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Lee EB, Chakravarthi VP, Mohamadi R, Dahiya V, Vo K, Ratri A, Fields PE, Marsh CA, Rumi MAK. Loss of ERβ Disrupts Gene Regulation in Primordial and Primary Follicles. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3202. [PMID: 38542176 PMCID: PMC10970686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25063202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 11/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Loss of ERβ increases primordial follicle growth activation (PFGA), leading to premature ovarian follicle reserve depletion. We determined the expression and gene regulatory functions of ERβ in dormant primordial follicles (PdFs) and activated primary follicles (PrFs) using mouse models. PdFs and PrFs were isolated from 3-week-old Erβ knockout (Erβnull) mouse ovaries, and their transcriptomes were compared with those of control Erβfl/fl mice. We observed a significant (≥2-fold change; FDR p-value ≤ 0.05) deregulation of approximately 5% of genes (866 out of 16,940 genes, TPM ≥ 5) in Erβnull PdFs; ~60% (521 out of 866) of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were upregulated, and 40% were downregulated, indicating that ERβ has both transcriptional enhancing as well as repressing roles in dormant PdFs. Such deregulation of genes may make the Erβnull PdFs more susceptible to increased PFGA. When the PdFs undergo PFGA and form PrFs, many new genes are activated. During PFGA of Erβfl/fl follicles, we detected a differential expression of ~24% genes (4909 out of 20,743; ≥2-fold change; FDR p-value ≤ 0.05; TPM ≥ 5); 56% upregulated and 44% downregulated, indicating the gene enhancing and repressing roles of Erβ-activated PrFs. In contrast, we detected a differential expression of only 824 genes in Erβnull follicles during PFGA (≥2-fold change; FDR p-value ≤ 0.05; TPM ≥ 5). Moreover, most (~93%; 770 out of 824) of these DEGs in activated Erβnull PrFs were downregulated. Such deregulation of genes in Erβnull activated follicles may impair their inhibitory role on PFGA. Notably, in both Erβnull PdFs and PrFs, we detected a significant number of epigenetic regulators and transcription factors to be differentially expressed, which suggests that lack of ERβ either directly or indirectly deregulates the gene expression in PdFs and PrFs, leading to increased PFGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Bee Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - V. Praveen Chakravarthi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Ryan Mohamadi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Vinesh Dahiya
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Kevin Vo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Anamika Ratri
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Patrick E. Fields
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
| | - Courtney A. Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA;
| | - M. A. Karim Rumi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; (E.B.L.); (V.P.C.); (R.M.); (V.D.); (K.V.); (A.R.); (P.E.F.)
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Lu J, Zhang X, Wang Q, Ma M, Li YF, Guo J, Wang XG, Dou TC, Hu YP, Wang KH, Qu L. Effects of exogenous energy on synthesis of steroid hormones and expression characteristics of the CREB/StAR signaling pathway in theca cells of laying hen. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103414. [PMID: 38262338 PMCID: PMC10835437 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Energy and the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB)/steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) signaling pathway play important roles in steroid hormone production and follicular development in hens. This present study aimed to investigate the effects of exogenous energy on the synthesis of steroid hormones and the expression characteristics of the CREB/StAR signaling pathway in theca cells of laying hen. The primary theca cells of small yellow follicles were randomly divided into 6 treatments and cultured in medium with glucose concentrations of 1, 1.5, 3, 4.5, 6, and 7.5 mg/mL for 48 h. It was found that growth was robust and cell outlines were clear when cells were cultured with 1, 1.5, 3, and 4.5 mg/mL glucose, but cell viability was diminished and cell density decreased after exposure to glucose at 6 and 7.5 mg/mL for 48 h. Cell viability showed an increasing and then decreasing quadratic response to increasing glucose concentration in culture (r2 = 0.688, P < 0.001). The cell viability of theca cells cultured with 4.5 mg/mL glucose was greater than those cultured with 1, 1.5, 6, and 7.5 mg/mL glucose (P < 0.05). The concentration of estradiol in the medium containing 3 mg/mL glucose was higher than in medium containing 1, 1.5, and 6 mg/mL glucose (P < 0.05). There was an increasing and then decreasing quadratic correlation between progesterone concentrations and glucose concentrations (r2 = 0.522, P = 0.002). The concentration of progesterone in medium with 4.5 mg/mL glucose was higher than in medium with 1 and 7.5 mg/mL glucose (P < 0.05). There was an increasing and then decreasing quadratic correlation between the relative expression of CREB1 (r2 = 0.752, P < 0.001), StAR (r2 = 0.456, P = 0.002), CYP1B1 (r2 = 0.568, P < 0.001), and 3β-HSD (r2 = 0.319, P = 0.018) in theca cells of laying hens and glucose concentrations after treatment with different glucose concentrations for 48 h. After treatment with 4.5 mg/mL glucose, the expression of StAR, CYP1B1, and 3β-HSD genes were increased compared to treatment with 1, 1.5, 3, 6, and 7.5 mg/mL glucose (P < 0.001). There was an increasing and then decreasing quadratic correlation between glucose concentrations and protein expression of CREB1 (r2 = 0.819, P < 0.001), StAR (r2 = 0.844, P < 0.001), 3β-HSD (r2 = 0.801, P < 0.001), and CYP11A1 (r2 = 0.800, P < 0.001) in theca cells of laying hens. The protein expression of CREB1, StAR, and 3β-HSD in theca cells cultured with 4.5 mg/mL glucose was higher than in other groups (P < 0.001). The results indicate that the appropriate glucose concentration (4.5 mg/mL) can improve the synthesis of steroid hormones in theca cells of laying hens through the upregulation of key genes and proteins in the CREB/StAR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lu
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - X Zhang
- Agricultural and Rural Bureau of Hanjiang District, Yangzhou 225100, China
| | - Q Wang
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - M Ma
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - Y F Li
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - J Guo
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - X G Wang
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - T C Dou
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - Y P Hu
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - K H Wang
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China
| | - L Qu
- Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Sciences, Yangzhou 225125, China.
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Song J, Choi SY. Arcuate Nucleus of the Hypothalamus: Anatomy, Physiology, and Diseases. Exp Neurobiol 2023; 32:371-386. [PMID: 38196133 PMCID: PMC10789173 DOI: 10.5607/en23040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamus is part of the diencephalon and has several nuclei, one of which is the arcuate nucleus. The arcuate nucleus of hypothalamus (ARH) consists of neuroendocrine neurons and centrally-projecting neurons. The ARH is the center where the homeostasis of nutrition/metabolism and reproduction are maintained. As such, dysfunction of the ARH can lead to disorders of nutrition/metabolism and reproduction. Here, we review various types of neurons in the ARH and several genetic disorders caused by mutations in the ARH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhyun Song
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Korea
| | - Seok-Yong Choi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chonnam National University Medical School, Hwasun 58128, Korea
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Sisk-Hackworth L, Brown J, Sau L, Levine AA, Tam LYI, Ramesh A, Shah RS, Kelley-Thackray ET, Wang S, Nguyen A, Kelley ST, Thackray VG. Genetic hypogonadal mouse model reveals niche-specific influence of reproductive axis and sex on intestinal microbial communities. Biol Sex Differ 2023; 14:79. [PMID: 37932822 PMCID: PMC10626657 DOI: 10.1186/s13293-023-00564-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gut microbiome has been linked to many diseases with sex bias including autoimmune, metabolic, neurological, and reproductive disorders. While numerous studies report sex differences in fecal microbial communities, the role of the reproductive axis in this differentiation is unclear and it is unknown how sex differentiation affects microbial diversity in specific regions of the small and large intestine. METHODS We used a genetic hypogonadal mouse model that does not produce sex steroids or go through puberty to investigate how sex and the reproductive axis impact bacterial diversity within the intestine. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we analyzed alpha and beta diversity and taxonomic composition of fecal and intestinal communities from the lumen and mucosa of the duodenum, ileum, and cecum from adult female (n = 20) and male (n = 20) wild-type mice and female (n = 17) and male (n = 20) hypogonadal mice. RESULTS Both sex and reproductive axis inactivation altered bacterial composition in an intestinal section and niche-specific manner. Hypogonadism was significantly associated with bacteria from the Bacteroidaceae, Eggerthellaceae, Muribaculaceae, and Rikenellaceae families, which have genes for bile acid metabolism and mucin degradation. Microbial balances between males and females and between hypogonadal and wild-type mice were also intestinal section-specific. In addition, we identified 3 bacterial genera (Escherichia Shigella, Lachnoclostridium, and Eggerthellaceae genus) with higher abundance in wild-type female mice throughout the intestinal tract compared to both wild-type male and hypogonadal female mice, indicating that activation of the reproductive axis leads to female-specific differentiation of the gut microbiome. Our results also implicated factors independent of the reproductive axis (i.e., sex chromosomes) in shaping sex differences in intestinal communities. Additionally, our detailed profile of intestinal communities showed that fecal samples do not reflect bacterial diversity in the small intestine. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that sex differences in the gut microbiome are intestinal niche-specific and that sampling feces or the large intestine may miss significant sex effects in the small intestine. These results strongly support the need to consider both sex and reproductive status when studying the gut microbiome and while developing microbial-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sisk-Hackworth
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jada Brown
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Lillian Sau
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Reeya S Shah
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Sophia Wang
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Anita Nguyen
- University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Constantin S, Sokanovic SJ, Mochimaru Y, Smiljanic K, Sivcev S, Prévide RM, Wray S, Balla T, Stojilkovic SS. Postnatal Development and Maintenance of Functional Pituitary Gonadotrophs Is Dependent on PI4-Kinase A. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad168. [PMID: 37935042 PMCID: PMC10652335 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad168] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Postnatal development of functional pituitary gonadotrophs is necessary for maturation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, puberty, and reproduction. Here we examined the role of PI4-kinase A, which catalyzes the biosynthesis of PI4P in mouse reproduction by knocking out this enzyme in cells expressing the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor. Knockout (KO) mice were infertile, reflecting underdeveloped gonads and reproductive tracts and lack of puberty. The number and distribution of hypothalamic GnRH neurons and Gnrh1 expression in postnatal KOs were not affected, whereas Kiss1/kisspeptin expression was increased. KO of PI4-kinase A also did not alter embryonic establishment and neonatal development and function of the gonadotroph population. However, during the postnatal period, there was a progressive loss of expression of gonadotroph-specific genes, including Fshb, Lhb, and Gnrhr, accompanied by low gonadotropin synthesis. The postnatal gonadotroph population also progressively declined, reaching approximately one-third of that observed in controls at 3 months of age. In these residual gonadotrophs, GnRH-dependent calcium signaling and calcium-dependent membrane potential changes were lost, but intracellular administration of inositol-14,5-trisphosphate rescued this signaling. These results indicate a key role for PI4-kinase A in the postnatal development and maintenance of a functional gonadotroph population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Srdjan J Sokanovic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yuta Mochimaru
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kosara Smiljanic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sonja Sivcev
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rafael M Prévide
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Tamas Balla
- Section on Molecular Signal Transduction, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Stanko S Stojilkovic
- Section on Cellular Signaling, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Tian Q, Tang J, Wang L, Liu J, Li X, Cao Z, Tian Z. Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism caused by compound heterozygosity for two novel mutations in the GNRH1 gene: a case report. BMC Endocr Disord 2023; 23:213. [PMID: 37798680 PMCID: PMC10557371 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-023-01455-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is a rare congenital or acquired genetic disorder caused by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) deficiency. IHH patients are divided into two major groups, hyposmic or anosmic IHH (Kallmann syndrome) and normosmic IHH (nIHH), according to whether their sense of smell is intact. Here we report a case of novel compound heterozygous mutations in the GNRH1 gene in a 15-year-old male with nIHH. CASE PRESENTATION The patient presented typical clinical symptoms of delayed testicular development, with testosterone < 3.5 mmol/L and reduced gonadotropin (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone) levels. Two heterozygous variants of the GNRH1 gene were detected, nonsense variant 1: c.85G > T:p.G29* and variant 2: c.1A > G:p.M1V, which disrupted the start codon. CONCLUSIONS Two GNRH1 mutations responsible for nIHH are identified in this study. Our findings extend the mutational spectrum of GNRH1 by revealing novel causative mutations of nIHH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
- Medical School of Yan'an University, Yan'an, 716000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jingjing Tang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
| | - Lihong Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
- Medical School of Yan'an University, Yan'an, 716000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiaojiao Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
- Medical School of Yan'an University, Yan'an, 716000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiangshan Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
- Medical School of Yan'an University, Yan'an, 716000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhuozhuo Cao
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China
- Medical School of Yan'an University, Yan'an, 716000, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zhufang Tian
- Department of Endocrinology, Xi'an Central Hospital, No. 161 Xiwu Road, Xi'an, 710003, Shaanxi, China.
