Together, these data support endocrine dyscrasia and the subsequent loss of cell cycle control as an important etiological event in the development of neurodegenerative diseases including AD, stroke and Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig S Atwood
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA; Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Hospital, Madison, WI 53705, USA; School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, 6027 WA, Australia.
| | - Richard L Bowen
- OTB Research, 217 Calhoun St, Unit 1, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
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Ma Q, Fan J, Wang J, Yang S, Cong Q, Wang R, Lv Q, Liu R, Ning G. High levels of chorionic gonadotrophin attenuate insulin sensitivity and promote inflammation in adipocytes. J Mol Endocrinol 2015; 54:161-70. [PMID: 25691497 DOI: 10.1530/jme-14-0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) presents with moderate inflammation, insulin resistance and impaired glucose uptake, which may result from increased maternal fat mass and increased circulation of placental hormones and adipokines. In this study, we set out to test whether the surge in chorionic gonadotrophin (CG) secretion is a cause of inflammation and impaired insulin sensitivity in GDM. We first found that LH/chorionic gonadotrophin receptors (CG/LHR) were expressed at low levels in insulin-sensitive murine 3T3-L1 adipocytes and murine C2C12 myocytes. CG treatment not only directly reduced insulin-responsive gene expression, including that of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), but also impaired insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, CG treatment increased the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1) and upregulated nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activity in 3T3-L1 cells. Clinically, pregnant women who had higher CG levels and elevated MCP1 developed GDM. Above all, apart from prepregnancy BMI and MCP1 level, CG level was associated with abnormal glucose tolerance. In summary, our findings confirmed that higher CG levels in pregnancy possibly played a role in GDM development partly by impairing the functions of insulin, such those involved in as glucose uptake, while promoting inflammation in adipocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinyun Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jianxia Fan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jiqiu Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Shuai Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qing Cong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Qianqian Lv
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Ruixin Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Guang Ning
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Endocrine Tumors and E-Institute of Shanghai UniversitiesDepartment of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Shanghai Clinical Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, China National Clinical Research for Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 197 Ruijin 2nd Road, Shanghai 200025, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyInternational Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital affiliated Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai 200030, ChinaDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyObstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 419 Fangxie Road, Shanghai 200011, China
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Benaglia L, Cardellicchio L, Filippi F, Paffoni A, Vercellini P, Somigliana E, Fedele L. The rapid growth of fibroids during early pregnancy. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85933. [PMID: 24465797 PMCID: PMC3896432 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies aimed to disentangle whether pregnancy influences the growth of uterine fibroids but results were inconsistent. In this study, we speculated that fibroid enlargement during pregnancy may not be linear and we hypothesized that this phenomenon may mainly occur during initial pregnancy. To test this hypothesis, we set up a prospective cohort study of women with fibroids undergoing IVF. Cases were women achieving a viable pregnancy. Controls were the subsequent women with fibroids but failing to become pregnant. Twenty-five cases and 25 controls were recruited. The total number of fibroids in the two groups was 46 and 41, respectively. The mean ± SD diameter of the fibroids was 17±10 and 20±11 mm, respectively (p = 0.18). A statistically significant enlargement emerged exclusively in pregnant women. The median (Interquartile Range) modification of the diameter of the lesions in cases and controls was +34% (+6%/+65%) and +2% (−6%/+12%), respectively (p<0.001). The median (Interquartile Range) modification of the volume of the lesions was +140% (+23%/+357%) and 0% (−18%/+37%), respectively (p<0.001). In pregnant women, we failed to document any significant correlation between the magnitude of the growth and ovarian responsiveness to hyper-stimulation, suggesting that steroids hormones are not the unique factors involved. In conclusion, fibroids undergo a rapid and remarkable growth during initial pregnancy. Reasons behind this phenomenon remain to be clarified. The early rise in steroids hormones during early pregnancy may not be sufficient to explain the process. Other pregnancy-related hormones and proteins may play also key roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Benaglia
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Lucia Cardellicchio
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Filippi
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessio Paffoni
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Luigi Fedele
- Obstet-Gynecol Dept, Fondazione Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Uterine fibroids: pathogenesis and interactions with endometrium and endomyometrial junction. Obstet Gynecol Int 2013; 2013:173184. [PMID: 24163697 PMCID: PMC3791844 DOI: 10.1155/2013/173184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (fibroids or myomas) are benign tumors of uterus and clinically apparent in a large part of reproductive aged women. Clinically, they present with a variety of symptoms: excessive menstrual bleeding, dysmenorrhoea and intermenstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms such as a sensation of bloatedness, increased urinary frequency, and bowel disturbance. In addition, they may compromise reproductive functions, possibly contributing to subfertility, early pregnancy loss, and later pregnancy complications. Despite the prevalence of this condition, myoma research is underfunded compared to other nonmalignant diseases. To date, several pathogenetic factors such as genetics, microRNA, steroids, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and extracellular matrix components have been implicated in the development and growth of leiomyoma. This paper summarizes the available literature regarding the ultimate relative knowledge on pathogenesis of uterine fibroids and their interactions with endometrium and subendometrial myometrium.
