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Lamadé EK, Pedraz-Petrozzi B, Lindner O, Meininger P, Coenen M, Witt SH, Rietschel M, Dukal H, Gilles M, Wudy SA, Hellweg R, Deuschle M. Stress during pregnancy and fetal serum BDNF in cord blood at birth. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 165:107035. [PMID: 38603892 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107035] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Adverse environments during pregnancy impact neurodevelopment including cognitive abilities of the developing children. The mediating biological alterations are not fully understood. Maternal stress may impact the neurotrophic regulation of the offspring as early as in utero and at birth. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential for neurodevelopment. Short-term higher levels of BDNF in mice upon stressors associate with lower BDNF later in life, which itself associates with depression in animals and humans. Stress including glucocorticoids may impact BDNF, but there is a lack of data at birth. This study investigated if stress near term associates with fetal BDNF at birth in humans. METHODS Pregnant women near term who underwent primary cesarean sections (at 38.80±0.64 weeks), were included in this study (n=41). Stress at the end of pregnancy was assessed before the cesarean section by determining maternal depressive symptoms (EDPS), maternal state and trait anxiety (STAI-S and STAI-T), maternal prenatal distress (PDQ), stress over the past month (PSS), prenatal attachment to the offspring (PAI), maternal social support (F-Sozu), maternal early life stress (CTQ), socioeconomic status, and the glucocorticoids cortisol and cortisone (n=40) in amniotic fluid at birth. The association with fetal BDNF was analyzed. Cord blood serum of n=34 newborns at birth was analyzed for BDNF and newborn anthropometrics (weight, length and head circumference per gestational age at birth) were assessed. The association of fetal BDNF with anthropometrics at birth was analyzed. RESULTS After a BDNF-outlier (>3 SD) was removed, higher fetal BDNF associated significantly with maternal depressive symptoms (r=0.398, p=0.022), with lower socioeconomic status as assessed by the average number of people per room in the household (r=0.526, p=0.002) and with borderline significance with net income per person in the household (r=-0.313, p=0.087) in the bivariate analyses. In multivariable analysis, BDNF stayed positively associated with maternal depressive symptoms (β=0.404, 95% CI [7.057, 306.041], p=0.041) and lower net income per person in the household (β=-0.562, 95% CI [-914.511, -60.523], p=0.027) when controlling for maternal age, maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, fetal sex and gestational age. Fetal BDNF did not associate with newborn anthropometrics with the outlier removed in bivariate analyses or in multivariable analyses when controlling for maternal BMI and fetal sex. CONCLUSION Maternal depressive symptoms and lower socioeconomic status associated with higher fetal BDNF when controlling for confounders. Fetal BDNF did not associate with newborn anthropometrics with the outlier removed. Further studies should investigate how early altered BDNF associate with the development and possibly psychopathology of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kathrin Lamadé
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Research-group Stress-related disorders, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Bruno Pedraz-Petrozzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Research-group Stress-related disorders, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Ole Lindner
- Center for Child and Adolescent Health, Pediatrics, University Hospital of Freiburg, Freiburg 79106, Germany.
| | - Pascal Meininger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Westpfalz-Klinikum, Kaiserslautern 67665, Germany.
| | - Michaela Coenen
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology - IBE, Chair of Public Health and Health Services Research, Medical Faculty, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany; Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany.
| | - Stephanie H Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Marcella Rietschel
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Helene Dukal
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Maria Gilles
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Research-group Stress-related disorders, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany.
