1
|
McDonough AA, Harris AN, Xiong LI, Layton AT. Sex differences in renal transporters: assessment and functional consequences. Nat Rev Nephrol 2024; 20:21-36. [PMID: 37684523 PMCID: PMC11090267 DOI: 10.1038/s41581-023-00757-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian kidneys are specialized to maintain fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. The epithelial transport processes along the renal tubule that match output to input have long been the subject of experimental and theoretical study. However, emerging data have identified a new dimension of investigation: sex. Like most tissues, the structure and function of the kidney is regulated by sex hormones and chromosomes. Available data demonstrate sex differences in the abundance of kidney solute and electrolyte transporters, establishing that renal tubular organization and operation are distinctly different in females and males. Newer studies have provided insights into the physiological consequences of these sex differences. Computational simulations predict that sex differences in transporter abundance are likely driven to optimize reproduction, enabling adaptive responses to the nutritional requirements of serial pregnancies and lactation - normal life-cycle changes that challenge the ability of renal transporters to maintain fluid and electrolyte homeostasis. Later in life, females may also undergo menopause, which is associated with changes in disease risk. Although numerous knowledge gaps remain, ongoing studies will provide further insights into the sex-specific mechanisms of sodium, potassium, acid-base and volume physiology throughout the life cycle, which may lead to therapeutic opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia A McDonough
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Autumn N Harris
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Lingyun Ivy Xiong
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anita T Layton
- Departments of Applied Mathematics and Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Cheriton School of Computer Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rohl AH, Connor NP, Russell JA. Age-related sex differences in tongue strength and muscle morphometry in a rat model. Arch Oral Biol 2023; 155:105779. [PMID: 37556980 PMCID: PMC10592197 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2023.105779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate potential effects of sex on voluntary tongue strength, evoked twitch and tetanic tension, speed of contraction, and muscle fiber cross-sectional area in the muscles of the rat tongue. Additionally, we aimed to determine whether estrous cycle stage impacts any of the dependent variables as a pilot investigation into the use of female rats in a model of tongue exercise and aging. DESIGN Fischer 344-Brown Norway male and female rats in two age groups (16 middle-aged, 16 young-adult) were trained to use a tongue force operandum. Tongue muscle contraction, myosin heavy chain (MyHC) composition, and cross section area of the genioglossus and styloglossus muscles were examined. Vaginal lavage determined estrous cycle stage of the female rats daily. RESULTS The female group had significantly lower evoked twitch and tetanic tension, longer contraction times, and a smaller proportion of MyHC type IIa and MyHC type IIx in the styloglossus muscle. There was no significant sex effect in maximal voluntary tongue force (MVTF) despite a significant weight difference between the male and female groups. There were no significant age or sex effects in the genioglossus. Estrous cycle stage did not have a significant effect on any of the dependent variables. CONCLUSIONS Sex and age both have a significant effect on tongue muscle structure and physiology. While the female group showed reduced contraction speed and maximal twitch and tetanic tension relative to the male group, differences in muscle morphology appeared to vary by muscle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea H Rohl
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Iowa, USA.
| | - Nadine P Connor
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sadie-Van Gijsen H, Kotzé-Hörstmann L. Rat models of diet-induced obesity and metabolic dysregulation: Current trends, shortcomings and considerations for future research. Obes Res Clin Pract 2023; 17:449-457. [PMID: 37788944 DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2023.09.010] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Rat diet-induced obesity and metabolic dysregulation (DIO/DIMD) is widely used as a pre-clinical model for human obesity and for testing weight-loss interventions. The aim of this review was to utilise a systematic literature survey of rat DIO/DIMD studies as a tool to document trends around study design and metabolic outcomes of these studies, and to consider ways in which the design of these studies may be improved to enhance the relevance thereof for human obesity research. In total, 110 comparisons between control and obesogenic dietary groups were included in the survey. Young male rats were found to be the model of choice, but fewer than 50% of studies provided comprehensive information about diet composition and energy intake. In addition, it was found that the majority of expected DIO/DIMD responses (hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, dyslipidemia, hypoadiponectinemia) occurred at < 80% frequency, drawing into question the concept of a "typical" or "appropriate" response. We discuss the impact of differences in diet composition and energy intake on metabolic outcomes against the context of large heterogeneity of obesogenic diets employed in rat DIO/DIMD studies, and provide recommendations for the improvement of reporting standards around diet composition and dietary intake. In addition, we highlight the lack of data from female and older rats and describe considerations around the inclusion of sex and age as a variable in rat DIO/DIMD studies, aiming towards improving the applicability of these studies as a model of human obesity, which is most prevalent in women and older individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanél Sadie-Van Gijsen
- Centre for Cardio-metabolic Research in Africa (CARMA), Division of Medical Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa.