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Gonigam RL, Weis KE, Ge X, Yao B, Zhang Q, Raetzman LT. Characterization of Somatotrope Cell Expansion in Response to GHRH in the Neonatal Mouse Pituitary. Endocrinology 2023; 164:bqad131. [PMID: 37616545 PMCID: PMC11009787 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqad131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
In humans and mice, loss-of-function mutations in growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR) cause isolated GH deficiency. The mutant GHRHR mouse model, GhrhrLit/Lit (LIT), exhibits loss of serum GH, but also fewer somatotropes. However, how loss of GHRH signaling affects expansion of stem and progenitor cells giving rise to GH-producing cells is unknown. LIT mice and wild-type littermates were examined for differences in proliferation and gene expression of pituitary lineage markers by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry at postnatal day 5 (p5) and 5 weeks. At p5, the LIT mouse shows a global decrease in pituitary proliferation measured by proliferation marker Ki67 and phospho-histone H3. This proliferative defect is seen in a pituitary cell expressing POU1F1 with or without GH. SOX9-positive progenitors show no changes in proliferation in p5 LIT mice. Additionally, the other POU1F1 lineage cells are not decreased in number; rather, we observe an increase in lactotrope cell population as well as messenger RNA for Tshb and Prl. In the 5-week LIT pituitary, the proliferative deficit in POU1F1-expressing cells observed neonatally persists, while the number and proliferative proportion of SOX9 cells do not appear changed. Treatment of cultured pituitary explants with GHRH promotes proliferation of POU1F1-expressing cells, but not GH-positive cells, in a mitogen-activated protein kinase-dependent manner. These findings indicate that hypothalamic GHRH targets proliferation of a POU1F1-positive cell, targeted to the somatotrope lineage, to fine tune their numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Gonigam
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Karen E Weis
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Xiyu Ge
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Boyuan Yao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Qilin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Lori T Raetzman
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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Wang D, Niu Y, Tan J, Wang J, Ling L, Chen Y, Gong J, Xu H, Ling Q, Liu J, Liu J. SEMA4D acts as a novel oligogenic pathogenic gene of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism through the PlexinB1/MET/RND1/RHOA/RAF1/MAPK signaling axis. Genes Dis 2023; 10:65-68. [PMID: 37013058 PMCID: PMC10066259 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daoqi Wang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650033, China
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yonghua Niu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jiahong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan 650034, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Le Ling
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yinwei Chen
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jianan Gong
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150007, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Qing Ling
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Jianhe Liu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650033, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Urology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
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9
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- Professor of Reproductive Endocrinology and Andrology, ANZAC Research Institute, University of SydneyHead, Andrology Department, Concord RG Hospital, Australia.
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10
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Schang G, Ongaro L, Brûlé E, Zhou X, Wang Y, Boehm U, Ruf-Zamojski F, Zamojski M, Mendelev N, Seenarine N, Amper MA, Nair V, Ge Y, Sealfon SC, Bernard DJ. Transcription factor GATA2 may potentiate follicle-stimulating hormone production in mice via induction of the BMP antagonist gremlin in gonadotrope cells. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102072. [PMID: 35643321 PMCID: PMC9251782 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction depends on the gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone, which are secreted by pituitary gonadotrope cells. The zinc-finger transcription factor GATA2 was previously implicated in FSH production in male mice; however, its mechanisms of action and role in females were not determined. To directly address GATA2 function in gonadotropes, we generated and analyzed gonadotrope-specific Gata2 KO mice using the Cre-lox system. We found that while conditional KO (cKO) males exhibited ∼50% reductions in serum FSH levels and pituitary FSHβ subunit (Fshb) expression relative to controls, FSH production was apparently normal in cKO females. In addition, RNA-seq analysis of purified gonadotropes from control and cKO males revealed a profound decrease in expression of gremlin (Grem1), a bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist. We show Grem1 was expressed in gonadotropes, but not other cell lineages, in the adult male mouse pituitary. Furthermore, Gata2, Grem1, and Fshb mRNA levels were significantly higher in the pituitaries of WT males relative to females but decreased in males treated with estradiol and increased following ovariectomy in control but not cKO females. Finally, we found that recombinant gremlin stimulated Fshb expression in pituitary cultures from WT mice. Collectively, the data suggest that GATA2 promotes Grem1 expression in gonadotropes and that the gremlin protein potentiates FSH production. The mechanisms of gremlin action have not yet been established but may involve attenuation of BMP binding to activin type II receptors in gonadotropes, facilitating induction of Fshb transcription by activins or related ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gauthier Schang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Emilie Brûlé
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ulrich Boehm
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Molecular Signaling, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Frederique Ruf-Zamojski
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Michel Zamojski
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Natalia Mendelev
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nitish Seenarine
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mary Anne Amper
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Venugopalan Nair
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Yongchao Ge
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Stuart C Sealfon
- Department of Neurology, Center for Advanced Research on Diagnostic Assays, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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11
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Prevot V, Sharif A. The polygamous GnRH neuron: Astrocytic and tanycytic communication with a neuroendocrine neuronal population. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13104. [PMID: 35233849 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To ensure the survival of the species, hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits controlling fertility, which converge onto neurons producing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), must respond to fluctuating physiological conditions by undergoing rapid and reversible structural and functional changes. However, GnRH neurons do not act alone, but through reciprocal interactions with multiple hypothalamic cell populations, including several glial and endothelial cell types. For instance, it has long been known that in the hypothalamic median eminence, where GnRH axons terminate and release their neurohormone into the pituitary portal blood circulation, morphological plasticity displayed by distal processes of tanycytes modifies their relationship with adjacent neurons as well as the spatial properties of the neurohemal junction. These alterations not only regulate the capacity of GnRH neurons to release their neurohormone, but also the activation of discrete non-neuronal pathways that mediate feedback by peripheral hormones onto the hypothalamus. Additionally, a recent breakthrough has demonstrated that GnRH neurons themselves orchestrate the establishment of their neuroendocrine circuitry during postnatal development by recruiting an entourage of newborn astrocytes that escort them into adulthood and, via signalling through gliotransmitters such as prostaglandin E2, modulate their activity and GnRH release. Intriguingly, several environmental and behavioural toxins perturb these neuron-glia interactions and consequently, reproductive maturation and fertility. Deciphering the communication between GnRH neurons and other neural cell types constituting hypothalamic neuroendocrine circuits is thus critical both to understanding physiological processes such as puberty, oestrous cyclicity and aging, and to developing novel therapeutic strategies for dysfunctions of these processes, including the effects of endocrine disruptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Prevot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, FHU 1000 Days for Health, Lille, France
| | - Ariane Sharif
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, FHU 1000 Days for Health, Lille, France
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12
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Duittoz AH, Forni PE, Giacobini P, Golan M, Mollard P, Negrón AL, Radovick S, Wray S. Development of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone system. J Neuroendocrinol 2022; 34:e13087. [PMID: 35067985 PMCID: PMC9286803 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the current understanding of the development of the neuroendocrine gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) system, including discussion on open questions regarding (1) transcriptional regulation of the Gnrh1 gene; (2) prenatal development of the GnRH1 system in rodents and humans; and (3) paracrine and synaptic communication during migration of the GnRH cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paolo E. Forni
- Department of Biological SciencesUniversity at AlbanyAlbanyNYUSA
- The RNA InstituteUniversity at AlbanyAlbanyNYUSA
| | - Paolo Giacobini
- Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Postnatal BrainLille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR‐S1172, Inserm, CHU LilleUniversity of LilleLilleFrance
| | - Matan Golan
- Institute of Animal SciencesAgricultural Research Organization – Volcani CenterRishon LetziyonIsrael
| | - Patrice Mollard
- Institute of Functional GenomicsCNRS, InsermMontpellier UniversityMontpellierFrance
| | - Ariel L. Negrón
- Clinical and Translational ResearchRutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical SchoolNew BrunswickNJUSA
| | - Sally Radovick
- Clinical and Translational ResearchRutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical SchoolNew BrunswickNJUSA
| | - Susan Wray
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology SectionNational Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of HealthBethesdaMDUSA
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13
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Oleari R, Massa V, Cariboni A, Lettieri A. The Differential Roles for Neurodevelopmental and Neuroendocrine Genes in Shaping GnRH Neuron Physiology and Deficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9425. [PMID: 34502334 PMCID: PMC8431607 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are hypothalamic neuroendocrine cells that control sexual reproduction. During embryonic development, GnRH neurons migrate from the nose to the hypothalamus, where they receive inputs from several afferent neurons, following the axonal scaffold patterned by nasal nerves. Each step of GnRH neuron development depends on the orchestrated action of several molecules exerting specific biological functions. Mutations in genes encoding for these essential molecules may cause Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism (CHH), a rare disorder characterized by GnRH deficiency, delayed puberty and infertility. Depending on their action in the GnRH neuronal system, CHH causative genes can be divided into neurodevelopmental and neuroendocrine genes. The CHH genetic complexity, combined with multiple inheritance patterns, results in an extreme phenotypic variability of CHH patients. In this review, we aim at providing a comprehensive and updated description of the genes thus far associated with CHH, by dissecting their biological relevance in the GnRH system and their functional relevance underlying CHH pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Oleari
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Valentina Massa
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy
| | - Anna Cariboni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milano, Italy;
| | - Antonella Lettieri
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy;
- CRC Aldo Ravelli for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, 20142 Milano, Italy
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14
