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Aminuddin A, Brown MJ, Azizan EA. Evaluating the role of aldosterone synthesis on adrenal cell fate. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1423027. [PMID: 39170743 PMCID: PMC11335638 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1423027] [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: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertension affects one-third of the adult population worldwide, with primary aldosteronism (PA) accounting for at least 5-10% of these cases. The aldosterone synthase enzyme (CYP11B2) plays a pivotal role in PA manifestation, as increased expression of CYP11B2 leads to excess aldosterone synthesis. Physiological expression of CYP11B2 in humans is normally limited to cells of the adrenal zona glomerulosa under tight homeostatic regulation. In PA, however, there are CYP11B2-positive lesions in the adrenal cortex that autonomously secrete aldosterone, highlighting the dysregulation of adrenal cortex zonation and function as a key aspect of PA pathogenesis. Thus, this review aims to summarize the development of the adrenal glands, the key regulators of adrenal cortex homeostasis, and the dysregulation of this homeostasis. It also discusses the development of CYP11B2 inhibitors for therapeutic use in patients with hypertension, as well as the current knowledge of the effects of CYP11B2 inhibition on adrenal cortex homeostasis and cell fate. Understanding the control of adrenal cell fate may offer valuable insights into both the pathogenesis of PA and the development of alternative treatment approaches for PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amnani Aminuddin
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Morris J. Brown
- Endocrine Hypertension, Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Precision Medicine, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Barts Biomedical Research Centre, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Aisha Azizan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Endocrine Hypertension, Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Precision Medicine, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Research Center, Hospital Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Specialist Children’s Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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2
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Culver SA, Suleman N, Kavuru V, Siragy HM. Renal Hypokalemia: An Endocrine Perspective. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1694-1706. [PMID: 38546505 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
The majority of disorders that cause renal potassium wasting present with abnormalities in adrenal hormone secretion. While these findings frequently lead patients to seek endocrine evaluation, clinicians often struggle to accurately diagnose these conditions, delaying treatment and adversely impacting patient care. At the same time, growing insight into the genetic and molecular basis of these disorders continues to improve their diagnosis and management. In this review, we outline a practical integrated approach to the evaluation of renal hypokalemia syndromes that are seen in endocrine practice while highlighting recent advances in understanding of the genetics and pathophysiology behind them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silas A Culver
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Nawar Suleman
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Varun Kavuru
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Helmy M Siragy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
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3
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Nanba K, Blinder AR, Udager AM, Hirokawa Y, Miura T, Okuno H, Moriyoshi K, Yamazaki Y, Sasano H, Yasoda A, Satoh-Asahara N, Rainey WE, Tagami T. Double somatic mutations in CTNNB1 and GNA11 in an aldosterone-producing adenoma. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1286297. [PMID: 38505749 PMCID: PMC10948454 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1286297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Double somatic mutations in CTNNB1 and GNA11/Q have recently been identified in a small subset of aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs). As a possible pathogenesis of APA due to these mutations, an association with pregnancy, menopause, or puberty has been proposed. However, because of its rarity, characteristics of APA with these mutations have not been well characterized. A 46-year-old Japanese woman presented with hypertension and hypokalemia. She had two pregnancies in the past but had no history of pregnancy-induced hypertension. She had regular menstrual cycle at presentation and was diagnosed as having primary aldosteronism after endocrinologic examinations. Computed tomography revealed a 2 cm right adrenal mass. Adrenal venous sampling demonstrated excess aldosterone production from the right adrenal gland. She underwent right laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The resected right adrenal tumor was histologically diagnosed as adrenocortical adenoma and subsequent immunohistochemistry (IHC) revealed diffuse immunoreactivity of aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) and visinin like 1, a marker of the zona glomerulosa (ZG), whereas 11β-hydroxylase, a steroidogenic enzyme for cortisol biosynthesis, was mostly negative. CYP11B2 IHC-guided targeted next-generation sequencing identified somatic CTNNB1 (p.D32Y) and GNA11 (p.Q209H) mutations. Immunofluorescence staining of the tumor also revealed the presence of activated β-catenin, consistent with features of the normal ZG. The expression patterns of steroidogenic enzymes and related proteins indicated ZG features of the tumor cells. PA was clinically and biochemically cured after surgery. In conclusion, our study indicated that CTNNB1 and GNA11-mutated APA has characteristics of the ZG. The disease could occur in adults with no clear association with pregnancy or menopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutaka Nanba
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension Research, Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Amy R. Blinder
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Aaron M. Udager
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Yuusuke Hirokawa
- Department of Radiology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takayoshi Miura
- Department of Urology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okuno
- Department of Urology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koki Moriyoshi
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuto Yamazaki
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hironobu Sasano
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Akihiro Yasoda
- Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Noriko Satoh-Asahara
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension Research, Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - William E. Rainey
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Tetsuya Tagami
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Hypertension Research, Clinical Research Institute, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
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4
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Liu Y, Wang M, Qiu X, Ma G, Ji M, Yang Y, Sun M. A novel clinical-imaging nomogram for predicting primary aldosteronism in patients with hypertension. Hypertens Res 2023; 46:2603-2612. [PMID: 37488299 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-023-01374-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to develop and validate the accuracy of a clinical-imaging index nomogram in predicting primary aldosteronism (PA) in patients with hypertension. This case-control study enrolled 404 hypertension patients in the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, China, from April 2017 to September 2021. The patients were randomly divided into the training set (n = 283, 70%) and the validation set (n = 121, 30%). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of PA, which were then used construct a nomogram. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration plot were drawn to assess the predictive value. The accuracies of our nomogram and other known prediction models were compared using decision curve analyses (DCA). Four significant variables (history of hypokalemia [OR = 2.684, 95% CI: 1.281-5.623, P < 0.001], typical imaging feature [OR = 2.316, 95% CI: 1.166-4.601, P = 0.003], 24 h urine potassium [OR = 0.956, 95% CI: 0.932-0.980, P < 0.001], plasma renin activity [PRA] [OR = 1.423, 95% CI: 1.161-1.744, P < 0.001]) in the multivariate logistic regression analysis were sifted out, and used to build the nomogram. The predictive nomogram yielded an AUC of 0.890 (95% CI, 0.853-0.927) in the training set and 0.860 (95% CI, 0.793-0.927) in the validation set. Predicted and actual probability of PA matched well in the nomogram. Moreover, the DCA showed that the nomogram gained a net benefit in clinical practice in predicting PA when the threshold value was set between 0.1 and 1.0. Our four-variable nomogram was accurate in predicting PA patients and might be introduced into clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Liu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xueting Qiu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guodong Ma
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingyu Ji
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuhong Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.