| | - Liske Kotzé-Hörstmann
- Centre for Cardio-metabolic Research in Africa (CARMA), Division of Medical Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa; Institute for Sport and Exercise Medicine (ISEM), Department of Sport Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, PO Box 241, Cape Town 8000, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Guerin SP, Melbourne JK, Dang HQ, Shaji CA, Nixon K. Astrocyte Reactivity and Neurodegeneration in the Female Rat Brain Following Alcohol Dependence. Neuroscience 2023; 529:183-199. [PMID: 37598836 PMCID: PMC10810177 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that alcohol use disorder (AUD) may manifest itself differently in women compared to men. Women experience AUDs on an accelerated timeline and may have certain regional vulnerabilities. In male rats, neuronal cell death and astrocyte reactivity are noted following induction of alcohol dependence in an animal model of an AUD. However, the regional and temporal patterns of neurodegeneration and astrocyte reactivity have yet to be fully examined in females using this model. Therefore, adult female rats were exposed to a 4-day binge model of alcohol dependence followed by different periods of abstinence. Histological markers for FluoroJade B, a label of degenerating neurons, and vimentin, a marker for reactive astrocytes, were utilized. The expression of these markers in cortical and limbic regions was quantified immediately after their last dose (e.g., T0), or 2, 7, and 14 days later. Significant neuronal cell death was noted in the entorhinal cortex and the hippocampus, similar to previous reports in males, but also in several cortical regions not previously observed. Vimentin immunoreactivity was noted in the same regions as previously reported, in addition to three novel regions. Vimentin immunoreactivity also occurred at earlier and later time points in some cortical and hippocampal regions. These data suggest that both neuronal cell death and astrocyte reactivity could be more widespread in females compared to males. Therefore, this study provides a framework for specific regions and time points which should be examined in future studies of alcohol-induced damage that include female rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven P Guerin
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Jennifer K Melbourne
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Huy Q Dang
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Chinchusha Anasooya Shaji
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States
| | - Kimberly Nixon
- The University of Texas at Austin, Division of Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX 78712, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Little KM, Kosten TA. Focus on fentanyl in females: Sex and gender differences in the physiological and behavioral effects of fentanyl. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 71:101096. [PMID: 37597668 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of opioid use disorder and overdose continues to harm the U.S. population and is further exacerbated by the use of the synthetic opioid, fentanyl, and its analogs. Gender differences in the effects of fentanyl are not well understood. The present article reviews evidence for gender and sex differences in the physiological and behavioral effects of fentanyl in humans and animals. Biological sex seems to be a foundational driver in addiction vulnerability and affects mechanisms related to opioid use including fentanyl. Fentanyl has distinct pharmacodynamics and enhanced efficacy relative to other opioids that highlights the need to investigate how females may be uniquely altered by its use. Behavioral and physiological responses to fentanyl are found to differ by sex and gender in many cases, including outputs like affective symptoms, analgesia, tolerance, and withdrawal emphasizing the need for further research about the role of biological sex on fentanyl use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn M Little
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Therese A Kosten
- Department of Psychology, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu M, Xu L, Jiang J, Dong H, Zhu P, Cao L, Chen J, Zhang X. Light controlled self-escape capability of non-cationic carbon nitride-based nanosheets in lysosomes for hepatocellular carcinoma targeting stimulus-responsive gene delivery. Bioeng Transl Med 2023; 8:e10558. [PMID: 37693059 PMCID: PMC10486340 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
High positive charge-induced toxicity, easy lysosomal degradation of nucleic acid drugs, and poor lesion sites targeting are major problems faced in the development of gene carriers. Herein, we proposed the concept of self-escape non-cationic gene carriers for targeted delivery and treatment of photocontrolled hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with sufficient lysosome escape and multiple response capacities. Functional DNA was bound to the surface of biotin-PEG2000-modified graphitic carbon nitride (Bio-PEG-CN) nanosheets to form non-cationic nanocomplexes Bio-PEG-CN/DNA. These nanocomposites could actively target HCC tissue. Once these nanocomplexes were taken up by tumor cells, the accumulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by Bio-PEG-CN under LED irradiation would disrupt the lysosome structure, thereby facilitating nanocomposites escape. Due to the acidic microenvironment and lipase in the HCC tissue, the reversible release of DNA could be promoted to complete the transfection process. Meanwhile, the fluorescence signal of Bio-PEG-CN could be monitored in real time by fluorescence imaging technology to investigate the transfection process and mechanism. In vitro and in vivo results further demonstrated that these nanocomplexes could remarkably upregulate the expression of tumor suppressor protein P53, increased tumor sensitivity to ROS generated by nanocarriers, and realized effective gene therapy for HCC via loading P53 gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Li Xu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical CollegeYangzhou UniversityYangzhouJiangsuP. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile DiseasesYangzhou UniversityYangzhouJiangsuP. R. China
| | - Jia‐Yi Jiang
- School of PharmacyNantong UniversityNantongChina
| | | | - Peng‐Fei Zhu
- School of PharmacyNantong UniversityNantongChina
| | - Lei Cao
- School of PharmacyNantong UniversityNantongChina
| | - Jing Chen
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical CollegeYangzhou UniversityYangzhouJiangsuP. R. China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of Senile DiseasesYangzhou UniversityYangzhouJiangsuP. R. China
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
McDonough AA, Layton AT. Sex differences in renal electrolyte transport. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2023; 32:467-475. [PMID: 37382185 PMCID: PMC10526720 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Women experience unique life events, for example, pregnancy and lactation, that challenge renal regulation of electrolyte homeostasis. Recent analyses of nephron organization in female vs. male rodent kidneys, revealed distinct sexual dimorphisms in electrolyte transporter expression, abundance, and activity. This review aims to provide an overview of electrolyte transporters' organization and operation in female compared with the commonly studied male kidney, and the (patho)physiologic consequences of the differences. RECENT FINDINGS When electrolyte transporters are assessed in kidney protein homogenates from both sexes, relative transporter abundance ratios in females/males are less than one along proximal tubule and greater than one post macula densa, which is indicative of a 'downstream shift' in fractional reabsorption of electrolytes in females. This arrangement improves the excretion of a sodium load, challenges potassium homeostasis, and is consistent with the lower blood pressure and greater pressure natriuresis observed in premenopausal women. SUMMARY We summarize recently reported new knowledge about sex differences in renal transporters: abundance and expression along nephron, implications for regulation by Na + , K + and angiotensin II, and mathematical models of female nephron function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia A. McDonough
- Department of Physiology and Neuroscience, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Anita T. Layton
- Departments of Applied Mathematics and Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Cheriton School of Computer Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Badran M, Joseph V. Sleep apnea and diet-induced obesity-the female advantage on the spotlight. Sleep 2023; 46:zsad174. [PMID: 37392414 PMCID: PMC10424158 DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsad174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Badran
- Department of Child Health and Child Health Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Vincent Joseph