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Louden ED, Poch A, Kim HG, Ben-Mahmoud A, Kim SH, Layman LC. Genetics of hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism-Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 534:111334. [PMID: 34062169 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, which may be normosmic (nHH) or anosmic/hyposmic, known as Kallmann syndrome (KS), is due to gonadotropin-releasing hormone deficiency, which results in absent puberty and infertility. Investigation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS over the past 35 years has yielded a substantial increase in our understanding, as variants in 44 genes in OMIM account for ~50% of cases. The first genes for KS (ANOS1) and nHH (GNRHR) were followed by the discovery that FGFR1 variants may cause either nHH or KS. Associated anomalies include midline facial defects, neurologic deficits, cardiac anomalies, and renal agenesis, among others. Mouse models for all but one gene (ANOS1) generally support findings in humans. About half of the known genes implicated in nHH/KS are inherited as autosomal dominant and half are autosomal recessive, whereas only 7% are X-linked recessive. Digenic and oligogenic inheritance has been reported in 2-20% of patients, most commonly with variants in genes that may result in either nHH or KS inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. In vitro analyses have only been conducted for both gene variants in eight cases and for one gene variant in 20 cases. Rigorous confirmation that two gene variants in the same individual cause the nHH/KS phenotype is lacking for most. Clinical diagnosis is probably best accomplished by targeted next generation sequencing of the known candidate genes with confirmation by Sanger sequencing. Elucidation of the genetic basis of nHH/KS has resulted in an enhanced understanding of this disorder, as well as normal puberty, which makes genetic diagnosis clinically relevant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica D Louden
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Alexandra Poch
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Afif Ben-Mahmoud
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Soo-Hyun Kim
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience & Regenerative Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
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15
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Trova S, Bovetti S, Bonzano S, De Marchis S, Peretto P. Sex Steroids and the Shaping of the Peripubertal Brain: The Sexual-Dimorphic Set-Up of Adult Neurogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157984. [PMID: 34360747 PMCID: PMC8347822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones represent an amazing class of molecules that play pleiotropic roles in vertebrates. In mammals, during postnatal development, sex steroids significantly influence the organization of sexually dimorphic neural circuits underlying behaviors critical for survival, such as the reproductive one. During the last decades, multiple studies have shown that many cortical and subcortical brain regions undergo sex steroid-dependent structural organization around puberty, a critical stage of life characterized by high sensitivity to external stimuli and a profound structural and functional remodeling of the organism. Here, we first give an overview of current data on how sex steroids shape the peripubertal brain by regulating neuroplasticity mechanisms. Then, we focus on adult neurogenesis, a striking form of persistent structural plasticity involved in the control of social behaviors and regulated by a fine-tuned integration of external and internal cues. We discuss recent data supporting that the sex steroid-dependent peripubertal organization of neural circuits involves a sexually dimorphic set-up of adult neurogenesis that in turn could be relevant for sex-specific reproductive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Trova
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy; (S.T.); (S.B.); (S.B.); (S.D.M.)
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Serena Bovetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy; (S.T.); (S.B.); (S.B.); (S.D.M.)
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Sara Bonzano
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy; (S.T.); (S.B.); (S.B.); (S.D.M.)
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia De Marchis
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy; (S.T.); (S.B.); (S.B.); (S.D.M.)
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, 10043 Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Peretto
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Torino, 10123 Turin, Italy; (S.T.); (S.B.); (S.B.); (S.D.M.)
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), Orbassano, 10043 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Delli V, Silva MSB, Prévot V, Chachlaki K. The KiNG of reproduction: Kisspeptin/ nNOS interactions shaping hypothalamic GnRH release. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 532:111302. [PMID: 33964320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is the master regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, and therefore of fertility and reproduction. The release pattern of GnRH by the hypothalamus includes both pulses and surges. However, despite a considerable body of evidence in support of a determinant role for kisspeptin, the mechanisms regulating a GnRH pulse and surge remain a topic of debate. In this review we challenge the view of kisspeptin as an absolute "monarch", and instead present the idea of a Kisspeptin-nNOS-GnRH or "KiNG" network that is responsible for generating the "GnRH pulse" and "GnRH surge". In particular, the neuromodulator nitric oxide (NO) has opposite effects to kisspeptin on GnRH secretion in many respects, acting as the Yin to kisspeptin's Yang and creating a dynamic system in which kisspeptin provides the "ON" signal, promoting GnRH release, while NO mediates the "OFF" signal, acting as a tonic brake on GnRH secretion. This interplay between an activator and an inhibitor, which is in turn fine-tuned by the gonadal steroid environment, thus leads to the generation of GnRH pulses and surges and is crucial for the proper development and function of the reproductive axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Delli
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Mauro S B Silva
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Vincent Prévot
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Konstantina Chachlaki
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S 1172, F-59000, Lille, France; FHU, 1000 Days for Health, F-59000, Lille, France; University Research Institute of Child Health and Precision Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aghia Sophia" Children's Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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17
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Hao M, Nie M, Yu BQ, Gao YJ, Wang X, Ma WL, Huang QB, Zhang R, Mao JF, Wu XY. Gonadotropin treatment for male partial congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in Chinese patients. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:390-395. [PMID: 31464203 PMCID: PMC7406096 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_88_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Partial congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (PCHH) is caused by an insufficiency in, but not a complete lack of, gonadotropin secretion. This leads to reduced testosterone production, mild testicular enlargement, and partial pubertal development. No studies have shown the productivity of spermatogenesis in patients with PCHH. We compared the outcomes of gonadotropin-induced spermatogenesis between patients with PCHH and those with complete congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CCHH). This retrospective study included 587 patients with CHH who were treated in Peking Union Medical College Hospital (Beijing, China) from January 2008 to September 2016. A total of 465 cases were excluded from data analysis for testosterone or gonadotropin-releasing hormone treatment, cryptorchidism, poor compliance, or incomplete medical data. We defined male patients with PCHH as those with a testicular volume of ≥4 ml and patients with a testicular volume of <4 ml as CCHH. A total of 122 compliant, noncryptorchid patients with PCHH or CCHH received combined human chorionic gonadotropin and human menopausal gonadotropin and were monitored for 24 months. Testicular size, serum luteinizing hormone levels, follicle-stimulating hormone levels, serum total testosterone levels, and sperm count were recorded at each visit. After gonadotropin therapy, patients with PCHH had a higher spermatogenesis rate (92.3%) than did patients with CCHH (74.7%). During 24-month combined gonadotropin treatment, the PCHH group took significantly less time to begin producing sperm compared with the CCHH group (median time: 11.7 vs 17.8 months, P < 0.05). In conclusion, after combined gonadotropin treatment, patients with PCHH have a higher spermatogenesis success rate and sperm concentrations and require shorter treatment periods for sperm production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Hao
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China.,Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China
| | - Min Nie
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Bing-Qing Yu
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Yin-Jie Gao
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xi Wang
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Wan-Lu Ma
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Qi-Bin Huang
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jiang-Feng Mao
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xue-Yan Wu
- NHC Key laboratory of Endocrinolog, Peking Union Medical College Hospital; Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
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18
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Habara O, Logan CY, Kanai-Azuma M, Nusse R, Takase HM. WNT signaling in pre-granulosa cells is required for ovarian folliculogenesis and female fertility. Development 2021; 148:261700. [PMID: 33914868 PMCID: PMC8126407 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In mammalian ovaries, immature oocytes are reserved in primordial follicles until their activation for potential ovulation. Precise control of primordial follicle activation (PFA) is essential for reproduction, but how this is achieved is unclear. Here, we show that canonical wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT) signaling is pivotal for pre-granulosa cell (pre-GC) activation during PFA. We identified several WNT ligands expressed in pre-GCs that act in an autocrine manner. Inhibition of WNT secretion from pre-GCs/GCs by conditional knockout (cKO) of the wntless (Wls) gene led to female infertility. In Wls cKO mice, GC layer thickness was greatly reduced in growing follicles, which resulted in impaired oocyte growth with both an abnormal, sustained nuclear localization of forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) and reduced phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). Constitutive stabilization of β-catenin (CTNNB1) in pre-GCs/GCs induced morphological changes of pre-GCs from a squamous into a cuboidal form, though it did not influence oocyte activation. Our results reveal that canonical WNT signaling plays a permissive role in the transition of pre-GCs to GCs, which is an essential step to support oocyte growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okiko Habara
- Laboratory for Organismal Patterning, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Catriona Y Logan
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Roeland Nusse
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hinako M Takase
- Laboratory for Organismal Patterning, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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19
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Naulé L, Maione L, Kaiser UB. Puberty, A Sensitive Window of Hypothalamic Development and Plasticity. Endocrinology 2021; 162:bqaa209. [PMID: 33175140 PMCID: PMC7733306 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Puberty is a developmental period characterized by a broad range of physiologic changes necessary for the acquisition of adult sexual and reproductive maturity. These changes mirror complex modifications within the central nervous system, including within the hypothalamus. These modifications result in the maturation of a fully active hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, the neuroendocrine cascade ensuring gonadal activation, sex steroid secretion, and gametogenesis. A complex and finely regulated neural network overseeing the HPG axis, particularly the pubertal reactivation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, has been progressively unveiled in the last 3 decades. This network includes kisspeptin, neurokinin B, GABAergic, and glutamatergic neurons as well as glial cells. In addition to substantial modifications in the expression of key targets, several changes in neuronal morphology, neural connections, and synapse organization occur to establish mature and coordinated neurohormonal secretion, leading to puberty initiation. The aim of this review is to outline the current knowledge of the major changes that neurons secreting GnRH and their neuronal and glial partners undergo before and after puberty. Emerging mediators upstream of GnRH, uncovered in recent years, are also addressed herein. In addition, the effects of sex steroids, particularly estradiol, on changes in hypothalamic neurodevelopment and plasticity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydie Naulé