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5
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Gong S, Sun N, Meyer LS, Tetti M, Koupourtidou C, Krebs S, Masserdotti G, Blum H, Rainey WE, Reincke M, Walch A, Williams TA. Primary Aldosteronism: Spatial Multiomics Mapping of Genotype-Dependent Heterogeneity and Tumor Expansion of Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas. Hypertension 2023; 80:1555-1567. [PMID: 37125608 PMCID: PMC10330203 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.20921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary aldosteronism is frequently caused by an adrenocortical aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) carrying a somatic mutation that drives aldosterone overproduction. APAs with a mutation in KCNJ5 (APA-KCNJ5MUT) are characterized by heterogeneous CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) expression, a particular cellular composition and larger tumor diameter than those with wild-type KCNJ5 (APA-KCNJ5WT). We exploited these differences to decipher the roles of transcriptome and metabolome reprogramming in tumor pathogenesis. METHODS Consecutive adrenal cryosections (7 APAs and 7 paired adjacent adrenal cortex) were analyzed by spatial transcriptomics (10x Genomics platform) and metabolomics (in situ matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging) co-integrated with CYP11B2 immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We identified intratumoral transcriptional heterogeneity that delineated functionally distinct biological pathways. Common transcriptomic signatures were established across all APA specimens which encompassed 2 distinct transcriptional profiles in CYP11B2-immunopositive regions (CYP11B2-type 1 or 2). The CYP11B2-type 1 signature was characterized by zona glomerulosa gene markers and was detected in both APA-KCNJ5MUT and APA-KCNJ5WT. The CYP11B2-type 2 signature displayed markers of the zona fasciculata or reticularis and predominated in APA-KCNJ5MUT. Metabolites that promote oxidative stress and cell death accumulated in APA-KCNJ5WT. In contrast, antioxidant metabolites were abundant in APA-KCNJ5MUT. Finally, APA-like cell subpopulations-negative for CYP11B2 gene expression-were identified in adrenocortical tissue adjacent to APAs suggesting the existence of tumor precursor states. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide insight into intra- and intertumoral transcriptional heterogeneity and support a role for prooxidant versus antioxidant systems in APA pathogenesis highlighting genotype-dependent capacities for tumor expansion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Gong
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Na Sun
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany
| | - Lucie S Meyer
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Martina Tetti
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Christina Koupourtidou
- Department for Cell Biology and Anatomy, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Graduate School Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stefan Krebs
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Giacomo Masserdotti
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center (BMC), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Helmut Blum
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - William E. Rainey
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrine, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
| | - Axel Walch
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Germany
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
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6
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Clinical Translationality of KCNJ5 Mutation in Aldosterone Producing Adenoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23169042. [PMID: 36012306 PMCID: PMC9409469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypertension due to primary aldosteronism poses a risk of severe cardiovascular complications compared to essential hypertension. The discovery of the KCNJ5 somatic mutation in aldosteroene producing adenoma (APA) in 2011 and the development of specific CYP11B2 antibodies in 2012 have greatly advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of primary aldosteronism. In particular, the presence of CYP11B2-positive aldosterone-producing micronodules (APMs) in the adrenal glands of normotensive individuals and the presence of renin-independent aldosterone excess in normotensive subjects demonstrated the continuum of the pathogenesis of PA. Furthermore, among the aldosterone driver mutations which incur excessive aldosterone secretion, KCNJ5 was a major somatic mutation in APA, while CACNA1D is a leading somatic mutation in APMs and idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA), suggesting a distinctive pathogenesis between APA and IHA. Although the functional detail of APMs has not been still uncovered, its impact on the pathogenesis of PA is gradually being revealed. In this review, we summarize the integrated findings regarding APA, APM or diffuse hyperplasia defined by novel CYP11B2, and aldosterone driver mutations. Following this, we discuss the clinical implications of KCNJ5 mutations to support better cardiovascular outcomes of primary aldosteronism.