| | - Rainer Hellweg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Michael Deuschle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Research-group Stress-related disorders, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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Saad AF, Pacheco LD, Saade GR. Immunosuppressant Medications in Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2024; 143:e94-e106. [PMID: 38227938 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Pregnant patients are often on immunosuppressant medications, most commonly to manage transplantation or autoimmune disorders. Most immunosuppressant agents, including tacrolimus, corticosteroids, azathioprine, and calcineurin inhibitors, are safe during pregnancy and lactation. However, mycophenolic acid is associated with higher risks of birth defects and should be avoided in pregnancy. Tacrolimus, the commonly used drug in transplantation medicine and autoimmune disorders, requires monitoring of serum levels for dose adjustment, particularly during pregnancy. Although no pregnancy-specific therapeutic range exists, the general target range is 5-15 ng/mL, and pregnant patients may require higher doses to achieve therapeutic levels. Adherence to prescribed immunosuppressive regimens is crucial to prevent graft rejection and autoimmune disorder flare-ups. This review aims to provide essential information about the use of immunosuppressant medications in pregnant individuals. With a rising number of pregnant patients undergoing organ transplantations or having autoimmune disorders, it is important to understand the implications of the use of these medications during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio F Saad
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Inova Fairfax, Fairfax, Virginia; the Division of Surgical Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas; and the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia
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Sze Y, Brunton PJ. How is prenatal stress transmitted from the mother to the fetus? J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246073. [PMID: 38449331 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246073] [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: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Prenatal stress programmes long-lasting neuroendocrine and behavioural changes in the offspring. Often this programming is maladaptive and sex specific. For example, using a rat model of maternal social stress in late pregnancy, we have demonstrated that adult prenatally stressed male, but not prenatally stressed female offspring display heightened anxiety-like behaviour, whereas both sexes show hyperactive hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis responses to stress. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms underpinning dysregulated HPA axis responses, including evidence supporting a role for reduced neurosteroid-mediated GABAergic inhibitory signalling in the brains of prenatally stressed offspring. How maternal psychosocial stress is signalled from the mother to the fetuses is unclear. Direct transfer of maternal glucocorticoids to the fetuses is often considered to mediate the programming effects of maternal stress on the offspring. However, protective mechanisms including attenuated maternal stress responses and placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2 (which inactivates glucocorticoids) should limit materno-fetal glucocorticoid transfer during pregnancy. Moreover, a lack of correlation between maternal stress, circulating maternal glucocorticoid levels and circulating fetal glucocorticoid levels is reported in several studies and across different species. Therefore, here we interrogate the evidence for a role for maternal glucocorticoids in mediating the effects of maternal stress on the offspring and consider the evidence for alternative mechanisms, including an indirect role for glucocorticoids and the contribution of changes in the placenta in signalling the stress status of the mother to the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Sze
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Paula J Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Haining, Zhejiang 314400, P.R. China
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Drljevic-Nielsen A, Heilskov S, Deleuran MS, Vestergaard C. Immunosuppressive and immunomodulating therapy for atopic dermatitis in pregnancy: an appraisal of the literature. Ital J Dermatol Venerol 2024; 159:23-33. [PMID: 38226937 DOI: 10.23736/s2784-8671.23.07692-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common dermatological diagnosis during pregnancy. Treatment of AD during pregnancy can be challenging, due to the unpredictable course and the fact that the therapy needs to be safe for both the mother and the fetus. Here we present an up-to-date appraisal of the literature on the treatment options available for AD in patients planning pregnancy, during pregnancy, and during breastfeeding. All patients with AD are recommended to supplement any medical treatment with daily applications of emollients. The first step in the medical treatment for AD during pregnancy are topical corticosteroids, and/or topical tacrolimus. If required, UV-light therapy can also be considered. Treatment with systemic therapy during pregnancy should always rely on a careful risk-benefit assessment and be based on shared-decision making between the treating physician and patient. The first-line systemic treatment option is cyclosporine A, whereas azathioprine may be considered in patients already receiving this treatment prior to pregnancy. Systemic glucocorticoids may also be used. Treatment with systemic JAK inhibitors is not recommended, whereas treatment with mycophenolate mofetil and methotrexate is contraindicated. Targeted therapy with dupilumab is not generally recommended, due to lack of experience in human pregnancies, yet some case-reports on their use are emerging. These recommendations are based on the authors appraisal of existing literature and the current recommendation from the European Task Force on Atopic Dermatitis. It is always the responsibility of the treating physician to stay updated on the newest guidelines and literature when treating patients with AD during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sofine Heilskov
