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Chen Y, Zhen Z, Chen L, Wang H, Wang X, Sun X, Song Z, Wang H, Lin Y, Zhang W, Wu G, Jiang Y, Mao Z. Androgen signaling stabilizes genomes to counteract senescence by promoting XRCC4 transcription. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e56984. [PMID: 37955230 PMCID: PMC10702805 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202356984] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is accompanied by a decreased DNA repair capacity, which might contribute to age-associated functional decline in multiple tissues. Disruption in hormone signaling, associated with reproductive organ dysfunction, is an early event of age-related tissue degeneration, but whether it impacts DNA repair in nonreproductive organs remains elusive. Using skin fibroblasts derived from healthy donors with a broad age range, we show here that the downregulation of expression of XRCC4, a factor involved in nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ) repair, which is the dominant pathway to repair somatic double-strand breaks, is mediated through transcriptional mechanisms. We show that the androgen receptor (AR), whose expression is also reduced during aging, directly binds to and enhances the activity of the XRCC4 promoter, facilitating XRCC4 transcription and thus stabilizing the genome. We also demonstrate that dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a powerful AR agonist, restores XRCC4 expression and stabilizes the genome in different models of cellular aging. Moreover, DHT treatment reverses senescence-associated phenotypes, opening a potential avenue to aging interventions in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhengyi Zhen
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Lingjiang Chen
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Hao Wang
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xuhui Wang
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiaoxiang Sun
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhiwei Song
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yizi Lin
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- Department of Plastic SurgeryChangzheng HospitalShanghaiChina
| | - Guizhu Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant HospitalShanghai Tongji University School of MedicineShanghaiChina
| | - Ying Jiang
- Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital (Shanghai Sunshine Rehabilitation Center), Shanghai Key Laboratory of Signaling and Disease Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Zhiyong Mao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Frontier Science Center for Stem Cell Research, School of Life Sciences and TechnologyTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
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2
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Poutanen M, Hagberg Thulin M, Härkönen P. Targeting sex steroid biosynthesis for breast and prostate cancer therapy. Nat Rev Cancer 2023:10.1038/s41568-023-00609-y. [PMID: 37684402 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00609-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Matti Poutanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Turku Center for Disease Modelling, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
- FICAN West Cancer Center, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Malin Hagberg Thulin
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Pirkko Härkönen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- FICAN West Cancer Center, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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3
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Lissaman AC, Girling JE, Cree LM, Campbell RE, Ponnampalam AP. Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad017. [PMID: 37171897 PMCID: PMC10663053 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad017] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lynsey M Cree
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna P Ponnampalam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Pūtahi Manawa-Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand, Centre of Research Excellence, New Zealand
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Ramiro-Cortijo D, Gila-Diaz A, Herranz Carrillo G, Cañas S, Gil-Ramírez A, Ruvira S, Martin-Cabrejas MA, Arribas SM. Influence of Neonatal Sex on Breast Milk Protein and Antioxidant Content in Spanish Women in the First Month of Lactation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11081472. [PMID: 36009190 PMCID: PMC9405477 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11081472] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast milk (BM) is the best food for newborns. Male sex is associated with a higher risk of fetal programming, prematurity, and adverse postnatal outcome, being that BM is an important health determinant. BM composition is dynamic and modified by several factors, including lactation period, prematurity, maternal nutritional status, and others. This study was designed to evaluate the influence of sex on BM composition during the first month of lactation, focused on macronutrients and antioxidants. Forty-eight breastfeeding women and their fifty-five newborns were recruited at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (Madrid, Spain). Clinical sociodemographic data and anthropometric parameters were collected. BM samples were obtained at days 7, 14, and 28 of lactation to assess fat (Mojonnier method), protein (Bradford method), and biomarkers of oxidative status: total antioxidant capacity (ABTS and FRAP methods), thiol groups, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation (spectrophotometric methods). Linear mixed models with random effects adjusted by maternal anthropometry, neonatal Z-scores at birth, and gestational age were used to assess the main effects of sex, lactation period, and their interaction. BM from mothers with male neonates exhibited significantly higher protein, ABTS, FRAP, and GSH levels, while catalase showed the opposite trend. No differences between sexes were observed in SOD, total thiols, and oxidative damage biomarkers. Most changes were observed on day 7 of lactation. Adjusted models demonstrated a significant association between male sex and proteins (β = 2.70 ± 1.20; p-Value = 0.048). In addition, total antioxidant capacity by ABTS (β = 0.11 ± 0.06) and GSH (β = 1.82 ± 0.94) showed a positive trend near significance (p-Value = 0.056; p-Value = 0.064, respectively). In conclusion, transitional milk showed sex differences in composition with higher protein and GSH levels in males. This may represent an advantage in the immediate perinatal period, which may help to counteract the worse adaptation of males to adverse intrauterine environments and prematurity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ramiro-Cortijo
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Arzobispo Morcillo, 2, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.-C.); (A.G.-D.); (S.R.)
