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Li Q, Zheng T, Chen J, Li B, Zhang Q, Yang S, Shao J, Guan W, Zhang S. Exploring melatonin's multifaceted role in female reproductive health: From follicular development to lactation and its therapeutic potential in obstetric syndromes. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00168-1. [PMID: 38692429 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Melatonin is mainly secreted by the pineal gland during darkness and regulates biological rhythms through its receptors in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. In addition, it also plays a role in the reproductive system by affecting the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and by acting as a free radical scavenger thus contributing to the maintenance of the optimal physiological state of the gonads. Besides, melatonin can freely cross the placenta to influence fetal development. However, there is still a lack of overall understanding of the role of melatonin in the reproductive cycle of female mammals. AIM OF REVIEW Here we focus the role of melatonin in female reproduction from follicular development to delivery as well as the relationship between melatonin and lactation. We further summarize the potential role of melatonin in the treatment of preeclampsia, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and ovarian aging. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW Understanding the physiological role of melatonin in female reproductive processes will contribute to the advancement of human fertility and reproductive medicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihui Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Tenghui Zheng
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jiaming Chen
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Baofeng Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qianzi Zhang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Siwang Yang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jiayuan Shao
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wutai Guan
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shihai Zhang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition Control, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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Azpeleta C, Delgado MJ, Metz JR, Flik G, de Pedro N. Melatonin as an anti-stress signal: effects on an acute stress model and direct actions on interrenal tissue in goldfish. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1291153. [PMID: 38260137 PMCID: PMC10800973 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1291153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Melatonin is a key hormone in regulation of circadian rhythms, and involved in many rhythmic functions, such as feeding and locomotor activity. Melatonin reportedly counteracts stress responses in many vertebrates, including fish. However, targets for this action of melatonin and underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Results This study reports potential anti-stress properties of melatonin in goldfish (Carassius auratus), with a focus on its effect on plasma cortisol, food intake, and locomotor activity, all of them involved in the responses to stress exposure. Indeed, acute injection of melatonin counteracted stress-induced hypercortisolinemia and reduced food intake. The reduced locomotor activity following melatonin treatment suggests a possible sedative role in fish. To assess whether this anti-stress effects of melatonin involve direct actions on interrenal tissue, in vitro cultures of head kidney (containing the interrenal cortisol-producing tissue) were carried out in presence of ACTH, melatonin, and luzindole, an antagonist of melatonin receptors. Melatonin in vitro reduced ACTH-stimulated cortisol release, an effect attenuated by luzindole; this suggests the presence of specific melatonin receptors in interrenal tissue. Conclusions Our data support a role for melatonin as an anti-stress signal in goldfish, and suggest that the interrenal tissue of teleosts may be a plausible target for melatonin action decreasing cortisol production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Azpeleta
- Departamento de Genética, Fisiología y Microbiología, Unidad Docente de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas y de la Salud, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mª Jesús Delgado
- Departamento de Genética, Fisiología y Microbiología, Unidad Docente de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juriaan R Metz
- Department of Animal Ecology and Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences (RIBES), Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Gert Flik
- Department of Animal Ecology and Physiology, Radboud Institute for Biological and Environmental Sciences (RIBES), Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Nuria de Pedro
- Departamento de Genética, Fisiología y Microbiología, Unidad Docente de Fisiología Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Méndez N, Corvalan F, Halabi D, Ehrenfeld P, Maldonado R, Vergara K, Seron-Ferre M, Torres-Farfan C. From gestational chronodisruption to noncommunicable diseases: Pathophysiological mechanisms of programming of adult diseases, and the potential therapeutic role of melatonin. J Pineal Res 2023; 75:e12908. [PMID: 37650128 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12908] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
During gestation, the developing fetus relies on precise maternal circadian signals for optimal growth and preparation for extrauterine life. These signals regulate the daily delivery of oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and other biophysical factors while synchronizing fetal rhythms with the external photoperiod. However, modern lifestyle factors such as light pollution and shift work can induce gestational chronodisruption, leading to the desynchronization of maternal and fetal circadian rhythms. Such disruptions have been associated with adverse effects on cardiovascular, neurodevelopmental, metabolic, and endocrine functions in the fetus, increasing the susceptibility to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in adult life. This aligns with the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease theory, suggesting that early-life exposures can significantly influence health outcomes later in life. The consequences of gestational chronodisruption also extend into adulthood. Environmental factors like diet and stress can exacerbate the adverse effects of these disruptions, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy circadian rhythm across the lifespan to prevent NCDs and mitigate the impact of gestational chronodisruption on aging. Research efforts are currently aimed at identifying potential interventions to prevent or mitigate the effects of gestational chronodisruption. Melatonin supplementation during pregnancy emerges as a promising intervention, although further investigation is required to fully understand the precise mechanisms involved and to develop effective strategies for promoting health and preventing NCDs in individuals affected by gestational chronodisruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Méndez
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Fernando Corvalan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Diego Halabi
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- School of Dentistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pamela Ehrenfeld
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- School of Dentistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- School of Dentistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Karina Vergara
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Maria Seron-Ferre
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- School of Dentistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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Mendez N, Halabi D, Salazar-Petres ER, Vergara K, Corvalan F, Richter HG, Bastidas C, Bascur P, Ehrenfeld P, Seron-Ferre M, Torres-Farfan C. Maternal melatonin treatment rescues endocrine, inflammatory, and transcriptional deregulation in the adult rat female offspring from gestational chronodisruption. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1039977. [PMID: 36507347 PMCID: PMC9727156 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1039977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Gestational chronodisruption impact maternal circadian rhythms, inhibiting the nocturnal increase of melatonin, a critical hormone that contributes to maternal changes adaptation, entrains circadian rhythms, and prepares the fetus for birth and successful health in adulthood. In rats, we know that gestational chronodisruption by maternal chronic photoperiod shifting (CPS) impaired maternal melatonin levels and resulted in long-term metabolic and cardiovascular effects in adult male offspring. Here, we investigated the consequences of CPS on mother and adult female offspring and explored the effects of melatonin maternal supplementation. Also, we tested whether maternal melatonin administration during gestational chronodisruption rescues maternal circadian rhythms, pregnancy outcomes, and transcriptional functions in adult female offspring. Methods Female rats raised and maintained in photoperiod 12:12 light: dark were mated and separated into three groups: (a) Control photoperiod 12:12 (LD); (b) CPS photoperiod; and (c) CPS+Mel mothers supplemented with melatonin in the drinking water throughout gestation. In the mother, we evaluated maternal circadian rhythms by telemetry and pregnancy outcomes, in the long-term, we study adult female offspring by evaluating endocrine and inflammatory markers and the mRNA expression of functional genes involved in adrenal, cardiac, and renal function. Results In the mothers, CPS disrupted circadian rhythms of locomotor activity, body temperature, and heart rate and increased gestational length by almost 12-h and birth weight by 12%, all of which were rescued by maternal melatonin administration. In the female offspring, we found blunted day/night differences in circulating levels of melatonin and corticosterone, abnormal patterns of pro-inflammatory cytokines Interleukin-1a (IL1a), Interleukin-6 (IL6), and Interleukin-10 (IL10); and differential expression in 18 out of 24 adrenal, cardiac, and renal mRNAs evaluated. Conclusion Maternal melatonin contributed to maintaining the maternal circadian rhythms in mothers exposed to CPS, and the re-establishing the expression of 60% of the altered mRNAs to control levels in the female offspring. Although we did not analyze the effects on kidney, adrenal, and heart physiology, our results reinforce the idea that altered maternal circadian rhythms, resulting from exposure to light at night, should be a mechanism involved in the programming of Non-Communicable Diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mendez
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Diego Halabi
- School of Dentistry, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Esteban Roberto Salazar-Petres
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Karina Vergara
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Fernando Corvalan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Hans G. Richter
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Carla Bastidas
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Pía Bascur
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Pamela Ehrenfeld
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile,Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Maria Seron-Ferre
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Anatomía, Histología y Patología, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile,Centro Interdisciplinario de Estudios del Sistema Nervioso (CISNe), Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile,*Correspondence: Claudia Torres-Farfan,
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Liao CW, Wei CF, Chen MH, Hsieh WS, Lin CC, Chen PC. Association between maternal shift work during pregnancy child overweight and metabolic outcomes in early childhood. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1006332. [PMID: 36249262 PMCID: PMC9565036 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1006332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies found that maternal shift work during pregnancy was associated with many reproductive hazards, including small for gestational age, preterm birth, stillbirth, and neurodevelopmental impairment. Some studies also showed that these children are more likely to become overweight in early childhood. However, the association with metabolic factors, such as insulin resistance and dyslipidemia, was less studied. Hence, we aimed to understand better the relationship between maternal shift work during pregnancy and the risk of childhood overweight and metabolic outcomes. Confounding factors were also discussed, including diet, exercise, and demographical factors. Methods We enrolled pregnant women before delivery in the Taiwan Birth Panel Study (TBPS) II conducted between 2010 and 2012, and followed the children of these participants in 2018. The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of prenatal and postnatal factors on infant and early childhood health. During the follow-up in 2018, we checked children's demographic data, obtained blood specimens, and checked their blood sugar, blood insulin, and lipid profiles. Structured questionnaires were used to evaluate demographic data. Multiple linear and logistic regressions were used to examine the associations between maternal shift work during pregnancy and child overweight, metabolic disorders, such as HOMA-IR, and lipid profiles. Results In this study, we included 407 mother-children pairs with different work shifts (350 day workers and 57 shift workers), and a sub-population without underweight children was also created (290 day workers and 47 shift workers). Shift work during pregnancy was associated with a higher Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance index (HOMA-IR) and a higher odds ratio for overweight in children born from mothers doing shift work during pregnancy after adjustment. The findings were attenuated when we investigated the effect of shift work before pregnancy. Conclusion Our study suggested that maternal shift work during pregnancy was associated with child overweight and insulin resistance in early childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Wei Liao
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan,Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Fu Wei
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mei-Huei Chen
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan,Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Shiun Hsieh
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,Department of Pediatrics, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chun Lin
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan,*Correspondence: Ching-Chun Lin
| | - Pau-Chung Chen
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan,Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,Department of Public Health, National Taiwan University College of Public Health, Taipei, Taiwan,National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan,Pau-Chung Chen
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Anghel L, Baroiu L, Popazu CR, Pătraș D, Fotea S, Nechifor A, Ciubara A, Nechita L, Mușat CL, Stefanopol IA, Tatu AL, Ciubara AB. Benefits and adverse events of melatonin use in the elderly (Review). Exp Ther Med 2022; 23:219. [PMID: 35126722 PMCID: PMC8796282 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in accordance with the circadian rhythm when the light level decreases. Reduction of melatonin secretion with age may be associated with physiological aging in neurodegenerative diseases by affecting the suprachiasmatic nucleus or of the neuronal pathways of transmission to the pineal gland. A significant decrease in melatonin synthesis has been reported in various disorders and diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders (particularly diabetes type 2), cancer and endocrine diseases. In addition to the fact, that melatonin is a sleep inducer, it also exerts cytoprotective properties as an antioxidant and free radical scavenger. The therapeutic role of melatonin has been demonstrated in sleep disorders, eye damage and cardiovascular disease. The association between melatonin and β-blockers has had a positive impact on sleep disorders in clinical trials. Previous studies have reported the anti-inflammatory effect of melatonin by adjusting levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α. Melatonin treatment has been demonstrated to decrease IL-6 and IL-10 expression levels and efficiently attenuate T-cell proliferation. Currently, there is an inconsistency of scientific data regarding the lowest optimal dose and safety of melatonin for long-term use. The aim of the present review was to summarize the evidence on the role of melatonin in various clinical conditions and highlight the future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucreția Anghel
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Liliana Baroiu
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Corina Rișcă Popazu
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Diana Pătraș
- Internal Medicine Department, St. Andrew The Apostle Clinical Emergency County Hospital, 800578 Galați, Romania
| | - Silvia Fotea
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Alexandru Nechifor
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania.,Multidisciplinary Integrated Center of Dermatological Interface Research, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Anamaria Ciubara
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Luiza Nechita
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Carmina Liana Mușat
