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Yang Y, Hong Y, Han J, Yang Z, Huang N, Xu B, Wang Q. D-Limonene Alleviates Oxidative Stress Injury of the Testis Induced by Arsenic in Rat. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:2776-2785. [PMID: 37773484 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03881-z] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to testicular damage and lower sperm quality in males, which is mediated by increased arsenic-induced oxidative stress and other damage mechanisms. D-Limonene, which is rich in oranges, lemons, oranges, grapes and other natural fruits, can relieve doxorubicin (DOX)-induced kidney injury and CCL4-induced cardiac toxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of D-limonene motivate us to further explore whether it can reduce arsenic-induced testicular injury. To verify this scientific hypothesis, testicular pathology, testicular oxidative stress levels and sperm motility were determined after intervention with D-limonene in rats chronically exposed to arsenic. As expected, long-term arsenic exposure caused testicular tissue structure disturbances, increased levels of oxidative stress, and decreased sperm activation, all of which were significantly inhibited due to treatment with D-limonene. In conclusion, our data reveal a previously unproven beneficial effect of D-limonene, namely that D-limonene can inhibit arsenic-induced testicular injury, and also provide theoretical and experimental basis for the application of D-limonene in the treatment of arsenic-induced testicular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yan Hong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Nanmin Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Binwei Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China.
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Donaldson NM, Prescott M, Ruddenklau A, Campbell RE, Desroziers E. Maternal androgen excess significantly impairs sexual behavior in male and female mouse offspring: Perspective for a biological origin of sexual dysfunction in PCOS. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1116482. [PMID: 36875467 PMCID: PMC9975579 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1116482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common infertility disorder worldwide, typically characterised by high circulating androgen levels, oligo- or anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Sexual dysfunction, including decreased sexual desire and increased sexual dissatisfaction, is also reported by women with PCOS. The origins of these sexual difficulties remain largely unidentified. To investigate potential biological origins of sexual dysfunction in PCOS patients, we asked whether the well-characterized, prenatally androgenized (PNA) mouse model of PCOS exhibits modified sex behaviours and whether central brain circuits associated with female sex behaviour are differentially regulated. As a male equivalent of PCOS is reported in the brothers of women with PCOS, we also investigated the impact of maternal androgen excess on the sex behaviour of male siblings. METHODS Adult male and female offspring of dams exposed to dihydrotestosterone (PNAM/PNAF) or an oil vehicle (VEH) from gestational days 16 to 18 were tested for a suite of sex-specific behaviours. RESULTS PNAM showed a reduction in their mounting capabilities, however, most of PNAM where able to reach ejaculation by the end of the test similar to the VEH control males. In contrast, PNAF exhibited a significant impairment in the female-typical sexual behaviour, lordosis. Interestingly, while neuronal activation was largely similar between PNAF and VEH females, impaired lordosis behaviour in PNAF was unexpectedly associated with decreased neuronal activation in the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH). CONCLUSION Taken together, these data link prenatal androgen exposure that drives a PCOS-like phenotype with altered sexual behaviours in both sexes.
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Qi X, Zhang M, Sun M, Luo D, Guan Q, Yu C. Restoring Impaired Fertility Through Diet: Observations of Switching From High-Fat Diet During Puberty to Normal Diet in Adulthood Among Obese Male Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:839034. [PMID: 35518932 PMCID: PMC9063411 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.839034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is associated with a decrease in testicular function, yet the effects and mechanisms relative to different stages of sexual development remain unclear. The aim of this study is to determine whether high-fat diet-induced obesity impairs male fertility during puberty and in adulthood, and to ascertain its underlying mechanisms. This study aims to further reveal whether restoring to a normal diet can improve impaired fertility. METHODS Male mice were divided into 6 groups: the group N and H exposed to a normal diet or high-fat diet during puberty. The group NN or NH were further maintained a normal diet or exposed to high-fat diet in adulthood, the group HH or HN were further maintained high-fat diet or switched to normal diet in adulthood. Metabolic parameters, fertility parameters, testicular function parameters, TUNEL staining and testicular function-related proteins were evaluated, respectively. RESULTS The fertility of the mice in the high-fat diet group was impaired, which validated by declines in pregnancy rates and litter weight loss. Further analysis demonstrated the increased level of oxidative stress, the increased number of spermatogenic cell apoptosis and decreased number of sperm and decreased acrosome integrity. The expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) and spermatogenesis related proteins (WT-1) decreased. Fertility among the HN group recovered, accompanied by the recovery of metabolism, fertility and testicular function parameters, StAR and WT-1 expression. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that high-fat diet-induced obesity impairs male fertility during puberty and in adulthood. The loss of acrosome integrity, the increase of oxidative stress, the increase of cells apoptosis and the down-regulation of StAR and WT-1 may be the underlying mechanisms. Switching from high-fat diets during puberty to normal diets in adulthood can improve male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Qi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Meijie Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Jing’an District Center Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingqi Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- General Practice, Jinan Forth People’s Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Dandan Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Chunxiao Yu,
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Sánchez-Dávila F, Lombardo J, Freitas-de-Melo A, Bernal Barragán H, Ungerfeld R. Singleton or twin male lambs: Effects on their reproductive development. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 231:106797. [PMID: 34175553 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Because intrauterine environment differs between twins and singletons, twin-born lambs are often studied when effects of fetal programming are evaluated. In sheep, fetal programming might have effects on reproductive physiology and behavior after sexual maturation. The aim of this study was to compare sperm output and sexual behavior in developing singleton- or twin-born lambs of similar body weight. Singleton lambs (n = 12) and twin (n = 9) male-male lambs were used. From 5.4 until 9.1 months of age, body weight, scrotal circumference (every 3-4 weeks), sexual behavior (every 14 days) and semen characteristics (every 28 days) were evaluated. In the third ejaculate, singleton lambs ejaculated a larger volume of semen than twins (P = 0.03). Considering a pool of the three ejaculates, twin lambs ejaculated semen with a greater sperm concentration than singleton lambs (P = 0.015). There was an interaction between group and time to the onset of courtship behavior (P = 0.02) and a tendency for an interaction in the number of mount attempts (P = 0.052). Singleton-born lambs, during the first evaluation period began courtship behavior earlier than twin-born lambs (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, there were only slight differences in semen and sexual behavior between male ram lambs born as singletons or twins with similar weight. Male ram lambs born as singletons initiated the courtship behavior earlier than twins during the first sexual behavioral evaluation period, ejaculated a larger volume of semen in the third consecutive ejaculate, and there was a lesser sperm concentration in the three ejaculates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesus Lombardo
- Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Posgrado Conjunto, Mexico
| | - Aline Freitas-de-Melo
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Rodolfo Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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Insulin sensitivity in male sheep born to ewes treated with testosterone during pregnancy. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:456-464. [PMID: 32662387 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In animal models, exposure to excess testosterone during gestation induces polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-like reproductive and metabolic traits in female offspring, suggesting that the hyperandrogenemic intrauterine environment may have a role in the etiology of PCOS. Additionally, few studies have also addressed metabolic and reproductive outcomes in male offspring. In the present study, the intravenous glucose tolerance test (IGTT) was used to assess the insulin-glucose homeostasis at various ages during sexual development in male sheep born to testosterone-treated ewes. To further analyze the programming effect of testosterone on insulin-glucose homeostasis, indexes of insulin sensitivity were assessed in orchidectomized post-pubertal males born to testosterone-treated ewes (Torq-males) and orchidectomized post-puberal controls (Corq-males) before and 48 h after a testosterone injection. There was no difference in insulin sensitivity indexes between males born to testosterone-treated ewes (T-males) and control males born to control ewes (C-males) at 5, 10, 20 and 30 weeks of age, representing the infantile, early and late pre-pubertal, and early post-pubertal stage of sexual development, respectively. In orchidectomized males, basal levels of insulin and glucose were not different between both groups before and after the testosterone injection; however, Torq-males released more insulin before and after T challenge during the first 20 min of the test. Despite this, plasma glucose concentrations were not different in both groups during IVGTT, resulting in an insulin sensitivity index composite similar between groups. We concluded that the effect of prenatal exposure to excess testosterone may reprogram the pancreatic β-cells insulin release in ovine males, with effects more evident in castrated males versus intact males.