- Department de Pédiatrie, Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Québec, Université Laval, Faculté de Médecine. Québec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Franke M, Mancino C, Taraballi F. Reasons for the Sex Bias in Osteoarthritis Research: A Review of Preclinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10386. [PMID: 37373536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210386] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative diseases of articular cartilage. During OA, all the elements that contribute to the joint undergo physiological and structural changes that impair the joint function and cause joint pain and stiffness. OA can arise naturally, with the aging population witnessing an increase in diagnoses of this pathology, but the root causes of OA have yet to be identified, and increasing interest is arising towards investigating biological sex as a risk factor. Clinical studies show increased prevalence and worse clinical outcomes for female patients, yet most clinical and preclinical studies have disproportionately focused on male subjects. This review provides a critical overview of preclinical practices in the context of OA, highlighting the underlying need for taking biological sex as both a risk factor and an important component affecting treatment outcome. A unique insight into the possible reasons for female underrepresentation in preclinical studies is offered, including factors such as lack of specific guidelines requiring the analysis of sex as a biological variable (SABV), research-associated costs and animal handling, and wrongful application of the reduction principle. Additionally, a thorough investigation of sex-related variables is provided, stressing how each of them could add valuable information for the understanding of OA pathophysiology, as well as sex-dependent treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Franke
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Chiara Mancino
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Francesca Taraballi
- Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wilson LAB, Zajitschek SRK, Lagisz M, Mason J, Haselimashhadi H, Nakagawa S. Sex differences in allometry for phenotypic traits in mice indicate that females are not scaled males. Nat Commun 2022; 13:7502. [PMID: 36509767 PMCID: PMC9744842 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-35266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in the lifetime risk and expression of disease are well-known. Preclinical research targeted at improving treatment, increasing health span, and reducing the financial burden of health care, has mostly been conducted on male animals and cells. The extent to which sex differences in phenotypic traits are explained by sex differences in body weight remains unclear. We quantify sex differences in the allometric relationship between trait value and body weight for 363 phenotypic traits in male and female mice, recorded in >2 million measurements from the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium. We find sex differences in allometric parameters (slope, intercept, residual SD) are common (73% traits). Body weight differences do not explain all sex differences in trait values but scaling by weight may be useful for some traits. Our results show sex differences in phenotypic traits are trait-specific, promoting case-specific approaches to drug dosage scaled by body weight in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. B. Wilson
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, UNSW Data Science Hub, and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.1001.00000 0001 2180 7477School of Archaeology and Anthropology, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600 Australia
| | - Susanne R. K. Zajitschek
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, UNSW Data Science Hub, and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.4425.70000 0004 0368 0654School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF UK
| | - Malgorzata Lagisz
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, UNSW Data Science Hub, and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Jeremy Mason
- Melio Healthcare Ltd., City Tower, 40 Basinghall Street, London, EC2V 5DE UK ,European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SD UK
| | - Hamed Haselimashhadi
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SD UK
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, UNSW Data Science Hub, and School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kaluve AM, Le JT, Graham BM. Female rodents are not more variable than male rodents: a meta-analysis of preclinical studies of fear and anxiety. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 143:104962. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
12
|
Luchman NA, Megat Abdul Wahab R, Zainal Ariffin SH, Nasruddin NS, Lau SF, Yazid F. Comparison between hydroxyapatite and polycaprolactone in inducing osteogenic differentiation and augmenting maxillary bone regeneration in rats. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13356. [PMID: 35529494 PMCID: PMC9070322 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The selection of appropriate scaffold plays an important role in ensuring the success of bone regeneration. The use of scaffolds with different materials and their effect on the osteogenic performance of cells is not well studied and this can affect the selection of suitable scaffolds for transplantation. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the comparative ability of two different synthetic scaffolds, mainly hydroxyapatite (HA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds in promoting in vitro and in vivo bone regeneration. Method In vitro cell viability, morphology, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of MC3T3-E1 cells on HA and PCL scaffolds were determined in comparison to the accepted model outlined for two-dimensional systems. An in vivo study involving the transplantation of MC3T3-E1 cells with scaffolds into an artificial bone defect of 4 mm length and 1.5 mm depth in the rat's left maxilla was conducted. Three-dimensional analysis using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and immunohistochemistry analyses evaluation were performed after six weeks of transplantation. Results MC3T3-E1 cells on the HA scaffold showed the highest cell viability. The cell viability on both scaffolds decreased after 14 days of culture, which reflects the dominant occurrence of osteoblast differentiation. An early sign of osteoblast differentiation can be detected on the PCL scaffold. However, cells on the HA scaffold showed more prominent results with intense mineralized nodules and significantly (p < 0.05) high levels of ALP activity with prolonged osteoblast induction. Micro-CT and H&E analyses confirmed the in vitro results with bone formation were significantly (p < 0.05) greater in HA scaffold and was supported by IHC analysis which confirmed stronger expression of osteogenic markers ALP and osteocalcin. Conclusion Different scaffold materials of HA and PCL might have influenced the bone regeneration ability of MC3T3-E1. Regardless, in vitro and in vivo bone regeneration was better in the HA scaffold which indicates its great potential for application in bone regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nur Atmaliya Luchman
- Department of Family Oral Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rohaya Megat Abdul Wahab
- Department of Family Oral Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shahrul Hisham Zainal Ariffin
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nurrul Shaqinah Nasruddin
- Department of Craniofacial Diagnostic and Bioscience, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Seng Fong Lau
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Farinawati Yazid
- Department of Family Oral Health, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang X, Zhang R, Wu J. Inhibition of the NR2B-PSD95 interaction exerts neuroprotective effects on retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Neuroscience 2022; 490:89-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2022.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
14
|
Ríos-Sánchez E, González-Zamora A, Gonsebatt Bonaparte ME, Meza Mata E, González-Delgado MF, Zámago Amaro A, Pérez-Morales R. Regulation of the Tpo, Tg, Duox2, Pds, and Mct8 genes involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones after subchronic exposure to sodium nitrate in female Wistar rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:2380-2391. [PMID: 34409734 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nitrates are natural compounds present in soil and water; however, the intense use of fertilizers has increased their presence in groundwater with deleterious effects on human health. There is evidence of nitrates acting as endocrine disruptors; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms have not been fully described. Here, we investigated the effect of subchronic exposure to different concentrations of sodium nitrate in female Wistar rats, evaluating thyroid hormonal parameters, such as Nis transporter (Na+ /I- symporter, Slc5a5) and Tsh-R receptor protein expression, as well as transcription of the Tpo (thyroperoxidase), Tg (tiroglobulin), Duox2 (dual oxidase 2), Pds (pendrin), and Mct8 (Mct8 transporter, Slc16a2) genes. Hematological and histochemical changes in the liver and thyroid were also explored. Significant differences were found in platelet and leukocyte counts; although a significant increase in the weight of the thyroid gland was observed, no differences were found in the levels of the hormones Tsh, T3, and T4, but a modulation of the mRNA expression of the Tg, Tpo, Duox2, Mct8, and Pds genes was observed. Morphological changes were also found in liver and thyroid tissue according to the exposure doses. In conclusion, subchronic exposure to sodium nitrate induces leukocytosis consistent with an inflammatory response and upregulation of Sod2 in the liver and increases the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones, keeping thyroid hormone levels stable. Histological changes in the thyroid gland suggest a goitrogenic effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Efraín Ríos-Sánchez