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
| | - Andrea Gila-Diaz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Arzobispo Morcillo, 2, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.-C.); (A.G.-D.); (S.R.)
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
| | - Gloria Herranz Carrillo
- Division of Neonatology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), C/Profesor Martin Lagos s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Silvia Cañas
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (UAM-CSIC), Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, C/Nicolás Cabrera, 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alicia Gil-Ramírez
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (UAM-CSIC), Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, C/Nicolás Cabrera, 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Ruvira
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Arzobispo Morcillo, 2, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.-C.); (A.G.-D.); (S.R.)
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
- PhD Programme in Pharmacology and Physiology, Doctoral School, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - María A. Martin-Cabrejas
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Food Science Research, CIAL (UAM-CSIC), Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, C/Nicolás Cabrera, 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia M. Arribas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Arzobispo Morcillo, 2, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.-C.); (A.G.-D.); (S.R.)
- Food, Oxidative Stress and Cardiovascular Health (FOSCH) Research Group, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (S.C.); (A.G.-R.); (M.A.M.-C.)
- Correspondence:
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Donovitz GS. A Personal Prospective on Testosterone Therapy in Women—What We Know in 2022. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12081194. [PMID: 35893288 PMCID: PMC9331845 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hormone replacement therapy continues to be a controversial topic in medicine, with certain narratives regarding safety concerns that are not scientifically established in peer-reviewed literature. These negative narratives, specifically undermining the use of testosterone in women, have caused women to remain without any Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved testosterone therapies, while more than 30 FDA-approved testosterone therapies are available for men in the United States. This has resulted in millions of women suffering in silence with very common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause that could easily be addressed with the use of testosterone. There is growing evidence to support the use of physiologic doses of testosterone for sexual function, osteoporosis prevention, brain protection, and breast protection. The safety of testosterone use in women has been evaluated for the past 80 years. A recent publication on the complications of subcutaneous hormone-pellet therapy, looking at a large cohort of patients over 7 years, demonstrated long-term safety. In addition, there have been two large long-term peer-reviewed studies showing a significant reduction in the incidence of invasive breast cancer in women on testosterone therapy. Perhaps it is time for the FDA to consider approving products that would benefit testosterone-deficient women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary S. Donovitz
- Morehouse School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA;
- BioTE Medical, LLC, 1875 West Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 100, Irving, TX 75038, USA
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6
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Abstract
Androgens are essential sex steroid hormones for both sexes. Testosterone (T) is the predominant androgen in males, while in adult females, T concentrations are about 15-fold lower and androgen precursors are converted to estrogens. T is produced primarily in testicular Leydig cells in men, while in women precursors are biosynthesised in the adrenal cortex and ovaries and converted into T in the periphery. The biosynthesis of T occurs via a series of enzymatic reactions in steroidogenic organs. Notably, the more potent androgen, dihydrotestosterone, may be synthesized from T in the classic pathway, however, alternate metabolic pathways also exist. The classic action of androgens on target organs is mediated through the androgen receptor, which regulates nuclear receptor gene transcription. However, the androgen-androgen receptor complex may also interact directly with membrane proteins or signaling molecules to exert more rapid effects. This review summarizes the current knowledge of androgen biosynthesis, mechanisms of action and endocrine effects in human biology, and relates these effects to respective human congenital and acquired disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawda Naamneh Elzenaty
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Christa E Flück
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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Chappell NR, Gibbons WE, Blesson CS. Pathology of hyperandrogenemia in the oocyte of polycystic ovary syndrome. Steroids 2022; 180:108989. [PMID: 35189133 PMCID: PMC8920773 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.108989] [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: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common ovulatory disorder in the world and is associated with multiple adverse outcomes. The phenotype is widely varied, with several pathologies contributing to the spectrum of the disease including insulin resistance, obesity and hyperandrogenemia. Of these, the role of hyperandrogenemia and the mechanism by which it causes dysfunction remains poorly understood. Early studies have shown that androgens may affect the metabolic pathways of a cell, and this may pose hazards at the level of the mitochondria. As mitochondria are strictly maternally inherited, this would provide an exciting explanation not only to the pathophysiology of PCOS as a disease, but also to the inheritance pattern. This review seeks to summarize what is known about PCOS and associated adverse outcomes with focus on the role of hyperandrogenemia and specific emphasis on the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil R Chappell
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA
| | - William E Gibbons
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA
| | - Chellakkan S Blesson
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine. One Baylor Plaza, Houston 77030, TX, USA; Family Fertility Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston 77030, TX, USA.