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17
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Islam MS, Protic O, Stortoni P, Grechi G, Lamanna P, Petraglia F, Castellucci M, Ciarmela P. Complex networks of multiple factors in the pathogenesis of uterine leiomyoma. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:178-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2012] [Revised: 03/04/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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18
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Menon KMJ, Menon B. Structure, function and regulation of gonadotropin receptors - a perspective. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 356:88-97. [PMID: 22342845 PMCID: PMC3327826 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2011] [Revised: 01/13/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone receptor and follicle stimulating hormone receptor play a crucial role in female and male reproduction. Significant new information has emerged about the structure, mechanism of activation, and regulation of expression of these receptors. Here we provide an overview of the current information on those aspects with an in-depth discussion of the recent developments in the post-transcriptional mechanism of LH receptor expression mediated by a specific LH receptor mRNA binding protein, designated as LRBP. LRBP was identified by electrophoretic gel mobility shift assay using cytosolic fractions from ovaries in the down regulated state. LRBP was purified, its binding site on LH receptor mRNA was identified and characterized. During ligand-induced down regulation, LRBP expression is increased through the cAMP/PKA and ERK signaling pathway, is translocated to translating ribosomes, binds LH receptor mRNA and forms an untranslatable ribonucleoprotein complex. This complex is then routed to the mRNA degradation machinery resulting in diminished levels of both LHR mRNA and cell surface expression of LH receptor. The studies leading to these conclusions are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M J Menon
- Departments of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0617, United States.
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Sieroszewski P, Wierzbicka D, Bober L, Perenc M. Association between uterine leiomyomas and the biochemical screening test results in the first and second trimester of pregnancy: a pilot study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2011; 24:904-6. [PMID: 21463216 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2010.536864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The presence of the uterine leiomyomas may change the concentrations of the screening serum markers and so after the risk calculation of the fetal chromosomal abnormalities. PURPOSE To estimate the influence of the uterine leiomyomas on the first and second trimester serum markers concentrations. MATERIAL AND METHODS The studied group consisted of 127 women between 11 and 20 weeks of normal singleton pregnancy. In each patient, the uterine leiomyomas were diagnosed - over 20 mm in the diameter and located in the uterine wall. Seventy-seven patients had undergone the first trimester screening, 50 patients the second trimester screening. The control group consisted of 1020 women between 11 and 20 weeks of normal singleton pregnancy without uterine leiomyomas. RESULTS In the first trimester group, the pregnancy-associated plasma protein A serum concentrations were not different from the controls. The median concentrations of free beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG) were significantly higher (1.43 MoM). In the second trimester group, no significant differences in AFP and estriol median concentrations were observed, while the median value for free β-hCG was significantly higher (2.01 MoM) than in control group. CONCLUSIONS The presence of the uterine leiomyomas may increase maternal serum concentration of the β-hCG and so after the rate of the false positive results of the prenatal screening tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Sieroszewski
- Fetal Medicine and Gynecology Department, Medical University of Łódź, Poland
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20
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Tsampalas M, Gridelet V, Berndt S, Foidart JM, Geenen V, d’Hauterive SP. Human chorionic gonadotropin: A hormone with immunological and angiogenic properties. J Reprod Immunol 2010; 85:93-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2009.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2009] [Revised: 11/22/2009] [Accepted: 11/25/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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21