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
| | - Alberto González-Zamora
- Laboratorio de Biología Evolutiva. Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
| | - María Eugenia Gonsebatt Bonaparte
- Departamento de Medicina Genómica y Toxicología Ambiental, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Meza Mata
- Departamento de Patología, Unidad Médica de Alta Especialidad #71. Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Torreón, Mexico
| | - María Fernanda González-Delgado
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Zámago Amaro
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
| | - Rebeca Pérez-Morales
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Durango, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Saha PS, Kim Sawtelle KR, Bamberg BN, Arrick DM, Watt MJ, Scholl JL, Zheng H, Mayhan WG. Rosiglitazone restores nitric oxide synthase-dependent reactivity of cerebral arterioles in rats exposed to prenatal alcohol. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 45:1359-1369. [PMID: 34120346 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal exposure to alcohol leads to a greater incidence of many cardiovascular-related diseases, presumably via a mechanism that may involve increased oxidative stress. An agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ; rosiglitazone) has been shown to suppress alcohol-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. The goal of this study was to determine whether acute and chronic treatment with rosiglitazone could restore or prevent impaired nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-dependent responses of cerebral arterioles in male and female adult (14-16 weeks old) rats exposed to alcohol in utero. METHODS We fed Sprague-Dawley dams a liquid diet with or without 3% ethanol for the duration of their pregnancy (21-23 days). In the first series of studies, we examined the reactivity of cerebral arterioles to eNOS- (ADP), nNOS-dependent (NMDA), and NOS-independent agonists in male and female adult rats before and during acute (1 hour) topical application of rosiglitazone (1 µM). In a second series of studies, we examined the influence of chronic treatment with rosiglitazone (3 mg/kg/day in drinking water for 2-3 weeks) on the responses of cerebral arterioles in male and female adult rats exposed to alcohol in utero. RESULTS We found that in utero exposure to alcohol similarly reduced responses of cerebral arterioles to ADP and NMDA, but not to nitroglycerin in male and female adult rats. In addition, acute treatment of the male and female adult rats with rosiglitazone similarly restored this impairment in cerebral vascular function to that observed in controls. We also found that chronic treatment with rosiglitazone prevented impaired vascular function in male and female adult rats that were exposed to alcohol in utero. CONCLUSIONS PPARγ activation may be an effective and relevant treatment to reverse or prevent cerebral vascular abnormalities associated with prenatal exposure to alcohol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Partha S Saha
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - Kirsten R Kim Sawtelle
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - Brittany N Bamberg
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - Denise M Arrick
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - Michael J Watt
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jamie L Scholl
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - Hong Zheng
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| | - William G Mayhan
- Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Miličić Stanić B, Maddox S, de Souza AMA, Wu X, Mehranfard D, Ji H, Speth RC, Sandberg K. Male bias in ACE2 basic science research: missed opportunity for discovery in the time of COVID-19. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 320:R925-R937. [PMID: 33848207 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00356.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Throughout the world, including the United States, men have worse outcomes from COVID-19 than women. SARS-CoV-2, the causative virus of the COVID-19 pandemic, uses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to gain cellular entry. ACE2 is a member of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and plays an important role in counteracting the harmful effects mediated by the angiotensin type 1 receptor. Therefore, we conducted Ovid MEDLINE and Embase database searches of basic science studies investigating the impact of the biological variable of sex on ACE2 expression and regulation from 2000, the year ACE2 was discovered, through December 31, 2020. Out of 2,131 publications, we identified 853 original research articles on ACE2 conducted in primary cells, tissues, and/or whole mammals excluding humans. The majority (68.7%) of these studies that cited the sex of the animal were conducted in males, while 11.2% were conducted solely in females; 9.26% compared ACE2 between the sexes, while 10.8% did not report the sex of the animals used. General findings are that sex differences are tissue-specific and when present, are dependent upon gonadal state. Renal, cardiac, and adipose ACE2 is increased in both sexes under experimental conditions that model co-morbidities associated with worse COVID-19 outcomes including hypertension, obesity, and renal and cardiovascular diseases; however, ACE2 protein was generally higher in the males. Studies in Ace2 knockout mice indicate ACE2 plays a greater role in protecting the female from developing hypertension than the male. Studying the biological variable of sex in ACE2 research provides an opportunity for discovery in conditions involving RAS dysfunction and will shed light on sex differences in COVID-19 severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Branka Miličić Stanić
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Sydney Maddox
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Aline M A de Souza
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Xie Wu
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Danial Mehranfard
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
| | - Hong Ji
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Robert C Speth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kathryn Sandberg
- Center for the Study of Sex Differences in Health, Aging and Disease, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Impaired discriminative avoidance and increased plasma corticosterone levels induced by vaginal lavage procedure in rats. Physiol Behav 2021; 232:113343. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2021.113343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
18
|
Lee J. Oestrous cycle in female mice is 'immune' to variability. J Physiol 2021; 599:2133-2134. [PMID: 33651386 DOI: 10.1113/jp281198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joohyung Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Breznik JA, Schulz C, Ma J, Sloboda DM, Bowdish DME. Biological sex, not reproductive cycle, influences peripheral blood immune cell prevalence in mice. J Physiol 2021; 599:2169-2195. [PMID: 33458827 DOI: 10.1113/jp280637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Traditionally the female sex, compared with the male sex, has been perceived as having greater variability in many physiological traits, including within the immune system. We investigated effects of biological sex and the female reproductive cycle on numbers of circulating leukocytes in C57BL/6J mice. We show that biological sex, but not female reproductive cyclicity, has a significant effect on peripheral blood immune cell prevalence and variability, and that sex differences were not consistent amongst common inbred laboratory mouse strains. We found that male C57BL/6J mice, compared with female mice, have greater variability in peripheral blood immunophenotype, and that this was influenced by body weight. We created summary tables for researchers to facilitate experiment planning and sample size calculations for peripheral immune cells that consider the effects of biological sex. ABSTRACT Immunophenotyping (i.e. quantifying the number and types of circulating leukocytes) is used to characterize immune changes during health and disease, and in response to pharmacological and other interventions. Despite the importance of biological sex in immune function, there is considerable uncertainty amongst researchers as to the extent to which biological sex or the female reproductive cycle influence blood immunophenotype. We quantified circulating leukocytes by multicolour flow cytometry in young C57BL/6J mice and assessed the effects of the reproductive cycle, biological sex, and other experimental and biological factors on data variability. We found that there are no significant effects of the female reproductive cycle on the prevalence of peripheral blood B cells, NK cells, CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, monocytes, or neutrophils. Immunophenotype composition and variability do not significantly change between stages of the female reproductive cycle. There are, however, sex-specific differences in immune cell prevalence, with fewer monocytes, neutrophils, and NK cells in female mice. Surprisingly, immunophenotype is more variable in male mice, and weight is a significant contributing factor. We provide tools for researchers to perform a priori sample size calculations for two-group and factorial analyses. We show that immunophenotype varies between inbred mouse strains, and that using equal sample sizes of male and female mice is not always appropriate for within-sex evaluations of immune cell populations in peripheral blood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Breznik