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Feng J, He Y, Shen Y, Zhang G, Ma S, Zhao X, Zhang Y. Protective effects of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor on oxidative stress and apoptosis in the testis of mice before adulthood. Theriogenology 2020; 148:112-121. [PMID: 32171970 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress disrupts the intracellular redox balance that modulate many signaling pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/Keap1 signaling. However, the antioxidant roles of Nrf2 in the testis before adulthood have not been reported. Accordingly, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the Nrf2 antioxidant system on protection of testicular cells against oxidative stress at different stages of development in the testis of mice before adulthood. Male mice (1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks old) were used, and their relative testes weights were calculated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were detected to evaluate the antioxidant capacity in the testes. Additionally, Nrf2 signaling pathway and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway proteins were evaluated by western blotting, and the localizations of Nrf2, protein gene product (PGP) 9.5, and activated-caspase 3 in testicular cells were examined using immunohistochemistry. The results showed that the activities of caspase-8 and caspase-3 and the number of activated-caspase 3-positive testicular cells per tubule were increased after 1 week of age. Moreover, MDA contents were increased and SOD activity was decreased with age in mouse testes before adulthood. The expression of PGP9.5 was increased, as well as the number of positive testicular cells per tubule. In addition, Nrf2 translocation to the nuclei of testicular cells also increased, accompanied by activation of the Nrf2/Keap1 signaling pathway. Moreover, nuclear factor-κB was inhibited, and the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway was activated in mouse testes before adulthood. Overall, our findings demonstrated that oxidative stress increased with age in mouse testes before adulthood and that oxidative stress could induce apoptosis in testicular cells. However, testicular cells are still in a rapid proliferative state owing to the antioxidant protection of Nrf2. Thus, our study provided new insights into oxidative stress-mediated impairment of spermatogenesis with age in mouse testes before adulthood and evidence for the protective role of Nrf2 in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Feng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Yuxuan He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Yulong Shen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Guanglin Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Shaotao Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China
| | - Xingxu Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
| | - Yong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu, China.
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Akbari Bazm M, Goodarzi N, Shahrokhi SR, Khazaei M. The effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. on sperm parameters, oxidative injury and apoptotic changes in oxymetholone-induced testicular toxicity in mouse. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13522. [PMID: 32012329 DOI: 10.1111/and.13522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) such as oxymetholone (OM) used for athletic enhancement, but increased free radicals damage and changes in hormonal levels, lead to serious and irreversible organ damage. Vaccinium arctostaphylos(V. arctostaphylos( has been demonstrated to have antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects. The aim of present study was to investigate V. arctostaphylos effect on OM-induced oxidative injury in mouse testis and sperm parameters. In this experimental study, 30 BALB/c mice were divided into five groups, including healthy, positive control(5 mg/kg OM) and three treatment groups (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg of V. arctostaphylos extract + 5 mg/kg OM). At the end of the study, serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone levels were measured. Testis stereological and sperm parameters were calculated. Antioxidant status was measured using nitric oxide (NO) and FRAP assay, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Furthermore, the expression of p53, caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 was measured. V. arctostaphylos decreased the serum level of testosterone, increased the LH and FSH, and improved the stereological and sperm parameters and down-regulated the p53, caspase-3 and Bax and up-regulated Bcl-2 genes. Furthermore, this dose decreased serum levels of NO and increased testis FRAP and MDA levels in treated groups compared with OM group. V. arctostaphylos extract has protective effects against testicular toxicity caused by OM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Akbari Bazm
- Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nader Goodarzi
- Department of Basic Sciences and Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Seyed Reza Shahrokhi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Holland S, Prescott M, Pankhurst M, Campbell RE. The influence of maternal androgen excess on the male reproductive axis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18908. [PMID: 31827225 PMCID: PMC6906411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal androgen excess is suspected to contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. Evidence from preclinical female animal models links maternal androgen excess with the development of PCOS-like features and associated alterations in the neuronal network regulating the reproductive axis. There is some evidence suggesting that maternal androgen excess leads to similar reproductive axis disruptions in men, despite the critical role that androgens play in normal sexual differentiation. Here, the specific impact of maternal androgen excess on the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was investigated using a prenatal androgenization protocol in mice shown to model PCOS-like features in females. Reproductive phenotyping of prenatally androgenised male (PNAM) mice revealed no discernible impact of maternal androgen excess at any level of the reproductive axis. Luteinising hormone pulse characteristics, daily sperm production, plasma testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were not different in the male offspring of dams administered dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during late gestation compared to controls. Androgen receptor expression was quantified through the hypothalamus and identified as unchanged. Confocal imaging of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons revealed that in contrast with prenatally androgenised female mice, PNAM mice exhibited no differences in the density of putative GABAergic innervation compared to controls. These data indicate that a maternal androgen environment capable of inducing reproductive dysfunction in female offspring has no evident impact on the reproductive axis of male littermates in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Pankhurst
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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Edelsztein NY, Rey RA. Importance of the Androgen Receptor Signaling in Gene Transactivation and Transrepression for Pubertal Maturation of the Testis. Cells 2019; 8:cells8080861. [PMID: 31404977 PMCID: PMC6721648 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens are key for pubertal development of the mammalian testis, a phenomenon that is tightly linked to Sertoli cell maturation. In this review, we discuss how androgen signaling affects Sertoli cell function and morphology by concomitantly inhibiting some processes and promoting others that contribute jointly to the completion of spermatogenesis. We focus on the molecular mechanisms that underlie anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) inhibition by androgens at puberty, as well as on the role androgens have on Sertoli cell tight junction formation and maintenance and, consequently, on its effect on proper germ cell differentiation and meiotic onset during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Y Edelsztein
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE) - CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires C1425EFD, Argentina.
| | - Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE) - CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires C1425EFD, Argentina.
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1121ABG, Argentina.