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Tetti M, Gong S, Veglio F, Reincke M, Williams TA. Primary aldosteronism: Pathophysiological mechanisms of cell death and proliferation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:934326. [PMID: 36004349 PMCID: PMC9393369 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.934326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism is the most common surgically curable form of hypertension. The sporadic forms of the disorder are usually caused by aldosterone overproduction from a unilateral adrenocortical aldosterone-producing adenoma or from bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasia. The main knowledge-advances in disease pathophysiology focus on pathogenic germline and somatic variants that drive the excess aldosterone production. Less clear are the molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to an increased mass of the adrenal cortex. However, the combined application of transcriptomics, metabolomics, and epigenetics has achieved substantial insight into these processes and uncovered the evolving complexity of disrupted cell growth mechanisms in primary aldosteronism. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent progress in our understanding of mechanisms of cell death, and proliferation in the pathophysiology of primary aldosteronism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tetti
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, München, Germany
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Siyuan Gong
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, München, Germany
| | - Franco Veglio
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, München, Germany
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, München, Germany
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Nanao Y, Oki K, Kobuke K, Itcho K, Baba R, Kodama T, Otagaki Y, Okada A, Yoshii Y, Nagano G, Ohno H, Arihiro K, Gomez-Sanchez CE, Hattori N, Yoneda M. Hypomethylation associated vitamin D receptor expression in ATP1A1 mutant aldosterone-producing adenoma. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 548:111613. [PMID: 35257799 PMCID: PMC9082579 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
DNA methylation alteration is tissue-specific and play a pivotal role in regulating gene transcription during cell proliferation and survival. We aimed to detect genes regulated by DNA methylation, and then investigated whether the gene influenced cell proliferation or survival in adrenal cells. DNA methylation and qPCR analyses were performed in nonfunctioning adrenocortical adenoma (NFA, n = 12) and aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA, n = 35) samples. The VDR gene promoter was markedly hypomethylated in APA with ATP1A1 mutation, and the promoter methylation levels showed a significant inverse association with the transcripts in APA. ATP1A1 mutation led to VDR transcription in HAC15 cells, and VDR suppression abrogated ATP1A1 mutation-mediated cell proliferation in HAC15 cells. We demonstrated that APA with ATP1A1 mutation showed entire hypomethylation in the VDR promoter and abundant VDR mRNA and protein expression. VDR suppression abrogated ATP1A1 mutation-mediated cell proliferation in HAC15 cells. Abundant VDR expression would be essential for ATP1A1 mutation-mediated cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Nanao
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kenji Oki
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Kazuhiro Kobuke
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Kiyotaka Itcho
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Ryuta Baba
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takaya Kodama
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yu Otagaki
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akira Okada
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoko Yoshii
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Gaku Nagano
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Haruya Ohno
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Koji Arihiro
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Division of Endocrinology, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center and University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Noboru Hattori
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masayasu Yoneda
- Department of Molecular and Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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9
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Abstract
Primary aldosteronism is considered the commonest cause of secondary hypertension. In affected individuals, aldosterone is produced in an at least partially autonomous fashion in adrenal lesions (adenomas, [micro]nodules or diffuse hyperplasia). Over the past decade, next-generation sequencing studies have led to the insight that primary aldosteronism is largely a genetic disorder. Sporadic cases are due to somatic mutations, mostly in ion channels and pumps, and rare cases of familial hyperaldosteronism are caused by germline mutations in an overlapping set of genes. More than 90% of aldosterone-producing adenomas carry somatic mutations in K+ channel Kir3.4 (KCNJ5), Ca2+ channel CaV1.3 (CACNA1D), alpha-1 subunit of the Na+/K+ ATPase (ATP1A1), plasma membrane Ca2+ transporting ATPase 3 (ATP2B3), Ca2+ channel CaV3.2 (CACNA1H), Cl− channel ClC-2 (CLCN2), β-catenin (CTNNB1), and/or G-protein subunits alpha q/11 (GNAQ/11). Mutations in some of these genes have also been identified in aldosterone-producing (micro)nodules, suggesting a disease continuum from a single cell, acquiring a somatic mutation, via a nodule to adenoma formation, and from a healthy state to subclinical to overt primary aldosteronism. Individual glands can have multiple such lesions, and they can occur on both glands in bilateral disease. Familial hyperaldosteronism, typically with early onset, is caused by germline mutations in steroid 11-beta hydroxylase/ aldosterone synthase (CYP11B1/2), CLCN2, KCNJ5, CACNA1H, and CACNA1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ute I Scholl
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Center of Functional Genomics, Germany
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10
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Williams TA, Reincke M. Pathophysiology and histopathology of primary aldosteronism. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2022; 33:36-49. [PMID: 34743804 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) can be sporadic or familial and classified into unilateral and bilateral forms. Sporadic PA predominates with excessive aldosterone production usually arising from a unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) or bilateral adrenocortical hyperplasia. Familial PA is rare and caused by germline variants, that partly correspond to somatic alterations in APAs. Classification into unilateral and bilateral PA determines the treatment approach but does not accurately mirror disease pathology. Some evidence indicates a disease continuum ranging from balanced aldosterone production from each adrenal to extreme asymmetrical bilateral aldosterone production. Nonetheless, surgical removal of the overactive adrenal in unilateral PA achieves highly successful outcomes and almost all patients are biochemically cured of their aldosteronism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Ann Williams
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany; Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, München, Germany
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11
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Novel Mutations Detection with Next-Generation Sequencing and Its Association with Clinical Outcome in Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091167. [PMID: 34572353 PMCID: PMC8471673 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic mutations have been identified in adrenal tissues of unilateral primary aldosteronism (uPA). The spectrum of somatic mutations in uPAs was investigated using a customized and targeted next-generation sequencing (cNGS) approach. We also assessed whether cNGS or Sanger sequencing-identified mutations have an association with clinical outcomes in uPA. Adrenal tumoral tissues of uPA patients who underwent adrenalectomy were obtained. Conventional somatic mutation hotspots in 240 extracted DNA samples were initially screened using Sanger sequencing. A total of 75 Sanger-negative samples were further investigated by sequencing the entire coding regions of the known aldosterone-driver genes by our cNGS gene panel. Somatic mutations in aldosterone-driver genes were detected in 21 (28%) of these samples (8.8% of all samples), with 9 samples, including mutations in CACNA1D gene (12%), 5 in CACNA1H (6.6%), 3 in ATP2B3 (4%), 2 in CLCN2 (2.6%), 1 in ATP1A1 (1.3%), and 1 in CTNNB1 (1.3%). Via combined cNGS and Sanger sequencing aldosterone-driver gene mutations were detected in altogether 186 of our 240 (77.5%) uPA samples. The complete clinical success rate of patients containing cNGS-identified mutations was higher than those without mutations (odds ratio (OR) = 10.9; p = 0.012). Identification of somatic mutations with cNGS or Sanger sequencing may facilitate the prediction of complete clinical success after adrenalectomy in uPA patients.