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Shaw IW, Kirkwood PM, Rebourcet D, Cousins FL, Ainslie RJ, Livingstone DEW, Smith LB, Saunders PT, Gibson DA. A role for steroid 5 alpha-reductase 1 in vascular remodeling during endometrial decidualization. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1027164. [PMID: 36465608 PMCID: PMC9709457 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1027164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidualization is the hormone-dependent process of endometrial remodeling that is essential for fertility and reproductive health. It is characterized by dynamic changes in the endometrial stromal compartment including differentiation of fibroblasts, immune cell trafficking and vascular remodeling. Deficits in decidualization are implicated in disorders of pregnancy such as implantation failure, intra-uterine growth restriction, and pre-eclampsia. Androgens are key regulators of decidualization that promote optimal differentiation of stromal fibroblasts and activation of downstream signaling pathways required for endometrial remodeling. We have shown that androgen biosynthesis, via 5α-reductase-dependent production of dihydrotestosterone, is required for optimal decidualization of human stromal fibroblasts in vitro, but whether this is required for decidualization in vivo has not been tested. In the current study we used steroid 5α-reductase type 1 (SRD5A1) deficient mice (Srd5a1-/- mice) and a validated model of induced decidualization to investigate the role of SRD5A1 and intracrine androgen signaling in endometrial decidualization. We measured decidualization response (weight/proportion), transcriptomic changes, and morphological and functional parameters of vascular development. These investigations revealed a striking effect of 5α-reductase deficiency on the decidualization response. Furthermore, vessel permeability and transcriptional regulation of angiogenesis signaling pathways, particularly those that involved vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were disrupted in the absence of 5α-reductase. In Srd5a1-/- mice, injection of dihydrotestosterone co-incident with decidualization restored decidualization responses, vessel permeability, and expression of angiogenesis genes to wild type levels. Androgen availability declines with age which may contribute to age-related risk of pregnancy disorders. These findings show that intracrine androgen signaling is required for optimal decidualization in vivo and confirm a major role for androgens in the development of the vasculature during decidualization through regulation of the VEGF pathway. These findings highlight new opportunities for improving age-related deficits in fertility and pregnancy health by targeting androgen-dependent signaling in the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac W. Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Phoebe M. Kirkwood
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona L. Cousins
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J. Ainslie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn E. W. Livingstone
- Centre for Discovery Brain Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lee B. Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T.K. Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas A. Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Douglas A. Gibson,
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Salinas I, Sinha N, Sen A. Androgen-induced epigenetic modulations in the ovary. J Endocrinol 2021; 249:R53-R64. [PMID: 33764313 PMCID: PMC8080881 DOI: 10.1530/joe-20-0578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, androgens have emerged as critical regulators of female reproduction and women's health in general. While high levels of androgens in women are associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), recent evidence suggests that a certain amount of direct androgen action through androgen receptor is also essential for normal ovarian function. Moreover, prenatal androgen exposure has been reported to cause developmental reprogramming of the fetus that manifests into adult pathologies, supporting the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) hypothesis. Therefore, it has become imperative to understand the underlying mechanism of androgen actions and its downstream effects under normal and pathophysiological conditions. Over the years, there has been a lot of studies on androgen receptor function as a transcriptional regulator in the nucleus as well as androgen-induced rapid extra-nuclear signaling. Conversely, new evidence suggests that androgen actions may also be mediated through epigenetic modulation involving both the nuclear and extra-nuclear androgen signaling. This review focuses on androgen-induced epigenetic modifications in female reproduction, specifically in the ovary, and discusses emerging concepts, latest perceptions, and highlight the areas that need further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irving Salinas
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Physiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Niharika Sinha
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Aritro Sen
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Department of Animal Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Corresponding author and person to whom reprint request should be addressed: Aritro Sen Ph.D., Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, 3013 Interdisciplinary Science & Technology Building, 766 Service Road, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, Ph:517-432-4585;
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10