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Productive performance and reproductive characteristics of Morada Nova male lambs fed with high-energy diet. Trop Anim Health Prod 2019; 51:2481-2491. [PMID: 31197722 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-019-01969-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Morada Nova breed sheep are without wool, tropicalized, small-sized animals, known for their high-quality meat and skin. Their body development naturally depends on the genetic potential and adequate nutritional support, which suggests that the offer of high-energy density diets positively influences their productive indicators. Thus, the present study investigated the effect of a high-energy diet for the Morada Nova lambs on body development and testicular function, considering their histomorphometric characteristics and seminal quality. Forty-two males (19.2 weeks, 20.7 ± 3.5 kg) were equally divided into two groups and fed with 2.05 Mcal (G7, n = 21) or 2.37 Mcal (G24, n = 21) of metabolizable energy/day, equivalent to 7% and 24% above the minimum for growing lambs. The animals were confined for 23 weeks (W0 to W23). Weight and body score differed significantly from the W1 (P < 0.05). From the W5, thoracic perimeter, body length, wither height, and rump attributes were higher in G24 (P < 0.05). The scrotal circumference and testicular volume were higher in G24 from the W3 (P < 0.05). Although testosterone levels were not affected (P = 0.05), the highest energy intake increased the diameter of the seminiferous tubules and the development of the epididymal epithelium (P < 0.05). This positively influenced the seminal quality and reduced the minor defects (21.87% vs. 17.13%) and the total spermatic defects (26.34% vs. 21.78%, P < 0.05). Thus, it is possible to employ higher levels of dietary energy for Morada Nova young males to express higher productive efficiency and earlier reproductive attributes of interest.
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Puttabyatappa M, Padmanabhan V. Ovarian and Extra-Ovarian Mediators in the Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R161-R184. [PMID: 29941488 PMCID: PMC6192837 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The origin of PCOS is still not clear and appears to be a function of gene x environment interactions. This review addresses the current knowledge of the genetic and developmental contributions to the etiology of PCOS, the ovarian and extra-ovarian mediators of PCOS and the gaps and key challenges that need to be addressed in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of PCOS.
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Abudureyimu A, Cai Y, Huo S, Ren R, Zang R, Yang J, Ma Z, Cui Y. Expression and localization of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the yak uterus during different stages of the oestrous cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53:1539-1545. [PMID: 30120840 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Morphological changes of the uterus and alterations in its secretory activity under the influence of steroid hormones been well documented. The oestrous cycle is also associated with significant changes in plasma follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), whose effects are mediated through its receptor (FSHR). Reports showed that in many mammals, FSHR was expressed in gonadal and extragonadal tissues including cervix, female reproductive tract, and pituitary gland. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) signals through endothelial FSHR directly stimulate angiogenesis and involved in the timing of birth in human, and the presence of FSHR in the placenta is essential for normal pregnancy in mice. But little is known about FSHR expression in the yak uterus. The main objective of the present study was to determine the expression and localization of FSHR in the yak uterus during different phases of the oestrous cycle. Results showed that FSHR protein was localized in the surface and glandular epithelial cells, stroma cells, myometrial smooth muscle cells and blood vessel endothelial cells. The expression of FSHR protein peaked at oestrus, significantly decreased at dioestrus (p < 0.05) and increased again at proestrus. FSHR mRNA was highly expressed at both proestrus and oestrus, and decreased at metestrus with the lowest values at dioestrus (p < 0.05). In conclusion, FSHR expression in the yak uterus changed with the stage of the oestrous cycle suggesting that FSHR plays an essential role in regulating the endometrial and myometrial functions during the oestrus cycle in the yak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayimuguli Abudureyimu
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yong Cai
- Experimental Center of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Shengdong Huo
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Rui Ren
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Rongxin Zang
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jutian Yang
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhongren Ma
- Life Science and Engineering College of Northwest University for Nationalities, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yan Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
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13
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Domonkos E, Borbélyová V, Kolátorová L, Chlupáčová T, Ostatníková D, Hodosy J, Stárka L, Celec P. Sex differences in the effect of prenatal testosterone exposure on steroid hormone production in adult rats. Physiol Res 2018; 66:S367-S374. [PMID: 28948821 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal hyperandrogenism during pregnancy might have metabolic and endocrine consequences on the offspring as shown for the polycystic ovary syndrome. Despite numerous experiments, the impact of prenatal hyperandrogenic environment on postnatal sex steroid milieu is not yet clear. In this study, we investigated the effect of prenatal testosterone excess on postnatal concentrations of luteinizing hormone, corticosterone and steroid hormones including testosterone, pregnenolone, progesterone, estradiol and 7beta-hydroxy-epiandrosterone in the offspring of both sexes. Pregnant rats were injected daily with either testosterone propionate or vehicle from gestational day 14 until parturition. The hormones were evaluated in plasma of the adult offspring. As expected, females had lower testosterone and higher pregnenolone, progesterone and estradiol in comparison to males. In addition, corticosterone was higher in females than in males, and it was further elevated by prenatal testosterone treatment. In males, prenatal testosterone exposure resulted in higher 7beta-hydroxy-epiandrosterone in comparison to control group. None of the other analyzed hormones were affected by prenatal testosterone. In conclusion, our results did not show major effects on sex hormone production or luteinizing hormone release in adult rats resulting from testosterone excess during their fetal development. However, maternal hyperandrogenism seems to partially affect steroid biosynthesis in sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Domonkos
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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14
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Papadopoulos D, Shihan M, Scheiner-Bobis G. Physiological implications of DHEAS-induced non-classical steroid hormone signaling. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 179:73-78. [PMID: 29017935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In the spermatogenic cell line GC-2, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), activates the Src/Ras/c-Raf/Erk1/2/CREB(ATF-1) signaling cascade. Since DHEAS is present in the gonads, and since spermatogenesis and maturation of spermatogonia to haploid spermatozoa requires activation of Erk1/2, the triggering of these signaling events by DHEAS might have physiological relevance. In the Sertoli cell line TM4, DHEAS-induces activation of Erk1/2, CREB, and ATF-1, stimulates expression of claudin-3 and claudin-5 and augments transepithelial resistance, indicating the formation of tight junctions between adjacent Sertoli cells. Thus, by influencing the formation and dynamics of tight junctions at the blood-testis barrier, which protects germ cells from cells of the immune system, DHEAS might play a crucial role in the regulation and maintenance of male fertility. In bEnd.3 brain-derived endothelial cells, DHEAS stimulates the expression of zonula occludens-1 and claudin-3 and promotes tight junction formation between neighboring cells, which at the blood-brain barrier protects the brain from harmful factors and cells. If DHEAS supports the integrity of the blood-brain barrier also in vivo, the current findings might lead to new strategies for the prevention or treatment of neurological disorders associated with barrier defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Papadopoulos
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - Mazen Shihan
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany
| | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Germany.
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15
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Scully CM, Estill CT, Amodei R, McKune A, Gribbin KP, Meaker M, Stormshak F, Roselli CE. Early prenatal androgen exposure reduces testes size and sperm concentration in sheep without altering neuroendocrine differentiation and masculine sexual behavior. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 62:1-9. [PMID: 28843181 PMCID: PMC5705409 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal androgens are largely responsible for growth and differentiation of the genital tract and testis and for organization of the control mechanisms regulating male reproductive physiology and behavior. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of inappropriate exposure to excess testosterone (T) during the first trimester of fetal development on the reproductive function, sexual behavior, and fertility potential of rams. We found that biweekly maternal T propionate (100 mg) treatment administered from Day 30-58 of gestation significantly decreased (P < 0.05) postpubertal scrotal circumference and sperm concentration. Prenatal T exposure did not alter ejaculate volume, sperm motility and morphology or testis morphology. There was, however, a trend for more T-exposed rams than controls to be classified as unsatisfactory potential breeders during breeding soundness examinations. Postnatal serum T concentrations were not affected by prenatal T exposure, nor was the expression of key testicular genes essential for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Basal serum LH did not differ between treatment groups, nor did pituitary responsiveness to GnRH. T-exposed rams, like control males, exhibited vigorous libido and were sexually attracted to estrous females. In summary, these results suggest that exposure to exogenous T during the first trimester of gestation can negatively impact spermatogenesis and compromise the reproductive fitness of rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Scully
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - C T Estill
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - R Amodei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA
| | - A McKune
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - K P Gribbin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA
| | - M Meaker
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - F Stormshak
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA.