- Department of Dermatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette S Deleuran
- Department of Dermatology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Zhang F, Zhou J, Zhang S, Qin X, Li P, Tao F, Huang K. Impact of pregnancy-related anxiety on preschoolers' emotional and behavioral development: Gender specificity, critical time windows and cumulative effect. J Affect Disord 2023; 323:176-184. [PMID: 36471547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.11.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on the gender-specific effect of PrA on children's emotional and behavioral development are limited. Lack of PrA data on the entire pregnancy had caused difficulties in identifying the key time window and cumulative effects. METHODS Based on Ma'anshan Birth Cohort in China, mothers at pregnancy and children followed up to 4 years of age were tested using the PrA questionnaire and the Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) 1.5-5. Finally, 1699 mother-child pairs were included in the study and regression models were developed for analysis. RESULTS Children of mothers with PrA are at significantly elevated risk for abnormal mood/behavior at preschool age. Girls seemed to be more sensitive to maternal PrA than boys, mainly manifested in internalizing problems; The third trimester of pregnancy might be a critical time window when maternal PrA affected children's internalizing problems; Longer the duration women had PrA during pregnancy, more possibilities their children would have to develop internalizing and externalizing problems. LIMITATIONS The PrA questionnaire may be different from PrA questionnaires in other countries such as due to different cultural contexts. Findings need to be interpreted with more caution. Factors such as maternal postpartum depression and care practices of nursing staff were not considered. No data were collected on disease as well as caregiver emotional status, which also impacts the reporting and identification of emotional/behavioral problems in children. CONCLUSIONS Gender-specific and cumulative effect of PrA on preschoolers' emotional/behavioral development is observed. The third trimester of pregnancy might be the critical time window.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Zhang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jixing Zhou
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiaoyun Qin
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Peixuan Li
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Fangbiao Tao
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle(AHMU), MOE, Hefei 230032, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health and Aristogenics, Hefei 230032, China; Scientific Research Center in Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China..
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Lee JH, Torpy DJ. Adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy: Physiology, diagnosis, management and areas for future research. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2023; 24:57-69. [PMID: 35816262 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09745-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Adrenal insufficiency requires prompt diagnosis in pregnancy, as untreated, it can lead to serious consequences such as adrenal crisis, intrauterine growth restriction and even foetal demise. Similarities between symptoms of adrenal insufficiency and those of normal pregnancy can complicate diagnosis. Previously diagnosed adrenal insufficiency needs monitoring and, often, adjustment of adrenal hormone replacement. Many physiological changes occur to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis during pregnancy, often making diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency challenging. Pregnancy is a state of sustained physiologic hypercortisolaemia; there are multiple contributing factors including high plasma concentrations of placental derived corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and increased adrenal responsiveness to ACTH. Despite increased circulating concentrations of CRH-binding protein (CRH-BP) and the major cortisol binding protein, corticosteroid binding globulin (CBG), free concentrations of both hormones are increased progressively in pregnancy. In addition, pregnancy leads to activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Most adrenocortical hormone diagnostic thresholds are not applicable or validated in pregnancy. The management of adrenal insufficiency also needs to reflect the physiologic changes of pregnancy, often requiring increased doses of glucocorticoid and at times mineralocorticoid replacement, especially in the last trimester. In this review, we describe pregnancy induced changes in adrenal function, the diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy and areas requiring further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica H Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - David J Torpy