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Tonnus W, Belavgeni A, Beuschlein F, Eisenhofer G, Fassnacht M, Kroiss M, Krone NP, Reincke M, Bornstein SR, Linkermann A. The role of regulated necrosis in endocrine diseases. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2021; 17:497-510. [PMID: 34135504 PMCID: PMC8207819 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-021-00499-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The death of endocrine cells is involved in type 1 diabetes mellitus, autoimmunity, adrenopause and hypogonadotropism. Insights from research on basic cell death have revealed that most pathophysiologically important cell death is necrotic in nature, whereas regular metabolism is maintained by apoptosis programmes. Necrosis is defined as cell death by plasma membrane rupture, which allows the release of damage-associated molecular patterns that trigger an immune response referred to as necroinflammation. Regulated necrosis comes in different forms, such as necroptosis, pyroptosis and ferroptosis. In this Perspective, with a focus on the endocrine environment, we introduce these cell death pathways and discuss the specific consequences of regulated necrosis. Given that clinical trials of necrostatins for the treatment of autoimmune conditions have already been initiated, we highlight the therapeutic potential of such novel therapeutic approaches that, in our opinion, should be tested in endocrine disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wulf Tonnus
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Alexia Belavgeni
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Felix Beuschlein
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Graeme Eisenhofer
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Fassnacht
- Clinic of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kroiss
- Clinic of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nils P Krone
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan R Bornstein
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Diabetes and Nutritional Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Andreas Linkermann
- Clinic of Internal Medicine III, Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus at the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
- Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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Primary Aldosteronism: Metabolic Reprogramming and the Pathogenesis of Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13153716. [PMID: 34359615 PMCID: PMC8345059 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13153716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Primary aldosteronism is a common form of endocrine hypertension often caused by a hyper-secreting tumor of the adrenal cortex called an aldosterone-producing adenoma. Metabolic reprogramming plays a role in tumor progression and influences the tumor immune microenvironment by limiting immune-cell infiltration and suppressing its anti-tumor function. We hypothesized that the development of aldosterone-producing adenomas involves metabolic adaptations of its component tumor cells and intrinsically influences tumor pathogenesis. Herein, we use state-of-the-art computational tools for the comprehensive analysis of array-based gene expression profiles to demonstrate metabolic reprogramming and remodeling of the immune microenvironment in aldosterone-producing adenomas compared with paired adjacent adrenal cortical tissue. Our findings suggest metabolic alterations may function in the pathogenesis of aldosterone-producing adenomas by conferring survival advantages to their component tumor cells. Abstract Aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) are characterized by aldosterone hypersecretion and deregulated adrenocortical cell growth. Increased energy consumption required to maintain cellular tumorigenic properties triggers metabolic alterations that shape the tumor microenvironment to acquire necessary nutrients, yet our knowledge of this adaptation in APAs is limited. Here, we investigated adrenocortical cell-intrinsic metabolism and the tumor immune microenvironment of APAs and their potential roles in mediating aldosterone production and growth of adrenocortical cells. Using multiple advanced bioinformatics methods, we analyzed gene expression datasets to generate distinct metabolic and immune cell profiles of APAs versus paired adjacent cortex. APAs displayed activation of lipid metabolism, especially fatty acid β-oxidation regulated by PPARα, and glycolysis. We identified an immunosuppressive microenvironment in APAs, with reduced infiltration of CD45+ immune cells compared with adjacent cortex, validated by CD45 immunohistochemistry (3.45-fold, p < 0.001). APAs also displayed an association of lipid metabolism with ferroptosis and upregulation of antioxidant systems. In conclusion, APAs exhibit metabolic reprogramming towards fatty acid β-oxidation and glycolysis. Increased lipid metabolism via PPARα may serve as a key mechanism to modulate lipid peroxidation, a hallmark of regulated cell death by ferroptosis. These findings highlight survival advantages for APA tumor cells with metabolic reprogramming properties.