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16
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Recabarren SE, Recabarren M, Sandoval D, Carrasco A, Padmanabhan V, Rey R, Richter HG, Perez-Marin CC, Sir-Petermann T, Rojas-Garcia PP. Puberty arises with testicular alterations and defective AMH expression in rams prenatally exposed to testosterone. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2017; 61:100-107. [PMID: 28783504 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The male gonadal tissue can be a sensitive target to the reprogramming effects of testosterone (T) during prenatal development. We have demonstrated that male lambs born to dams receiving T during pregnancy-a model system to the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-show a decreased number of germ cells early in life, and when adult, a reduced amount of sperm and ejaculate volume. These findings are a key to put attention to the male offspring of women bearing PCOS, as they are exposed to increased levels of androgen during pregnancy which can reprogram their reproductive outcome. A possible origin of these defects can be a disruption in the expression of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), due to its critical role in gonadal function at many postnatal stages. Therefore, we addressed the impact of prenatal T excess on the expression of AMH and factors related to its expression like AP2, SOX9, FSHR, and AR in the testicular tissue through real-time PCR during the peripubertal age. We also analyzed the testicular morphology and quantified the number of Sertoli cells and germ cells to evaluate any further defect in the testicle. Experiments were performed in rams at 24 wk of age, hence, prior puberty. The experimental animals (T-males) consisted of rams born to mothers receiving 30 mg testosterone twice a wk from Day 30 to 90 of pregnancy and then increased to 40 mg until Day 120 of pregnancy. The control males (C-males) were born to mothers receiving the vehicle of the hormone. We found a significant increase in the expression of the mRNA of AMH and SOX9, but not of the AP2, FHSR nor AR, in the T-males. Moreover, T-males showed a dramatic decrease in the number of germ cells, together with a decrease in the weight of their testicles. The findings of the present study show that before puberty, T-males are manifesting clear signs of disruption in the gonadal functions probably due to an alteration in the expression pattern of the AMH gene. The precise way by which T reprograms the expression of AMH gene remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - M Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - D Sandoval
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - A Carrasco
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - V Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - R Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H G Richter
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (LDC), Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - C C Perez-Marin
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - T Sir-Petermann
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Western Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - P P Rojas-Garcia
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile.
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17
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Papadopoulos D, Scheiner-Bobis G. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate augments blood-brain barrier and tight junction protein expression in brain endothelial cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2017; 1864:1382-1392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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18
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Obesity during pregnancy affects sex steroid concentrations depending on fetal gender. Int J Obes (Lond) 2017; 41:1636-1645. [PMID: 28676682 DOI: 10.1038/ijo.2017.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 06/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE It is not clear whether maternal obesity along with fetal gender affect sex steroid metabolism during pregnancy. Therefore, we compared sex steroid concentrations and placental expression of steroidogenic enzymes between non-obese and obese pregnant women with non-pathological pregnancies, and investigated the influence of fetal gender on these parameters. METHODS In 35 normal weight (body mass index (BMI) 20-24.9 kg m-2) (controls) and 36 obese women (BMI 30-36 kg m-2) (obese), a fasting blood sample was obtained at first and at third trimester of gestation to measure progesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, androstenedione, testosterone and estradiol by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and estrone by radioimmunoassay. In a subset of women, placental mRNA and protein expression of steroidogenic enzymes was measured by quantitative PCR and western blot, respectively. The comparisons were primarily made between controls and obese, and then separately according to fetal gender. RESULTS At first and third trimesters of gestation serum progesterone was lower whereas testosterone was higher in obese women (P<0.05, respectively). Upon analyzing according to fetal gender, lower progesterone levels were present in obese pregnant women with male fetuses at first trimester and with female fetuses at third trimester (P<0.05, respectively). Testosterone was higher in obese women with male fetuses compared to control women with male fetuses (P<0.05). The placental protein expression of P450scc was higher in obese women compared to controls (P<0.05). P450 aromatase was higher in obese women with female fetuses (P=0.009), whereas in obese women with male fetuses P450 aromatase was lower compared to control women (P=0.026). CONCLUSIONS Obesity in non-pathological pregnancies alters the maternal serum progesterone and testosterone concentrations depending on fetal gender. These changes can be attributed to gender-related placental adaptations, as the expression of P450 aromatase is different in placentas from females compared to males.
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19
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Hakim C, Padmanabhan V, Vyas AK. Gestational Hyperandrogenism in Developmental Programming. Endocrinology 2017; 158:199-212. [PMID: 27967205 PMCID: PMC5413081 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Androgen excess (hyperandrogenism) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The potential causes of androgen excess in women include polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), adrenal tumors, and racial disparity among many others. During pregnancy, luteoma, placental aromatase deficiency, and fetal CAH are additional causes of gestational hyperandrogenism. The present report reviews the various phenotypes of hyperandrogenism during pregnancy and its origin, pathophysiology, and the effect of hyperandrogenism on the fetal developmental trajectory and offspring consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Hakim
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824;
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109; and
| | - Arpita K. Vyas
- College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824;
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Permian Basin Campus, Odessa, Texas 79763
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20
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Roselli CE, Amodei R, Gribbin KP, Corder K, Stormshak F, Estill CT. Excess Testosterone Exposure Alters Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis Dynamics and Gene Expression in Sheep Fetuses. Endocrinology 2016; 157:4234-4245. [PMID: 27673555 PMCID: PMC5086533 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to excess androgen may result in impaired adult fertility in a variety of mammalian species. However, little is known about what feedback mechanisms regulate gonadotropin secretion during early gestation and how they respond to excess T exposure. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of exogenous exposure to T on key genes that regulate gonadotropin and GnRH secretion in fetal male lambs as compared with female cohorts. We found that biweekly maternal testosterone propionate (100 mg) treatment administered from day 30 to day 58 of gestation acutely decreased (P < .05) serum LH concentrations and reduced the expression of gonadotropin subunit mRNA in both sexes and the levels of GnRH receptor mRNA in males. These results are consistent with enhanced negative feedback at the level of the pituitary and were accompanied by reduced mRNA levels for testicular steroidogenic enzymes, suggesting that Leydig cell function was also suppressed. The expression of kisspeptin 1 mRNA, a key regulator of GnRH neurons, was significantly greater (P < .01) in control females than in males and reduced (P < .001) in females by T exposure, indicating that hypothalamic regulation of gonadotropin secretion was also affected by androgen exposure. Although endocrine homeostasis was reestablished 2 weeks after maternal testosterone propionate treatment ceased, additional differences in the gene expression of GnRH, estrogen receptor-β, and kisspeptin receptor (G protein coupled receptor 54) emerged between the treatment cohorts. These changes suggest the normal trajectory of hypothalamic-pituitary axis development was disrupted, which may, in turn, contribute to negative effects on fertility later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
| | - Rebecka Amodei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
| | - Kyle P Gribbin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
| | - Keely Corder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
| | - Fred Stormshak
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
| | - Charles T Estill
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology (C.E.R., R.A., K.P.G.), Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098; and Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences (K.C., F.S., C.T.E.) and College of Veterinary Medicine (C.T.E.), Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331-4501
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21