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Luigi Maione
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Paris Saclay University, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Department Endocrinology and Reproductive Diseases, Bicêtre Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ursula B Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Abreu AP, Toro CA, Song YB, Navarro VM, Bosch MA, Eren A, Liang JN, Carroll RS, Latronico AC, Rønnekleiv OK, Aylwin CF, Lomniczi A, Ojeda S, Kaiser UB. MKRN3 inhibits the reproductive axis through actions in kisspeptin-expressing neurons. J Clin Invest 2020; 130:4486-4500. [PMID: 32407292 PMCID: PMC7410046 DOI: 10.1172/jci136564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of loss-of-function mutations in MKRN3 in patients with central precocious puberty in association with the decrease in MKRN3 expression in the medial basal hypothalamus of mice before the initiation of reproductive maturation suggests that MKRN3 is acting as a brake on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion during childhood. In the current study, we investigated the mechanism by which MKRN3 prevents premature manifestation of the pubertal process. We showed that, as in mice, MKRN3 expression is high in the hypothalamus of rats and nonhuman primates early in life, decreases as puberty approaches, and is independent of sex steroid hormones. We demonstrated that Mkrn3 is expressed in Kiss1 neurons of the mouse hypothalamic arcuate nucleus and that MKRN3 repressed promoter activity of human KISS1 and TAC3, 2 key stimulators of GnRH secretion. We further showed that MKRN3 has ubiquitinase activity, that this activity is reduced by MKRN3 mutations affecting the RING finger domain, and that these mutations compromised the ability of MKRN3 to repress KISS1 and TAC3 promoter activity. These results indicate that MKRN3 acts to prevent puberty initiation, at least in part, by repressing KISS1 and TAC3 transcription and that this action may involve an MKRN3-directed ubiquitination-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Abreu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carlos A. Toro
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center–OHSU, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
| | - Yong Bhum Song
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victor M. Navarro
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martha A. Bosch
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Aysegul Eren
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joy N. Liang
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rona S. Carroll
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ana Claudia Latronico
- Laboratório de Hormônios e Genética Molecular, Unidade de Endocrinologia do Desenvolvimento, Disciplina de Endocrinologia e Metabologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Oline K. Rønnekleiv
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Carlos F. Aylwin
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center–OHSU, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
| | - Alejandro Lomniczi
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center–OHSU, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
| | - Sergio Ojeda
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center–OHSU, Hillsboro, Oregon, USA
| | - Ursula B. Kaiser
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Li J, Ge W. Zebrafish as a model for studying ovarian development: Recent advances from targeted gene knockout studies. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 507:110778. [PMID: 32142861 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian development is a complex process controlled by precise coordination of multiple factors. The targeted gene knockout technique is a powerful tool to study the functions of these factors. The successful application of this technique in mice in the past three decades has significantly enhanced our understanding on the molecular mechanism of ovarian development. Recently, with the advent of genome editing techniques, targeted gene knockout research can be carried out in many species. Zebrafish has emerged as an excellent model system to study the control of ovarian development. Dozens of genes related to ovarian development have been knocked out in zebrafish in recent years. Much new information and perspectives on the molecular mechanism of ovarian development have been obtained from these mutant zebrafish. Some findings have challenged conventional views. Several genes have been identified for the first time in vertebrates to control ovarian development. Focusing on ovarian development, the purpose of this review is to briefly summarize recent findings using these gene knockout zebrafish models, and compare these findings with mammalian models. These established mutants and rapid development of gene knockout techniques have prompted zebrafish as an ideal animal model for studying ovarian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianzhen Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China, 730070.
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.
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22
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Wang S, Zhang Y, Cheng Y, Lu G, Yang R, Geng H, Wang C, Li H, Feng T, Liu S, Hao L. Association of SNPs in GnRH gene with sperm quality traits of Chinese water buffalo. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:384-392. [PMID: 31945221 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) controls the activity of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and plays a key role in the reproductive performance of animals. In this study, five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), namely g.991T > C, g.1041T > C g.3424T > C, g.3462C > A and g.3463Inde A, were detected in the GnRH gene of 162 water buffaloes by Sanger sequencing. Each SNP was associated with more than two sperm quality traits of ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, post-thaw sperm motility and sperm abnormality. g.3424T > C and g.3462C > A were related to these four traits and had a remarkable effect on ejaculate volume. The three other SNPs were related to sperm concentration, post-thaw sperm motility and sperm abnormality. Moreover, six haplotypes (H1: TCCAI, H2: CTTC-, H3: TCCCI, H4: CTTA-, H5: CCTA- and H6: CTCC-) composed of five SNPs comprising seven different combined genotypes were generated by linkage disequilibrium analysis. Statistics followed by one-way ANOVA indicated that water buffaloes with the haplotype combination H1H1 had the highest genotypic frequency, and those with the H4H4 haplotype combination had the highest ejaculate volume. The sperm concentration of those with haplotype combination H1H5 was higher than that of the other genotypes. In summary, our study showed a remarkable association between the SNPs of GnRH and sperm quality traits of Chinese water buffalo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyao Wang
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yining Zhang
- Endocrinology and Genetics Department of Pediatrics, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yunyun Cheng
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guanhong Lu
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Yang
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongwei Geng
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chunli Wang
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haoyang Li
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Tianqi Feng
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Songcai Liu
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Five-Star Animal Health Pharmaceutical Factory of Jilin Province, Changchun, China
| | - Linlin Hao
- College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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23
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Marvel M, Spicer OS, Wong TT, Zmora N, Zohar Y. Knockout of the Gnrh genes in zebrafish: effects on reproduction and potential compensation by reproductive and feeding-related neuropeptides. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:565-577. [PMID: 29635430 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) is known as a pivotal upstream regulator of reproduction in vertebrates. However, reproduction is not compromised in the hypophysiotropic Gnrh3 knockout line in zebrafish (gnrh3-/-). In order to determine if Gnrh2, the only other Gnrh isoform in zebrafish brains, is compensating for the loss of Gnrh3, we generated a double Gnrh knockout zebrafish line. Surprisingly, the loss of both Gnrh isoforms resulted in no major impact on reproduction, indicating that a compensatory response, outside of the Gnrh system, was evoked. A plethora of factors acting along the reproductive hypothalamus-pituitary axis were evaluated as possible compensators based on neuroanatomical and differential gene expression studies. In addition, we also examined the involvement of feeding factors in the brain as potential compensators for Gnrh2, which has known anorexigenic effects. We found that the double knockout fish exhibited upregulation of several genes in the brain, specifically gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (gnih), secretogranin 2 (scg2), tachykinin 3a (tac3a), and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide 1 (pacap1), and downregulation of agouti-related peptide 1 (agrp1), indicating the compensation occurs outside of Gnrh cells and therefore is a noncell autonomous response to the loss of Gnrh. While the differential expression of gnih and agrp1 in the double knockout line was confined to the periventricular nucleus and hypothalamus, respectively, the upregulation of scg2 corresponded with a broader neuronal redistribution in the lateral hypothalamus and hindbrain. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the existence of a redundant reproductive regulatory system that comes into play when Gnrh2 and Gnrh3 are lost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Marvel
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Olivia Smith Spicer
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ten-Tsao Wong
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nilli Zmora
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yonathan Zohar
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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McDonald R, Sadler C, Kumar TR. Gain-of-Function Genetic Models to Study FSH Action. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:28. [PMID: 30792692 PMCID: PMC6374295 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a pituitary-derived gonadotropin that plays key roles in male and female reproduction. The physiology and biochemistry of FSH have been extensively studied for many years. Beginning in the early 1990s, coincident with advances in the then emerging transgenic animal technology, and continuing till today, several gain-of-function (GOF) models have been developed to understand FSH homeostasis in a physiological context. Our group and others have generated a number of FSH ligand and receptor GOF mouse models. An FSH GOF model when combined with Fshb null mice provides a powerful genetic rescue platform. In this chapter, we discuss different GOF models for FSH synthesis, secretion and action and describe additional novel genetic models that could be developed in the future to further refine the existing models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary McDonald
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, IL, United States
- Integrated Physiology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAurora, IL, United States
| | - Carolyn Sadler
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, IL, United States
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, IL, United States
- Integrated Physiology Graduate Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAurora, IL, United States
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical CampusAurora, IL, United States
- *Correspondence: T. Rajendra Kumar
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25
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Hoffmann HM, Larder R, Lee JS, Hu RJ, Trang C, Devries BM, Clark DD, Mellon PL. Differential CRE Expression in Lhrh-cre and GnRH-cre Alleles and the Impact on Fertility in Otx2-Flox Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2019; 108:328-342. [PMID: 30739114 PMCID: PMC6753941 DOI: 10.1159/000497791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing trend in studies utilizing cell-specific deletion of genes through conditional gene deletion by CRE recombination. Despite numerous advantages, this strategy also has limitations such as ectopic CRE-expression and germline recombination. Two commonly used gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gnrh)-driven CRE-expressing mice both target GnRH neurons. However, a direct comparison of the cells targeted and their phenotypic outcome have not yet been presented. To compare where recombination takes place, we crossed the Gnrh-cre and Lhrh-cre lines with the Rosa26-LacZ reporter mouse. Lhrh-cre allowed recombination of the Rosa26-LacZ gene in ∼700 cells, which is comparable to the GnRH neuronal population. Surprisingly, there were > 20 times more LacZ expressing cells in the adult Gnrh-cre:Rosa26-LacZ than the Lhrh-cre:Rosa26-LacZ brain. The greatest differences in targeting of the Gnrh-cre and Lhrh-cre lines were found in the septum, the suprachiasmatic nucleus, and the septohypothalamic area. This difference in cells targeted was present from embryonic day 12. A prior study using the Gnrh-cre to delete the transcription factor Otx2 found fewer GnRH neurons, leading to male and female subfertility. To recapitulate this study, we performed a fertility assay in Otx2:Lhrh-cre mice. We confirmed the requirement for Otx2 in GnRH neuron development, fertility and correct gonadotropin hormone release in Otx2:Lhrh-cre males, but the subfertility was more modest than in Otx2:Gnrh-cre and absent in female Otx2:Lhrh-cre. This suggests that ectopic expression of Gnrh-cre contributes to the reproductive phenotype observed. Finally, the Cre alleles caused germline recombination of the flox allele when transmitted from either parent, generating embryonic lethal knock-out offspring, producing smaller live litters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne M Hoffmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel Larder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Jessica S Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Rachael J Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Crystal Trang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Brooke M Devries