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christian Schulz
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jinhui Ma
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah M Sloboda
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dawn M E Bowdish
- McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nikolaienko O, Isaeva E, Levchenko V, Palygin O, Staruschenko A. Behavioral, metabolic, and renal outcomes of 1-month isolation in adolescent male Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 319:R684-R689. [PMID: 33052061 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00236.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Social contact deficit is considered a stressful circumstance associated with various neural, hormonal, genetic, immune, and behavioral effects. A growing body of clinical and basic science evidence suggests that social isolation is linked to a higher risk of various neurological, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. However, the impact of the deficit of social interaction on kidney function is not well established. The Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat is a classical model of salt-induced hypertension and associated kidney injury. In this study, we investigated the effect of 30 days of social isolation (SI) on blood and urine electrolytes and metabolic, physiological, and behavioral parameters in adolescent male Dahl SS rats fed a normal 0.4% NaCl diet. SI rats demonstrated increased behavioral excitability compared with rats kept in groups. We also observed increased food consumption and a decrease in plasma leptin levels in the SI group without differences in water intake and weight gain compared with grouped animals. No changes in the level of blood and urine electrolytes, 24-h urine output, creatinine clearance, and albumin/creatinine ratio were identified between the SI and grouped rats. These findings indicate that 30 days of social isolation of adolescent Dahl SS rats affects metabolic parameters but has no apparent influence on kidney function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Nikolaienko
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Cellular Membranology, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Elena Isaeva
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Vladislav Levchenko
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Oleg Palygin
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Alexander Staruschenko
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Clement J. Zablocki Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Glaeser SS, Edwards KL, Wielebnowski N, Brown JL. Effects of physiological changes and social life events on adrenal glucocorticoid activity in female zoo-housed Asian elephants (Elephas maximus). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241910. [PMID: 33156856 PMCID: PMC7647113 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ensuring good health and welfare is an increasingly important consideration for conservation of endangered species and includes breeding of individuals managed under human care. Understanding how factors in the captive environment affect individual animal wellbeing can be aided by long-term monitoring of biological functioning. This study involved longitudinal assessments (4 to 28 years) of reproductive and adrenal hormones in zoo-housed female Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) (age range 4 to ~71 years) to elucidate patterns in adrenal glucocorticoid (GC) activity in association with reproductive and demographic factors, and examine individual response to major social changes. Concentrations of serum and urinary cortisol covaried more consistently with physiological changes (ovarian cycle phase, puberty, pregnancy, lactational anestrus, and age) than with social life events (births, deaths, and facility transfers). Cortisol fluctuated across the ovarian cycle with mean concentrations being higher in the follicular than in the luteal phase, and concentrations were highest in lactational anestrous compared to all other reproductive states. The elephants in this study exhibited substantial individuality in adrenal GC response to major social change, reinforcing the need to assess welfare on an individual basis and to consider factors influencing the impact of perceived stressors, such as social relationships, social support, temperament, and life history. Outcomes from this study deepen our understanding of Asian elephant physiology and highlight the importance of taking intrinsic patterns of hormone secretion into account when evaluating the impact of external factors. Finally, a better understanding of the impact of social change and resiliency in response to real and perceived stressors allows us to improve social management to enhance welfare in both captive settings and free-ranging environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katie L. Edwards
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
- North of England Zoological Society, Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wang S, Zhang H, Liu Y, Li L, Guo Y, Jiao F, Fang X, Jefferson JR, Li M, Gao W, Gonzalez-Fernandez E, Maranon RO, Pabbidi MR, Liu R, Alexander BT, Roman RJ, Fan F. Sex differences in the structure and function of rat middle cerebral arteries. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 318:H1219-H1232. [PMID: 32216612 PMCID: PMC7346534 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00722.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies demonstrate that there are sex differences in the incidence, prevalence, and outcomes of cerebrovascular disease (CVD). The present study compared the structure and composition of the middle cerebral artery (MCA), neurovascular coupling, and cerebrovascular function and cognition in young Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Wall thickness and the inner diameter of the MCA were smaller in females than males. Female MCA exhibited less vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), diminished contractile capability, and more collagen in the media, and a thicker internal elastic lamina with fewer fenestrae compared with males. Female MCA had elevated myogenic tone, lower distensibility, and higher wall stress. The stress/strain curves shifted to the left in female vessels compared with males. The MCA of females failed to constrict compared with a decrease of 15.5 ± 1.9% in males when perfusion pressure was increased from 40 to 180 mmHg. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) rose by 57.4 ± 4.4 and 30.1 ± 3.1% in females and males, respectively, when perfusion pressure increased from 100 to 180 mmHg. The removal of endothelia did not alter the myogenic response in both sexes. Functional hyperemia responses to whisker-barrel stimulation and cognition examined with an eight-arm water maze were similar in both sexes. These results demonstrate that there are intrinsic structural differences in the MCA between sexes, which are associated with diminished myogenic response and CBF autoregulation in females. The structural differences do not alter neurovascular coupling and cognition at a young age; however, they might play a role in the development of CVD after menopause. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using perfusion fixation of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in calcium-free solution at physiological pressure and systematically randomly sampling the sections prepared from the same M2 segments of MCA, we found that there are structural differences that are associated with altered cerebral blood flow (CBF) autoregulation but not neurovascular coupling and cognition in young, healthy Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Understanding the intrinsic differences in cerebrovascular structure and function in males and females is essential to develop new pharmaceutical treatments for cerebrovascular disease (CVD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaoxun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Huawei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Yedan Liu
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Longyang Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Ya Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Feng Jiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.,Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Fang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Joshua R Jefferson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Man Li