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Nanba K, Rainey WE. GENETICS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Impact of race and sex on genetic causes of aldosterone-producing adenomas. Eur J Endocrinol 2021; 185:R1-R11. [PMID: 33900205 PMCID: PMC8480207 DOI: 10.1530/eje-21-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common cause of secondary hypertension. Recent technological advances in genetic analysis have provided a better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease. The application of next-generation sequencing has resulted in the identification of somatic mutations in aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA), a major subtype of PA. Based on the recent findings using a sequencing method that selectively targets the tumor region where aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) is expressed, the vast majority of APAs appear to harbor a somatic mutation in one of the aldosterone-driver genes, including KCNJ5, ATP1A1, ATP2B3, CACNA1D, CACNA1H, and CLCN2. Mutations in these genes alter intracellular ion homeostasis and enhance aldosterone production. In a small subset of APAs, somatic activating mutations in the CTNNB1 gene, which encodes β-catenin, have also been detected. Accumulating evidence suggests that race and sex impact the somatic mutation spectrum of APA. Specifically, somatic mutations in the KCNJ5 gene, encoding an inwardly rectifying K+ channel, are common in APAs from Asian populations as well as women regardless of race. Associations between APA histology, genotype, and patient clinical characteristics have also been proposed, suggesting a potential need to consider race and sex for the management of PA patients. Herein, we review recent findings regarding somatic mutations in APA and discuss potential roles of race and sex on the pathophysiology of APA as well as possible clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutaka Nanba
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, 612-8555, Japan
| | - William E. Rainey
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109
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15
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Update on Genetics of Primary Aldosteronism. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9040409. [PMID: 33920271 PMCID: PMC8069207 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common form of secondary hypertension, with a prevalence of 5–10% among patients with hypertension. PA is mainly classified into two subtypes: aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) and bilateral idiopathic hyperaldosteronism. Recent developments in genetic analysis have facilitated the discovery of mutations in KCNJ5, ATP1A1, ATP2B3, CACNA1D, CACNA1H, CLCN2, and CTNNB1 in sporadic or familial forms of PA in the last decade. These findings have greatly advanced our understanding of the mechanism of excess aldosterone synthesis, particularly in APA. Most of the causative genes encode ion channels or pumps, and their mutations lead to depolarization of the cell membrane due to impairment of ion transport. Depolarization activates voltage-gated Ca2+ channels and intracellular calcium signaling and promotes the transcription of aldosterone synthase, resulting in overproduction of aldosterone. In this article, we review recent findings on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of PA.
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Yang Y, Tetti M, Vohra T, Adolf C, Seissler J, Hristov M, Belavgeni A, Bidlingmaier M, Linkermann A, Mulatero P, Beuschlein F, Reincke M, Williams TA. BEX1 Is Differentially Expressed in Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas and Protects Human Adrenocortical Cells From Ferroptosis. Hypertension 2021; 77:1647-1658. [PMID: 33745298 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.16774] [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: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Yang
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Martina Tetti
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (M.T., P.M., T.A.W.)
| | - Twinkle Vohra
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Christian Adolf
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Jochen Seissler
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Diabetes Zentrum, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (J.S.)
| | - Michael Hristov
- Institut für Prophylaxe und Epidemiologie der Kreislaufkrankheiten (IPEK), Klinikum der Universität München, Germany (M.H.)
| | - Alexia Belavgeni
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany (A.B., A.L.)
| | - Martin Bidlingmaier
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Andreas Linkermann
- Division of Nephrology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany (A.B., A.L.)
| | - Paolo Mulatero
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (M.T., P.M., T.A.W.)
| | - Felix Beuschlein
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.).,Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, Universitätsspital Zürich, Switzerland (F.B.)
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (Y.Y., T.V., C.A., M.B., F.B., M.R., T.A.W.).,Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (M.T., P.M., T.A.W.)