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel D Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA,
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26
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Gilbert SB, Roof AK, Rajendra Kumar T. Mouse models for the analysis of gonadotropin secretion and action. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 32:219-239. [PMID: 29779578 PMCID: PMC5973545 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins are pituitary gonadotrope-derived glycoprotein hormones. They act by binding to G-protein coupled receptors on gonads. Gonadotropins play critical roles in reproduction by regulating both gametogenesis and steroidogenesis. Although biochemical and physiological studies provided a wealth of knowledge, gene manipulation techniques using novel mouse models gave new insights into gonadotropin synthesis, secretion and action. Both gain of function and loss of function mouse models for understanding gonadotropin action in a whole animal context have already been generated. Moreover, recent studies on gonadotropin actions in non-gonadal tissues challenged the central dogma of classical gonadotropin actions in gonads and revealed new signaling pathways in these non-gonadal tissues. In this Chapter, we have discussed our current understanding of gonadotropin synthesis, secretion and action using a variety of genetically engineered mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Babcock Gilbert
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Allyson K Roof
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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27
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Choi D. Evolutionary Viewpoint on GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) in Chordata - Amino Acid and Nucleic Acid Sequences. Dev Reprod 2018; 22:119-132. [PMID: 30023462 PMCID: PMC6048306 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2018.22.2.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) is a supreme hormone regulating reproductive activity in most animals. The sequences of amino acid and nucleic acid of GnRH reported up to now are examined from the evolutionary framework of Chordata. All identified GnRH are classified into GnRH1, GnRH2, or GnRH3. In all three forms of GnRH both N-terminal and C-terminal are conserved, which allows for effective binding to their receptors. The three amino acids in the middle of GnRH1 sequence have altered diversely from the primitive Chordata, which is indicative of the adaptation process to the ambient environment. GnRH2 and GnRH3 sequences are well conserved. There are more diverse modifications in the nucleic acids than in amino acid sequence of GnRH1. These variations can result from meiosis, mutation, or epigenetics and indicate that GnRH is the product of natural selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donchan Choi
- Dept. of Life Science, College of
Environmental Sciences, Yong-In University, Yongin
17092, Korea
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28
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Das N, Kumar TR. Molecular regulation of follicle-stimulating hormone synthesis, secretion and action. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 60:R131-R155. [PMID: 29437880 PMCID: PMC5851872 DOI: 10.1530/jme-17-0308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays fundamental roles in male and female fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein expressed by gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary. The hormone-specific FSHβ-subunit is non-covalently associated with the common α-subunit that is also present in the luteinizing hormone (LH), another gonadotrophic hormone secreted by gonadotrophs and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) secreted by thyrotrophs. Several decades of research led to the purification, structural characterization and physiological regulation of FSH in a variety of species including humans. With the advent of molecular tools, availability of immortalized gonadotroph cell lines and genetically modified mouse models, our knowledge on molecular mechanisms of FSH regulation has tremendously expanded. Several key players that regulate FSH synthesis, sorting, secretion and action in gonads and extragonadal tissues have been identified in a physiological setting. Novel post-transcriptional and post-translational regulatory mechanisms have also been identified that provide additional layers of regulation mediating FSH homeostasis. Recombinant human FSH analogs hold promise for a variety of clinical applications, whereas blocking antibodies against FSH may prove efficacious for preventing age-dependent bone loss and adiposity. It is anticipated that several exciting new discoveries uncovering all aspects of FSH biology will soon be forthcoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandana Das
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado 80045, U.S.A
- Author for Correspondence: T. Rajendra Kumar, PhD, Edgar L. and Patricia M. Makowski Professor, Associate Vice-Chair of Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Mail Stop 8613, Research Complex 2, Room # 15-3000B, 12700 E. 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80045, USA, Tel: 303-724-8689,
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29
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Coss D. Regulation of reproduction via tight control of gonadotropin hormone levels. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 463:116-130. [PMID: 28342855 PMCID: PMC6457911 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction is controlled by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. GnRH from the hypothalamus regulates synthesis and secretion of gonadotropins, LH and FSH, which then control steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. In females, serum LH and FSH levels exhibit rhythmic changes throughout the menstrual or estrous cycle that are correlated with pulse frequency of GnRH. Lack of gonadotropins leads to infertility or amenorrhea. Dysfunctions in the tightly controlled ratio due to levels slightly outside the normal range occur in a larger number of women and are correlated with polycystic ovaries and premature ovarian failure. Since the etiology of these disorders is largely unknown, studies in cell and mouse models may provide novel candidates for investigations in human population. Hence, understanding the mechanisms whereby GnRH regulates gonadotropin hormone levels will provide insight into the physiology and pathophysiology of the reproductive system. This review discusses recent advances in our understanding of GnRH regulation of gonadotropin synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djurdjica Coss
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, United States.
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30
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Hoffmann HM, Gong P, Tamrazian A, Mellon PL. Transcriptional interaction between cFOS and the homeodomain-binding transcription factor VAX1 on the GnRH promoter controls Gnrh1 expression levels in a GnRH neuron maturation specific manner. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 461:143-154. [PMID: 28890143 PMCID: PMC5756504 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is required for pubertal onset and reproduction, thus the control of GnRH transcription is tightly regulated during development and adulthood. GnRH neuron development depends on transcription factors of the homeodomain family. For example, Ventral anterior homeobox 1 (Vax1) is necessary to maintain GnRH expression after embryonic day 13 in the mouse. To further our understanding of the mechanisms by which VAX1 regulates GnRH gene expression, we asked whether VAX1 interacts with other transcription factors to modify GnRH expression levels. Using the GnRH cell lines, GN11 and GT1-7, we found that activation of PKC enhances expression of the immediate early gene cFos in both GN11, and GT1-7, and represses expression of Vax1 in GT1-7. Further, VAX1 interacts with cFOS while bound to the GnRH promoter. In immature GN11 cells, VAX1 and cFOS enhance GnRH expression, whereas VAX1 and cFOS have a repressive role in the mature GT1-7 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne M Hoffmann
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Ping Gong
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Anika Tamrazian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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31
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Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Receptor: Advances and Remaining Challenges. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 338:1-58. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Chachlaki K, Garthwaite J, Prevot V. The gentle art of saying NO: how nitric oxide gets things done in the hypothalamus. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2017. [PMID: 28621341 DOI: 10.1038/nrendo.2017.69] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The chemical signalling molecule nitric oxide (NO), which freely diffuses through aqueous and lipid environments, subserves an array of functions in the mammalian central nervous system, such as the regulation of synaptic plasticity, blood flow and neurohormone secretion. In this Review, we consider the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which NO evokes short-term and long-term changes in neuronal activity. We also highlight recent studies showing that discrete populations of neurons that synthesize NO in the hypothalamus constitute integrative systems that support life by relaying metabolic and gonadal signals to the neuroendocrine brain, and thus gate the onset of puberty and adult fertility. The putative involvement and therapeutic potential of NO in the pathophysiology of brain diseases, for which hormonal imbalances during postnatal development could be risk factors, is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantina Chachlaki
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, UMR-S 1172, 1 place de Verdun, F-59000 Lille, France
- University of Lille, University Hospital Federations (FHU) 1,000 days for Health, School of Medicine, 1 place de Verdun, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - John Garthwaite
- The Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Vincent Prevot
- Inserm, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Jean-Pierre Aubert Research Centre, UMR-S 1172, 1 place de Verdun, F-59000 Lille, France
- University of Lille, University Hospital Federations (FHU) 1,000 days for Health, School of Medicine, 1 place de Verdun, F-59000 Lille, France
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Pratap A, Garner KL, Voliotis M, Tsaneva-Atanasova K, McArdle CA. Mathematical modeling of gonadotropin-releasing hormone signaling. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 449:42-55. [PMID: 27544781 PMCID: PMC5446263 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Revised: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) acts via G-protein coupled receptors on pituitary gonadotropes to control reproduction. These are Gq-coupled receptors that mediate acute effects of GnRH on the exocytotic secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), as well as the chronic regulation of their synthesis. GnRH is secreted in short pulses and GnRH effects on its target cells are dependent upon the dynamics of these pulses. Here we overview GnRH receptors and their signaling network, placing emphasis on pulsatile signaling, and how mechanistic mathematical models and an information theoretic approach have helped further this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amitesh Pratap
- Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Whitson Street, Bristol, BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Kathryn L Garner
- Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Whitson Street, Bristol, BS1 3NY, UK
| | - Margaritis Voliotis
- EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modeling in Healthcare, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QF, UK
| | - Krasimira Tsaneva-Atanasova
- Department of Mathematics, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QF, UK; EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modeling in Healthcare, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QF, UK
| | - Craig A McArdle
- Laboratories for Integrative Neuroscience and Endocrinology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, Whitson Street, Bristol, BS1 3NY, UK.