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Zubeldia-Brenner L, Roselli CE, Recabarren SE, Gonzalez Deniselle MC, Lara HE. Developmental and Functional Effects of Steroid Hormones on the Neuroendocrine Axis and Spinal Cord. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28:10.1111/jne.12401. [PMID: 27262161 PMCID: PMC4956521 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review highlights the principal effects of steroid hormones at central and peripheral levels in the neuroendocrine axis. The data discussed highlight the principal role of oestrogens and testosterone in hormonal programming in relation to sexual orientation, reproductive and metabolic programming, and the neuroendocrine mechanism involved in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype. Moreover, consistent with the wide range of processes in which steroid hormones take part, we discuss the protective effects of progesterone on neurodegenerative disease and the signalling mechanism involved in the genesis of oestrogen-induced pituitary prolactinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zubeldia-Brenner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University Portland, Portland, OR, USA
| | - S E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
| | - M C Gonzalez Deniselle
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H E Lara
- Laboratory of Neurobiochemistry Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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22
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Torchen LC, Kumar A, Kalra B, Savjani G, Sisk R, Legro RS, Dunaif A. Increased antimüllerian hormone levels and other reproductive endocrine changes in adult male relatives of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:50-55. [PMID: 27042970 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate for differences in reproductive hormone levels in male relatives of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Sixty-three fathers and 66 brothers of women with PCOS as well as two groups of control men of comparable age to fathers (older control, n = 30) and brothers (younger control, n = 58). INTERVENTION(S) A single early morning fasting blood sample was obtained for the measurement of reproductive hormone levels. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Testosterone, LH, FSH, antimüllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, estradiol (E2), and estrone (E1) levels were measured. RESULT(S) The AMH, LH, and FSH levels were significantly increased in male relatives compared with their respective control groups. The levels of E2, E1, T, and inhibin B did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSION(S) The AMH, LH, and FSH levels were increased in adult male relatives of women with PCOS, suggesting that they may have altered testicular function and changes in neuroendocrine regulation of gonadotropin secretion. These changes may reflect effects of PCOS susceptibility genes such as the recently mapped chromosome 11p14.1 locus in the region of the FSH B polypeptide gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Torchen
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | | | - Ryan Sisk
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrea Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
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Papadopoulos D, Dietze R, Shihan M, Kirch U, Scheiner-Bobis G. Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Stimulates Expression of Blood-Testis-Barrier Proteins Claudin-3 and -5 and Tight Junction Formation via a Gnα11-Coupled Receptor in Sertoli Cells. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150143. [PMID: 26938869 PMCID: PMC4777551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a circulating sulfated steroid considered to be a pro-androgen in mammalian physiology. Here we show that at a physiological concentration (1 μM), DHEAS induces the phosphorylation of the kinase Erk1/2 and of the transcription factors CREB and ATF-1 in the murine Sertoli cell line TM4. This signaling cascade stimulates the expression of the tight junction (TJ) proteins claudin-3 and claudin-5. As a consequence of the increased expression, tight junction connections between neighboring Sertoli cells are augmented, as demonstrated by measurements of transepithelial resistance. Phosphorylation of Erk1/2, CREB, or ATF-1 is not affected by the presence of the steroid sulfatase inhibitor STX64. Erk1/2 phosphorylation was not observed when dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was used instead of DHEAS. Abrogation of androgen receptor (AR) expression by siRNA did not affect DHEAS-stimulated Erk1/2 phosphorylation, nor did it change DHEAS-induced stimulation of claudin-3 and claudin-5 expression. All of the above indicate that desulfation and conversion of DHEAS into a different steroid hormone is not required to trigger the DHEAS-induced signaling cascade. All activating effects of DHEAS, however, are abolished when the expression of the G-protein Gnα11 is suppressed by siRNA, including claudin-3 and -5 expression and TJ formation between neighboring Sertoli cells as indicated by reduced transepithelial resistance. Taken together, these results are consistent with the effects of DHEAS being mediated through a membrane-bound G-protein-coupled receptor interacting with Gnα11 in a signaling pathway that resembles the non-classical signaling pathways of steroid hormones. Considering the fact that DHEAS is produced in reproductive organs, these findings also suggest that DHEAS, by acting as an autonomous steroid hormone and influencing the formation and dynamics of the TJ at the blood-testis barrier, might play a crucial role for the regulation and maintenance of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Papadopoulos
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Raimund Dietze
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Mazen Shihan
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Kirch
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Georgios Scheiner-Bobis
- Institut für Veterinär-Physiologie und -Biochemie, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- * E-mail:
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Legacki E, Conley AJ, Nitta-Oda BJ, Berger T. Porcine Sertoli Cell Proliferation after Androgen Receptor Inactivation1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:93. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
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Liu DM, Torchen LC, Sung Y, Paparodis R, Legro RS, Grebe SK, Singh RJ, Taylor RL, Dunaif A. Evidence for gonadotrophin secretory and steroidogenic abnormalities in brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2764-72. [PMID: 25336708 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there abnormalities in gonadotrophin secretion, adrenal steroidogenesis and/or testicular steroidogenesis in brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER Brothers of women with PCOS have increased gonadotrophin responses to gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist stimulation and alterations in adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PCOS is a complex genetic disease. Male as well as female first-degree relatives have reproductive features of the syndrome. We previously reported that brothers of affected women have elevated circulating dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a case-control study performed in 29 non-Hispanic white brothers of 22 women with PCOS and 18 control men. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS PCOS brothers and control men were of comparable age, weight and ethnicity. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and GnRH agonist stimulation tests were performed. Gonadotrophin responses to GnRH agonist as well as changes in precursor-product steroid pairs (delta, Δ) across steroidogenic pathways in response to ACTH and GnRH agonist were examined. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Basal total (T) levels did not differ, but dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels (0.13 ± 0.08 brothers versus 0.22 ± 0.09 controls, nmol/l, P = 0.03) were lower in brothers compared with control men. ACTH-stimulated Δ17-hydroxypregnenolone (17Preg)/Δ17-hydroxyprogesterone (17Prog) (7.8 ± 24.2 brothers versus 18.9 ± 21.3 controls, P = 0.04) and ΔDHEA/Δandrostenedione (AD) (0.10 ± 0.05 brothers versus 0.14 ± 0.08 controls, P = 0.04) were lower in brothers than in the controls. GnRH agonist-stimulated Δ17Prog/ΔAD (0.28 ± 8.47 brothers versus 4.79 ± 10.28 controls, P = 0.003) was decreased and luteinizing hormone (38.6 ± 20.6 brothers versus 26.0 ± 9.8 controls, IU/l, P = 0.02), follicle-stimulating hormone (10.2 ± 7.5 brothers versus 4.8 ± 4.1 controls, IU/l P = 0.002), AD (1.7 ± 1.4 brothers versus 0.9 ± 1.5 controls, nmol/l, P = 0.02) and ΔAD/ΔT (0.16 ± 0.14 brothers versus 0.08 ± 0.12 controls, P = 0.005) responses were increased in brothers compared with controls. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The modest sample size may have limited our ability to observe other possible differences in steroidogenesis between PCOS brothers and control men. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Decreased ACTH-stimulated Δ17Preg/Δ17Prog and ΔDHEA/ΔAD responses suggested increased adrenal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in the brothers. Decreased Δ17Prog/ΔAD and increased ΔAD/ΔT responses to GnRH agonist stimulation suggested increased gonadal 17,20-lyase and decreased gonadal 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in the brothers. Increased LH and FSH responses to GnRH agonist stimulation suggested neuroendocrine alterations in the regulation of gonadotrophin secretion similar to those in their proband sisters. These changes in PCOS brothers may reflect the impact of PCOS susceptibility genes and/or programming effects of the intrauterine environment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This research was supported by P50 HD044405 (A.D.), K12 HD055884 (L.C.T.), U54 HD034449 (A.D., R.S.L.) from the National Institute of Child Health and Development. Some hormone assays were performed at the University of Virginia Center for Research in Reproduction Ligand Assay and Analysis Core that is supported by U54 HD28934 from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Partial support for some of the clinical studies was provided by UL1 RR025741 and UL1 TR000150 (Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute) from the National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health, which is now the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Liu
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - L C Torchen
- Division of Endocrinology, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Y Sung
- Division of Endocrinology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, 158-710, Korea