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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He X, Banker M, Puttabyatappa M, Padmanabhan V, Auchus RJ. Maternal 11-Ketoandrostenedione Rises Through Normal Pregnancy and Is the Dominant 11-Oxygenated Androgen in Cord Blood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:660-667. [PMID: 34718643 PMCID: PMC8851933 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgens (11oAs) are known important contributors to human physiology and disease but have not been studied in pregnancy. OBJECTIVE We characterize 11oAs in normal human pregnancy and neonatal period and assess the ratios between 11oAs and compare with ratios of other steroids that undergo placental metabolism. DESIGN Prospective cohort study, 2010-2018. SETTING Academic institution. PATIENTS Pairs of pregnant women and newborns (n = 120) were studied. Inclusion criteria were maternal age between 18 and 42 years old, spontaneous singleton pregnancies, and intention to deliver at University of Michigan. INTERVENTION Maternal venous blood was collected during first trimester and at term. Neonatal cord blood was collected following delivery. Steroids were measured via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Levels of 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4), 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4), 11β-hydroxytestosterone, and 11-ketotestoterone (11KT) in maternal first trimester, maternal term, and neonatal cord blood were compared. 11OHA4-to-11KA4 ratios were correlated with cortisol-to-cortisone ratios. RESULTS Dominant 11oAs in pregnancy and the cord blood are 11OHA4 and 11KA4, compared to 11OHA4 and 11KT in adult men and nonpregnant women. We found a rise in 11oA concentrations, particularly 11KA4, from first to third trimester. In cord blood, the concentration of 11KA4 exceeded those of both 11OHA4 and 11KT, reflecting placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17βHSD2) activities, respectively. 11OHA4-to-11KA4 ratios are concordant with cortisol-to-cortisone ratios across all maternal and fetal compartments, reflecting placental 11βHSD2 activity. CONCLUSIONS Placental 17βHSD2 activity defends the fetus against the androgen 11KT. Our normative values may be used in future studies of 11oAs in complicated pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin He
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Margaret Banker
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- LTC Charles S. Kettles Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Correspondence: Richard J. Auchus, MD, PhD, 1150 West Medical Center Dr, Room 5560A MSRB II, Ann Arbor MI 48109, USA. E-mail:
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Hunter SK, Freedman R, Law AJ, Christians U, Holzman JB, Johnson Z, Hoffman MC. Maternal corticosteroids and depression during gestation and decreased fetal heart rate variability. Neuroreport 2021; 32:1170-1174. [PMID: 34284445 PMCID: PMC9762166 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maternal depression during gestation is an adverse factor in fetal brain development that manifests in later childhood behavioral problems. Fetal heart rate variability (FHRV) mediated by parasympathetic input is a marker of gestational nervous system development. Biological mediators of adverse effects of maternal depression may involve the mother's corticosteroids; however, links between depression, corticosteroids, and early nervous system development remain inconclusive. METHODS Heart rate was recorded in 23 fetuses by transabdominal Doppler at 28-33 weeks gestation. The SD of interbeat intervals over 20 min assessed FHRV. Maternal depression ratings and hair concentrations of cortisol and cortisone were assayed. An auditory sensory gating paradigm assessed newborn development of cerebral inhibition. Parents rated their infant's temperament characteristics on the Infant Behavior Questionnaire-Revised Short Form (IBQ-R). RESULTS Maternal depression was associated with lower FHRV, especially for male fetuses, β = -0.633, P = 0.045. Maternal depression was associated with lower cortisol to total corticosteroids ratios, β = -0.519, P = 0.033. Lower cortisol ratios were associated with decreased FHRV, β = 0.485, P = 0.019. Decreased FHRV was associated with increased newborn sensory gating deficits, β = -0.992, P = 0.035, indicating poorer development of cerebral inhibition. Higher FHRV was related to increased infant IBQ-R self-regulatory behaviors, r = 0.454, P = 0.029. CONCLUSION Maternal depression is associated via corticosteroids with decreased development of nervous system control of fetal heart rate. Decreased FHRV indicates developmental alterations in gestation that correlate with altered brain function and subsequent regulatory challenges in early infancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon K. Hunter
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Robert Freedman
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Amanda J. Law
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Uwe Christians
- Department of Anesthesiology, iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jacob B.W. Holzman
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Pediatric Mental Health Institute, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Zachary Johnson