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Hoffmann T, Meyer A, Heiser U, Kurat S, Böhme L, Kleinschmidt M, Bühring KU, Hutter-Paier B, Farcher M, Demuth HU, Lues I, Schilling S. Glutaminyl Cyclase Inhibitor PQ912 Improves Cognition in Mouse Models of Alzheimer's Disease-Studies on Relation to Effective Target Occupancy. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 362:119-130. [PMID: 28446518 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.117.240614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies suggest that the majority of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides deposited in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are truncated and post-translationally modified at the N terminus. Among these modified species, pyroglutamyl-Aβ (pE-Aβ, including N3pE-Aβ40/42 and N11pE-Aβ40/42) has been identified as particularly neurotoxic. The N-terminal modification renders the peptide hydrophobic, accelerates formation of oligomers, and reduces degradation by peptidases, leading ultimately to the accumulation of the peptide and progression of AD. It has been shown that the formation of pyroglutamyl residues is catalyzed by glutaminyl cyclase (QC). Here, we present data about the pharmacological in vitro and in vivo efficacy of the QC inhibitor (S)-1-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-5-yl)-5-(4-propoxyphenyl)imidazolidin-2-one (PQ912), the first-in-class compound that is in clinical development. PQ912 inhibits human, rat, and mouse QC activity, with Ki values ranging between 20 and 65 nM. Chronic oral treatment of hAPPSLxhQC double-transgenic mice with approximately 200 mg/kg/day via chow shows a significant reduction of pE-Aβ levels and concomitant improvement of spatial learning in a Morris water maze test paradigm. This dose results in a brain and cerebrospinal fluid concentration of PQ912 which relates to a QC target occupancy of about 60%. Thus, we conclude that >50% inhibition of QC activity in the brain leads to robust treatment effects. Secondary pharmacology experiments in mice indicate a fairly large potency difference for Aβ cyclization compared with cyclization of physiologic substrates, suggesting a robust therapeutic window in humans. This information constitutes an important translational guidance for predicting the therapeutic dose range in clinical studies with PQ912.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torsten Hoffmann
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Antje Meyer
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Ulrich Heiser
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Stephan Kurat
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Livia Böhme
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Martin Kleinschmidt
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Karl-Ulrich Bühring
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Birgit Hutter-Paier
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Martina Farcher
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Hans-Ulrich Demuth
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Inge Lues
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
| | - Stephan Schilling
- Probiodrug AG, Halle, Germany (T.H., A.M., U.H., L.B., K.-U.B., I.L.); QPS Austria, Grambach, Austria (S.K., B.H.-P., M.F.); and Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Department for Drug Design and Target Validation, Halle, Germany (M.K., H.-U.D., S.S.)
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Miller GM, Silverman AJ, Roberts JL, Dong KW, Gibson MJ. Functional Assessment of Intrahypothalamic Implants of Immortalized Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone-Secreting Cells in Female Hypogonadal Mice. Cell Transplant 2017; 2:251-257. [DOI: 10.1177/096368979300200309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypogonadal (HPG) mouse is a mutant that lacks a functional gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) gene. In this study, female HPG mice received bilateral intrahypothalamic implants of an immortalized GnRH-secreting cell line (GT1-7). Nine mice were tested 42-65 days after implantation to determine whether these cells could support spontaneous and/or N-methyl-D, L,-aspartic acid (NMDA)-stimulated luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. When sampled via intravenous catheters, four mice had measurable LH secretion. Three of these mice responded to NMDA challenges with significant increases in circulating LH. GnRH immunocytochemistry revealed that GT1-7 cells were present in these four mice and three others in which LH values were not detectable. There were about 1200 GnRH cells dispersed within the piriform cortex and olfactory tubercle, and no tumor found in one of the HPG mice that responded to NMDA, whereas the other NMDA responders had large bilateral hypothalamic tumors. The presence or absence of such tumors did not predict the capacity to respond to the NMDA challenge with alterations in LH secretion. This study provides the first evidence that intrahypothalamic GT1-7 cells can support LH release in the HPG mouse, and that this secretion can be modified by pharmacological agents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ann-Judith Silverman
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Columbia University, College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - James L. Roberts
- Fishberg Center for Neurobiology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Ke Wen Dong
- Fishberg Center for Neurobiology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | - Marie J. Gibson
- Department of Medicine, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
- Fishberg Center for Neurobiology, Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY
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Lima Amato LG, Latronico AC, Gontijo Silveira LF. Molecular and Genetic Aspects of Congenital Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2017; 46:283-303. [PMID: 28476224 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2017.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is a clinically and genetically heterogenous disorder characterized by abnormal synthesis, secretion, or action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, a key hypothalamic decapeptide that orchestrates the reproductive axis. Several modes of inheritance have been identified. A growing list of causative genes has been implicated in the molecular pathogenesis of syndromic and nonsyndromic IHH, largely contributing for better understanding the complex neuroendocrine control of reproduction. This article summarizes the great advances of molecular genetics of IHH and pointed up the heterogeneity and complexity of the genetic basis of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Guimaraes Lima Amato
- Division of Endocrinology, Development Endocrinology Unit, Laboratory of Hormones and Molecular Genetics/LIM42, Clinical Hospital, Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo University, Av. Dr. Eneas de Carvalho Aguiar 255, 7 andar, sala 7037, Sao Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Latronico
- Division of Endocrinology, Development Endocrinology Unit, Laboratory of Hormones and Molecular Genetics/LIM42, Clinical Hospital, Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo University, Av. Dr. Eneas de Carvalho Aguiar 255, 7 andar, sala 7037, Sao Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil.
| | - Leticia Ferreira Gontijo Silveira
- Division of Endocrinology, Development Endocrinology Unit, Laboratory of Hormones and Molecular Genetics/LIM42, Clinical Hospital, Sao Paulo Medical School, Sao Paulo University, Av. Dr. Eneas de Carvalho Aguiar 255, 7 andar, sala 7037, Sao Paulo, SP 05403-000, Brazil.
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Desaulniers AT, Cederberg RA, Lents CA, White BR. Expression and Role of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone 2 and Its Receptor in Mammals. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:269. [PMID: 29312140 PMCID: PMC5732264 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone 1 (GnRH1) and its receptor (GnRHR1) drive mammalian reproduction via regulation of the gonadotropins. Yet, a second form of GnRH (GnRH2) and its receptor (GnRHR2) also exist in mammals. GnRH2 has been completely conserved throughout 500 million years of evolution, signifying high selection pressure and a critical biological role. However, the GnRH2 gene is absent (e.g., rat) or inactivated (e.g., cow and sheep) in some species but retained in others (e.g., human, horse, and pig). Likewise, many species (e.g., human, chimpanzee, cow, and sheep) retain the GnRHR2 gene but lack the appropriate coding sequence to produce a full-length protein due to gene coding errors; although production of GnRHR2 in humans remains controversial. Certain mammals lack the GnRHR2 gene (e.g., mouse) or most exons entirely (e.g., rat). In contrast, old world monkeys, musk shrews, and pigs maintain the coding sequence required to produce a functional GnRHR2. Like GnRHR1, GnRHR2 is a 7-transmembrane, G protein-coupled receptor that interacts with Gαq/11 to mediate cell signaling. However, GnRHR2 retains a cytoplasmic tail and is only 40% homologous to GnRHR1. A role for GnRH2 and its receptor in mammals has been elusive, likely because common laboratory models lack both the ligand and receptor. Uniquely, both GnRH2 and GnRHR2 are ubiquitously expressed; transcript levels are abundant in peripheral tissues and scarcely found in regions of the brain associated with gonadotropin secretion, suggesting a divergent role from GnRH1/GnRHR1. Indeed, GnRH2 and its receptor are not physiological modulators of gonadotropin secretion in mammals. Instead, GnRH2 and GnRHR2 coordinate the interaction between nutritional status and sexual behavior in the female brain. Within peripheral tissues, GnRH2 and its receptor are novel regulators of reproductive organs. GnRH2 and GnRHR2 directly stimulate steroidogenesis within the porcine testis. In the female, GnRH2 and its receptor may help mediate placental function, implantation, and ovarian steroidogenesis. Furthermore, both the GnRH2 and GnRHR2 genes are expressed in human reproductive tumors and represent emerging targets for cancer treatment. Thus, GnRH2 and GnRHR2 have diverse functions in mammals which remain largely unexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy T. Desaulniers
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Cederberg
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
| | | | - Brett R. White
- Department of Animal Science, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, United States
- *Correspondence: Brett R. White,
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Constantin S. Progress and Challenges in the Search for the Mechanisms of Pulsatile Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Secretion. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:180. [PMID: 28790978 PMCID: PMC5523686 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility relies on the proper functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The hormonal cascade begins with hypothalamic neurons secreting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) into the hypophyseal portal system. In turn, the GnRH-activated gonadotrophs in the anterior pituitary release gonadotropins, which then act on the gonads to regulate gametogenesis and sex steroidogenesis. Finally, sex steroids close this axis by feeding back to the hypothalamus. Despite this seeming straightforwardness, the axis is orchestrated by a complex neuronal network in the central nervous system. For reproductive success, GnRH neurons, the final output of this network, must integrate and translate a wide range of cues, both environmental and physiological, to the gonadotrophs via pulsatile GnRH secretion. This secretory profile is critical for gonadotropic function, yet the mechanisms underlying these pulses remain unknown. Literature supports both intrinsically and extrinsically driven GnRH neuronal activity. However, the caveat of the techniques supporting either one of the two hypotheses is the gap between events recorded at a single-cell level and GnRH secretion measured at the population level. This review aims to compile data about GnRH neuronal activity focusing on the physiological output, GnRH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Constantin
- Cellular and Developmental Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- *Correspondence: Stephanie Constantin,