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Ioana Anca Stefanopol
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Alin Laurențiu Tatu
- Clinical Medical Department, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania.,Multidisciplinary Integrated Center of Dermatological Interface Research, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania.,Research Center in The Field of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
| | - Alexandru Bogdan Ciubara
- Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, 'Dunărea de Jos' University, 800008 Galați, Romania
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Valenzuela-Melgarejo FJ, Lagunas C, Carmona-Pastén F, Jara-Medina K, Delgado G. Supraphysiological Role of Melatonin Over Vascular Dysfunction of Pregnancy, a New Therapeutic Agent? Front Physiol 2021; 12:767684. [PMID: 34867473 PMCID: PMC8635235 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.767684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension can be induced by the disruption of factors in blood pressure regulation. This includes several systems such as Neurohumoral, Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone, the Circadian clock, and melatonin production, which can induce elevation and non-dipping blood pressure. Melatonin has a supraphysiological role as a chronobiotic agent and modulates vascular system processes via pro/antiangiogenic factors, inflammation, the immune system, and oxidative stress regulation. An elevation of melatonin production is observed during pregnancy, modulating the placenta and fetus’s physiological functions. Their impairment production can induce temporal desynchronization of cell proliferation, differentiation, or invasion from trophoblast cells results in vascular insufficiencies, elevating the risk of poor fetal/placental development. Several genes are associated with vascular disease and hypertension during pregnancy via impaired inflammatory response, hypoxia, and oxidative stress, such as cytokines/chemokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and impairment expression in endothelial cells/VSMCs of HIF1α and eNOS genes. Pathological placentas showed differentially expressed genes (DEG), including vascular genes as CITED2, VEGF, PL-II, PIGF, sFLT-1, and sENG, oncogene JUNB, scaffolding protein CUL7, GPER1, and the pathways of SIRT/AMPK and MAPK/ERK. Additionally, we observed modification of subunits of NADPH oxidase and extracellular matrix elements, i.e., Glypican and Heparanase and KCa channel. Mothers with a low level of melatonin showed low production of proangiogenic factor VEGF, increasing the risk of preeclampsia, premature birth, and abortion. In contrast, melatonin supplementation can reduce systolic pressure, prevent oxidative stress, induce the activation of the antioxidants system, and lessen proteinuria and serum level of sFlt-1. Moreover, melatonin can repair the endothelial damage from preeclampsia at the placenta level, increasing PIGF, Nrf-2, HO-1 production and reducing critical markers of vascular injury during the pregnancy. Melatonin also restores the umbilical and uterine blood flow after oxidative stress and inhibits vascular inflammation and VCAM-1, Activin-A, and sEng production. The beneficial effects of melatonin over pathological pregnancies can be partially observed in normal pregnancies, suggesting the dual role of/over placental physiology could contribute to protection and have therapeutic applications in vascular pathologies of pregnancies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Valenzuela-Melgarejo
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
| | - Constanza Lagunas
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fabiola Carmona-Pastén
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
| | - Kevins Jara-Medina
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
| | - Gustavo Delgado
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
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Moraes BSS, Curcio BR, Müller V, Bruhn FRP, Santos IPOD, Danielski JNS, Nogueira CEW. Climatic factors affecting gestational length in mares under subtropical climate. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 107:103751. [PMID: 34802627 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was (i) to evaluate the relationship of climatic factors with gestational length (GL) and (ii) to evaluate the relationship of sire, foal gender and maternal factors with GL in mares. Retrospective data from 470 gestations of 202 respective mares were collected from a Criollo breeding farm in the southern hemisphere. GL was considered as the interval between ovulation and parturition. Climatic and environmental data (temperature, relative humidity, daily sunshine hours, precipitation, temperature humidity index - THI) were obtained daily and the mean values for foaling month and season were calculated. A multiple factor analysis of variance was performed to determine the relationship of the independent variables and interactions related to the mare, foal gender and stallion, and those related to the weather in each season of the year with GL as the dependent variable. The mean ± standard error (SE) of GL for the 470 gestations was 337 ± 0.4 days with a range of 311-363 days. Young-primiparous mares (340±0.9) had longer gestations (P < .001) than young-multiparous (336 ± 0.7) and mature-multiparous (334 ± 0.7) mares. Foal gender had no effect on GL. Gestational length was found to be affected by the stallion. Mares which experienced an autumn and winter gestational period with less daily sunshine hours had an increased GL (P < .05). In conclusion, environmental and climatic factors during pregnancy influenced the GL in mares, specifically, daily sunshine hours, precipitation and THI presented a negative correlation with GL. Young-primiparous Criollo mares presented longer gestational lengths than young or mature multiparous mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna S S Moraes
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Bruna R Curcio
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Vitória Müller
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Fabio R P Bruhn
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Isadora P O D Santos
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Júlio N S Danielski
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Carlos E W Nogueira
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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9
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Ivanov D, Mironova E, Polyakova V, Evsyukova I, Osetrov M, Kvetnoy I, Nasyrov R. Sudden infant death syndrome: Melatonin, serotonin, and CD34 factor as possible diagnostic markers and prophylactic targets. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256197. [PMID: 34506527 PMCID: PMC8432873 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is one of the primary causes of death of infants in the first year of life. According to the WHO's data, the global infant mortality rate is 0.64-2 per 1,000 live-born children. Molecular and cellular aspects of SIDS development have not been identified so far. The purpose of this paper is to verify and analyze the expression of melatonin 1 and 2 receptors, serotonin (as a melatonin precursor), and CD34 molecules (as hematopoietic and endothelial markers of cardiovascular damage) in the medulla, heart, and aorta in infants who died from SIDS. An immunohistochemical method was used to investigate samples of medulla, heart, and aorta tissues of infants 3 to 9 months of age who died from SIDS. The control group included children who died from accidents. It has been shown that the expression of melatonin receptors as well as serotonin and CD34 angiogenesis markers in tissues of the medulla, heart, and aorta of infants who died from SIDS is statistically lower as compared with their expression in the same tissues in children who died from accidents. The obtained data help to clarify in detail the role of melatonin and such signaling molecules as serotonin and CD34 in SIDS pathogenesis, which can open new prospects for devising novel methods for predictive diagnosis of development and targeted prophylaxis of SIDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Ivanov
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Ekaterina Mironova
- Saint Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
- Saint-Petersburg Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Victoria Polyakova
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Inna Evsyukova
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Michail Osetrov
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Igor Kvetnoy
- Saint-Petersburg Research Institute of Phthisiopulmonology, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
- Saint-Petersburg State University, University Embankment, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Ruslan Nasyrov
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
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10
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Ogo FM, Siervo GEML, de Moraes AMP, Machado KGDB, Scarton SRDS, Guimarães ATB, Cecchini AL, Simão ANC, Mathias PCDF, Fernandes GSA. Extended light period in the maternal circadian cycle impairs the reproductive system of the rat male offspring. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2021; 12:595-602. [PMID: 33109301 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in the circadian cycle are known to cause physiological disorders in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axes in adult individuals. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate whether exposure of pregnant rats to constant light can alter the reproductive system development of male offspring. The dams were divided into two groups: a light-dark group (LD), in which pregnant rats were exposed to an LD photoperiod (12 h/12 h) and a light-light (LL) group, in which pregnant rats were exposed to a photoperiod of constant light during the gestation period. After birth, offspring from both groups remained in the normal LD photoperiod (12 h/12 h) until adulthood. One male of each litter was selected and, at adulthood (postnatal day (PND) 90), the trunk blood was collected to measure plasma testosterone levels, testes and epididymis for sperm count, oxidative stress and histopathological analyses, and the spermatozoa from the vas deferens to perform the morphological and motility analyses. Results showed that a photoperiod of constant light caused a decrease in testosterone levels, epididymal weight and sperm count in the epididymis, seminiferous tubule diameter, Sertoli cell number, and normal spermatozoa number. Histopathological damage was also observed in the testes, and stereological alterations, in the LL group. In conclusion, exposure to constant light during the gestational period impairs the reproductive system of male offspring in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Mithie Ogo
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Eloisa Munhoz Lion Siervo
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Praxedes de Moraes
- Department of Biotechnology, Genetics and Cell Biology, State University of Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Katia Gama de Barros Machado
- Department of Biotechnology, Genetics and Cell Biology, State University of Maringá - UEM, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Suellen Ribeiro da Silva Scarton
- Department of General Biology, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Alessandra Lourenço Cecchini
- Department of Pathological Sciences, Biological Sciences Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Andréa Name Colado Simão
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Analysis and Toxicology, Health Center, State University of Londrina - UEL, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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11
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Gao XY, Deng BH, Li XR, Wang Y, Zhang JX, Hao XY, Zhao JX. Melatonin Regulates Differentiation of Sheep Brown Adipocyte Precursor Cells Via AMP-Activated Protein Kinase. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:661773. [PMID: 34235199 PMCID: PMC8255384 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.661773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In sheep industry, hypothermia caused by insufficient brown adipose tissue (BAT) deposits is one of the major causes of lamb deaths. Enhancing the formation and function of BAT in neonatal lamb increases thermogenesis and hence reduces economic losses. The aim of the present study was to explore the effect and mechanism of melatonin on sheep brown adipocyte formation and function. Sheep brown adipocyte precursor cells (SBACs) isolated from perirenal BAT were treated with melatonin (1 and 10 nM). The SBACs subjected to melatonin exhibited a decreased proliferation ability, accompanied by down-regulated proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin D1, and CDK4 protein contents in a melatonin dose-dependent manner. Melatonin promoted brown adipocyte formation and induced the expression of brown adipogenic markers, including uncoupling protein 1 and PR domain-containing 16 during differentiation of SBAC. Moreover, the AMP-activated protein kinase α1 (AMPKα1) activity was positively correlated with brown adipocyte formation potential. Importantly, melatonin effectively activated AMPKα1. Furthermore, promotional effects of melatonin were abolished by AMPKα1 knockout, suggesting the involvement of AMPKα1 in this process. Collectively, these results suggested that melatonin enhanced brown adipocyte formation in SBACs in vitro through activation of AMPKα1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Yang Gao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Bu-Hao Deng
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Xin-Rui Li
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Yu Wang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Jian-Xin Zhang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Hao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
| | - Jun-Xing Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Shanxi, China
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12
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Perumal P, De AK, Alyethodi RR, Savino N, Khate K, Vupru K, Khan MH. Daily and seasonal rhythmic secretary pattern of endocrinological profiles in mithun bull. Theriogenology 2021; 166:46-54. [PMID: 33684782 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mithun (Bos frontalis) is a unique domestic free-range bovine species available in North Eastern hilly (NEH) regions of India and is reared for its protein rich meat. Mithun suffers severe non-cyclical population fluctuations; however, it is not yet declared as endangered species. Mithun follows some sort of seasonality based on the calving trend and semen production, although it is a perennial breeder. However, there is need to study the rhythmic changes of endocrine profiles to understand the hormone flow pattern in mithun to select the suitable time for blood collection to assess the exact endocrine profiles and to select the suitable time for natural breeding or semen collection by artificial methods for further research, conservation and propagation of its germplasm. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the reproductive as well as metabolic endocrinological profiles in 24:00 h in intact adult mithun bulls during different seasons (winter, spring, summer and autumn) to know the rhythmic changes and flow pattern of the endocrinological profiles to improve its reproductive efficiency. Experimental mithun bulls (n = 6; age: 5-6 years; body condition score: 5-6 out of 10, classified as good) were selected for the study. Endocrinological profiles, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone/interstitial cell stimulating hormone (LH/ICSH), testosterone, cortisol, thyroxine (T4), insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), prolactin and melatonin (MT) were estimated at 04:00 h interval for one whole day in four seasons. The analysis was completed in two different ways as different times of collection (08:00, 12:00, 16:00, 20:00, 24:00 and 04:00 h) and day (08:00 to 16:00 h) & night time (20:00 to 04:00 h) collections. Repeated measures ANOVA analysis revealed that the bulls in winter and spring had significantly (p < 0.05) higher FSH, LH, testosterone, T4, IGF-1 and MT than those in summer whereas the bulls in summer had significantly higher cortisol and prolactin than those in winter and spring seasons. Similarly FSH, LH, testosterone, T4, IGF-1 and MT were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in night than in day time collections whereas cortisol and prolactin were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in day than in night time collections in different seasons. Correlation analysis revealed that FSH, LH, testosterone, T4, IGF-1 and MT had significant (p < 0.05) positive correlation with each other whereas these had significant (p < 0.05) negative correlation with cortisol and prolactin. The study concludes that season and time of blood collection had significant effect on the endocrinological profiles in mithun bulls. Estimation of FSH, LH, testosterone, T4, IGF-1 and MT during night time and cortisol and prolactin during day time was more appropriate to get correct value of the endocrinological profiles. Spring and winter have significantly greater beneficial effects than summer on reproduction and artificial breeding programs in mithun species in the semi-intensive management in the present location.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Perumal
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland, 797 106, India; ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, 744 105, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.