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Berndt S, Blacher S, Perrier d'Hauterive S, Thiry M, Tsampalas M, Cruz A, Péqueux C, Lorquet S, Munaut C, Noël A, Foidart JM. Chorionic gonadotropin stimulation of angiogenesis and pericyte recruitment. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:4567-74. [PMID: 19837939 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-0443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT During the periimplantation period, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) plays a key role by increasing the uterine blood flow through uterine vessel vasodilatation but also through angiogenesis. Indeed, we previously demonstrated that hCG contributes to endothelial cell recruitment and vessel formation. OBJECTIVE In this study, hCG was proposed as an arteriogenic factor that could promote perivascular cell recruitment and vessel stabilization. DESIGN The aortic ring assay, a three-dimensional ex vivo angiogenesis system mimicking all the steps of the angiogenesis process was used to study the impact of hCG on pericyte recruitment and vessel maturation. SETTING The study was conducted at a university hospital laboratory. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Perivascular cell proliferation, migration, and apposition were quantified by computerized image analysis. RESULTS Physiological concentrations of hCG (10-400 IU/ml) significantly enhanced pericyte sprouting and migration and gave rise to the maturation and coverage of endothelial capillaries. In a three-dimensional coculture model of endothelial and perivascular cells, hCG enhanced vessel tube formation and endothelial/mural cell adhesion. In addition, hCG stimulated the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells. The specificity of these effects was determined by using an anti-hCG blocking antibody. Signaling pathways implicated on this hCG effect is protein kinase A and phospholipase C/protein kinase C dependent for the proliferative effect but only phospholipase C/protein kinase C for the migrative process. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight a novel paracrine role of this early embryonic signal in vessel maturation by stimulating perivascular cell recruitment, migration, and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Berndt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre Hospitalier Regional, Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, University of Liège, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
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22
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Prast J, Saleh L, Husslein H, Sonderegger S, Helmer H, Knöfler M. Human chorionic gonadotropin stimulates trophoblast invasion through extracellularly regulated kinase and AKT signaling. Endocrinology 2008; 149:979-87. [PMID: 18063683 PMCID: PMC2974217 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG) is indispensable for human pregnancy because it controls implantation, decidualization, and placental development. However, its particular role in the differentiation process of invasive trophoblasts has not been fully unraveled. Here we demonstrate that the hormone promotes trophoblast invasion and migration in different trophoblast model systems. RT-PCR and Western blot analyses revealed expression of the LH/CG receptor in trophoblast cell lines and different trophoblast primary cultures. In vitro, CG increased migration and invasion of trophoblastic SGHPL-5 cells through uncoated and Matrigel-coated transwells, respectively. The hormone also increased migration of first-trimester villous explant cultures on collagen I. Proliferation of the trophoblast cell line and villous explant cultures measured by cumulative cell numbers and in situ 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling, respectively, was unaffected by CG. Addition of the hormone activated ERK-1/2 and AKT in SGHPL-5 cells and pure, extravillous trophoblasts. Inhibition of MAPK kinase/ERK and phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase/AKT blocked phosphorylation of the kinases and attenuated CG-dependent invasion of SGHPL-5 cells. Similarly, the inhibitors decreased hormone-stimulated migration in villous explant cultures. Western blot analyses and gelatin zymography suggested that CG increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 protein levels and activity in both culture systems. Inhibition of ERK or AKT diminished CG-induced MMP-2 expression. In summary, the data demonstrate that CG promotes trophoblast invasion and migration through activation of ERK and AKT signaling involving their downstream effector MMP-2. Because the increase of CG during the first trimester of pregnancy correlates with rising trophoblast motility, the hormone could be a critical regulator of the early invasion process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Prast