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Bogus-Nowakowska K, Równiak M, Hermanowicz-Sobieraj B, Wasilewska B, Najdzion J, Robak A. Tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactivity and its relations with gonadotropin-releasing hormone and neuropeptide Y in the preoptic area of the guinea pig. J Chem Neuroanat 2016; 78:131-139. [PMID: 27650206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study examines the distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunoreactivity and its morphological relationships with neuropeptide Y (NPY)- and gonadoliberin (GnRH)-immunoreactive (IR) structures in the preoptic area (POA) of the male guinea pig. Tyrosine hydroxylase was expressed in relatively small population of perikarya and they were mostly observed in the periventricular preoptic nucleus and medial preoptic area. The tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-IR) fibers were dispersed troughout the whole POA. The highest density of these fibers was observed in the median preoptic nucleus, however, in the periventricular preoptic nucleus and medial preoptic area they were only slightly less numerous. In the lateral preoptic area, the density of TH-IR fibers was moderate. Two morphological types of TH-IR fibers were distinguished: smooth and varicose. Double immunofluorescence staining showed that TH and GnRH overlapped in the guinea pig POA but they never coexisted in the same structures. TH-IR fibers often intersected with GnRH-IR structures and many of them touched the GnRH-IR perikarya or dendrites. NPY wchich was abundantly present in the POA only in fibers showed topographical proximity with TH-IR structures. Althoug TH-IR perikarya and fibers were often touched by NPY-IR fibers, colocalization of TH and NPY in the same structures was very rare. There was only a small population of fibers which contained both NPY and TH. In conclusion, the morphological evidence of contacts between TH- and GnRH-IR nerve structures may be the basis of catecholaminergic control of GnRH release in the preoptic area of the male guinea pig. Moreover, TH-IR neurons were conatcted by NPY-IR fibers and TH and NPY colocalized in some fibers, thus NPY may regulate catecholaminergic neurons in the POA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystyna Bogus-Nowakowska
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Maciej Równiak
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Beata Hermanowicz-Sobieraj
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Barbara Wasilewska
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Janusz Najdzion
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Anna Robak
- Department of Comparative Anatomy, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, pl. Łódzki 3, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
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Mouse Models for the Study of Synthesis, Secretion, and Action of Pituitary Gonadotropins. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:49-84. [PMID: 27697204 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropins play fundamental roles in reproduction. More than 30years ago, Cga transgenic mice were generated, and more than 20years ago, the phenotypes of Cga null mice were reported. Since then, numerous mouse strains have been generated and characterized to address several questions in reproductive biology involving gonadotropin synthesis, secretion, and action. More recently, extragonadal expression, and in some cases, functions of gonadotropins in nongonadal tissues have been identified. Several genomic and proteomic approaches including novel mouse genome editing tools are available now. It is anticipated that these and other emerging technologies will be useful to build an integrated network of gonadotropin signaling pathways in various tissues. Undoubtedly, research on gonadotropins will continue to provide new knowledge and allow us transcend from benchside to the bedside.
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Stallings CE, Kapali J, Ellsworth BS. Mouse Models of Gonadotrope Development. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:1-48. [PMID: 27697200 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotrope is central to reproductive function. Gonadotropes develop in a systematic process dependent on signaling factors secreted from surrounding tissues and those produced within the pituitary gland itself. These signaling pathways are important for stimulating specific transcription factors that ultimately regulate the expression of genes and define gonadotrope identity. Proper gonadotrope development and ultimately gonadotrope function are essential for normal sexual maturation and fertility. Understanding the mechanisms governing differentiation programs of gonadotropes is important to improve treatment and molecular diagnoses for patients with gonadotrope abnormalities. Much of what is known about gonadotrope development has been elucidated from mouse models in which important factors contributing to gonadotrope development and function have been deleted, ectopically expressed, or modified. This chapter will focus on many of these mouse models and their contribution to our current understanding of gonadotrope development.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Stallings
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States
| | - J Kapali
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States
| | - B S Ellsworth
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, United States.
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Deletion of Vax1 from Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Neurons Abolishes GnRH Expression and Leads to Hypogonadism and Infertility. J Neurosci 2016; 36:3506-18. [PMID: 27013679 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2723-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons are at the apex of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that regulates mammalian fertility. Herein we demonstrate a critical role for the homeodomain transcription factor ventral anterior homeobox 1 (VAX1) in GnRH neuron maturation and show that Vax1 deletion from GnRH neurons leads to complete infertility in males and females. Specifically, global Vax1 knock-out embryos had normal numbers of GnRH neurons at 13 d of gestation, but no GnRH staining was detected by embryonic day 17. To identify the role of VAX1 specifically in GnRH neuron development,Vax1(flox)mice were generated and lineage tracing performed in Vax1(flox/flox):GnRH(cre):RosaLacZ mice. This identified VAX1 as essential for maintaining expression of Gnrh1 The absence of GnRH staining in adult Vax1(flox/flox):GnRH(cre)mice led to delayed puberty, hypogonadism, and infertility. To address the mechanism by which VAX1 maintains Gnrh1 transcription, the capacity of VAX1 to regulate Gnrh1 transcription was evaluated in the GnRH cell lines GN11 and GT1-7. As determined by luciferase and electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we found VAX1 to be a direct activator of the GnRH promoter through binding to four ATTA sites in the GnRH enhancer (E1) and proximal promoter (P), and able to compete with the homeoprotein SIX6 for occupation of the identified ATTA sites in the GnRH promoter. We conclude that VAX1 is expressed in GnRH neurons where it is required for GnRH neuron expression of GnRH and maintenance of fertility in mice. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Infertility classified as idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is characterized by delayed or absent sexual maturation and low sex steroid levels due to alterations in neuroendocrine control of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The incidence of IHH is 1-10 cases per 100,000 births. Although extensive efforts have been invested in identifying genes giving rise to IHH, >50% of cases have unknown genetic origins. We recently showed that haploinsufficiency of ventral anterior homeobox 1 (Vax1) leads to subfertility, making it a candidate in polygenic IHH. In this study, we investigate the mechanism by which VAX1 controls fertility finding that VAX1 is required for maintenance of Gnrh1 gene expression and deletion of Vax1 from GnRH neurons leads to complete infertility.
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Spicer OS, Wong TT, Zmora N, Zohar Y. Targeted Mutagenesis of the Hypophysiotropic Gnrh3 in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Reveals No Effects on Reproductive Performance. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158141. [PMID: 27355207 PMCID: PMC4927163 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Gnrh is the major neuropeptide regulator of vertebrate reproduction, triggering a cascade of events in the pituitary-gonadal axis that result in reproductive competence. Previous research in mice and humans has demonstrated that Gnrh/GNRH null mutations result in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and infertility. The goal of this study was to eliminate gnrh3 (the hypophysiotropic Gnrh form) function in zebrafish (Danio rerio) to determine how ontogeny and reproductive performance are affected, as well as factors downstream of Gnrh3 along the reproductive axis. Using the TALEN technology, we developed a gnrh3-/- zebrafish line that harbors a 62 bp deletion in the gnrh3 gene. Our gnrh3-/- zebrafish line represents the first targeted and heritable mutation of a Gnrh isoform in any organism. Using immunohistochemistry, we verified that gnrh3-/- fish do not possess Gnrh3 peptide in any regions of the brain. However, other than changes in mRNA levels of pituitary gonadotropin genes (fshb, lhb, and cga) during early development, which are corrected by adulthood, there were no changes in ontogeny and reproduction in gnrh3-/- fish. The gnrh3-/- zebrafish are fertile, displaying normal gametogenesis and reproductive performance in males and females. Together with our previous results that Gnrh3 cell ablation causes infertility, these results indicate that a compensatory mechanism is being activated, which is probably primed early on upon Gnrh3 neuron differentiation and possibly confined to Gnrh3 neurons. Potential compensation factors and sensitive windows of time for compensation during development and puberty should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Smith Spicer
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ten-Tsao Wong
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Nilli Zmora
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yonathan Zohar
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Messina A, Langlet F, Chachlaki K, Roa J, Rasika S, Jouy N, Gallet S, Gaytan F, Parkash J, Tena-Sempere M, Giacobini P, Prevot V. A microRNA switch regulates the rise in hypothalamic GnRH production before puberty. Nat Neurosci 2016; 19:835-44. [DOI: 10.1038/nn.4298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Ren Y, Suzuki H, Jagarlamudi K, Golnoski K, McGuire M, Lopes R, Pachnis V, Rajkovic A. Lhx8 regulates primordial follicle activation and postnatal folliculogenesis. BMC Biol 2015; 13:39. [PMID: 26076587 PMCID: PMC4487509 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-015-0151-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The early stages of ovarian follicle formation—beginning with the breakdown of germ cell cysts and continuing with the formation of primordial follicles and transition to primary and secondary follicles—are critical in determining reproductive life span and fertility. Previously, we discovered that global knockouts of germ cell-specific transcriptional co-regulators Sohlh1, Sohlh2, Lhx8, and Nobox, cause rapid oocyte loss and ovarian failure. Also factors such as Nobox and Sohlh1 are associated with human premature ovarian failure. In this study, we developed a conditional knockout of Lhx8 to study oocyte-specific pathways in postnatal folliculogenesis. Results The conditional deficiency of Lhx8 in the oocytes of primordial follicles leads to massive primordial oocyte activation, in part, by indirectly interacting with the PI3K-AKT pathway, as shown by synergistic effects on FOXO3 nucleocytoplasmic translocation and rpS6 activation. However, LHX8 does not directly regulate members of the PI3K-AKT pathway; instead, we show that LHX8 represses Lin28a expression, a known regulator of mammalian metabolism and of the AKT/mTOR pathway. LHX8 can bind to the Lin28a promoter, and the depletion of Lin28a in Lhx8-deficient oocytes partially suppresses primordial oocyte activation. Moreover, unlike the PI3K-AKT pathway, LHX8 is critical beyond primordial follicle activation, and blocks the primary to secondary follicle transition. Conclusions Our results indicate that the LHX8-LIN28A pathway is essential in the earliest stages of primordial follicle activation, and LHX8 is an important oocyte-specific transcription factor in the ovary for regulating postnatal folliculogenesis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12915-015-0151-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ren
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Hitomi Suzuki
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA. .,Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan.
| | - Krishna Jagarlamudi
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Kayla Golnoski
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Megan McGuire
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Rita Lopes
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, MRC National Institute of Medical Research, London, NW7 1AA, UK.
| | - Vassilis Pachnis
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, MRC National Institute of Medical Research, London, NW7 1AA, UK.