| | - R Paparodis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - R S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - S K Grebe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology and Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - R J Singh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - R L Taylor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - A Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Padmanabhan V, Veiga-Lopez A. Reproduction Symposium: developmental programming of reproductive and metabolic health. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:3199-210. [PMID: 25074449 PMCID: PMC4153374 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-7637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Inappropriate programming of the reproductive system by developmental exposure to excess steroid hormones is of concern. Sheep are well suited for investigating developmental origin of reproductive and metabolic disorders. The developmental time line of female sheep (approximately 5 mo gestation and approximately 7 mo to puberty) is ideal for conducting sequential studies of the progression of metabolic and/or reproductive disruption from the developmental insult to manifestation of adult consequences. Major benefits of using sheep include knowledge of established critical periods to target adult defects, a rich understanding of reproductive neuroendocrine regulation, availability of noninvasive approaches to monitor follicular dynamics, established surgical approaches to obtain hypophyseal portal blood for measurement of hypothalamic hormones, and the ability to perform studies in natural setting thereby keeping behavioral interactions intact. Of importance is the ability to chronically instrument fetus and mother for determining early endocrine perturbations. Prenatal exposure of the female to excess testosterone (T) leads to an array of adult reproductive disorders that include LH excess, functional hyperandrogenism, neuroendocrine defects, multifollicular ovarian morphology, and corpus luteum dysfunction culminating in early reproductive failure. At the neuroendocrine level, all 3 feedback systems are compromised. At the pituitary level, gonadotrope (LH secretion) sensitivity to GnRH is increased. Multifollicular ovarian morphology stems from persistence of follicles as well as enhanced follicular recruitment. These defects culminate in progressive loss of cyclicity and reduced fecundity. Prenatal T excess also leads to fetal growth retardation, an early marker of adult reproductive and metabolic diseases, insulin resistance, hypertension, and behavioral deficits. Collectively, the reproductive and metabolic deficits of prenatal T-treated sheep provide proof of concept for the developmental origin of fertility and metabolic disorders. Studies with the environmental endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) show that reproductive disruptions found in prenatal BPA-treated sheep are similar to those seen in prenatal T-treated sheep. The ubiquitous exposure to endocrine disrupting compounds with steroidogenic potential via the environment and food sources calls for studies addressing the impact of developmental exposure to environmental steroid mimics on reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics Obstetrics and Gynecology Molecular and Integrative Physiology Environmental Health Sciences, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48108
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Non-classical testosterone signaling is mediated by a G-protein-coupled receptor interacting with Gnα11. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:1172-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Shihan M, Kirch U, Scheiner-Bobis G. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate mediates activation of transcription factors CREB and ATF-1 via a Gα11-coupled receptor in the spermatogenic cell line GC-2. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2013; 1833:3064-3075. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2013.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Revised: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Ramezani Tehrani F, Noroozzadeh M, Zahediasl S, Ghasemi A, Piryaei A, Azizi F. Prenatal testosterone exposure worsen the reproductive performance of male rat at adulthood. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71705. [PMID: 23967236 PMCID: PMC3744450 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive system is extremely susceptible to environmental insults, for example exogenous steroids during gestational development and differentiation. Experimental induction of androgen excess during prenatal life in female animal models reprograms their reproductive physiology, however the fetal programming of the male reproductive system by androgen excess has not been well studied. We aimed to determine the effect of prenatal exposure of two different doses of testosterone on different gestational days, on the male reproductive system using a rat model. Sixteen pregnant rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups and two control groups. Experimental group І were subcutaneously injected with 3 mg free testosterone on gestational days 16-19 and its controls received solvent for that time; experimental group П were subcutaneously injected with 20 mg free testosterone on day 20 of gestational period and its controls received solvent at the same time. The reproductive system morphology and function of 32 male offspring of these study groups were compared at days 6-30-60 of age and after puberty. The anogenital distance of the male offspring of both experimental groups had no significant differences on the different days of measurement, compared with controls. In the offspring of experimental group І, the testes weight, number of Sertoli, Spermatocyte and Spermatid cells, sperm count and motility and the serum concentration of testosterone after puberty were significantly decreased; except for reduction of sperm motility (p< 0.01), the other effects were not observed in the offspring of experimental group ІІ. In summary, our data show that prenatal exposure of male rat fetuses to excess testosterone disrupted reproductive function, an effect highly dependent on the time, duration and level of exposure. It seems that the reproductive system in individuals exposed to high levels of androgens during fetal life should be evaluated at puberty and likely to be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproduction Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Noroozzadeh
- Reproduction Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saleh Zahediasl
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail:
| | - Asghar Ghasemi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Piryaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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30
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Padmanabhan V, Veiga-Lopez A. Sheep models of polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 373:8-20. [PMID: 23084976 PMCID: PMC3568226 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2011] [Revised: 07/23/2012] [Accepted: 10/05/2012] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a fertility disorder affecting 5-7% of reproductive-aged women. Women with PCOS manifest both reproductive and metabolic defects. Several animal models have evolved, which implicate excess steroid exposure during fetal life in the development of the PCOS phenotype. This review addresses the fetal and adult reproductive and metabolic consequences of prenatal steroid excess in sheep and the translational relevance of these findings to PCOS. By comparing findings in various breeds of sheep, the review targets the role of genetic susceptibility to fetal insults. Disruptions induced by prenatal testosterone excess are evident at both the reproductive and metabolic level with each influencing the other thus creating a self-perpetuating vicious cycle. The review highlights the need for identifying a common mediator of the dysfunctions at the reproductive and metabolic levels and developing prevention and treatment interventions targeting all sites of disruption in unison for achieving optimal success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Professor, Departments of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 300 North Ingalls, Room 1138, Phone: 734.647.0276, FAX: 734.615.5441
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Research Investigator, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 300 North Ingalls, Room 1135, Phone: 734.615.8607, FAX: 734.615.5441
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Rojas-García PP, Recabarren MP, Sir-Petermann T, Rey R, Palma S, Carrasco A, Perez-Marin CC, Padmanabhan V, Recabarren SE. Altered testicular development as a consequence of increase number of sertoli cell in male lambs exposed prenatally to excess testosterone. Endocrine 2013; 43:705-13. [PMID: 23076741 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9818-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 10/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The reprograming effects of prenatal testosterone (T) treatment on postnatal reproductive parameters have been studied extensively in females of several species but similar studies in males are limited. We recently found that prenatal T treatment increases Sertoli cell number and reduced spermatogenesis in adult rams. If such disruptions are manifested early in life and involve changes in testicular paracrine environment remain to be explored. This study addresses the impact of prenatal T excess on testicular parameters in infant males, including Sertoli cell number and expression of critical genes [FSH receptor (FSHR), androgen receptor (AR), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), 3 (TGFB3), transforming growth factor beta type 1 receptor, (TGFBR1), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)] modulating testicular function. At 4 week of age, male lambs born to dams treated with 30 mg of T propionate twice weekly from day 30 to 90, followed by 40 mg of T propionate from day 90 to 120 of pregnancy (T-males), had a higher number of Sertoli cells/testis (P = 0.035) than control males (C-males) born to dams treated with the vehicle. While no differences were observed in the expression of FSHR and TGFB3, testicular TGFBR1 expression was found to be lower in T-males (P = 0.03) compared to C-males. Expression level of AMH, TGFB1, and AR also tended to be lower in T-males. These findings provide evidence that impact of fetal exposure to T excess is evident early in postnatal life, mainly characterized by an increase in Sertoli cell number. This could explain the testicular dysfunction observed in adult rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro P Rojas-García
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Av. Vicente Mendez 595, Chillán, Chile.