| | - A K De
- ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, 744 105, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
| | - R R Alyethodi
- ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, 744 105, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India
| | - N Savino
- NU-School of Agricultural Science and Rural Development, Medziphema, Nagaland, 797 106, India
| | - K Khate
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland, 797 106, India
| | - K Vupru
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland, 797 106, India
| | - M H Khan
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema, Nagaland, 797 106, India
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13
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14
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Flinn T, McCarthy NL, Swinbourne AM, Gatford KL, Weaver AC, McGrice HA, Kelly JM, Walker SK, Kind KL, Kleemann DO, van Wettere WHEJ. Supplementing Merino ewes with melatonin during the last half of pregnancy improves tolerance of prolonged parturition and survival of second-born twin lambs. J Anim Sci 2021; 98:5986736. [PMID: 33205209 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skaa372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
High preweaning mortality rates continue to limit sheep production globally, constituting a major economic and welfare concern. Greater losses in twin lambs (≥30%) compared with singletons (≥10%) are attributed primarily to lower birth weight and increased risk of intrapartum hypoxia, leading to impairment of thermoregulation, neuromotor activity, and maternal bonding behavior. Previous intensive studies demonstrated that supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin reduced the adverse effects of fetal growth restriction and perinatal hypoxia on the neonatal brain via increased umbilical blood flow, placental efficiency, and antioxidant actions. The current study examined the effects of supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin on lamb survival, birth weight, and behavior under intensive conditions. From gestational day (gD) 80 until parturition, pregnant singleton and twin-bearing ewes were supplemented with melatonin via a 2-mg capsule fed daily (Mel-FED, n = 61) or 18 mg subcutaneous implant (Regulin), with one implant administered at gD80 and another at gD125 (Mel-IMP, n = 60). Control ewes received no supplementation (CTL, n = 60). Ewes and lambs were monitored via video throughout parturition. Postpartum measures were taken from lambs at 4 and 24 h (live weight [LW], rectal temperature, serum immunoglobulin G, and latency to stand and suck after birth) and LW at 72 h, 7 d, marking (49.7 ± 0.2 d), and weaning (124.2 ± 0.8 d). Chi-square analysis was used to compare lamb survival between treatment groups. There were no treatment effects on singleton lamb survival. Melatonin supplementation tended to increase the proportion of twin lambs surviving from birth to weaning (Mel-FED = 85.5%; Mel-IMP = 85.9%; CTL = 72.9%; each P < 0.1). Survival of first-born twins did not differ between treatment (each ~90%, P = 0.745) but within second-born twins, survival of Mel-FED was greater than CTL (81.6 vs. 57.1%, P = 0.023), and Mel-IMP (78.1%) tended to be greater than CTL (P = 0.068). Similarly, in second-born twins exposed to prolonged parturition (≥ 90 min), survival of lambs from Mel-FED ewes was greater than CTL (86.7% vs. 42.9%, P = 0.032), while Mel-IMP was intermediate (66.7%). These data suggest that the neuroprotective actions of melatonin may improve twin lamb survival by increasing tolerance of prolonged parturition and provide a sound basis for continued testing in extensively managed sheep flocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Flinn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Niki L McCarthy
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Alyce M Swinbourne
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Hayley A McGrice
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Simon K Walker
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David O Kleemann
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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15
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García-Herrera CM, Cuevas ÁA, Celentano DJ, Navarrete Á, Aranda P, Herrera E, Uribe S. Analysis of the passive biomechanical behavior of a sheep-specific aortic artery in pulsatile flow conditions. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2021; 24:1228-1241. [PMID: 33475015 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2021.1872549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In this work, a novel numerical-experimental procedure is proposed, through the use of the Cardiac Simulation Test (CST), device that allows the exposure of the arterial tissue to in-vitro conditions, mimicking cardiac cycles generated by the heart. The main goal is to describe mechanical response of the arterial wall under physiological conditions, when it is subjected to a variable pressure wave over time, which causes a stress state affecting the biomechanical behavior of the artery wall. In order to get information related to stress and strain states, numerical simulation via finite element method, is performed under a condition of systolic and diastolic pressure. The description of this methodological procedure is performed with a sample corresponding to a sheep aorta without cardiovascular pathologies. There are two major findings: the evaluation of the mechanical properties of the sheep aorta through the above-mentioned tests and, the numerical simulation of the mechanical response under the conditions present in the CST. The results state that differences between numerical and experimental circumferential stretch in diastole and systole to distinct zones studied do not exceed 1%. However, greater discrepancies can be seen in the distensibility and incremental modulus, two main indicators, which are in the order of 30%. In addition, numerical results determine an increase of the principal maximum stress and strain between the case of systolic and diastolic pressure, corresponding to 31.1% and 14.9% for the stress and strain measurement respectively; where maximum values of these variables are located in the zone of the ascending aorta and the aortic arch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio M García-Herrera
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,ANID - Millennium Science Initiative Program - Millennium Nucleus in Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, Santiago, Chile
| | - Álvaro A Cuevas
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Diego J Celentano
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica y Metalúrgica, Pontificia Universidad Católica, Santiago, Chile.,Radiology department and biomedical imaging center, school of medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
| | - Álvaro Navarrete
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pedro Aranda
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Emilio Herrera
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Uribe
- Radiology department and biomedical imaging center, school of medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile.,ANID - Millennium Science Initiative Program - Millennium Nucleus in Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance, Santiago, Chile
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16
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Gomes PRL, Motta-Teixeira LC, Gallo CC, Carmo Buonfiglio DD, Camargo LSD, Quintela T, Reiter RJ, Amaral FGD, Cipolla-Neto J. Maternal pineal melatonin in gestation and lactation physiology, and in fetal development and programming. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 300:113633. [PMID: 33031801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy and lactation are reproductive processes that rely on physiological adaptations that should be timely and adequately triggered to guarantee both maternal and fetal health. Pineal melatonin is a hormone that presents daily and seasonal variations that synchronizes the organism's physiology to the different demands across time through its specific mechanisms and ways of action. The reproductive system is a notable target for melatonin as it actively participates on reproductive physiology and regulates the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonads axis, influencing gonadotropins and sexual hormones synthesis and release. For its antioxidant properties, melatonin is also vital for the oocytes and spermatozoa quality and viability, and for blastocyst development. Maternal pineal melatonin blood levels increase during pregnancy and triggers the maternal physiological alterations in energy metabolism both during pregnancy and lactation to cope with the energy demands of both periods and to promote adequate mammary gland development. Moreover, maternal melatonin freely crosses the placenta and is the only source of this hormone to the fetus. It importantly times the conceptus physiology and influences its development and programing of several functions that depend on neural and brain development, ultimately priming adult behavior and energy and glucose metabolism. The present review aims to explain the above listed melatonin functions, including the potential alterations observed in the progeny gestated under maternal chronodisruption and/or hypomelatoninemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Rodrigues Lourenço Gomes
- Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Bldg 1, Lab 118, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Lívia Clemente Motta-Teixeira
- Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Bldg 1, Lab 118, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Camila Congentino Gallo
- Pineal Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology, 862 Botucatu St., 5th floor, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-901, Brazil.
| | - Daniella do Carmo Buonfiglio
- Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Bldg 1, Lab 118, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Ludmilla Scodeler de Camargo
- Pineal Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology, 862 Botucatu St., 5th floor, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-901, Brazil.
| | - Telma Quintela
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Center, Infante D. Henrique Ave, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã 6200-506, Portugal.
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, Long School of Medicine, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Fernanda Gaspar do Amaral
- Pineal Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology, 862 Botucatu St., 5th floor, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo 04023-901, Brazil.
| | - José Cipolla-Neto
- Neurobiology Lab, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, 1524 Prof. Lineu Prestes Ave., Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Bldg 1, Lab 118, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil.