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Wenjun Gao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Ezekiel Gonzalez-Fernandez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Rodrigo O Maranon
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Mallikarjuna R Pabbidi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Ruen Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Richard J Roman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Fan Fan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Metabolomics reveals highly regional specificity of cerebral sexual dimorphism in mice. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 184:101698. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2019.101698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
24
|
Mossa A, Manzini MC. Molecular causes of sex-specific deficits in rodent models of neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neurosci Res 2019; 99:37-56. [PMID: 31872500 PMCID: PMC7754327 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder consistently show a male bias in prevalence, but it remains unclear why males and females are affected with different frequency. While many behavioral studies of transgenic NDD models have focused only on males, the requirement by the National Institutes of Health to consider sex as a biological variable has promoted the comparison of male and female performance in wild-type and mutant animals. Here, we review examples of rodent models of NDDs in which sex-specific deficits were identified in molecular, physiological, and/or behavioral responses, showing sex differences in susceptibility to disruption of genes mutated in NDDs. Haploinsufficiency in genes involved in mechanisms such as synaptic function (GABRB3 and NRXN1), chromatin remodeling (CHD8, EMHT1, and ADNP), and intracellular signaling (CC2D1A and ERK1) lead to more severe behavioral outcomes in males. However, in the absence of behavioral deficits, females can still present with cellular and electrophysiological changes that could be due to compensatory mechanisms or differential allocation of molecular and cellular functions in the two sexes. By contrasting these findings with mouse models where females are more severely affected (MTHFR and AMBRA1), we propose a framework to approach the study of sex-specific deficits possibly leading to sex bias in NDDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adele Mossa
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Chiara Manzini
- Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.,Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
M Santos B, Nascimento GC, Capel CP, Borges GS, Rosolen T, Sabino JPJ, Leite-Panissi CRA, Branco LGS. Sex differences and the role of ovarian hormones in site-specific nociception of SHR. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2019; 317:R223-R231. [PMID: 31091153 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00390.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Accurate diagnosis and treatment of pain is dependent on knowledge of the variables that might alter this response. Some of these variables are the locality of the noxious stimulus, the sex of the individual, and the presence of chronic diseases. Among these chronic diseases, hypertension is considered a serious and silent disease that has been associated with hypoalgesia. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the potential nociceptive differences in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) regarding the locality of the stimulus, i.e., the temporomandibular joint or paw, the sex, and the role of ovarian hormones in a model of mechanical nociception (Von Frey test) or formalin-induced inflammatory nociception. Our results indicate that SHR had lower orofacial mechanical nociception beyond the lower mechanical nociception in the paw compared with WKY rats. In a model of formalin-induced inflammatory nociception, SHR also had decreased nociception compared with normotensive rats. We also sought to evaluate the influence of sex and ovarian hormones on orofacial mechanical nociception in SHR. We observed that female SHR had higher mechanical nociception than male SHR only in the paw, but it had higher formalin-induced orofacial nociception than male SHR. Moreover, the absence of ovarian hormones caused an increase in mean arterial pressure and a decrease in paw nociception in female SHR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna M Santos
- Department of Physiology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Glauce C Nascimento
- Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, Ribeirão Preto Dentistry Faculty, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Camila P Capel
- Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, Ribeirão Preto Dentistry Faculty, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Gabriela S Borges
- Department of Physiology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Thales Rosolen
- Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, Ribeirão Preto Dentistry Faculty, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - João P J Sabino
- Department of Biophysics and Physiology, Federal University of Piauí , Teresina, Piauí , Brazil
| | - Christie R A Leite-Panissi
- Psychobiology Graduate Program, School of Philosophy, Science and Literature of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| | - Luiz G S Branco
- Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, Ribeirão Preto Dentistry Faculty, University of São Paulo , Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo , Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bölter C, Gabriel P, Appelt P, Salameh A, Schierle K, Rassler B. Effects of Adrenergic Agonists and Antagonists on Cardiopulmonary Function During Normobaric Hypoxia in Rat. Front Physiol 2019; 10:860. [PMID: 31333500 PMCID: PMC6624647 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary edema (PE) is an issue widely noted in acute exposure to hypoxia as seen in high altitude climbers, yet the etiology of this is not defined. Previous studies in rats showed that both hypoxia and strong sympathetic activation may induce PE. As acute exposure to hypoxia is accompanied by sympathetic activation, we assume that this may impair pulmonary circulation and contribute to the development of hypoxic PE. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of adrenergic agonists and antagonists as models for overstimulation and suppression, respectively, of sympathetic activity on cardiovascular function and formation of PE in hypoxic rats. Norepinephrine or adrenergic blockers were infused to rats exposed to normobaric hypoxia with 10% O2 over time intervals up to 24 h. Normoxic and hypoxic controls received 0.9% NaCl infusion. We evaluated hemodynamic function and lung histology. A significant decrease of left ventricular systolic function was observed after 6 h of hypoxia. This effect was less pronounced with α-adrenergic blockade but was more severe with combined α-plus β-adrenergic blockade. Norepinephrine delayed the onset of hypoxic left ventricular depression but did not reduce its degree. Significant PE developed after 16 h of hypoxia. It regressed under α- but not with β-adrenergic blockade, and was aggravated by combining hypoxia with norepinephrine. Almost half of the animals exposed to hypoxia over 16–24 h suffered cardiorespiratory arrest during the experiment and presented with signs of acute right ventricular failure. They had significantly elevated serum catecholamine concentrations and significantly stronger PE than the others. Notably, most of them had received norepinephrine or combined adrenergic blockade. Mild changes in serum catecholamine concentrations indicated that hypoxic sympathoadrenergic activation was only weak. Hence, it was not sufficient to prevent left ventricular depression. However, the results show that α-adrenergic mechanisms contribute to the formation of hypoxic PE. Adrenergic blockade but also sympathetic overactivity may induce pulmonary congestion, PE and acute right ventricular failure indicating that a fine balance of sympathetic activation under hypoxic conditions is crucial. This has important implications for climbers to high altitude as well as for patients suffering from hypoxia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Bölter
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Philipp Gabriel
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Appelt
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Aida Salameh
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Heart Centre, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katrin Schierle
- Institute of Pathology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Beate Rassler