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32
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Recabarren MP, Rojas-Garcia PP, Einspanier R, Padmanabhan V, Sir-Petermann T, Recabarren SE. Pituitary and testis responsiveness of young male sheep exposed to testosterone excess during fetal development. Reproduction 2013; 145:567-76. [PMID: 23579187 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to excess testosterone induces reproductive disturbances in both female and male sheep. In females, it alters the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis. In males, prenatal testosterone excess reduces sperm count and motility. Focusing on males, this study tested whether pituitary LH responsiveness to GNRH is increased in prenatal testosterone-exposed males and whether testicular function is compromised in the testosterone-exposed males. Control males (n=6) and males born to ewes exposed to twice weekly injections of 30 mg testosterone propionate from days 30 to 90 and of 40 mg testosterone propionate from days 90 to 120 of gestation (n=6) were studied at 20 and 30 weeks of age. Pituitary and testicular responsiveness was tested by administering a GNRH analog (leuprolide acetate). To complement the analyses, the mRNA expression of LH receptor (LHR) and that of steroidogenic enzymes were determined in testicular tissue. Basal LH and testosterone concentrations were higher in the testosterone-exposed-males. While LH response to the GNRH analog was higher in the testosterone-exposed males than in the control males, testosterone responses did not differ between the treatment groups. The testosterone:LH ratio was higher in the control males than in the testosterone-exposed males of 30 weeks of age, suggestive of reduced Leydig cell sensitivity to LH in the testosterone-exposed males. The expression of LHR mRNA was lower in the testosterone-exposed males, but the mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes did not differ between the groups. These findings indicate that prenatal testosterone excess has opposing effects at the pituitary and testicular levels, namely increased pituitary sensitivity to GNRH at the level of pituitary and decreased sensitivity of the testes to LH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica P Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán CP 3812120, Chile
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Connolly F, Rae MT, Bittner L, Hogg K, McNeilly AS, Duncan WC. Excess androgens in utero alters fetal testis development. Endocrinology 2013; 154:1921-33. [PMID: 23546603 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal androgenization induces a polycystic ovary syndrome-like phenotype in adult female offspring, which is associated with alterations that can be detected in the fetal ovary, suggesting gestational origins of this condition. We therefore investigated whether increased prenatal androgen exposure also altered testicular development using ovine animal models. Biweekly maternal testosterone propionate (TP; 100 mg) from day 62 to day 70/day 90 of gestation altered male developmental trajectory. In male fetuses serum LH was decreased (P < .01), and testicular STAR, CYP11, and CYP17 abundance were reduced. Coincident with this, basal testicular T synthesis was decreased in vitro (P < .001). Leydig cell distribution was severely perturbed in all testes prenatally exposed to TP (P < .001). To examine the contribution of estrogens, fetuses were injected with TP (20 mg), the potent estrogen agonist, diethylstilbestrol (DES; 20 mg), or vehicle control at day 62 and day 82 and assessed at day 90. The effects of fetal (direct) TP treatment, but not DES, paralleled maternal (indirect) TP exposure, supporting a direct androgen effect. Cessation of maternal androgenization at day 102 returned Leydig cell distribution to normal but increased basal T output, at day 112, demonstrating Leydig cell developmental plasticity. Earlier maternal androgen exposure from day 30 similarly influenced Leydig cell development at day 90 but additionally affected the expression of Sertoli and germ cell markers. We show in this study that increased prenatal androgen exposure alters development and function of Leydig cells at a time when androgen production is paramount for male development. This supports the concept that gestational antecedents associated with polycystic ovary syndrome may have effects on the male fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Connolly
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
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Fowler PA, O'Shaughnessy PJ. The goldilocks principle and developmental androgens in males, what is "just right"? Endocrinology 2013; 154:1669-71. [PMID: 23606204 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Fowler
- Division of Applied Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, Scotland AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom.
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Witchel SF, Recabarren SE, Gonzalez F, Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Cheang KI, Duleba AJ, Legro RS, Homburg R, Pasquali R, Lobo R, Zouboulis CC, Kelestimur F, Fruzzetti F, Futterweit W, Norman RJ, Abbott DH. Emerging concepts about prenatal genesis, aberrant metabolism and treatment paradigms in polycystic ovary syndrome. Endocrine 2012; 42:526-34. [PMID: 22661293 PMCID: PMC3485440 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9701-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2011] [Accepted: 05/10/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The interactive nature of the 8th Annual Meeting of the Androgen Excess and PCOS Society Annual Meeting in Munich, Germany (AEPCOS 2010) and subsequent exchanges between speakers led to emerging concepts in PCOS regarding its genesis, metabolic dysfunction, and clinical treatment of inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, anovulation and hirsutism. Transition of care in congenital adrenal hyperplasia from pediatric to adult providers emerged as a potential model for care transition involving PCOS adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma F Witchel
- Division of Endocrinology, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| | - Sergio E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Casilla 537, Chillan, Chile.
| | - Frank Gonzalez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202.
| | | | - Kai I Cheang
- Department of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298-0111, USA.
| | - Antoni J Duleba
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, California, USA.
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, M. S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, H103, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033, USA.
| | | | - Renato Pasquali
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine, S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Rogerio Lobo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY.
| | - Christos C. Zouboulis
- Departments of Dermatology, Venereology, Allergology and Immunology, Dessau Medical Center, Auenweg 38, 06847 Dessau, Germany.
| | | | - Franca Fruzzetti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Walter Futterweit
- Department of Endocrinology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY.
| | - Robert J Norman
- The Robinson Institute, Norwich Centre, Ground Flr., 55 King William Rd, North Adelaide, SA 5006, Australia.