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine, Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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Huber AV, Saleh L, Prast J, Haslinger P, Knöfler M. Human chorionic gonadotrophin attenuates NF-kappaB activation and cytokine expression of endometriotic stromal cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2007; 13:595-604. [PMID: 17525069 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gam032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a clinical study provided evidence that treatment of endometriotic women with human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) alleviates disease-related pain and sleeplessness suggesting therapeutic effects of the hormone. Since endometriosis is associated with aberrant concentrations of inflammatory mediators in the peritoneal fluid, we investigated whether hCG may affect cytokine-dependent activation of the key-regulatory transcription factor NF-kappaB and expression of two nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB)-inducible genes, tumour necrosing factor (TNF-alpha) and interleukin (IL)-1beta, in stromal cells isolated from ectopic endometriotic tissues. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay revealed that treatment of these cultures with the urinary preparation hCG-A suppressed TNF-alpha- or IL-1beta-induced NF-kappaB DNA-binding activity, whereas another urinary hCG preparation (hCG-B) was less effective. Recombinant alphahCG or epidermal growth factor (EGF), a contaminant of some urinary hCG preparations, did not alter cytokine-dependent NF-kappaB activation. Immunofluorescene of its p65 subunit revealed that pre-incubation with hCG-A strongly decreased TNF-alpha-dependent nuclear expression of NF-kappaB. Accordingly, hCG-A diminished IL-1beta-induced TNF-alpha transcript levels and protein release measured by quantitative real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The hormone also attenuated TNF-alpha-dependent mRNA expression of IL-1beta. Western blot analyses revealed that hCG-A impaired TNF-alpha-mediated phosphorylation and degradation of the inhibitor IkappaBalpha suggesting that the hormone may reduce nuclear import of NF-kappaB by stabilizing its inhibitor. The data suggest that hCG attenuates inflammation-dependent NF-kappaB activation and cytokine expression that could provide one explanation for the beneficial role of the hormone in endometriotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Huber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, AKH, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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24
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Rao CV, Lei ZM. The past, present and future of nongonadal LH/hCG actions in reproductive biology and medicine. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2007; 269:2-8. [PMID: 17382462 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2006.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2006] [Revised: 07/01/2006] [Accepted: 07/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The past and present published studies reaffirm that nongonadal LH and hCG actions are real and here to stay. These actions have led to a better understanding of the biology of the hormones and more importantly begin to pave the way for novel therapies in reproductive medicine and in other areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- C V Rao
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Louisville Health Sciences Center, Louisville, KY 40292, USA.
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25
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Ticconi C, Zicari A, Belmonte A, Realacci M, Rao CV, Piccione E. Pregnancy-promoting actions of HCG in human myometrium and fetal membranes. Placenta 2007; 28 Suppl A:S137-43. [PMID: 17382998 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2007.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2006] [Revised: 12/28/2006] [Accepted: 01/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) plays a major role in early human development through a series of well recognized pregnancy-promoting actions that are exerted in the first trimester, including maternal recognition of pregnancy, enhancement of embryo implantation and survival, stimulation of trophoblast growth and differentiation, and prolongation of the functional life of the corpus luteum. Recent research indicates that HCG can exert significant pregnancy-promoting actions also in the remainder of pregnancy through its effect on the myometrium and on fetal membranes. In the myometrium, HCG promotes the inhibition of smooth muscle cell contractility through several mechanisms, including inhibition of gap junction formation, reduction of intracellular calcium concentration, increase in the expression of progesterone receptor, and an increase in the expression of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5), an enzyme controlling the intracellular levels of cGMP. This effect appears to be specific for PDE5 since it has not been found for other hormones potentially involved in pregnancy such as estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormone. In fetal membranes, HCG can modulate expression of the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), as well as specific immunoregulatory cytokines such as the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein. This accumulating evidence suggests that HCG has a wide spread pregnancy-promoting actions that are exerted in various reproductive and gestational tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ticconi
- Department of Surgery, Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy.