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - M. Camille Hoffman
- Department of Psychiatry, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Bérard A, Sheehy O, Zhao JP, Vinet E, Quach C, Kassai B, Bernatsky S. Available medications used as potential therapeutics for COVID-19: What are the known safety profiles in pregnancy. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251746. [PMID: 34010282 PMCID: PMC8133446 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications already available to treat other conditions are presently being studied in clinical trials as potential treatments for COVID-19. Given that pregnant women are excluded from these trials, we aimed to investigate their safety when used during pregnancy within a unique population source. METHODS Using the population-based Quebec Pregnancy Cohort, we identified women who delivered a singleton liveborn (1998-2015). Taking potential confounders into account including indications for use, the risk of prematurity, low birth weight (LBW), small for gestational age (SGA), and major congenital malformation (MCM) associated with COVID-19 repurposed drug use during pregnancy were quantified using generalized estimation equations. RESULTS Of the 231,075 eligible pregnancies, 107 were exposed to dexamethasone (0.05%), 31 to interferons (0.01%), 1,398 to heparins (0.60%), 24 to angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARB) (0.01%), 182 to chloroquine (0.08%), 103 to hydroxychloroquine (0.05%), 6,206 to azithromycin (2.70%), 230 to oseltamivir (0.10%), and 114 to HIV medications (0.05%). Adjusting for potential confounders, we observed an increased risk of prematurity related to dexamethasone (aOR 1.92, 95%CI 1.11-3.33; 15 exposed cases), anti-thrombotics (aOR 1.58, 95%CI 1.31-1.91; 177 exposed cases), and HIV medications (aOR 2.04, 95%CI 1.01-4.11; 20 exposed cases) use. An increased risk for LBW associated with anti-thrombotics (aOR 1.72, 95%CI 1.41-2.11; 152 exposed cases), and HIV medications (aOR 2.48, 95%CI 1.25-4.90; 21 exposed cases) use were also found. Gestational exposure to anti-thrombotics (aOR 1.20, 95%CI 1.00-1.44; 176 exposed cases), and HIV medications (aOR 2.61, 95%CI 1.51-4.51; 30 exposed cases) were associated with SGA. First-trimester dexamethasone (aOR 1.66, 95%CI 1.02-2.69; 20 exposed cases) and azithromycin (aOR 1.10, 95%CI 1.02-1.19; 747 exposed cases) exposures were associated with MCM. CONCLUSIONS Many available medications considered as treatments for COVID-19 are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Caution is warranted when considering these medications during the gestational period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anick Bérard
- Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Odile Sheehy
- Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jin-Ping Zhao
- Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Evelyne Vinet
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Caroline Quach
- Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Behrouz Kassai
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - Sasha Bernatsky
- Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Lamadé EK, Hendlmeier F, Wudy SA, Witt SH, Rietschel M, Coenen M, Gilles M, Deuschle M. Rhythm of Fetoplacental 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 - Fetal Protection From Morning Maternal Glucocorticoids. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:1630-1636. [PMID: 33621325 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Excess glucocorticoids impact fetal health. Maternal glucocorticoids peak in early morning. Fetoplacental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) inactivates cortisol to cortisone, protecting the fetus from high glucocorticoids. However, time-specific alterations of human fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 have not been studied. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 activity shows time-specific alteration and acute affective or anxiety disorders impact fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 activity. METHODS In this observational study we investigated 78 pregnant European women undergoing amniocentesis (15.9 ± 0.9 weeks of gestation). Amniotic fluid was collected (8:00 to 16:30 hours) for analysis of fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 activity, using cortisol (F):cortisone (E) ratio in amniotic fluid, E/(E + F). Fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 rhythm and association with "acute affective or anxiety disorder" (patients with at least one of: a major depressive episode, specific phobia, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mixed anxiety and depressive disorder) and "acute anxiety disorder" (one of: panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, mixed anxiety, depressive disorder), assessed using Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, were investigated. RESULTS Activity of 11β-HSD2 correlated with time of amniocentesis, peaking in the morning (r = -0.398; P < 0.001) and increased with acute affective or anxiety disorder (mean [M] = 0.70 vs M = 0.74; P = 0.037) and acute anxiety disorder (M = 0.70 vs M = 0.75; P = 0.016). These associations remained significant when controlling for confounders. 11β-HSD2 activity correlated negatively with pre-pregnancy body mass index (r = -0.225; P = 0.047). CONCLUSION Our study indicates a time-specific alteration of fetoplacental 11β-HSD2 activity with peaking levels in the morning, demonstrating a mechanism of fetal protection from the morning maternal glucocorticoid surge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kathrin Lamadé