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Buch T, Moos K, Ferreira FM, Fröhlich H, Gebhard C, Tresch A. Benefits of a factorial design focusing on inclusion of female and male animals in one experiment. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 97:871-877. [PMID: 30980104 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01774-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Disease occurrence, clinical manifestations, and outcomes differ between men and women. Yet, women and men are most of the time treated similarly, which is often based on experimental data over-representing one sex. Accounting for persisting sex bias in biomedical research is the misconception that the analysis of sex-specific effects would double sample size and costs. We designed an analysis to test the potential benefits of a factorial study design in the context of a study including male and female animals. We chose a 2 × 2 factorial design approach to study the effect of treatment, sex, and an interaction term of treatment and sex in a hypothetical situation. We calculated the sample sizes required to detect an effect of a given magnitude with sufficient power and under different experimental setups. We demonstrated that the inclusion of both sexes in experimental setups, without testing for sex effects, requires no or few additional animals in our scenarios. These experimental designs still allow for the exploration of sex effects at low cost. In a confirmatory instead of an exploratory design, we observed an increase in total sample sizes by 33%, at most. Since the complexities associated with this mathematical model require statistical expertise, we generated and provide a sample size calculator for planning factorial design experiments. For the inclusion of sex, a factorial design is advisable, and a sex-specific analysis can be performed without excessive additional effort. Our easy-to-use calculation tool provides help in designing studies with both sexes and addresses the current sex bias in preclinical studies. KEY MESSAGES: • Both sexes should be included into animal studies. • Exploratory study of sex effects can be conducted with no or small increase in animal number. • Confirmatory analysis of sex effects requires maximum 33% more animals per study. • Our calculation tool supports the design of studies with both sexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thorsten Buch
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, 8952 Schlieren, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Katharina Moos
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Bachemer Str. 86, 50931, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Data and Simulation Science (CDS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Filipa M Ferreira
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 12, 8952 Schlieren, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Holger Fröhlich
- Bonn-Aachen International Center for IT (b-it), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Catherine Gebhard
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Achim Tresch
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, Bachemer Str. 86, 50931, Cologne, Germany. .,Center for Data and Simulation Science (CDS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Thompson SL, Dulawa SC. Dissecting the roles of β-arrestin2 and GSK-3 signaling in 5-HT1BR-mediated perseverative behavior and prepulse inhibition deficits in mice. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0211239. [PMID: 30721232 PMCID: PMC6363181 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0211239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin-1B receptors (5-HT1BRs) modulate perseverative behaviors and prepulse inhibition (PPI) in humans and mice. These inhibitory G-protein-coupled receptors signal through a canonical G-protein-coupled pathway that is modulated by GSK-3β, and a noncanonical pathway mediated by the adaptor protein β-arrestin2 (Arrb2). Given the development of biased ligands that differentially affect canonical versus noncanonical signaling, we examined which signaling pathway mediates 5-HT1BR agonist-induced locomotor perseveration and PPI deficits, behavioral phenotypes observed in both obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To assess the role of canonical 5-HT1BR signaling, mice received acute pretreatment with a GSK-3 inhibitor (SB216763 or AR-A014418) and acute treatment with the 5-HT1A/1B receptor agonist RU24969 prior to assessing perseverative locomotor behavior in the open field, and PPI. To determine the role of noncanonical 5-HT1BR signaling, Arrb2 wild-type (WT), heterozygous (HT), and knockout (KO) mice received acute RU24969 treatment prior to behavioral testing. GSK-3 inhibition increased locomotor perseveration overall, and also failed to influence the RU24969-induced perseverative locomotor pattern in the open field. Yet, GSK-3 inhibition modestly reduced RU24969-induced PPI deficits. On the other hand, Arrb2 HT and KO mice showed reduced locomotion and no changes in perseveration overall, in addition to modest reductions in RU24969-induced locomotion and PPI deficits. In conclusion, our data do not support use of either GSK-3 inhibitors or β-arrestin2 inhibition in treatment of perseverative behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Summer L. Thompson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Committee on Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Stephanie C. Dulawa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zucker I, Beery AK. Studying Sex as a Biological Variable: Is a New Day Dawning? J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2019; 28:1-2. [DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2018.7598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Irving Zucker
- Departments of Psychology and Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
| | - Annaliese K. Beery
- Departments of Psychology, Biology and Neuroscience Program, Smith College, Northhampton, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Farzal Z, Stephenson ED, Kilpatrick LA, Senior BA, Zanation AM. Sex bias: Is it pervasive in otolaryngology clinical research? Laryngoscope 2018; 129:858-864. [PMID: 30443906 DOI: 10.1002/lary.27497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Recent initiatives highlight substantial sex bias in biomedical research. The objective was to determine whether sex bias is present in otolaryngology and whether sex is appropriately analyzed as an independent variable in otolaryngology clinical research. STUDY DESIGN Literature review. METHODS We systematically reviewed all 2016 articles in three major otolaryngology journals: The Laryngoscope, JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Extracted data included study origin, location, subspecialty, number/sex of subjects, ≥50% sex matching (SM≥50 ), and sex-based statistical analysis. RESULTS Six hundred of 1,209 articles comprising original clinical research were reviewed including 8,997,345,495 subjects (males: 3,898,559,264 [43.3%]; females: 5,095,592,583 [56.6%]; and unknown: 3,193,648 [0.04%]). There were 533/600 (88.8%) studies that included both sexes, eight (1.3%) included females only, five (0.8%) included males only, and 56 (9.3%) did not document participant sex. Only 280 studies (46.7%) analyzed data by sex, and 330 studies (60.7%) had SM≥ 50 . Sex-based statistical analysis and SM≥ 50 were similar in domestic and international studies (48.7% vs. 42.8% and 60.9% vs. 62%, respectively). Database studies performed sex-based statistical analysis more frequently than single and multi-institutional studies (79.1% vs. 40.4% and 43.4%, P < .00001). Analysis by sex was more frequently performed in head and neck surgery (53.6%) and pediatric otolaryngology (51.3%), whereas SM≥50 was highest in pediatric otolaryngology (86.8%) and otology (82.4%). CONCLUSIONS Sex bias exists in the clinical otolaryngology literature, with less than half the studies analyzing sex. Acknowledging the intertwinement of sex with disease pathophysiology and outcomes is important. Eliminating sex bias in research and clinical care should become a major focus for otolaryngologists. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 129:858-864, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Farzal
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Elizabeth D Stephenson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Lauren A Kilpatrick
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Brent A Senior
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Adam M Zanation
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Stephenson ED, Farzal Z, Kilpatrick LA, Senior BA, Zanation AM. Sex bias in basic science and translational otolaryngology research. Laryngoscope 2018; 129:613-618. [PMID: 30408174 DOI: 10.1002/lary.27498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS Recent studies revealed sex bias in surgical research. Although many diseases exhibit sex-based clinically relevant differences, otolaryngology research has not been evaluated for sex reporting and sex-based analysis. We postulate that a similar bias is prevalent in otolaryngology literature. STUDY DESIGN Literature review. METHODS Articles published from 2016 to 2017 in The Laryngoscope, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, and JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery were reviewed. Articles with animal subjects, human subject cells, or commercial cell lines were included. Data collected included study type, cell/animal sex, and sex-based data analysis. RESULTS One hundred forty-four basic/translational research articles were identified. Sixty-nine (47.9%) of those lacked sex reporting. Of 75 studies that reported sex, 22 (29.3%) included both sexes, and 11 (14.7%) analyzed data by sex. One hundred five (72.9%) used animal subjects, of which 54 (51.9%) lacked sex breakdown. Among animal studies, 48/105 included only one sex, and three articles analyzed data by sex. Fifty-four studies used commercial cell lines (N = 23) or human/animal subject cells (N = 31). Among cell groups, 28/54 (51.9%) were of unknown sex, and seven were single sex. Eight (14.8%) studies included data analysis by sex. Domestic studies exhibited a lower rate of sex reporting in both animal and cell studies, and a lower rate of sex-based analysis in cell studies. CONCLUSIONS Sex may influence outcomes significantly but is underreported and underanalyzed in basic/translational otolaryngology research. Because this research frequently lays the groundwork for clinical trials and standards of care, future research must address these sex-based discrepancies. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE NA Laryngoscope, 129:613-618, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Stephenson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Zainab Farzal