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Grisaru D, Keidar R, Schreiber L, Lessing JB, Deutsch V. The effect of the readthrough acetylcholinesterase variant (AChE-R) on uterine muscle and leiomyomas. Mol Hum Reprod 2007; 13:351-4. [PMID: 17350961 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gam010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Acetylcholine signaling and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) function(s) are pivotal elements in muscle development. The effects of the stimulus-dependent readthrough AChE variant, AChE-R, on leiomyomas and normal myometrium proliferation were assessed in vivo and in vitro. Histological preparations and cell cultures therefrom were obtained during hysterectomies or myomectomies and included both the leiomyoma sample and the adjacent normal uterine muscle as control. In situ hybridization procedures were performed using AChE cRNA probes complementary to the human AChE-R transcript. Antibodies against the AChE-R variant served for immunohistochemical staining. To determine the biological function of AChE-R on the uterine muscle cell cultures, we used a synthetic peptide representing the potentially cleavable morphogenically active C-terminus of AChE-R (ARP). Cell proliferation was assessed using the incorporation of 5'-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrDU). Leiomyomas expressed an excess of AChE-R mRNA and the AChE-R protein compared with the normal myometrium. Cell cultures originating from leiomyomas proliferated significantly faster than cultures from the adjacent myometrium (P = 0.027 at BrDU incorporation). Addition of ARP (2-200 nM) caused a dose-dependent decrease in the proliferation of cell cultures from both leiomyomas and the myometrium. The effect on the myometrium reached statistical significance (at 20 and 200 nM, P = 0.02), whereas the variability of the rapidly proliferating primary cultures was high and precluded statistical significance in the leiomyoma cultures. AChE-R is involved in the proliferation of the myometrium. The inhibitory effect of ARP on the myometrium may suggest a future therapeutic role of ARP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Grisaru
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, Tel Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Malik M, Catherino WH. Novel method to characterize primary cultures of leiomyoma and myometrium with the use of confirmatory biomarker gene arrays. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1166-72. [PMID: 17222838 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.08.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2006] [Revised: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 08/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a rapid biomarker method for confirming that leiomyoma and myometrium primary cultures maintain the molecular phenotype of the progenitor tissues. DESIGN Confirmation of primary cultures from leiomyoma and myometrium tissues. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing hysterectomy for symptomatic leiomyomas. INTERVENTION(S) Primary cell cultures, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), microarray, real time RT-PCR, and immunofluorescence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Relative messenger RNA and protein expression in leiomyoma and myometrial cell cultures. RESULT(S) We developed primary cell cultures from human leiomyoma and patient-matched myometrium obtained from hysterectomy specimens. In the primary cultures, we confirmed the presence of smooth muscle-specific alpha-actin as well as filamentous actin. Based on microarray analysis, we expected and confirmed, in the progenitor tissue and derived primary cultures, an overexpression of versican (8.31 fold +/- 2.2 SEM and 4.3 fold +/- 1.01 SEM, respectively), transforming growth factor beta-3 (5.66 fold +/- 0.82 SEM and 4.92 fold +/- 0.58 SEM, respectively), and cytochrome P450-26A1 (6.76 fold +/- 0.80 SEM and 6.17 fold +/- 2.02 SEM, respectively), and an underexpression of dermatopontin (-5.6 fold +/- 1.82 SEM and -3.41 +/- 1.20 SEM, respectively). CONCLUSION(S) Primary cell cultures offer a reliable in vitro model system for leiomyoma disease, if confirmed. Analysis of a gene array that distinguishes between myometrium and leiomyoma molecular phenotypes offers a rapid and reliable confirmation method, and provides confidence that in vitro findings resemble in vivo disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minnie Malik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
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Sozen I, Arici A. Cellular biology of myomas: interaction of sex steroids with cytokines and growth factors. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2006; 33:41-58. [PMID: 16504805 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2005.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Many investigators who have been trying to delineate the pathophysiology of leiomyomata believe in the autocrine-paracrine model of tumor growth,where ovarian hormones act as regulators of gene expression in cells. These affected cells overproduce the stimulatory and fibrogenic cytokines and growth factors to which they respond, resulting in sustained, self-stimulated proliferation and fibrogenesis. A number of cytokines and growth factors have been investigated in leiomyomata to determine which cytokines or factors may be responsible for mediating the growth-promoting effects of ovarian hormones. A review of the literature reveals that TGF-3 is the only growth factor shown to be overexpressed in leiomyomata versus myometrium, hormonally regulated both in vivo and in vitro, and both mitogenic and fibrogenic in these tissues. The authors believe that, given the extent and depth of the current research on the cellular biology of leiomyoma, the cellular mechanisms responsible in the pathogenesis of leiomyoma will be identified clearly within the foreseeable future. This will enable researchers to develop therapy directed against the molecules and mechanisms at the cellular level, which undoubtedly will have a major impact on the number of hysterectomies being performed for a"fibroid uterus."