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17
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Halabi D, Richter HG, Mendez N, Kähne T, Spichiger C, Salazar E, Torres F, Vergara K, Seron-Ferre M, Torres-Farfan C. Maternal Chronodisruption Throughout Pregnancy Impairs Glucose Homeostasis and Adipose Tissue Physiology in the Male Rat Offspring. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:678468. [PMID: 34484111 PMCID: PMC8415792 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.678468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Compelling evidence in rats support the idea that gestational chronodisruption induces major changes in maternal circadian rhythms and fetal development and that these changes impact adult life at many physiological levels. Using a model of chronic photoperiod shifting throughout gestation (CPS), in which pregnant female rats (Sprague-Dawley strain; n = 16 per group) were exposed to lighting schedule manipulation every 3-4 days reversing the photoperiod completely or light/dark photoperiod (12/12; LD), we explored in the adult rat male offspring body weight gain, glucose homeostasis, adipose tissue content, adipose tissue response to norepinephrine (NE), and adipose tissue proteomic in the basal condition with standard diet (SD) and in response to high-fat diet (HFD). In adult CPS male (100-200 days old; n = 8 per group), we found increasing body weight, under SD and adiposity. Also, we found an increased response to intraperitoneal glucose (IGTT). After 12 weeks of HFD, white adipose tissue depots in CPS offspring were increased further, and higher IGTT and lower intraperitoneal insulin tolerance response were found, despite the lack of changes in food intake. In in vitro experiments, we observed that adipose tissue (WAT and BAT) glycerol response to NE from CPS offspring was decreased, and it was completely abolished by HFD. At the proteomic level, in CPS adipose tissue, 275 proteins displayed differential expression, compared with LD animals fed with a standard diet. Interestingly, CPS offspring and LD fed with HFD showed 20 proteins in common (2 upregulated and 18 downregulated). Based on these common proteins, the IPA analysis found that two functional pathways were significantly altered by CPS: network 1 (AKT/ERK) and network 2 (TNF/IL4; data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD026315). The present data show that gestational chronodisruption induced deleterious effects in adipose tissue recruitment and function, supporting the idea that adipose tissue function was programmed in utero by gestational chronodisruption, inducing deficient metabolic responses that persist into adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Halabi
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Institute of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Hans G. Richter
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Natalia Mendez
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Thilo Kähne
- Mass Spectrometry for Massive Proteomics, Institute of Experimental Internal Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Carlos Spichiger
- Institute of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Esteban Salazar
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Fabiola Torres
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Karina Vergara
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Maria Seron-Ferre
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology, Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- *Correspondence: Claudia Torres-Farfan,
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18
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Pevet P, Challet E, Felder-Schmittbuhl MP. Melatonin and the circadian system: Keys for health with a focus on sleep. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 179:331-343. [PMID: 34225973 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819975-6.00021-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin (MLT), secreted during the night by the pineal gland, is an efferent hormonal signal of the master circadian clock located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Consequently, it is a reliable phase marker of the SCN clock. If one defines as "chronobiotic," a drug able to influence the phase and/or the period of the circadian clock, MLT is a very potent one. The most convincing data obtained so far come from studies on totally blind individuals. Exogenous MLT administered daily entrains the sleep-wake cycle of these individuals to a 24-h cycle. MLT, however, is not essential to sleep. In nocturnally, active mammals, MLT is released during the night concomitantly with the daily period of wakefulness. Therefore, MLT cannot be simply considered as a sleep hormone, but rather as a signal of darkness. Its role in the circadian system is to reinforce nighttime physiology, including timing of the sleep-wake cycle and other circadian rhythms. MLT exerts its effects on the sleep cycle especially by a direct action on the master circadian clock. The sleep-wake cycle is depending not only on the circadian clock but also on an orchestrated network of different centers in the brain. Thus, the control of sleep-wake rhythm might be explained by a parallel and concomitant action of MLT on the master clock (chronobiotic effect) and on sleep-related structures within the brain. MLT acts through two high-affinity membrane receptors (MT1 and MT2) with striking differences in their distribution pattern. MLT is a powerful synchronizer of human circadian rhythms, thus justifying the use of MLT and MLT agonists in clinical medicine as pharmacological tools to manipulate the sleep-wake cycle, and to treat sleep disorders and other circadian disorders. Available MLT analogs/drugs are all nonspecific MT1/MT2 agonists. The development of new ligands which are highly selectivity for each subtype is clearly a new challenge for the field and will be at the root of new therapeutic agents for curing specific pathologies, including sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Pevet
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Etienne Challet
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS, University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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Flinn T, Kleemann DO, Swinbourne AM, Kelly JM, Weaver AC, Walker SK, Gatford KL, Kind KL, van Wettere WHEJ. Neonatal lamb mortality: major risk factors and the potential ameliorative role of melatonin. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:107. [PMID: 33292527 PMCID: PMC7643391 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-00510-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
High incidences of pre-weaning mortality continue to limit global sheep production, constituting a major economic and welfare concern. Despite significant advances in genetics, nutrition, and management, the proportion of lamb deaths has remained stable at 15–20% over the past four decades. There is mounting evidence that melatonin can improve outcomes in compromised ovine pregnancies via enhanced uterine bloodflow and neonatal neuroprotection. This review provides an overview of the major risk factors and underlying mechanisms involved in perinatal lamb mortality and discusses the potential of melatonin treatment as a remedial strategy. Supplementing pregnant ewes with melatonin enhances uterine bloodflow and fetal oxygenation, and potentially birthweight and neonatal thermogenic capacity. Melatonin freely crosses the ovine placenta and blood-brain barrier and provides neuroprotection to the fetal lamb during periods of chronic and acute hypoxia throughout gestation, with improved behavioural outcomes in hypoxic neonates. The current literature provides strong evidence that maternal melatonin treatment improves outcomes for lambs which experience compromised in utero development or prolonged parturition, though to date this has not been investigated in livestock production systems. As such there is a clear basis for continued research into the effects of maternal melatonin supplementation during gestation on pre-weaning survival under extensive production conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Flinn
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia.
| | - David O Kleemann
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Alyce M Swinbourne
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - Jennifer M Kelly
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Alice C Weaver
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Simon K Walker
- Turretfield Research Centre, South Australian Research and Development Institute, Rosedale, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Karen L Kind
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
| | - William H E J van Wettere
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA, Australia
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Abecia JA, Garrido C, Gave M, García AI, López D, Luis S, Valares JA, Mata L. Exogenous melatonin and male foetuses improve the quality of sheep colostrum. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2020; 104:1305-1309. [PMID: 32277563 DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Colostrum is the first product secreted by the mammary gland to transfer immunity to the newborn, especially through immunoglobulins (Ig) G. Melatonin is an immunomodulatory factor and there is evidence that it has a direct effect on IgG production. To evaluate the effects of melatonin treatment during pregnancy, litter size and offspring sex on colostrum quality, sixty pregnant Rasa Aragonesa ewes were divided into three groups: one group received a melatonin implant at the third month of pregnancy (3M, n = 13), another group at the fourth month (4M, n = 18) and the remaining ewes were not implanted (Control, C, n = 29). Immediately after lambing, a sample of colostrum was collected and IgG, crude protein and fat content analysed. Timing of melatonin implantation (p < .001), and offspring sex (p < .01) had a significant effect on IgG concentration. Colostrum of treated ewes had a higher mean (±SEM) IgG concentration than that of the control ewes (55.54 ± 3.09 and 49.50 ± 4.36 mg/ml, respectively; p < .05), mainly because the concentration in the 4M group was significantly (p < .001) higher than it was in the other groups. The relationship between lamb sex and IgG (p < .01) and %CP (p < .05) was evident in singletons (ewes with a male lamb: 54.57 ± 5.37 mg IgG/ml, 15.42 ± 0.82%CP; ewes with a female lamb: 34.66 ± 4.30 mg/ml, 13.18 ± 0.73%CP). The presence of a female in the litter was associated with significantly (p < .01) lower colostrum IgG levels (litters with at least one female: 49.33 ± 3.42 mg/ml; litters with no females: 58.24 ± 4.00 mg/ml). Among 4M ewes, female foetuses had significantly (p < .01) lower IgG levels whether they carried singletons or multiple lambs. In conclusion, treatment with melatonin implants at the fourth month of pregnancy resulted in a higher colostrum quality based on IgG concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- José-Alfonso Abecia
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Claudia Garrido
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marianne Gave
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana-Isabel García
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - David López
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Silvia Luis
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Ambientales de Aragón (IUCA), Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
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Ivanov DO, Evsyukova II, Mazzoccoli G, Anderson G, Polyakova VO, Kvetnoy IM, Carbone A, Nasyrov RA. The Role of Prenatal Melatonin in the Regulation of Childhood Obesity. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9040072. [PMID: 32260529 PMCID: PMC7235795 DOI: 10.3390/biology9040072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing awareness that pregnancy can set the foundations for an array of diverse medical conditions in the offspring, including obesity. A wide assortment of factors, including genetic, epigenetic, lifestyle, and diet can influence foetal outcomes. This article reviews the role of melatonin in the prenatal modulation of offspring obesity. A growing number of studies show that many prenatal risk factors for poor foetal metabolic outcomes, including gestational diabetes and night-shift work, are associated with a decrease in pineal gland-derived melatonin and associated alterations in the circadian rhythm. An important aspect of circadian melatonin’s effects is mediated via the circadian gene, BMAL1, including in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and the mitochondrial melatoninergic pathway. Alterations in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolic shifts between glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation in immune and glia cells seem crucial to a host of human medical conditions, including in the development of obesity and the association of obesity with the risk of other medical conditions. The gut microbiome is another important hub in the pathoetiology and pathophysiology of many medical conditions, with negative consequences mediated by a decrease in the short-chain fatty acid, butyrate. The effects of butyrate are partly mediated via an increase in the melatoninergic pathway, indicating interactions of the gut microbiome with melatonin. Some of the effects of melatonin seem mediated via the alpha 7 nicotinic receptor, whilst both melatonin and butyrate may regulate obesity through the opioidergic system. Oxytocin, a recently recognized inhibitor of obesity, may also be acting via the opioidergic system. The early developmental regulation of these processes and factors by melatonin are crucial to the development of obesity and many diverse comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry O. Ivanov
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 St. Petersburg, Russia; (D.O.I.); (V.O.P.); (R.A.N.)
| | - Inna I. Evsyukova
- Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Gianluigi Mazzoccoli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Internal Medicine and Chronobiology Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +039-0882-410255
| | | | - Victoria O. Polyakova
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 St. Petersburg, Russia; (D.O.I.); (V.O.P.); (R.A.N.)
| | - Igor M. Kvetnoy
- Saint-Petersburg State University, University Embankment 7/9, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Annalucia Carbone
- Department of Medical Sciences, Division of Internal Medicine and Chronobiology Laboratory, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy;
| | - Ruslan A. Nasyrov
- Saint-Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 St. Petersburg, Russia; (D.O.I.); (V.O.P.); (R.A.N.)
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Bouroutzika E, Kouretas D, Papadopoulos S, Veskoukis AS, Theodosiadou E, Makri S, Paliouras C, Michailidis ML, Caroprese M, Valasi I. Effects of Melatonin Administration to Pregnant Ewes under Heat-Stress Conditions, in Redox Status and Reproductive Outcome. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9030266. [PMID: 32210209 PMCID: PMC7139596 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9030266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heat stress is a known promoter of reactive oxygen species generation, which may compromise pregnancy and foetal development. Melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule that regulates various processes including pregnancy. Thus, it could be used to ameliorate the redox status of pregnant heat-stressed ewes and the outcome of their pregnancy. Sixty-eight ewes participated in the study, which were allocated into two equal groups, i.e., Melatonin (M) and Control (C) group. All ewes were exposed to heat stress from D0 to D120. In both groups, after oestrus synchronization of ewes, rams were introduced to them for mating (D16). In M group, starting with sponges’ insertion (D0), melatonin implants were administered four-fold every 40 days. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by means of ultrasonography. Daily evaluation of temperature humidity index (THI), rectal temperature, and breathing rate were performed throughout the study. Blood samples were collected repeatedly from D0 until weaning for assaying redox biomarkers. Milk yield was measured thrice during puerperium. The results showed that melatonin administration throughout pregnancy improved the redox status of heat-stressed ewes and increased the mean number and bodyweight of lambs born per ewe, as well as the milk production. Therefore, melatonin may be used as antioxidant regimen in heat-stressed ewes for improving their reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efterpi Bouroutzika
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | - Dimitrios Kouretas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Serafeim Papadopoulos
- Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, University of Thessaly, Fytokou str., 38446 Volos, Greece;
| | - Aristidis S. Veskoukis
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Ekaterini Theodosiadou
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | - Sotiria Makri
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece; (D.K.); (A.S.V.); (S.M.)
| | - Charilaos Paliouras
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
| | | | - Mariangela Caroprese
- Department of Sciences of Agriculture, Food and Environment (SAFE), University of Foggia, Via Napoli 25, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Irene Valasi
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Thessaly, 43100 Karditsa, Greece; (E.B.); (E.T.); (C.P.); (M.-L.M.)