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Hypertension Editors' Picks: Hyperaldosteronism. Hypertension 2021; 77:e17-e28. [PMID: 33439730 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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18
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Barrett PQ, Guagliardo NA, Bayliss DA. Ion Channel Function and Electrical Excitability in the Zona Glomerulosa: A Network Perspective on Aldosterone Regulation. Annu Rev Physiol 2020; 83:451-475. [PMID: 33176563 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-030220-113038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Aldosterone excess is a pathogenic factor in many hypertensive disorders. The discovery of numerous somatic and germline mutations in ion channels in primary hyperaldosteronism underscores the importance of plasma membrane conductances in determining the activation state of zona glomerulosa (zG) cells. Electrophysiological recordings describe an electrically quiescent behavior for dispersed zG cells. Yet, emerging data indicate that in native rosette structures in situ, zG cells are electrically excitable, generating slow periodic voltage spikes and coordinated bursts of Ca2+ oscillations. We revisit data to understand how a multitude of conductances may underlie voltage/Ca2+ oscillations, recognizing that zG layer self-renewal and cell heterogeneity may complicate this task. We review recent data to understand rosette architecture and apply maxims derived from computational network modeling to understand rosette function. The challenge going forward is to uncover how the rosette orchestrates the behavior of a functional network of conditional oscillators to control zG layer performance and aldosterone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Q Barrett
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA; , ,
| | - Nick A Guagliardo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA; , ,
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA; , ,
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Vohra T, Kemter E, Sun N, Dobenecker B, Hinrichs A, Burrello J, Gomez-Sanchez EP, Gomez-Sanchez CE, Wang J, Kinker IS, Teupser D, Fischer K, Schnieke A, Peitzsch M, Eisenhofer G, Walch A, Reincke M, Wolf E, Williams TA. Effect of Dietary Sodium Modulation on Pig Adrenal Steroidogenesis and Transcriptome Profiles. Hypertension 2020; 76:1769-1777. [PMID: 33070662 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Primary aldosteronism is a frequent form of endocrine hypertension caused by aldosterone overproduction from the adrenal cortex. Regulation of aldosterone biosynthesis has been studied in rodents despite differences in adrenal physiology with humans. We, therefore, investigated pig adrenal steroidogenesis, morphology, and transcriptome profiles of the zona glomerulosa (zG) and zona fasciculata in response to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system by dietary sodium restriction. Six-week-old pigs were fed a low- or high-sodium diet for 14 days (3 pigs per group, 0.4 g sodium/kg feed versus 6.8 g sodium/kg). Plasma aldosterone concentrations displayed a 43-fold increase (P=0.011) after 14 days of sodium restriction (day 14 versus day 0). Low dietary sodium caused a 2-fold increase in thickness of the zG (P<0.001) and an almost 3-fold upregulation of CYP11B (P<0.05) compared with high dietary sodium. Strong immunostaining of the KCNJ5 (G protein-activated inward rectifier potassium channel 4), which is frequently mutated in primary aldosteronism, was demonstrated in the zG. mRNA sequencing transcriptome analysis identified significantly altered expression of genes modulated by the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the zG (n=1172) and zona fasciculata (n=280). These genes included many with a known role in the regulation of aldosterone synthesis and adrenal function. The most highly enriched biological pathways in the zG were related to cholesterol biosynthesis, steroid metabolism, cell cycle, and potassium channels. This study provides mechanistic insights into the physiology and pathophysiology of aldosterone production in a species closely related to humans and shows the suitability of pigs as a translational animal model for human adrenal steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Twinkle Vohra
- From the Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München (T.V., I.-S.K., M.R., T.A.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kemter
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences (E.K., A.H., E.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Na Sun
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany (N.S., J.W., A.W.)
| | - Britta Dobenecker
- Chair of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Oberschleißheim, Germany (B.D.)
| | - Arne Hinrichs
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences (E.K., A.H., E.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jacopo Burrello
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (J.B., T.A.W.)
| | - Elise P Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson (E.P.G.-S.)
| | - Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Endocrine Division, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, MS (C.E.G.-S.).,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson (C.E.G.-S.)
| | - Jun Wang
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany (N.S., J.W., A.W.)
| | - Isabella-Sabrina Kinker
- From the Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München (T.V., I.-S.K., M.R., T.A.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Teupser
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital (D.T.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Konrad Fischer
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, Freising, Germany (K.F., A.S.)
| | - Angelika Schnieke
- School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, Freising, Germany (K.F., A.S.)
| | - Mirko Peitzsch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (M.P., G.E.), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - Graeme Eisenhofer
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (M.P., G.E.), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany.,Department of Medicine III (G.E.), University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany
| | - Axel Walch
- Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany (N.S., J.W., A.W.)
| | - Martin Reincke
- From the Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München (T.V., I.-S.K., M.R., T.A.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences (E.K., A.H., E.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- From the Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München (T.V., I.-S.K., M.R., T.A.W.), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.,Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (J.B., T.A.W.)
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20
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Zennaro MC, Boulkroun S, Fernandes-Rosa FL. Pathogenesis and treatment of primary aldosteronism. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2020; 16:578-589. [PMID: 32724183 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-0382-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of primary aldosteronism, the most frequent cause of secondary hypertension, are crucial to prevent deleterious cardiovascular outcomes. In the past decade, the discovery of genetic abnormalities responsible for sporadic and familial forms of primary aldosteronism has improved the knowledge of the pathogenesis of this disorder. Mutations in genes encoding ion channels and pumps lead to increased cytosolic concentrations of calcium in zona glomerulosa cells, which triggers CYP11B2 expression and autonomous aldosterone production. Improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying the disease is key to improving diagnostics and to developing and implementing targeted treatments. This Review provides an update on the genetic abnormalities associated with sporadic and familial forms of primary aldosteronism, their frequency among different populations and the mechanisms explaining excessive aldosterone production and adrenal nodule development. The possible effects and uses of these findings for improving the diagnostics for primary aldosteronism are discussed. Furthermore, current treatment options of primary aldosteronism are reviewed, with particular attention to the latest studies on blood pressure and cardiovascular outcomes following medical or surgical treatment. The new perspectives regarding the use of targeted drug therapy for aldosterone-producing adenomas with specific somatic mutations are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Christina Zennaro
- INSERM, PARCC, Université de Paris, Paris, France.
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Génétique, Paris, France.