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Sozen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anadolu Health Center, Anadolu CAD No: 1, Cay.rova mevkii, Gebze, 41400 Kocaeli, Turkey.
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Lee TK, Kim DI, Song YL, Lee YC, Kim HM, Kim CH. Differential inhibition of Scutellaria barbata D. Don (Lamiaceae) on HCG-promoted proliferation of cultured uterine leiomyomal and myometrial smooth muscle cells. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2005; 26:329-42. [PMID: 15518168 DOI: 10.1081/iph-200026841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Scutellaria barbata D. Don (Lamiaceae)(SB) is a perennial herb which is natively distributed throughout Korea and southern China. This herb is known in traditional Chinese Medicine as Ban-Zhi-Lian and traditional Korean medicine as Banjiryun, respectively. SB has been used as an anti-inflammatory and antitumor agent. We aimed to determine the expressin of cell cycle-related signal molecules for growth inhibition after HCG treatment by the herb SB in two different human myometrial smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and leiomyomal SMCs. Water-soluble ingredients of SB, myometrial SMCs and the leiomyomal cell lines were used in vitro. Uterine myomas often enlarge rapidly during pregnancy, implying that human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) may influences cell proliferation in uterine leiomyomata. We investigated the effects of SB on the cell proliferation and the expression of cell cycle-related proteins in these cells. Although HCG/LH receptor was present in both cultured myometrial and leiomyomal cells, as assayed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, treatment with HCG significantly increased cell proliferation in both myometrial and leiomyomal cells. However, SB reduced the proliferative effect of HCG in leiomyoma and myometrial cells, respectively. In HCG-treated leiomyomal cells, the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin E and cdc2 was significantly reduced by SB treatment. These results suggest that SB reduced the HCG-promoted proliferation of myometrial and leiomyomal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Kyun Lee
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Gynecology, Dongguk University College of Oriental Medicine and National Research Laboratory for Glycobiology, Kyungju, Kyungbuk, Korea
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Atwood CS, Meethal SV, Liu T, Wilson AC, Gallego M, Smith MA, Bowen RL. Dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis with Menopause and Andropause Promotes Neurodegenerative Senescence. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2005; 64:93-103. [PMID: 15751223 DOI: 10.1093/jnen/64.2.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Senescence is characterized neurologically by a decline in cognitive function, which we propose is the result of degenerative processes initiated by the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis with menopause and andropause. Compelling epidemiologic evidence to support this assertion includes the increased prevalence of Alzheimer disease (AD) in women, the correlation of serum HPG hormones with disease and the decreased incidence, and delay in the onset of AD following hormone replacement therapy. Dysregulation of the axis at this time leads to alterations in the concentrations of all serum HPG hormones (decreased neuronal sex steroid signaling, but increased neuronal gonadotropin releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and activin signaling). Hormones of the HPG axis, receptors for which are present in the adult brain, are important regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation during growth and development. Based on this, we propose that dysregulated HPG hormone signaling with menopause/andropause leads to the abortive reentry of differentiated neurons into the cell cycle via a process we term "dyosis." Interestingly, the major biochemical and neuropathologic changes reported for the AD brain also are intimately associated with neuron division: altered AbetaPP metabolism, Abeta deposition, tau phosphorylation, mitochondrial alterations, chromosomal replication, synapse loss, and death of differentiated neurons. Recent evidence supports the premise that AD-related biochemical changes are likely the combined result of increased mitotic signaling by gonadotropins and GnRH, decreased differentiative and neuroprotective signaling via sex steroids, and increased differentiative signaling via activins. This results in a hormonal milieu that is permissive of cell cycle reentry but does not allow completion of metaphase. Partial resetting of the axis following administration of normal endogenous sex steroids delays the onset and decreases the incidence of AD. Ideally, supplementation with HPG hormones should mimic closely the serum concentrations of all HPG hormones in reproductive men and cycling women to prevent dyotic signaling and attempted neuron division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig S Atwood
- Section of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 53705, USA.