- Correspondence:
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Perinatal Use of Melatonin for Offspring Health: Focus on Cardiovascular and Neurological Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225681. [PMID: 31766163 PMCID: PMC6888176 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular and neurological diseases can originate in early life. Melatonin, a biologically active substance, acts as a pleiotropic hormone essential for pregnancy and fetal development. Maternal melatonin can easily pass the placenta and provide photoperiodic signals to the fetus. Though melatonin uses in pregnant or lactating women have not yet been recommended, there is a growing body of evidence from animal studies in support of melatonin as a reprogramming strategy to prevent the developmental programming of cardiovascular and neurological diseases. Here, we review several key themes in melatonin use in pregnancy and lactation within offspring health and disease. We have particularly focused on the following areas: the pathophysiological roles of melatonin in pregnancy, lactation, and fetal development; clinical uses of melatonin in fetal and neonatal diseases; experimental evidence supporting melatonin as a reprogramming therapy to prevent cardiovascular and neurological diseases; and reprogramming mechanisms of melatonin within developmental programming. The targeting of melatonin uses in pregnancy and lactation will be valuable in the prevention of various adult chronic diseases in later life, and especially cardiovascular and neurological diseases.
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Arutjunyan AV, Evsyukova II, Polyakova VO. The Role of Melatonin in Morphofunctional Development of the Brain in Early Ontogeny. NEUROCHEM J+ 2019. [DOI: 10.1134/s1819712419030036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Antenatal melatonin modulates an enhanced antioxidant/pro-oxidant ratio in pulmonary hypertensive newborn sheep. Redox Biol 2019; 22:101128. [PMID: 30771751 PMCID: PMC6375064 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hypobaric hypoxia during fetal and neonatal life induces neonatal pulmonary hypertension. Hypoxia and oxidative stress are driving this condition, which implies an increase generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and/or decreased antioxidant capacity. Melatonin has antioxidant properties that decrease oxidative stress and improves pulmonary vascular function when administered postnatally. However, the effects of an antenatal treatment with melatonin in the neonatal pulmonary function and oxidative status are unknown. Therefore, we hypothesized that an antenatal therapy with melatonin improves the pulmonary arterial pressure and antioxidant status in high altitude pulmonary hypertensive neonates. Twelve ewes were bred at high altitude (3600 m); 6 of them were used as a control group (vehicle 1.4% ethanol) and 6 as a melatonin treated group (10 mg d-1 melatonin in vehicle). Treatments were given once daily during the last third of gestation (100–150 days). Lambs were born and raised with their mothers until 12 days old, and neonatal pulmonary arterial pressure and resistance, plasma antioxidant capacity and the lung oxidative status were determined. Furthermore, we measured the pulmonary expression and activity for the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and the oxidative stress markers 8-isoprostanes, 4HNE and nitrotyrosine. Finally, we assessed pulmonary pro-oxidant sources by the expression and function of NADPH oxidase, mitochondria and xanthine oxidase. Melatonin decreased the birth weight. However, melatonin enhanced the plasma antioxidant capacity and decreased the pulmonary antioxidant activity, associated with a diminished oxidative stress during postnatal life. Interestingly, melatonin also decreased ROS generation at the main pro-oxidant sources. Our findings suggest that antenatal administration of melatonin programs an enhanced antioxidant/pro-oxidant status, modulating ROS sources in the postnatal lung.
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Kalmykova O, Dzerzhynsky M. The effects of melatonin administration in different times of day on the brown adipose tissue in rats with high-calorie diet-induced obesity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.17721/1728_2748.2019.77.55-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The aim of our study was to determine morpho-functional state (area of nucleus, brown adipocytes and also area and number of lipid droplets in each cells, general optical density of tissue) of brown adipose tissue in rats with high-calorie (high fat) dietinduced obesity after melatonin administration in different time of the day (morning and evening). Melatonin was administered daily by gavage for 7 weeks in dose 30 mg/kg either 1 h after lights-on (ZT01) or 1 h before lights-off (ZT11) rats with high-calorie diet (HCD). Besides morphometric parameters as well were measured related visceral fat weight and related brown adipose tissue mass. Rats with HCD had huge changes in brown adipocytes morphology, which summarized in become resembles of classical white adipocytes: grown lipid droplets and cells area, but goes down lipid droplets number and optical density of brown adipose tissue. In general brown adipose tissue with above mentioned characteristic from HCD rats lose their ability to conduct strongly thermoproduction function. After melatonin used in rats with HCD arise leveling of pathological changes, which associated with consumption of HCD. Namely, in groups HCD ZT01 and HCD ZT11 we obtain decreased cells and lipid droplets area, increased lipid droplets number and optical density of brown adipose tissue, in relation to group HCD. Therese received changes has evidence about functionally active brown adipose tissue state, which can also dissipate of exceed energy (lipids – triacylglycerols) amount into whole organism during heat production for avoid to its storage in white adipose tissue and in outside adipose tissue. In addition, evening administration of melatonin (group HCD ZT11) demonstrate more activated state of brown adipose tissueand also related visceral weight gain less, than morning(group HCD ZT01). In conclusions, melatonin influence on morpho-functional state brown adipose tissue in rats with HCD, moreover evening administration can use for obesity therapy via its strong action on activate brown adipocytes.
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Beñaldo FA, Llanos AJ, Araya-Quijada C, Rojas A, Gonzalez-Candia A, Herrera EA, Ebensperger G, Cabello G, Valenzuela GJ, Serón-Ferré M. Effects of Melatonin on the Defense to Acute Hypoxia in Newborn Lambs. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:433. [PMID: 31354619 PMCID: PMC6640618 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00433] [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: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal lambs, as other neonates, have physiologically a very low plasma melatonin concentration throughout 24 h. Previously, we found that melatonin given to neonates daily for 5 days decreased heart weight and changed plasma cortisol and gene expression in the adrenal and heart. Whether these changes could compromise the responses to life challenges is unknown. Therefore, firstly, we studied acute effects of melatonin on the defense mechanisms to acute hypoxia in the neonate. Eleven lambs, 2 weeks old, were instrumented and subjected to an episode of acute isocapnic hypoxia, consisting of four 30 min periods: normoxia (room air), normoxia after an i.v. bolus of melatonin (0.27 mg kg-1, n = 6) or vehicle (ethanol 1:10 NaCl 0.9%, n = 5), hypoxia (PaO2: 30 ± 2 mmHg), and recovery (room air). Mean pulmonary and systemic blood pressures, heart rate, and cardiac output were measured, and systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance and stroke volume were calculated. Blood samples were taken every 30 min to measure plasma norepinephrine, cortisol, glucose, triglycerides, and redox markers (8-isoprostane and FRAP). Melatonin blunted the increase of pulmonary vascular resistance triggered by hypoxia, markedly exacerbated the heart rate response, decreased heart stroke volume, and lessened the magnitude of the increase of plasmatic norepinephrine and cortisol levels induced by hypoxia. No changes were observed in pulmonary blood pressure, systemic blood pressures and resistance, cardiac output, glucose, triglyceride plasma concentrations, or redox markers. Melatonin had no effect on cardiovascular, endocrine, or metabolic variables, under normoxia. Secondly, we examined whether acute melatonin administration under normoxia could have an effect in gene expression on the adrenal, lung, and heart. Lambs received a bolus of vehicle or melatonin and were euthanized 30 min later to collect tissues. We found that melatonin affected expression of the immediate early genes egr1 in adrenal, ctgf in lung, and nr3c1, the glucocorticoid receptor, in adrenal and heart. We speculate that these early gene responses may contribute to the observed alterations of the newborn defense mechanisms to hypoxia. This could be particularly important since the use of melatonin is proposed for several diseases in the neonatal period in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe A. Beñaldo
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Aníbal J. Llanos
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- International Center for Andean Studies (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudio Araya-Quijada
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Auristela Rojas
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Emilio A. Herrera
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- International Center for Andean Studies (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Germán Ebensperger
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gertrudis Cabello
- Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Tarapacá, Arica, Chile
| | - Guillermo J. Valenzuela
- Department of Women's Health, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, San Bernardino, CA, United States
| | - María Serón-Ferré
- Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: María Serón-Ferré
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Uzun M, Gencer M, Turkon H, Oztopuz RO, Demir U, Ovali MA. Effects of Melatonin on Blood Pressure, Oxidative Stress and Placental Expressions of TNFα, IL-6, VEGF and sFlt-1 in RUPP Rat Model of Preeclampsia. Arch Med Res 2018; 48:592-598. [PMID: 29397206 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Metehan Uzun
- Department of Physiology, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey.
| | - Meryem Gencer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Hakan Turkon
- Department of Biochemistry, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Rahime Ozlem Oztopuz
- Department of Biophysics, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Ufuk Demir
- Department of Physiology, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Akif Ovali
- Department of Physiology, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Medicine, Canakkale, Turkey
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Valenzuela-Melgarejo FJ, Caro-Díaz C, Cabello-Guzmán G. Potential Crosstalk between Fructose and Melatonin: A New Role of Melatonin-Inhibiting the Metabolic Effects of Fructose. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:7515767. [PMID: 30154843 PMCID: PMC6092995 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7515767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased consumption of energy-dense foods such as fructose-rich syrups represents one of the significant, growing concerns related to the alarming trend of overweight, obesity, and metabolic disorders worldwide. Metabolic pathways affected by fructose involve genes related to lipogenesis/lipolysis, beta-oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, gluconeogenesis, oxidative phosphorylation pathways, or altering of circadian production of insulin and leptin. Moreover, fructose can be a risk factor during pregnancy elevating the risk of preterm delivery, hypertension, and metabolic impairment of the mother and fetus. Melatonin is a chronobiotic and homeostatic hormone that can modulate the harmful effects of fructose via clock gene expression and metabolic pathways, modulating the expression of PPARγ, SREBF-1 (SREBP-1), hormone-sensitive lipase, C/EBP-α genes, NRF-1, PGC1α, and uncoupling protein-1. Moreover, this hormone has the capacity in the rat of reverting the harmful effects of fructose, increasing the body weight and weight ratio of the liver, and increasing the body weight and restoring the glycemia from mothers exposed to fructose. The aim of this review is to show the potential crosstalk between fructose and melatonin and their potential role during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudia Caro-Díaz
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
| | - Gerardo Cabello-Guzmán
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Basic Sciences, Universidad del Bío-Bío, Campus Fernando May, Chillán, Chile
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Abstract
The Melatonin (MLT), secreted rhythmically by the pineal, is an efferent hormonal signal of the circadian clock. MLT presents overall pleitropic effects but it is the role of MLT as a hormonal circadian signal which is the best documented. MLT-receptors are present in numerous structures/organs and the MLT is now considered as an endogenous synchronizer within the circadian system. The presence of MLT-receptors within the circadian clock, explains that exogenous MLT is a chronobiotic drug. Trials in humans, have confirmed the efficacy of MLT in circadian rhythm disorders. Subtypes of MLT-receptors have been characterized (MT1 and MT2). Striking differences are observed in the distribution pattern of these 2 subtypes. Up to now, MTL-analogues commercialized as drugs, are all non-specific MT1/MT2 agonists acting on the SCN. The development of new specific agonists/antagonists for both subtypes, the identification of the link between MLT target sites within different parts of the brain or the body and the association of specific MLT receptor subtypes and particular physiological effects open great therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Pevet
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (UPR 3212), CNRS and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg France.
| | - P Klosen
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (UPR 3212), CNRS and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg France.
| | - M P Felder-Schmittbuhl
- Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences (UPR 3212), CNRS and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg France.