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, 1223 Capitol Court, Madison, WI 53715, USA.
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Nugent BM, Tobet SA, Lara HE, Lucion AB, Wilson ME, Recabarren SE, Paredes AH. Hormonal programming across the lifespan. Horm Metab Res 2012; 44:577-86. [PMID: 22700441 PMCID: PMC3756611 DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1312593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Hormones influence countless biological processes across an animal's lifespan. Many hormone-mediated events occur within developmental sensitive periods, during which hormones have the potential to cause permanent tissue-specific alterations in anatomy and physiology. There are numerous selective critical periods in development with different targets being affected during different periods. This review outlines the proceedings of the Hormonal Programming in Development session at the US-South American Workshop in Neuroendocrinology in August 2011. Here we discuss how gonadal steroid hormones impact various biological processes within the brain and gonads during early development and describe the changes that take place in the aging female ovary. At the cellular level, hormonal targets in the brain include neurons, glia, or vasculature. On a genomic/epigenomic level, transcription factor signaling and epigenetic changes alter the expression of critical hormone receptor genes across development and following ischemic brain insult. In addition, organizational hormone exposure alters epigenetic processes in specific brain nuclei and may be an important mediator of sexual differentiation of the neonatal brain. Brain targets of hormonal programming, such as the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, may be critical in influencing the development of peripheral targets, such as the ovary. Exposure to excess hormones can cause abnormalities in the ovary during development leading to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Exposure to excess androgens during fetal development also has a profound effect on the development of the male reproductive system. In addition, increased activity of the sympathetic nerve and stress during early life have been linked to PCOS symptomology in adulthood. Finally, we describe how age-related decreases in fertility are linked to high levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), which enhances sympathetic nerve activity and alters ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Nugent
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Chinnathambi V, Balakrishnan M, Yallampalli C, Sathishkumar K. Prenatal testosterone exposure leads to hypertension that is gonadal hormone-dependent in adult rat male and female offspring. Biol Reprod 2012; 86:137, 1-7. [PMID: 22302690 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.097550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal testosterone exposure impacts postnatal reproductive and endocrine function, leading to alterations in sex steroid levels. Because gonadal steroids are key regulators of cardiovascular function, it is possible that alteration in sex steroid hormones may contribute to development of hypertension in prenatally testosterone-exposed adults. The objectives of this study were to evaluate whether prenatal testosterone exposure leads to development of hypertension in adult males and females and to assess the influence of gonadal hormones on arterial pressure in these animals. Offspring of pregnant rats treated with testosterone propionate or its vehicle (controls) were examined. Subsets of male and female offspring were gonadectomized at 7 wk of age, and some offspring from age 7 to 24 wk received hormone replacement, while others did not. Testosterone exposure during prenatal life significantly increased arterial pressure in both male and female adult offspring; however, the effect was greater in males. Prenatal androgen-exposed males and females had more circulating testosterone during adult life, with no change in estradiol levels. Gonadectomy prevented hyperandrogenism and also reversed hypertension in these rats. Testosterone replacement in orchiectomized males restored hypertension, while estradiol replacement in ovariectomized females was without effect. Steroidal changes were associated with defective expression of gonadal steroidogenic genes, with Star, Sf1, and Hsd17b1 upregulation in testes. In ovaries, Star and Cyp11a1 genes were upregulated, while Cyp19 was downregulated. This study showed that prenatal testosterone exposure led to development of gonad-dependent hypertension during adult life. Defective steroidogenesis may contribute in part to the observed steroidal changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayakumar Chinnathambi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555-1062, USA
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Lasala C, Schteingart HF, Arouche N, Bedecarrás P, Grinspon RP, Picard JY, Josso N, di Clemente N, Rey RA. SOX9 and SF1 are involved in cyclic AMP-mediated upregulation of anti-Mullerian gene expression in the testicular prepubertal Sertoli cell line SMAT1. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2011; 301:E539-47. [PMID: 21693691 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00187.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In Sertoli cells, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) expression is upregulated by FSH via cyclic AMP (cAMP), although no classical cAMP response elements exist in the AMH promoter. The response to cAMP involves NF-κB and AP2; however, targeted mutagenesis of their binding sites in the AMH promoter do not completely abolish the response. In this work we assessed whether SOX9, SF1, GATA4, and AP1 might represent alternative pathways involved in cAMP-mediated AMH upregulation, using real-time RT-PCR (qPCR), targeted mutagenesis, luciferase assays, and immunocytochemistry in the Sertoli cell line SMAT1. We also explored the signaling cascades potentially involved. In qPCR experiments, Amh, Sox9, Sf1, and Gata4 mRNA levels increased after SMAT1 cells were incubated with cAMP. Blocking PKA abolished the effect of cAMP on Sox9, Sf1, and Gata4 expression, inhibiting PI3K/PKB impaired the effect on Sf1 and Gata4, and reducing MEK1/2 and p38 MAPK activities curtailed Gata4 increase. SOX9 and SF1 translocated to the nucleus after incubation with cAMP. Mutations of the SOX9 or SF1 sites, but not of GAT4 or AP1 sites, precluded the response of a 3,063-bp AMH promoter to cAMP. In conclusion, in the Sertoli cell line SMAT1 cAMP upregulates SOX9, SF1, and GATA4 expression and induces SOX9 and SF1 nuclear translocation mainly through PKA, although other kinases may also participate. SOX9 and SF1 binding to the AMH promoter is essential to increase the activity of the AMH promoter in response to cAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celina Lasala
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas, Hospital de Niños R. Gutiérrez, Gallo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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39
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Roselli CE, Estill CT, Stadelman HL, Meaker M, Stormshak F. Separate critical periods exist for testosterone-induced differentiation of the brain and genitals in sheep. Endocrinology 2011; 152:2409-15. [PMID: 21447635 PMCID: PMC3206706 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Sheep exposed to testosterone during a critical period from gestational day (GD) 30 to GD 90 develop masculine genitals and an enlarged male-typical ovine sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (oSDN). The present study tested the hypothesis that separate critical periods exist for masculinization of these two anatomical end points. Pregnant ewes were treated with testosterone propionate (TP) either from GD 30 to GD 60 (early TP) or GD 60 to GD 90 (late TP). Control (C) pregnant ewes were treated with corn oil. Fetuses were delivered at GD 135 and the volume of the oSDN was measured. Early TP females possessed a penis and a scrotum devoid of testes, whereas late TP and C females had normal female genitals. Neither period of TP exposure grossly affected the genitals of male fetuses. Despite masculinized genitals, the mean volume of the oSDN in early TP females (0.32 ± 0.06 mm³) was not different from C females (0.24 ± 0.02 mm³) but was significantly enlarged in late TP females (0.49 ± 0.04 mm³; P < 0.05 vs. C) when the genitals appeared normal. In contrast, the volume of the oSDN in late TP males (0.51 ± 0.02 mm³) was not different from C males (0.51 ± 0.04 mm³) but was significantly smaller in the early TP males (0.35 ± 0.04 mm³; P < 0.05 vs. C). These results demonstrate that the prenatal critical period for androgen-dependent differentiation of the oSDN occurs later than, and can be separated temporally from, the period for development of masculine genitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology L334, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239-3098, USA.
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