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21
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Mulatero P, Burrello J, Williams TA, Monticone S. Primary Aldosteronism in the Elderly. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5821545. [PMID: 32303754 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The clinical spectrum and knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying primary aldosteronism (PA), the most frequent form of endocrine hypertension, has evolved over recent years. In accordance with the Endocrine Society guidelines and in light of the growing evidence showing adverse cardiovascular outcomes, it is expected that a progressively wider population of patients affected by hypertension will be screened for PA, including the elderly. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION A systematic search of PubMed was undertaken for studies related to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), PA, and adrenal histopathology in the elderly population. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Several studies showed an age-dependent decrease in the activity of RAAS, together with a progressive decrease of the aldosterone response to sodium intake, particularly after the sixth decade of life. The positive correlation between age and serum aldosterone during liberal sodium intake over serum aldosterone during sodium restriction is paralleled by histological changes in adrenal aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) expression patterns. Immunohistochemical studies showed a progressive loss of the continuous expression of CYP11B2 in the adrenal zona glomerulosa with aging and a concomitant increase of aldosterone-producing cell clusters, which might be responsible for relatively autonomous aldosterone production. Additionally, following PA confirmation and subtype diagnosis, older age is correlated with a lower benefit after adrenalectomy for unilateral PA. CONCLUSIONS Accumulating evidence suggests that RAAS physiology and regulation show age-related changes. Further studies may investigate to what extent these variations might affect the diagnostic workup of patients affected by PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Mulatero
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Jacopo Burrello
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Monticone
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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22
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Fernandes-Rosa FL, Boulkroun S, Zennaro MC. Genetic and Genomic Mechanisms of Primary Aldosteronism. Trends Mol Med 2020; 26:819-832. [PMID: 32563556 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) and bilateral adrenal hyperplasia are the main cause of primary aldosteronism (PA), the most frequent form of secondary hypertension. Mutations in ion channels and ATPases have been identified in APA and inherited forms of PA, highlighting the central role of calcium signaling in PA development. Different somatic mutations are also found in aldosterone-producing cell clusters in adrenal glands from healthy individuals and from patients with unilateral and bilateral PA, suggesting additional pathogenic mechanisms. Recent mouse models have also contributed to a better understanding of PA. Application of genetic screening in familial PA, development of surrogate biomarkers for somatic mutations in APA, and use of targeted treatment directed at mutated proteins may allow improved management of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maria-Christina Zennaro
- Inserm, PARCC, Université de Paris, F-75015 Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Génétique, Paris, France.
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23
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Gomez-Sanchez CE, Gomez-Sanchez EP, Nishimoto K. Immunohistochemistry of the Human Adrenal CYP11B2 in Normal Individuals and in Patients with Primary Aldosteronism. Horm Metab Res 2020; 52:421-426. [PMID: 32289837 PMCID: PMC7299743 DOI: 10.1055/a-1139-2079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The CYP11B2 enzyme is the terminal enzyme in the biosynthesis of aldosterone. Immunohistochemistry using antibodies against CYP11B2 defines cells of the adrenal ZG that synthesize aldosterone. CYP11B2 expression is normally stimulated by angiotensin II, but becomes autonomous in primary hyperaldosteronism, in most cases driven by recently discovered somatic mutations of ion channels or pumps. Cells expressing CYP11B2 in young normal humans form a continuous band beneath the adrenal capsule; in older individuals they form discrete clusters, aldosterone-producing cell clusters (APCC), surrounded by non-aldosterone producing cells in the outer layer of the adrenal gland. Aldosterone-producing adenomas may exhibit a uniform or heterogeneous expression of CYP11B2. APCC frequently persist in the adrenal with an aldosterone-producing adenoma suggesting autonomous CYP11B2 expression in these cells as well. This was confirmed by finding known mutations that drive aldosterone production in adenomas in the APCC of clinically normal people. Unilateral aldosteronism may also be due to multiple CYP11B2-expressing nodules of various sizes or a continuous band of hyperplastic ZG cells expressing CYP11B2. Use of CYP11B2 antibodies to identify areas for sequencing has greatly facilitated the detection of aldosterone-driving mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso E. Gomez-Sanchez
- G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology,University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216
- Medicine (Endocrinology), University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216
| | - Elise P. Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology,University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216
| | - Koshiro Nishimoto
- Department of Uro-Oncology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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24
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De Sousa K, Boulkroun S, Baron S, Nanba K, Wack M, Rainey WE, Rocha A, Giscos-Douriez I, Meatchi T, Amar L, Travers S, Fernandes-Rosa FL, Zennaro MC. Genetic, Cellular, and Molecular Heterogeneity in Adrenals With Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma. Hypertension 2020; 75:1034-1044. [PMID: 32114847 PMCID: PMC7098445 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.14177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) cause primary aldosteronism—the most frequent form of secondary hypertension. Somatic mutations in genes coding for ion channels and ATPases are found in APA and in aldosterone-producing cell clusters. We investigated the genetic, cellular, and molecular heterogeneity of different aldosterone-producing structures in adrenals with APA, to get insight into the mechanisms driving their development and to investigate their clinical and biochemical correlates. Genetic analysis of APA, aldosterone-producing cell clusters, and secondary nodules was performed in adrenal tissues from 49 patients by next-generation sequencing following CYP11B2 immunohistochemistry. Results were correlated with clinical and biochemical characteristics of patients, steroid profiles, and histological features of the tumor and adjacent adrenal cortex. Somatic mutations were identified in 93.75% of APAs. Adenoma carrying KCNJ5 mutations had more clear cells and cells expressing CYP11B1, and fewer cells expressing CYP11B2 or activated β-catenin, compared with other mutational groups. 18-hydroxycortisol and 18-oxocortisol were higher in patients carrying KCNJ5 mutations and correlated with histological features of adenoma; however, mutational status could not be predicted using steroid profiling. Heterogeneous CYP11B2 expression in KCNJ5-mutated adenoma was not associated with genetic heterogeneity. Different mutations were identified in secondary nodules expressing aldosterone synthase and in independent aldosterone-producing cell clusters from adrenals with adenoma; known KCNJ5 mutations were identified in 5 aldosterone-producing cell clusters. Genetic heterogeneity in different aldosterone-producing structures in the same adrenal suggests complex mechanisms underlying APA development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly De Sousa
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.)