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Lemley CO, Vonnahme KA. PHYSIOLOGY AND ENDOCRINOLOGY SYMPOSIUM: Alterations in uteroplacental hemodynamics during melatonin supplementation in sheep and cattle. J Anim Sci 2017; 95:2211-2221. [PMID: 28726984 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2016.1151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Compromised placental function can result in fetal growth restriction which is associated with greater risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Large increases in transplacental nutrient and waste exchange, which support the exponential increase in fetal growth during the last half of gestation, are dependent primarily on the rapid growth and vascularization of the uteroplacenta. The amplitude of melatonin secretion has been associated with improved oxidative status and altered cardiovascular function in several mammalian species; however, melatonin mediated alterations of uteroplacental capacity in sheep and cattle are lacking. Therefore, our laboratories are examining uteroplacental blood flow and fetal development during maternal melatonin supplementation. Using a mid- to late-gestation ovine model of intrauterine growth restriction, we examined uteroplacental blood flow and fetal growth during supplementation with 5 mg/d of dietary melatonin. Maternal nutrient restriction decreased uterine arterial blood flow, while melatonin supplementation increased umbilical arterial blood flow compared with non-supplemented controls. Although melatonin treatment did not rescue fetal weight in nutrient restricted ewes; we observed disproportionate fetal size and fetal organ development. Elevated fetal concentrations of melatonin may result in altered blood flow distribution during important time points of development. These melatonin specific responses on umbilical arterial hemodynamics and fetal development may be partially mediated through vascular melatonin receptors. Recently, we examined the effects of supplementing Holstein heifers with 20 mg/d of dietary melatonin during the last third of gestation. Uterine arterial blood flow was increased by 25% and total serum antioxidant capacity was increased by 43% in melatonin supplemented heifers vs. non-supplemented controls. In addition, peripheral concentrations of progesterone were decreased in melatonin supplemented heifers vs. non-supplemented controls. Using an in vitro model, melatonin treatment increased the activity of cytochrome P450 2C, a progesterone inactivating enzyme, which was blocked by treatment with the melatonin receptor antagonist, luzindole. Elucidating the consequences of specific hormonal supplements on the continual plasticity of placental function will allow us to determine important endogenous mediators of offspring growth and development.
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Seron-Ferre M, Torres-Farfan C, Valenzuela FJ, Castillo-Galan S, Rojas A, Mendez N, Reynolds H, Valenzuela GJ, Llanos AJ. Deciphering the Function of the Blunt Circadian Rhythm of Melatonin in the Newborn Lamb: Impact on Adrenal and Heart. Endocrinology 2017; 158:2895-2905. [PMID: 28911179 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal lambs, as with human and other neonates, have low arrhythmic endogenous levels of melatonin for several weeks until they start their own pineal rhythm of melatonin production at approximately 2 weeks of life. During pregnancy, daily rhythmic transfer of maternal melatonin to the fetus has important physiological roles in sheep, nonhuman primates, and rats. This melatonin rhythm provides a circadian signal and also participates in adjusting the physiology of several organs in preparation for extrauterine life. We propose that the ensuing absence of a melatonin rhythm plays a role in neonatal adaptation. To test this hypothesis, we studied the effects of imposing a high-amplitude melatonin rhythm in the newborn lamb on (1) clock time-related changes in cortisol and plasma variables and (2) clock time-related changes of gene expression of clock genes and selected functional genes in the adrenal gland and heart. We treated newborn lambs with a daily oral dose of melatonin (0.25 mg/kg) from birth to 5 days of age, recreating a high-amplitude melatonin rhythm. This treatment suppressed clock time-related changes of plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone, cortisol, clock gene expression, and functional genes in the newborn adrenal gland. In the heart, it decreased heart/body weight ratio, increased expression of Anp and Bnp, and resulted in different heart gene expression from control newborns. The interference of this postnatal melatonin treatment with the normal postnatal pattern of adrenocortical function and heart development support a physiological role for the window of flat postnatal melatonin levels during the neonatal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Seron-Ferre
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 7500922, Chile
| | - Francisco J Valenzuela
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
| | - Sebastian Castillo-Galan
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
| | - Auristela Rojas
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
| | - Natalia Mendez
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 7500922, Chile
| | - Henry Reynolds
- Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
| | - Guillermo J Valenzuela
- Department of Women's Health, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, San Bernardino, California 92324
| | - Anibal J Llanos
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
- International Center for Andean Studies, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 16038, Chile
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Nolan MB, Walsh CM, Duff N, McCrarren C, Prendergast RL, Murphy BA. Artificially extended photoperiod administered to pre-partum mares via blue light to a single eye: Observations on gestation length, foal birth weight and foal hair coat at birth. Theriogenology 2017; 100:126-133. [PMID: 28708527 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In seasonally breeding animals, photoperiod perception is crucial for timing of important physiological events. In the horse, long day photoperiod influences the onset of ovulation and cyclicity, shedding of the heavier winter coat and the timing of parturition. In this compilation of studies, conducted across three breeding seasons and two countries, the impact of artificially extended day length was investigated on gestation length, foal birth weight and foal hair coat at birth. The light therapy was administered to pre-partum mares via mobile head worn masks which provided short wavelength blue light to a single eye. In Study 1, reductions in gestation lengths were observed following administration of artificially extended day length (124.8 ± 15.11 days) in the final months of pregnancy to a group of Thoroughbred mares compared to controls (P < 0.05; 339.7 ± 9.56 days vs 350.6 ± 9.13). Study 2 revealed that pre-partum exposure to artificially extended day length (104.6 ± 9.89 days) increased foal birth weight compared to controls (47.13 ± 2.93 kg vs 43.51 ± 6.14 kg; P < 0.05) in mares bred early in the year. In Study 3, artificially extended day length (87.53 ± 19.6 days) administered to pre-partum mares affected the coat condition of foals at birth with respect to hair weight (P < 0.0001) and hair length (P < 0.0001) compared to controls (0.34 ± 0.20 μg vs 0.59 ± 0.12 μg and 1.93 ± 0.56 cm vs 2.56 ± 0.32 cm, respectively). Collectively, these studies serve to highlight the influential role of the circa-annual changes in photoperiod length on the pre-partum mare for normal foetal development during the natural breeding season. It also emphasizes the potential that exists to improve breeding efficiency parameters by artificially simulating this important environmental cue in the latter stages of gestation against the backdrop of an economically driven early breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret B Nolan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Caroline M Walsh
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Noelle Duff
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Conor McCrarren
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Ralph L Prendergast
- School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Barbara A Murphy
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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Tain YL, Huang LT, Hsu CN. Developmental Programming of Adult Disease: Reprogramming by Melatonin? Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020426. [PMID: 28212315 PMCID: PMC5343960 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult-onset chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) can originate from early life through so-called the "developmental origins of health and disease" (DOHaD) or "developmental programming". The DOHaD concept offers the "reprogramming" strategy to shift the treatment from adulthood to early life, before clinical disease is apparent. Melatonin, an endogenous indoleamine produced by the pineal gland, has pleiotropic bioactivities those are beneficial in a variety of human diseases. Emerging evidence support that melatonin is closely inter-related to other proposed mechanisms contributing to the developmental programming of a variety of chronic NCDs. Recent animal studies have begun to unravel the multifunctional roles of melatonin in many experimental models of developmental programming. Even though some progress has been made in research on melatonin as a reprogramming strategy to prevent DOHaD-related NCDs, future human studies should aim at filling the translational gap between animal models and clinical trials. Here, we review several key themes on the reprogramming effects of melatonin in DOHaD research. We have particularly focused on the following areas: mechanisms of developmental programming; the interrelationship between melatonin and mechanisms underlying developmental programming; pathophysiological roles of melatonin in pregnancy and fetal development; and insight provided by animal models to support melatonin as a reprogramming therapy. Rates of NCDs are increasing faster than anticipated all over the world. Hence, there is an urgent need to understand reprogramming mechanisms of melatonin and to translate experimental research into clinical practice for halting a growing list of DOHaD-related NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Lin Tain
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
| | - Li-Tung Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chang Gung University, Linkow 244, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Ning Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan.
- School of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
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Seasonal effects on plasma cortisol concentrations in the Bedouin buck: circadian studies and response to ACTH. Animal 2017; 11:445-451. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731116001671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Komatsubara M, Hara T, Hosoya T, Toma K, Tsukamoto-Yamauchi N, Iwata N, Inagaki K, Wada J, Otsuka F. Melatonin regulates catecholamine biosynthesis by modulating bone morphogenetic protein and glucocorticoid actions. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2017; 165:182-189. [PMID: 27267863 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin is functionally involved in the control of circadian rhythm and hormonal secretion. In the present study, we investigated the roles of melatonin in the interaction of catecholamine synthesis with adrenocortical steroids by focusing on bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-4 expressed in the adrenal medulla using rat pheochromocytoma PC12 cells. Melatonin treatment significantly reduced the mRNA expression of catecholamine synthases, including the rate-limiting enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase (Th), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine decarboxylase and dopamine-β-hydroxylase expressed in PC12 cells. In accordance with changes in the expression levels of enzymes, dopamine production and cAMP synthesis determined in the culture medium and cell lysate were also suppressed by melatonin. The MT1 receptor, but not the MT2 receptor, was expressed in PC12 cells, and luzindole treatment reversed the inhibitory effect of melatonin on Th expression, suggesting that MT1 is a functional receptor for the control of catecholamine synthesis. Interestingly, melatonin enhanced the inhibitory effect of BMP-4 on Th mRNA expression in PC12 cells. Melatonin treatment accelerated BMP-4-induced phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8 and transcription of the BMP target gene Id1. Of note, melatonin significantly upregulated Alk2 and Bmpr2 mRNA levels but suppressed inhibitory Smad6/7 expression, leading to the enhancement of SMAD1/5/8 signaling in PC12 cells, while BMP-4 did not affect Mt1 expression. Regarding the interaction with adrenocortical steroids, melatonin preferentially enhanced glucocorticoid-induced Th mRNA through upregulation of the glucocorticoid receptor and downregulation of Bmp4 expression, whereas melatonin repressed Th mRNA expression induced by aldosterone or androgen without affecting expression levels of the receptors for mineralocorticoid and androgen. Collectively, the results indicate that melatonin plays a modulatory role in catecholamine synthesis by cooperating with BMP-4 and glucocorticoid in the adrenal medulla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoshi Komatsubara
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Takayuki Hara
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hosoya
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kishio Toma
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Naoko Tsukamoto-Yamauchi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Nahoko Iwata
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kenichi Inagaki
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Jun Wada
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan.