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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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Dulohery K, Trottmann M, Bour S, Liedl B, Alba-Alejandre I, Reese S, Hughes B, Stief CG, Kölle S. How do elevated levels of testosterone affect the function of the human fallopian tube and fertility?-New insights. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:30-44. [PMID: 31705839 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Excess testosterone levels affect up to 20% of the female population worldwide and are a key component in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. However, little is known about how excess testosterone affects the function of the human fallopian tube-the site of gamete transport, fertilization, and early embryogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize alterations caused by long-term exposure to male testosterone levels. For this purpose, the Fallopian tubes of nine female-to-male transsexuals, who had been undergoing testosterone treatment for 1-3 years, were compared with the tubes of 19 cycling patients. In the ampulla, testosterone treatment resulted in extensive luminal accumulations of secretions and cell debris which caused ciliary clumping and luminal blockage. Additionally, the percentage of ciliated cells in the ampulla was significantly increased. Transsexual patients, who had had sexual intercourse before surgery, showed spermatozoa trapped in mucus. Finally, in the isthmus complete luminal collapse occurred. Our results imply that fertility in women with elevated levels of testosterone is altered by tubal luminal obstruction resulting in impaired gamete transport and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Dulohery
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Susanne Bour
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Liedl
- Department of Urogenital Surgery, Clinic for Surgery Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sven Reese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara Hughes
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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12
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Camden AJ, Szwarc MM, Chadchan SB, DeMayo FJ, O'Malley BW, Lydon JP, Kommagani R. Growth regulation by estrogen in breast cancer 1 (GREB1) is a novel progesterone-responsive gene required for human endometrial stromal decidualization. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:646-653. [PMID: 28911214 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is Growth Regulation by Estrogen in Breast Cancer 1 (GREB1) required for progesterone-driven endometrial stromal cell decidualization? SUMMARY ANSWER GREB1 is a novel progesterone-responsive gene required for progesterone-driven human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) decidualization. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Successful establishment of pregnancy requires HESCs to transform from fibroblastic to epithelioid cells in a process called decidualization. This process depends on the hormone progesterone, but the molecular mechanisms by which it occurs have not been determined. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Primary and transformed HESCs in which GREB1 expression was knocked down were decidualized in culture for up to 6 days. Wild-type and progesterone receptor (PR) knockout mice were treated with progesterone, and their uteri were assessed for levels of GREB1 expression. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Analysis of previous data included data mining of expression profile data sets and in silico transcription factor-binding analysis. Endometrial biopsies obtained from healthy women of reproductive age during the proliferative phase (Days 8-12) of their menstrual cycle were used for isolating HESCs. Experiments were carried out with early passage (no more than four passages) HESCs isolated from at least three subjects. Transcript levels of decidualization markers prolactin (PRL) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) were detected by quantitative RT-PCR as readouts for HESC decidualization. Cells were also imaged by phase-contrast microscopy. To assess the requirement for GREB1, PR and SRC-2, cells were transfected with specifically targeted small interfering RNAs. Results are shown as mean and SE from three replicates of one representative patient-derived primary endometrial cell line. Experiments were also conducted with transformed HESCs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Progesterone treatment of mice and transformed HESCs led to an ~5-fold (5.6 ± 0.81, P < 0.05, and 5.2 ± 0.26, P < 0.01, respectively) increase in GREB1 transcript levels. This increase was significantly reduced in the uteri of PR knock-out mice (P < 0.01), in HESCs treated with the PR antagonist RU486 (P < 0.01), or in HESCs in which PR expression was knocked down (P < 0.05). When GREB1 expression was knocked down, progesterone-driven decidualization markers in both immortalized and primary HESCs was significantly reduced (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01). Finally, GREB1 knock down signficantly reduced expression of the PR target genes WNT4 and FOXOA1 (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). LARGE SCALE DATA This study used the Nuclear Receptor Signaling Atlas. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although in vitro cell culture studies indicate that GREB1 is required for endoemtrial decidualization, the in vivo role of GREB1 in endometrial function and dysfunction should be assessed by using knock-out mouse models. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Identification and functional analysis of GREB1 as a key molecular mediator of decidualization may lead to improved diagnosis and clinical management of women with peri-implantation loss due to inadequate endometrial decidualization. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded in part by: a National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) grant (R00 HD080742) and Washington University School of Medicine start-up funds to R.K., an NIH/NICHD grant (RO1 HD-07857) to B.W.O.M., and a NIH/NICHD grant (R01 HD-042311) to J.P.L. The authors declare no conflicts of interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Camden