| | - Sheerazed Boulkroun
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.)
| | - Stéphanie Baron
- Université de Paris, France (S. Baron, M.W., T.M.).,Service de Physiologie (S. Baron, S.T.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
| | - Kazutaka Nanba
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology (K.N., W.E.R.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Hospital Organization, Kyoto Medical Center, Japan (K.N.)
| | - Maxime Wack
- Université de Paris, France (S. Baron, M.W., T.M.).,Service d'informatique médicale (M.W.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
| | - William E Rainey
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology (K.N., W.E.R.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Division of Metabolism, Endocrine, and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine (W.E.R.), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Angélique Rocha
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.)
| | - Isabelle Giscos-Douriez
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.)
| | - Tchao Meatchi
- Université de Paris, France (S. Baron, M.W., T.M.).,Service d'Anatomie Pathologique (T.M.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
| | - Laurence Amar
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.).,Unité Hypertension artérielle (L.A.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
| | - Simon Travers
- Service de Physiologie (S. Baron, S.T.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
| | - Fabio L Fernandes-Rosa
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.)
| | - Maria-Christina Zennaro
- From the PARCC, INSERM, Université de Paris, France (K.D.S., S. Boulkroun, A.R., I.G.-D., L.A., F.L.F.-R., M.-C.Z.).,Service de Génétique (M.-C.Z.), Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, France
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25
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Abstract
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most common form of secondary hypertension affecting 5%-10% of patients with arterial hypertension. In PA, high blood pressure is associated with high aldosterone and low renin levels, and often hypokalemia. In a majority of cases, autonomous aldosterone production by the adrenal gland is caused by an aldosterone producing adenoma (APA) or bilateral adrenal hyperplasia (BAH). During the last ten years, a better knowledge of the pathophysiology of PA came from the discovery of somatic and germline mutations in different genes in both sporadic and familial forms of the disease. Those genes code for ion channels and pumps, as well as proteins involved in adrenal cortex development and function. Targeted next generation sequencing following immunohistochemistry guided detection of aldosterone synthase expression allows detection of somatic mutations in up to 90% of APA, while whole exome sequencing has discovered the genetic causes of four different familial forms of PA. The identification, in BAH, of somatic mutations in aldosterone producing cell clusters open new perspectives in our understanding of the bilateral form of the disease and the development of new therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maria-Christina Zennaro
- Université de Paris, PARCC, INSERM, Paris, France; Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Service de Génétique, Paris, France
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26
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Sun N, Meyer LS, Feuchtinger A, Kunzke T, Knösel T, Reincke M, Walch A, Williams TA. Mass Spectrometry Imaging Establishes 2 Distinct Metabolic Phenotypes of Aldosterone-Producing Cell Clusters in Primary Aldosteronism. Hypertension 2020; 75:634-644. [PMID: 31957522 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.14041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) are one of the main causes of primary aldosteronism and the most prevalent surgically correctable form of hypertension. Aldosterone-producing cell clusters (APCCs) comprise tight nests of zona glomerulosa cells, strongly positive for CYP11B2 (aldosterone synthase) in immunohistochemistry. APCCs have been suggested as possible precursors of APAs because they frequently carry driver mutations for constitutive aldosterone production, and a few adrenal lesions with histopathologic features of both APCCs and APAs have been identified. Our objective was to investigate the metabolic phenotypes of APCCs (n=27) compared with APAs (n=6) using in situ matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded adrenals from patients with unilateral primary aldosteronism. Specific distribution patterns of metabolites were associated with APCCs and classified 2 separate APCC subgroups (subgroups 1 and 2) indistinguishable by CYP11B2 immunohistochemistry. Metabolic profiles of APCCs in subgroup 1 were tightly clustered and distinct from subgroup 2 and APAs. Multiple APCCs from the same adrenal displayed metabolic profiles of the same subgroup. Metabolites of APCC subgroup 2 were highly similar to the APA group and indicated enhanced metabolic pathways favoring cell proliferation compared with APCC subgroup 1. In conclusion, we demonstrate specific subgroups of APCCs with strikingly divergent distribution patterns of metabolites. One subgroup displays a metabolic phenotype convergent with APAs and may represent the progression of APCCs to APAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Sun
- From the Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München (N.S., A.F., T. Kunzke, A.W.)
| | - Lucie S Meyer
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (L.S.M., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Annette Feuchtinger
- From the Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München (N.S., A.F., T. Kunzke, A.W.)
| | - Thomas Kunzke
- From the Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München (N.S., A.F., T. Kunzke, A.W.)
| | - Thomas Knösel
- Institute of Pathology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Germany (T. Knösel)
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (L.S.M., M.R., T.A.W.)
| | - Axel Walch
- From the Research Unit Analytical Pathology, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Helmholtz Zentrum München (N.S., A.F., T. Kunzke, A.W.)
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, LMU München, Germany (L.S.M., M.R., T.A.W.).,Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (T.A.W.)
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