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38
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Mendez N, Halabi D, Spichiger C, Salazar ER, Vergara K, Alonso-Vasquez P, Carmona P, Sarmiento JM, Richter HG, Seron-Ferre M, Torres-Farfan C. Gestational Chronodisruption Impairs Circadian Physiology in Rat Male Offspring, Increasing the Risk of Chronic Disease. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4654-4668. [PMID: 27802074 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to light at night, as in shift work, alters biological clocks (chronodisruption), negatively impacting pregnancy outcome in humans. Actually the interaction of maternal and fetal circadian systems could be a key factor determining a fitting health in adults. We propose that chronic photoperiod shift (CPS) during pregnancy alter maternal circadian rhythms and impair circadian physiology in the adult offspring, increasing health risks. Pregnant rats were exposed to normal photoperiod (12 h light, 12 h dark) or to CPS until 85% of gestation. The effects of gestational CPS were evaluated on the mother and adult offspring. In the mother we measured rhythms of heart rate, body temperature, and activity through gestation and daily rhythms of plasma variables (melatonin, corticosterone, aldosterone, and markers of renal function) at 18 days of gestation. In adult offspring, we measured rhythms of the clock gene expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), locomotor activity, body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, plasma variables, glucose tolerance, and corticosterone response to ACTH. CPS altered all maternal circadian rhythms, lengthened gestation, and increased newborn weight. The adult CPS offspring presented normal rhythms of clock gene expression in the SCN, locomotor activity, and body temperature. However, the daily rhythm of plasma melatonin was absent, and corticosterone, aldosterone, renal markers, blood pressure, and heart rate rhythms were altered. Moreover, CPS offspring presented decreased glucose tolerance and an abnormal corticosterone response to ACTH. Altogether these data show that gestational CPS induced long-term effects on the offspring circadian system, wherein a normal SCN coexists with altered endocrine, cardiovascular, and metabolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Mendez
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Diego Halabi
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Spichiger
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Esteban R Salazar
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Karina Vergara
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Pamela Alonso-Vasquez
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Pamela Carmona
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Jose M Sarmiento
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Hans G Richter
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Maria Seron-Ferre
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (N.M., D.H., C.S., E.R.S., K.V., P.A.-V., H.G.R., C.T.-F.), Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology and Institute of Physiology (P.C., J.M.S.), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile; and Laboratorio de Cronobiología (M.S.-F.), Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, 6640750 Santiago, Chile
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González-Candia A, Veliz M, Araya C, Quezada S, Ebensperger G, Serón-Ferré M, Reyes RV, Llanos AJ, Herrera EA. Potential adverse effects of antenatal melatonin as a treatment for intrauterine growth restriction: findings in pregnant sheep. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:245.e1-7. [PMID: 26902986 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.02.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 02/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intrauterine growth restriction is a condition in which the fetus has a birthweight and/or length <10th percentile for the gestational age. Intrauterine growth restriction can be associated with various causes, among which is low uteroplacental perfusion and chronic hypoxia during gestation. Often, intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses have increased oxidative stress; therefore, agents that decrease oxidative stress and increase utero, placental, and umbilical perfusion have been proposed as a beneficial therapeutic strategy. In this scenario, melatonin acts as an umbilical vasodilator and a potent antioxidant that has not been evaluated in pregnancies under chronic hypoxia that induce fetal growth restriction. However, this neurohormone has been proposed as a pharmacologic therapy for complicated pregnancies. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the effects of prenatal administration of melatonin during the last trimester of pregnancy on the biometry of the growth-restricted lambs because of developmental hypoxia. Further, we aimed to determine melatonin and cortisol levels and oxidative stress markers in plasma of pregnant ewes during the treatment. STUDY DESIGN High-altitude pregnant sheep received either vehicle (n = 5; 5 mL 1.4% ethanol) or melatonin (n = 7; 10 mg/kg(-1)day(-1) in 5 mL 1.4% ethanol) daily during the last one-third of gestation. Maternal plasma levels of melatonin, cortisol, antioxidant capacity, and oxidative stress were determined along treatment. At birth, neonates were examined, weighed, and measured (biparietal diameter, abdominal diameter, and crown-rump length). RESULTS Antenatal treatment with melatonin markedly decreased neonatal biometry and weight at birth. Additionally, melatonin treatment increased the length of gestation by 7.5% and shifted the time of delivery. Furthermore, the prenatal treatment doubled plasma levels of melatonin and cortisol and significantly improved the antioxidant capacity of the pregnant ewes. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that antenatal melatonin induces further intrauterine growth restriction but improves the maternal plasma antioxidant capacity. Additional studies should address the efficiency and safety of antenatal melatonin before clinical attempts on humans.
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Circadian Rhythms in the Fetus and Newborn: Significance of Interactions with Maternal Physiology and the Environment. NEUROMETHODS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3014-2_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Hara T, Otsuka F, Tsukamoto-Yamauchi N, Inagaki K, Hosoya T, Nakamura E, Terasaka T, Komatsubara M, Makino H. Mutual effects of melatonin and activin on induction of aldosterone production by human adrenocortical cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 152:8-15. [PMID: 25889901 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin has been reported to suppress adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) secretion in the anterior pituitary and cortisol production in the adrenal by different mechanisms. However, the effect of melatonin on aldosterone production has remained unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of melatonin in the regulation of aldosterone production using human adrenocortical H295R cells by focusing on the activin system expressed in the adrenal. Melatonin receptor MT1 mRNA and protein were expressed in H295R cells and the expression levels of MT1 were increased by activin treatment. Activin increased ACTH-induced, but not angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced, aldosterone production. Melatonin alone did not affect basal synthesis of either aldosterone or cortisol. However, melatonin effectively enhanced aldosterone production induced by co-treatment with ACTH and activin, although melatonin had no effect on aldosterone production induced by Ang II in combination with activin. These changes in steroidogenesis became apparent when the steroid production was evaluated by the ratio of aldosterone/cortisol. Melatonin also enhanced dibutyryl-AMP-induced aldosterone/cortisol levels in the presence of activin, suggesting a functional link to the cAMP-PKA pathway for induction of aldosterone production by melatonin and activin. In accordance with the data for steroids, ACTH-induced, but not Ang II-induced, cAMP synthesis was also amplified by co-treatment with melatonin and activin. Furthermore, the ratio of ACTH-induced mRNA level of CYP11B2 compared with that of CYP17 was amplified in the condition of treatment with both melatonin and activin. In addition, melatonin increased expression of the activin type-I receptor ALK-4 but suppressed expression of inhibitory Smads6/7, leading to the enhancement of Smad2 phosphorylation. Collectively, the results showed that melatonin facilitated aldosterone production induced by ACTH and activin via the cAMP-PKA pathway. The results also suggested that mutual enhancement of melatonin and activin receptor signaling is involved in the induction of aldosterone output by adrenocortical cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Hara
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan.
| | | | - Kenichi Inagaki
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hosoya
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Eri Nakamura
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Terasaka
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Motoshi Komatsubara
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Makino
- Okayama University Hospital, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Kitaku, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Chakir I, Dumont S, Pévet P, Ouarour A, Challet E, Vuillez P. Pineal melatonin is a circadian time-giver for leptin rhythm in Syrian hamsters. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:190. [PMID: 26074760 PMCID: PMC4444759 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nocturnal secretion of melatonin from the pineal gland may affect central and peripheral timing, in addition to its well-known involvement in the control of seasonal physiology. The Syrian hamster is a photoperiodic species, which displays gonadal atrophy and increased adiposity when adapted to short (winter-like) photoperiods. Here we investigated whether pineal melatonin secreted at night can impact daily rhythmicity of metabolic hormones and glucose in that seasonal species. For that purpose, daily variations of plasma leptin, cortisol, insulin and glucose were analyzed in pinealectomized hamsters, as compared to sham-operated controls kept under very long (16 h light/08 h dark) or short photoperiods (08 h light/16 h dark). Daily rhythms of leptin under both long and short photoperiods were blunted by pinealectomy. Furthermore, the phase of cortisol rhythm under a short photoperiod was advanced by 5.6 h after pinealectomy. Neither plasma insulin, nor blood glucose displays robust daily rhythmicity, even in sham-operated hamsters. Pinealectomy, however, totally reversed the decreased levels of insulin under short days and the photoperiodic variations in mean levels of blood glucose (i.e., reduction and increase in long and short days, respectively). Together, these findings in Syrian hamsters show that circulating melatonin at night drives the daily rhythmicity of plasma leptin, participates in the phase control of cortisol rhythm and modulates glucose homeostasis according to photoperiod-dependent metabolic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtissam Chakir
- Laboratory of Biology and Health, Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University Tetouan, Morocco ; Regulation of Circadian Clocks Team, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, UPR3212, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg Strasbourg, France
| | - Stéphanie Dumont
- Regulation of Circadian Clocks Team, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, UPR3212, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg Strasbourg, France
| | - Paul Pévet
- Regulation of Circadian Clocks Team, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, UPR3212, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg Strasbourg, France
| | - Ali Ouarour
- Laboratory of Biology and Health, Faculty of Science, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Etienne Challet
- Regulation of Circadian Clocks Team, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, UPR3212, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg Strasbourg, France
| | - Patrick Vuillez
- Regulation of Circadian Clocks Team, Institute for Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, UPR3212, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique and University of Strasbourg Strasbourg, France
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Effect of melatonin or maternal nutrient restriction on vascularity and cell proliferation in the ovine placenta. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 153:13-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2014] [Revised: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Biran V, Phan Duy A, Decobert F, Bednarek N, Alberti C, Baud O. Is melatonin ready to be used in preterm infants as a neuroprotectant? Dev Med Child Neurol 2014; 56:717-23. [PMID: 24575840 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.12415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The prevention of neurological disabilities following preterm birth remains a major public health challenge and efforts are still needed to test the neuroprotective properties of candidate molecules. Melatonin serves as a neuroprotectant in adult models of cerebral ischemia through its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. An increasing number of preclinical studies have consistently demonstrated that melatonin protects the damaged developing brain by preventing abnormal myelination and an inflammatory glial reaction, a major cause of white matter injury. The main questions asked in this review are whether preclinical data on the neuroprotective properties of melatonin are sufficient to translate this concept into the clinical setting, and whether melatonin can reduce white matter damage in preterm infants. This review provides support for our view that melatonin is now ready to be tested in human preterm neonates, and discusses ongoing and planned clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Biran
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, INSERM, Paris, France; PremUP Foundation, Paris, France