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Maria M Szwarc
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sangappa B Chadchan
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Francesco J DeMayo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Bert W O'Malley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
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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: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [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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Ma X, Hayes E, Biswas A, Seger C, Prizant H, Hammes SR, Sen A. Androgens Regulate Ovarian Gene Expression Through Modulation of Ezh2 Expression and Activity. Endocrinology 2017; 158:2944-2954. [PMID: 28666321 PMCID: PMC5659665 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A substantial amount of evidence suggests that androgen signaling through classical androgen receptors is critical for both normal and pathologic ovarian physiology. Specifically, we and others have shown that, in mouse granulosa cells, androgen actions through both extranuclear and nuclear androgen receptor signaling are critical for normal follicle development and ovulation. Here, we show that androgens through the PI3K/Akt pathway rapidly (within minutes) phosphorylate and inhibit activity of the Polycomb group protein enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2). Over the course of 24 to 48 hours, androgens then induce expression of the microRNA miR-101, which targets Ezh2 messenger RNA (mRNA), leading to a nearly complete loss of Ezh2 protein expression. This long-term androgen-induced loss of Ezh2 actions ultimately results in sustained reduction of the H3K27me3-repressive mark in the promoter region of the Runt-related transcription factor-1 (Runx1) gene, a luteinizing hormone (LH)-induced transcription factor essential for ovulation, leading to increased Runx1 mRNA expression. Accordingly, blocking androgen-induced inhibition of Ezh2 in vivo adversely affects LH-induced Runx1 mRNA expression and subsequent ovulation. Importantly, although estrogen treatment of granulosa cells similarly causes rapid activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway and short-term phosphorylation of Ezh2, it does not induce miR-101 expression and thereby does not reduce overall Ezh2 expression, demonstrating the androgen specificity of long-term Ezh2 suppression. Thus, this study provides insight regarding how androgen-induced extranuclear kinase signaling and intranuclear transcription through Ezh2 modifications may influence the expression pattern of genes, ultimately affecting various downstream physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Ma
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Emily Hayes
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Anindita Biswas
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Christina Seger
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Hen Prizant
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Stephen R. Hammes
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Aritro Sen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
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Ubiquitination of nuclear receptors. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:917-934. [PMID: 28473472 DOI: 10.1042/cs20160708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are cellular proteins, which upon ligand activation, act to exert regulatory control over transcription and subsequent expression. Organized via systemic classification into seven subfamilies, NRs partake in modulating a vast expanse of physiological functions essential for maintenance of life. NRs display particular characteristics towards ubiquitination, the process of addition of specific ubiquitin tags at appropriate locations. Orchestrated through groups of enzymes harboring a diverse array of specialized structural components, the ubiquitination process emphatically alters the fate or downstream effects of NRs. Such influence is especially prominent in transcriptional processes such as promoter clearing for optimization and degradation pathways eliminating or recycling targeted proteins. Ultimately, the ubiquitination of NRs carries significant implications in terms of generating pathological clinical manifestations. Increasing evidence from studies involving patients and disease models suggests a role for ubiquitinated NRs in virtually every organ system. This supports the broad repertoire of roles that NRs play in the body, including modulatory conductors, facilitators, responders to external agents, and critical constituents for pharmacological or biological interventions. This review aims to cover relevant background and mechanisms of NRs and ubiquitination, with a focus towards elucidating subsequent pathophysiology and therapeutics in clinical disorders encompassing such ubiquitinated NRs.
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Sellix MT, Sen A. Finding the Right Balance: Androgens at the Tipping Point of Fertility and Metabolism in Women. Endocrinology 2017; 158:467-469. [PMID: 28430914 PMCID: PMC5460785 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Sellix
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
| | - Aritro Sen
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York 14642
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