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Lauren A Kilpatrick
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Brent A Senior
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| | - Adam M Zanation
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.A
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
The underrepresentation of female subjects in animal research has gained attention in recent years, and new NIH guidelines aim to address this problem early, at the grant proposal stage. Many researchers believe that use of females will hamper research because of the need for increased sample sizes, and increased costs. Here I review empirical research across multiple rodent species and traits that demonstrates that females are not more variable than males, and that for most traits, female estrous cyclicity need not be considered. I present statistical simulations illustrating how factorial designs can reduce the need for additional research subjects, and discuss cultural issues around the inclusion of male and female subjects in research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annaliese K. Beery
- Department of Psychology, Department of Biology, Neuroscience Program, Smith College, Northampton, MA, USA
- Neuroscience and Behavior Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Stephenson ED, Farzal Z, Zanation AM, Senior BA. Sex bias in rhinology research. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2018; 8:1469-1475. [PMID: 30028087 DOI: 10.1002/alr.22179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analysis of general surgery literature has revealed noteworthy sex bias and underreporting. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of sex bias and underreporting in rhinology. METHODS All articles in 2016 issues of Rhinology, the American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy (AJRA), and the International Forum of Allergy and Rhinology (IFAR) were reviewed. Of 369 articles, 248 met inclusion criteria. Excluded studies were cadaveric, meta-analysis/review, and editorial. Data collected included study type, demographics, and sex-based statistical analysis. RESULTS There were 202 clinical and 46 basic science/translational studies. From 188 of 202 clinical studies with known sex, 1 included participants of a single sex. Sex matching >50% (SM50 ) was found in 81.9%, and 55.9% performed sex-based statistical analysis. Domestic clinical studies performed sex-based analysis more frequently than international (54.9% vs 44.4%) and exhibited a higher rate of SM50 (84.5% vs 80.3%), though these differences were not statistically significant. For basic/translational studies, 54.5% (24/44) provided sex breakdown. Among these, 29.2% included 1 sex, and 8.3% performed sex-based analysis. Of 10 using animals, 70.0% utilized 1 sex. The remaining 30.0% did not report sex. None of 4 cell line studies reported cell sex. Less than half (46.2%) of domestic and 56.3% of international studies reported sex breakdown; 7.7% of domestic and 3.0% of international studies performed sex-based analysis. CONCLUSION Although sex may impact outcomes, research without sex reporting and analysis is prevalent, particularly among basic science/translational studies. Future research must account for sex in demographics and analysis to best inform evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth D Stephenson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Zainab Farzal
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Adam M Zanation
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Brent A Senior
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wolf E, Diaz EJ, Hollis AN, Hoang TA, Azad HA, Bendt KM, Griffiths RC, Sparks MA. Vascular type 1 angiotensin receptors control blood pressure by augmenting peripheral vascular resistance in female mice. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2018; 315:F997-F1005. [PMID: 29897266 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00639.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiotensin II (ANG II) is a major mediator of hypertension pathogenesis. In addition, there are well-documented differences in expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components and ANG II responses between males and females, which may explain sex differences in blood pressure (BP) and hypertension epidemiology. We previously showed that type 1A angiotensin (AT1A) receptors in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a critical role in BP regulation and hypertension pathogenesis, but these studies were carried out in male mice. Therefore, the major goal of the current studies was to examine the impact of VSMC AT1A receptors on BP and hypertension pathogenesis in female mice. We found that elimination of VSMC AT1A receptors in female mice reduced (≈8 mmHg) baseline BP without altering sodium sensitivity. The severity of ANG II-induced hypertension was diminished (≈33% reduction in BP), particularly during the last 2 wk of chronic ANG II infusion, compared with controls, but natriuresis was not altered during the first 5 days of ANG II infusion. Urinary norepinephrine levels were enhanced in female SMKO compared with control mice. There was a virtually complete elimination of ANG II-induced kidney hemodynamic responses with attenuation of acute vasoconstrictor responses in the systemic vasculature. These findings demonstrate that direct vascular actions of AT1A receptors play a prominent role in BP control and hypertension pathogenesis in female mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Wolf
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Edward J Diaz
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Alison N Hollis
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Thien A Hoang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Hooman A Azad
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Katharine M Bendt
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Robert C Griffiths
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| | - Matthew A Sparks
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina.,Renal Section, Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Colafella KMM, Denton KM. Sex-specific differences in hypertension and associated cardiovascular disease. Nat Rev Nephrol 2018; 14:185-201. [PMID: 29380817 DOI: 10.1038/nrneph.2017.189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 240] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although intrinsic mechanisms that regulate arterial blood pressure (BP) are similar in men and women, marked variations exist at the molecular, cellular and tissue levels. These physiological disparities between the sexes likely contribute to differences in disease onset, susceptibility, prevalence and treatment responses. Key systems that are important in the development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD), including the sympathetic nervous system, the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the immune system, are differentially activated in males and females. Biological age also contributes to sexual dimorphism, as premenopausal women experience a higher degree of cardioprotection than men of similar age. Furthermore, sex hormones such as oestrogen and testosterone as well as sex chromosome complement likely contribute to sex differences in BP and CVD. At the cellular level, differences in cell senescence pathways may contribute to increased longevity in women and may also limit organ damage caused by hypertension. In addition, many lifestyle and environmental factors - such as smoking, alcohol consumption and diet - may influence BP and CVD in a sex-specific manner. Evidence suggests that cardioprotection in women is lost under conditions of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Treatment strategies for hypertension and CVD that are tailored according to sex could lead to improved outcomes for affected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrina M Mirabito Colafella
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, 26 Innovation Walk, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Division of Vascular Medicine and Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, Wytemaweg 80, 3015 CN Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kate M Denton
- Cardiovascular Disease Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University Wellington Road, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, 26 Innovation Walk, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| |
Collapse
|