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Herrera EA, Macchiavello R, Montt C, Ebensperger G, Díaz M, Ramírez S, Parer JT, Serón-Ferré M, Reyes RV, Llanos AJ. Melatonin improves cerebrovascular function and decreases oxidative stress in chronically hypoxic lambs. J Pineal Res 2014; 57:33-42. [PMID: 24811332 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia during gestation and delivery results in oxidative stress and cerebrovascular dysfunction in the neonate. We assessed whether melatonin, a potent antioxidant and potential vasodilator, improves the cerebral vascular function in chronically hypoxic neonatal lambs gestated and born in the highlands (3600 m). Six lambs received melatonin (1 mg/kg per day oral) and six received vehicle, once a day for 8 days. During treatment, biometry and hemodynamic variables were recorded. After treatment, lambs were submitted to a graded FiO2 protocol to assess cardiovascular responses to oxygenation changes. At 12 days old, middle cerebral arteries (MCA) were collected for vascular reactivity, morphostructural, and immunostaining evaluation. Melatonin increased fractional growth at the beginning and improved carotid blood flow at all arterial PO2 levels by the end of the treatment (P < 0.05). Further, melatonin treatment improved vascular responses to potassium, serotonin, methacholine, and melatonin itself (P < 0.05). In addition, melatonin enhanced the endothelial response via nitric oxide-independent mechanisms in isolated arteries (162 ± 26 versus 266 ± 34 AUC, P < 0.05). Finally, nitrotyrosine staining as an oxidative stress marker decreased in the MCA media layer of melatonin-treated animals (0.01357 ± 0.00089 versus 0.00837 ± 0.00164 pixels/μm2 , P < 0.05). All the melatonin-induced changes were associated with no systemic cardiovascular alterations in vivo. In conclusion, oral treatment with melatonin modulates cerebral vascular function, resulting in a better cerebral perfusion and reduced oxidative stress in the neonatal period in chronically hypoxic lambs. Melatonin is a potential therapeutic agent for treating cerebrovascular dysfunction associated with oxidative stress and developmental hypoxia in neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilio A Herrera
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile; International Center for Andean Studies (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Putre, Chile
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Tare M, Parkington HC, Wallace EM, Sutherland AE, Lim R, Yawno T, Coleman HA, Jenkin G, Miller SL. Maternal melatonin administration mitigates coronary stiffness and endothelial dysfunction, and improves heart resilience to insult in growth restricted lambs. J Physiol 2014; 592:2695-709. [PMID: 24710061 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2014.270934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with impaired cardiac function in childhood and is linked to short- and long-term morbidities. Placental dysfunction underlies most IUGR, and causes fetal oxidative stress which may impact on cardiac development. Accordingly, we investigated whether antenatal melatonin treatment, which possesses antioxidant properties, may afford cardiovascular protection in these vulnerable fetuses. IUGR was induced in sheep fetuses using single umbilical artery ligation on day 105-110 of pregnancy (term 147). Study 1: melatonin (2 mg h(-1)) was administered i.v. to ewes on days 5 and 6 after surgery. On day 7 fetal heart function was assessed using a Langendorff apparatus. Study 2: a lower dose of melatonin (0.25 mg h(-1)) was administered continuously following IUGR induction and the ewes gave birth normally at term. Lambs were killed when 24 h old and coronary vessels studied. Melatonin significantly improved fetal oxygenation in vivo. Contractile function in the right ventricle and coronary flow were enhanced by melatonin. Ischaemia-reperfusion-induced infarct area was 3-fold greater in IUGR hearts than in controls and this increase was prevented by melatonin. In isolated neonatal coronary arteries, endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability was reduced in IUGR, and was rescued by modest melatonin treatment. Melatonin exposure also induced the emergence of an indomethacin-sensitive vasodilation. IUGR caused marked stiffening of the coronary artery and this was prevented by melatonin. Maternal melatonin treatment reduces fetal hypoxaemia, improves heart function and coronary blood flow and rescues cardio-coronary deficit induced by IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Tare
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Euan M Wallace
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy E Sutherland
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tamara Yawno
- The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Harold A Coleman
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Graham Jenkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne L Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia The Ritchie Centre, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Voiculescu SE, Zygouropoulos N, Zahiu CD, Zagrean AM. Role of melatonin in embryo fetal development. J Med Life 2014; 7:488-92. [PMID: 25713608 PMCID: PMC4316124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is an indoleamine produced by the pineal gland and secreted in a circadian manner. In the past few decades, research over this topic has been enhanced. Melatonin has many important roles in the human physiology: regulator of the circadian rhythms, sleep inducer, antioxidant, anticarcinogenic. This paper reviews the involvement of melatonin in embryo fetal development. The pineal gland develops completely postpartum, so both the embryo and the fetus are dependent on the maternal melatonin provided transplacentally. Melatonin appears to be involved in the normal outcome of pregnancy beginning with the oocyte quality and finishing with the parturition. Its pregnancy night-time concentrations increase after 24 weeks of gestation, with significantly high levels after 32 weeks. Melatonin receptors are widespread in the embryo and fetus since early stages. There is solid evidence that melatonin is neuroprotective and has a positive effect on the outcome of the compromised pregnancies. In addition, chronodisruption leads to a reproductive dysfunction. Thus, the influence of melatonin on the developing human fetus may not be limited to the entertaining of circadian rhythmicity, but further studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- SE Voiculescu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
Division of Physiology & Fundamental Neuroscience, Bucharest, Romania
| | - N Zygouropoulos
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
Division of Physiology & Fundamental Neuroscience, Bucharest, Romania
| | - CD Zahiu
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
Division of Physiology & Fundamental Neuroscience, Bucharest, Romania
| | - AM Zagrean
- “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy,
Division of Physiology & Fundamental Neuroscience, Bucharest, Romania
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Seron-Ferre M, Reynolds H, Mendez NA, Mondaca M, Valenzuela F, Ebensperger R, Valenzuela GJ, Herrera EA, Llanos AJ, Torres-Farfan C. Impact of Maternal Melatonin Suppression on Amount and Functionality of Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT) in the Newborn Sheep. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:232. [PMID: 25610428 PMCID: PMC4285176 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In human and sheep newborns, brown adipose tissue (BAT) accrued during fetal development is used for newborn thermogenesis. Here, we explored the role of maternal melatonin during gestation on the amount and functionality of BAT in the neonate. We studied BAT from six lambs gestated by ewes exposed to constant light from 63% gestation until delivery to suppress melatonin (LL), six lambs gestated by ewes exposed to LL but receiving daily oral melatonin (12 mg at 1700 h, LL + Mel) and another six control lambs gestated by ewes maintained in 12 h light:12 h dark (LD). Lambs were instrumented at 2 days of age. At 4-6 days of age, they were exposed to 24°C (thermal neutrality conditions) for 1 h, 4°C for 1 h, and 24°C for 1 h. Afterward, lambs were euthanized and BAT was dissected for mRNA measurement, histology, and ex vivo experiments. LL newborns had lower central BAT and skin temperature under thermal neutrality and at 4°C, and higher plasma norepinephrine concentration than LD newborns. In response to 4°C, they had a pronounced decrease in skin temperature and did not increase plasma glycerol. BAT weight in LL newborns was about half of that of LD newborns. Ex vivo, BAT from LL newborns showed increased basal lipolysis and did not respond to NE. In addition, expression of adipogenic/thermogenic genes (UCP1, ADBR3, PPARγ, PPARα, PGC1α, C/EBPβ, and perilipin) and of the clock genes Bmal1, Clock, and Per2 was increased. Remarkably, the effects observed in LL newborns were absent in LL + Mel newborns. Thus, our results support that maternal melatonin during gestation is important in determining amount and normal functionality of BAT in the neonate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Seron-Ferre
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Henry Reynolds
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Natalia Andrea Mendez
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Mauricio Mondaca
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Valenzuela
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Renato Ebensperger
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Emilio A. Herrera
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Anibal J. Llanos
- Programa de Fisiopatología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas (ICBM), Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Claudia Torres-Farfan
- Facultad de Medicina, Laboratorio de Cronobiología del Desarrollo, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- *Correspondence: Claudia Torres-Farfan, Edificio Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Austral de Chile, Isla Teja S/N, P.O. Box 567, Valdivia, Chile e-mail:
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Alers NO, Jenkin G, Miller SL, Wallace EM. Antenatal melatonin as an antioxidant in human pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction--a phase I pilot clinical trial: study protocol. BMJ Open 2013; 3:e004141. [PMID: 24366583 PMCID: PMC3884842 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2013-004141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal growth restriction complicates about 5% of pregnancies and is commonly caused by placental dysfunction. It is associated with increased risks of perinatal mortality and short-term and long-term morbidity, such as cerebral palsy. Chronic in utero hypoxaemia, inflammation and oxidative stress are likely culprits contributing to the long-term neurological sequelae of fetal growth restriction. In this regard, we propose that melatonin, a powerful antioxidant, might mitigate morbidity and/or mortality associated with fetal growth restriction. Melatonin has an excellent biosafety profile and crosses the placenta and blood-brain barrier. We present the protocol for a phase I clinical trial to investigate the efficacy of maternal oral melatonin administration in women with a pregnancy complicated by fetal growth restriction. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The proposed trial is a single-arm, open-label clinical trial involving 12 women. Severe, early onset fetal growth restriction will be diagnosed by an estimated fetal weight ≤10th centile in combination with abnormal fetoplacental Doppler studies, occurring before 34 weeks of pregnancy. Baseline measurements of maternal and fetal well-being, levels of oxidative stress and ultrasound and Doppler measurements will be obtained at the time of diagnosis of fetal growth restriction. Women will then start melatonin treatment (4 mg) twice daily until birth. The primary outcomes are the levels of oxidative stress in the maternal and fetal circulation and placenta. Secondary outcomes are fetoplacental Doppler studies (uterine artery, umbilical artery middle cerebral artery and ductus venosus), fetal biometry, fetal biophysical profile and a composite determination of neonatal outcome. A historical cohort of gestational-matched fetal growth restriction and a healthy pregnancy cohort will be used as comparators. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from Monash Health Human Research Ethics Committee B (HREC12133B). Data will be presented at international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Clinical Trials, protocol registration system: NCT01695070.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O Alers
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Graham Jenkin
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suzanne L Miller
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Euan M Wallace
- The Ritchie Centre, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Women's Services, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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50
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Lemley CO, Camacho LE, Vonnahme KA. Uterine infusion of melatonin or melatonin receptor antagonist alters ovine feto-placental hemodynamics during midgestation. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:40. [PMID: 23782836 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary melatonin supplementation from mid- to late gestation increases umbilical artery blood flow and causes disproportionate fetal growth. Melatonin receptors have been described throughout the cardiovascular system; however, there is a paucity of data on the function of placental melatonin receptors. The objectives of the current experiment were to determine fetal descending aorta blood flow, umbilical artery blood flow, and placental and fetal development following a 4-wk uterine infusion of melatonin (MEL), melatonin receptor 1 and 2 antagonist (luzindole; LUZ), or vehicle (CON) from Day 62 to Day 90 of gestation. After 4 wk of infusion, umbilical artery blood flow and umbilical artery blood flow relative to placentome weight were increased (P < 0.05) in MEL- versus CON- and LUZ-infused dams. Fetal descending aorta blood flow was increased (P < 0.05) in MEL- versus CON- and LUZ-infused dams, while fetal descending aorta blood flow relative to fetal weight was increased in MEL- versus CON-infused dams and decreased in LUZ- versus CON-infused dams. Following the 4-wk infusion, we observed an increase in placental efficiency (fetal-placentome weight ratio) in MEL- versus LUZ-infused dams. The increase in umbilical artery blood flow due to chronic uterine melatonin infusion is potentiated by an increased fetal cardiac output through the descending aorta. Moreover, melatonin receptor antagonism decreased fetal descending aorta blood flow relative to fetal weight. Therefore, melatonin receptor activation may partially mediate the observed increase in fetal blood flow following dietary melatonin supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb O Lemley
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762-9815, USA.
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