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Sozen I, Arici A. Interactions of cytokines, growth factors, and the extracellular matrix in the cellular biology of uterine leiomyomata. Fertil Steril 2002; 78:1-12. [PMID: 12095482 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)03154-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the available information regarding the role of cytokines, growth factors, and the extracellular matrix in the pathophysiology of uterine leiomyomata and to integrate this information in a suggested model of disease at the cellular level. DESIGN A thorough literature and MEDLINE search was conducted to identify the relevant studies in the English literature published between January, 1966 and October, 2001. A model of disease at the cellular level was developed using the most likely cytokines to be involved in the pathogenesis of leiomyomata as determined by our assessment of the available literature. RESULT(S) A number of cytokines and growth factors, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), epidermal growth factor, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2, prolactin, parathyroid-hormone-related peptide, basic fibroblast growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, interleukin-8, and endothelin, have been investigated in myometrium and leiomyoma. Among these cytokines, TGF-beta appears to be the only growth factor that has been shown to be overexpressed in leiomyoma vs. myometrium, be hormonally-regulated both in vivo and in vitro, and be both mitogenic and fibrogenic in these tissues. In addition to the cytokines, extracellular matrix components such as collagen, fibronectin, proteoglycans, matrix metalloproteinases, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases seem to play pivotal roles in the pathogenesis of leiomyomata. CONCLUSION(S) We believe that, given the extent and depth of the current research on the cellular biology of leiomyomata, the cellular mechanisms responsible in the pathogenesis of leiomyomata will be identified clearly within the foreseeable future. This will enable researchers to develop therapy directed against the molecules and mechanisms at the cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Sozen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8063, USA
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Kurachi O, Matsuo H, Samoto T, Maruo T. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha expression in human uterine leiomyoma and its down-regulation by progesterone. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2001; 86:2275-80. [PMID: 11344239 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.86.5.7469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha) has been shown mainly to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in a variety of cells, no information is available regarding whether human leiomyoma cells express TNFalpha. In the present study, we examined the expression of TNFalpha in leiomyomas, in comparison with that in the adjacent normal myometrium, using immunohistochemical staining and Western immunoblot analysis with a polyclonal antibody to human TNFalpha. Furthermore, we investigated the effect of sex steroid hormones on TNFalpha expression in leiomyoma cells cultured under serum-free, phenol red-free conditions. Immunohistochemical staining showed that TNFalpha expression in leiomyoma cells was higher than that in the adjacent normal myometrial cells, being more abundant in the proliferative phase than in the secretory, progesterone (P4)-dominated, phase of the menstrual cycle. TNFalpha expression in leiomyoma cells in pregnant uterus was scarce. Western immunoblot analyses of leiomyoma and normal myometrial tissue extracts revealed that TNFalpha, with a molecular mass of 17.3 kDa, was abundantly present in leiomyoma tissue extracts, relative to normal myometrial tissue extracts, and that TNFalpha expression in leiomyoma cells was most abundant in the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle, less abundant in the secretory phase, and least abundant in pregnant uterus; whereas no such changes in TNFalpha expression were noted in the normal myometrium. In monolayer cultures of uterine leiomyoma cells under serum-free conditions, addition of P4 (3.18 x 10(-7) mol/L) resulted in a decrease in TNFalpha expression in the cells, relative to that in control cultures, whereas treatment with 17beta-estradiol (3.67 x 10(-8) mol/L) did not affect the TNFalpha expression in the cells. The concentrations of sex steroids used were within the physiological tissue concentrations noted in leiomyoma and myometrium. The present results suggest that the abundant expression of TNFalpha may be a molecular basis characteristic of leiomyomas in the human uterus and that P4 may play a vital role in down-regulating the expression of TNFalpha in human uterine leiomyoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Kurachi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe 650-0017, Japan
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