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA. .,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA. .,Department of Human Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
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Quaynor SD, Ko EK, Chorich LP, Sullivan ME, Demir D, Waller JL, Kim HG, Cameron RS, Layman LC. NELF knockout is associated with impaired pubertal development and subfertility. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 407:26-36. [PMID: 25731822 PMCID: PMC4429764 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Puberty and reproduction require proper signaling of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis controlled by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons, which arise in the olfactory placode region and migrate along olfactory axons to the hypothalamus. Factors adversely affecting GnRH neuron specification, migration, and function lead to delayed puberty and infertility. Nasal embryonic luteinizing hormone-releasing factor (NELF) is a predominantly nuclear protein. NELF mutations have been demonstrated in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but biallelic mutations are rare and heterozygous NELF mutations typically co-exist with mutations in another gene. Our previous studies in immortalized GnRH neurons supported a role for NELF in GnRH neuron migration. To better understand the physiology of NELF, a homozygous Nelf knockout (KO) mouse model was generated. Our findings indicate that female Nelf KO mice have delayed vaginal opening but no delay in time to first estrus, decreased uterine weight, and reduced GnRH neuron number. In contrast, male mice were normal at puberty. Both sexes of mice had impaired fertility manifested as reduced mean litter size. These data support that NELF has important reproductive functions. The milder than expected phenotype of KO mice also recapitulates the human phenotype since heterozygous NELF mutations usually require an additional mutation in a second gene to result in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Quaynor
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Eun Kyung Ko
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Lynn P Chorich
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Megan E Sullivan
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Durkadin Demir
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Akdeniz University, Antalya 07058, Turkey
| | - Jennifer L Waller
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Hyung-Goo Kim
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Richard S Cameron
- Department of Medicine, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Lawrence C Layman
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, & Genetics, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; Department of Physiology; Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Physiology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
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Fortin J, Ongaro L, Li Y, Tran S, Lamba P, Wang Y, Zhou X, Bernard DJ. Minireview: Activin Signaling in Gonadotropes: What Does the FOX say… to the SMAD? Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:963-77. [PMID: 25942106 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The activins were discovered and named based on their abilities to stimulate FSH secretion and FSHβ (Fshb) subunit expression by pituitary gonadotrope cells. According to subsequent in vitro observations, activins also stimulate the transcription of the GnRH receptor (Gnrhr) and the activin antagonist, follistatin (Fst). Thus, not only do activins stimulate FSH directly, they have the potential to regulate both FSH and LH indirectly by modulating gonadotrope sensitivity to hypothalamic GnRH. Moreover, activins may negatively regulate their own actions by stimulating the production of one of their principal antagonists. Here, we describe our current understanding of the mechanisms through which activins regulate Fshb, Gnrhr, and Fst transcription in vitro. The activin signaling molecules SMAD3 and SMAD4 appear to partner with the winged-helix/forkhead transcription factor, forkhead box L2 (FOXL2), to regulate expression of all 3 genes. However, in vivo data paint a different picture. Although conditional deletion of Foxl2 and/or Smad4 in murine gonadotropes produces impairments in FSH synthesis and secretion as well as in pituitary Fst expression, Gnrhr mRNA levels are either unperturbed or increased in these animals. Surprisingly, gonadotrope-specific deletion of Smad3 alone or with Smad2 does not impair FSH production or fertility; however, mice harboring these mutations may express a DNA binding-deficient, but otherwise functional, SMAD3 protein. Collectively, the available data firmly establish roles for FOXL2 and SMAD4 in Fshb and Fst expression in gonadotrope cells, whereas SMAD3's role requires further investigation. Gnrhr expression, in contrast, appears to be FOXL2, SMAD4, and, perhaps, activin independent in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Fortin
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Luisina Ongaro
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Yining Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Stella Tran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Pankaj Lamba
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
| | - Daniel J Bernard
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (J.F., L.O., Y.L., S.T., P.L., Y.W., X.Z., D.J.B.), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6; The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute (J.F.), Ontario Cancer Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 2C1; Diabetes Center (S.T.), Department of Medicine, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143; and Psychiatry (P.L.), St Mary Mercy Hospital, Livonia, Michigan 48154
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Abnormal mitochondrial function and impaired granulosa cell differentiation in androgen receptor knockout mice. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:9831-49. [PMID: 25941928 PMCID: PMC4463620 DOI: 10.3390/ijms16059831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the ovary, the paracrine interactions between the oocyte and surrounded granulosa cells are critical for optimal oocyte quality and embryonic development. Mice lacking the androgen receptor (AR−/−) were noted to have reduced fertility with abnormal ovarian function that might involve the promotion of preantral follicle growth and prevention of follicular atresia. However, the detailed mechanism of how AR in granulosa cells exerts its effects on oocyte quality is poorly understood. Comparing in vitro maturation rate of oocytes, we found oocytes collected from AR−/− mice have a significantly poor maturating rate with 60% reached metaphase II and 30% remained in germinal vesicle breakdown stage, whereas 95% of wild-type AR (AR+/+) oocytes had reached metaphase II. Interestingly, we found these AR−/− female mice also had an increased frequency of morphological alterations in the mitochondria of granulosa cells with reduced ATP generation (0.18 ± 0.02 vs. 0.29 ± 0.02 µM/mg protein; p < 0.05) and aberrant mitochondrial biogenesis. Mechanism dissection found loss of AR led to a significant decrease in the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) co-activator 1-β (PGC1-β) and its sequential downstream genes, nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), in controlling mitochondrial biogenesis. These results indicate that AR may contribute to maintain oocyte quality and fertility via controlling the signals of PGC1-β-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in granulosa cells.
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Schang A. Inside and outside the pituitary: comparative analysis of Gnrhr expression provides insight into the mechanisms underlying the evolution of gene expression. J Neuroendocrinol 2015; 27:177-86. [PMID: 25556311 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2014] [Revised: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
DNA cis-acting elements involved in gene regulation may actively contribute to adaptation processes because they are submitted to lower evolutionary constraints than coding DNA. In this regard, comparisons of the mechanisms underlying basal and regulated Gnrhr expression have revealed some features that promote stable and consistent Gnrhr expression in pituitary gonadotroph cells in different species. The presence of two divergent SF1 (NR5A1) response elements in all analysed mammalian Gnrhr promoters probably comprises one of the features that ensures reliable expression in the pituitary. By contrast, in other tissues, such as the hippocampus and testis, our analyses revealed dissimilar levels of Gnrhr expression among species. Indeed, Gnrhr was consistently expressed after birth in the rat but not the mouse hippocampus. Similar discrepancies were observed in foetal and adult testes. The ability of the rat promoter to drive reporter gene expression in the hippocampus and testis of transgenic mice just as it naturally directs the expression of the endogenous Gnrhr in rats strongly suggests that regulatory DNA sequences contained species-specific instructions prevailing over other controls. The major conclusion emerging from these studies is that Gnrhr promoter sequences are mainly responsible for directing transcriptional programmes and play a predominant role over the species-specific cell environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Al Schang
- Sorbonne Paris Cité, Biologie Fonctionnelle et Adaptative, Université Paris Diderot, Paris 7, CNRS 8251, Paris, France; Sorbonne Paris Cité, Epigénétique et Destin Cellulaire, Universite Paris Diderot, Paris 7, CNRS 7216, Paris, France
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Zhang W, Johnson JI, Tsai PS. Fgf8-Deficient Mice Compensate for Reduced GnRH Neuronal Population and Exhibit Normal Testicular Function. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2015; 6:151. [PMID: 26441841 PMCID: PMC4585285 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2015.00151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is critical for the onset and maintenance of reproduction in vertebrates. The development of GnRH neurons is highly dependent on fibroblast growth factor (Fgf) signaling. Mice with a hypomorphic Fgf8 allele (Fgf8 Het) exhibited a ~50% reduction in GnRH neuron number at birth. Female Fgf8 Het mice were fertile but showed significantly delayed puberty. However, it was unclear if these mice suffered additional loss of GnRH neurons after birth, and if male Fgf8 Het mice had normal pubertal transition and testicular function. In this study, we examined postnatal GnRH neuron number and hypothalamic GnRH content in Fgf8 Het mice from birth to 120 days of age. Further, we examined seminal vesicle and testicular growth, testicular histology, and circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) around and after pubertal transition. Our results showed that GnRH neuron numbers were significantly and consistently reduced in Fgf8 Het mice of both sexes in all ages examined, suggesting these animals were born with an inherently defective GnRH system, and no further postnatal loss of GnRH neurons had occurred. Despite an innately compromised GnRH system, male and female Fgf8 mice exhibited normal levels of immunoassayable hypothalamic GnRH peptide at all ages examined except on 60 days of age, suggesting increased GnRH synthesis or reduced turnover as a compensatory mechanism. Fgf8 Het males also had normal seminal vesicle and testicular mass/body mass ratios, testicular histology, and circulating LH. Overall, our data speak to the extraordinary ability of a GnRH system permanently compromised by developmental defect to overcome pre-existing deficiencies to ensure pubertal progression and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Joshua I. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Pei-San Tsai
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- *Correspondence: Pei-San Tsai, Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado Boulder, 114 Clare Small, Boulder, CO 80309-0354, USA,
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