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ferdinand Hendlmeier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Feulgenstrasse 10-12, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stephanie H Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marcella Rietschel
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michaela Coenen
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Chair of Public Health and Health Services Research, LMU Munich, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, Munich, Germany
- Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Elisabeth-Winterhalter-Weg 6, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Gilles
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Deuschle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, J5, Mannheim, Germany
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11
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Lamadé EK, Hendlmeier F, Wudy SA, Blum WF, Witt SH, Rietschel M, Coenen M, Gilles M, Deuschle M. Childhood trauma and insulin-like growth factors in amniotic fluid: An exploratory analysis of 79 women. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2021; 127:105180. [PMID: 33690109 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2021.105180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal stress has adverse effects on fetal outcome, yet the effect of early maternal trauma on fetal outcome has scarcely been studied. We investigated effects of maternal childhood trauma and current environment on important regulators of prenatal growth, fetal insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and IGF-2 in amniotic fluid and assessed the impact of IGFs on newborn anthropometrics. METHODS 79 pregnant women in their second trimester who underwent amniocentesis (15.9 ± 0.9 weeks of gestational age) and their newborns at birth were analyzed. Maternal childhood trauma was assessed using the childhood trauma questionnaire (CTQ) and current environment was operationalized by assessing maternal psychosocial, physical health and endocrine measurements in amniotic fluid. RESULTS In this exploratory analysis of 79 pregnant women, maternal childhood trauma, defined as reporting at least low scores on any of the CTQ subscales, negatively correlated with fetal IGF-1 (Mln = 3.48 vs. 2.98; p = 0.012) and IGF-2 (Mdnln = 4.99 vs. 4.70; p = 0.002). Trauma severity, defined as the overall trauma score, negatively correlated with fetal IGF-2 (r = -0.24; p = 0.037). From trauma subscales, maternal sexual abuse correlated with fetal IGF-1 (r = -0.32; p = 0.006) and IGF-2 (r = -0.39; p = 0.001). Maternal BMI negatively correlated with fetal IGF-1 (r = -0.26; p = 0.023) and IGF-2 (r = -0.29; p = 0.011). Newborn anthropometrics were operationalized by length, weight, sex, gestational age, length/gestational age and weight/gestational age at birth. Fetal weight at birth associated with a trend with fetal IGF-1 when controlling for BMI. Maternal hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activity and maternal exercise did not contribute significantly to predicting fetal IGFs. Maternal childhood trauma (β = -0.27; p = 0.011) and BMI (β = -0.24; p = 0.026) remained significantly associated with fetal IGF-1. Maternal childhood trauma (β = -0.32; p = 0.003), maternal BMI (β = -0.30; p = 0.005) and maternal sexual abuse (β = -0.22; p = 0.049) remained significantly associated with fetal IGF-2 and with a trend with fetal IGF-1 (β = -0.21; p = 0.076) when excluding women with gestational diabetes. CONCLUSION Maternal childhood trauma and BMI associate negatively with fetal IGF-1 and IGF-2 in amniotic fluid. Controlling for maternal BMI, fetal weight at birth remains associated with a trend with fetal IGF-1. The presented data suggests that childhood trauma can affect endocrine measurements of the developing next generation, providing a mechanism by which adverse maternal life events are transmitted to the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Kathrin Lamadé
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Ferdinand Hendlmeier
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Werner F Blum
- Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stephanie H Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Marcella Rietschel
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in Psychiatry, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michaela Coenen
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Chair of Public Health and Health Services Research, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany; Pettenkofer School of Public Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Gilles
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Michael Deuschle
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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12
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Ortega VA, Mercer EM, Giesbrecht GF, Arrieta MC. Evolutionary Significance of the Neuroendocrine Stress Axis on Vertebrate Immunity and the Influence of the Microbiome on Early-Life Stress Regulation and Health Outcomes. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:634539. [PMID: 33897639 PMCID: PMC8058197 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.634539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is broadly defined as the non-specific biological response to changes in homeostatic demands and is mediated by the evolutionarily conserved neuroendocrine networks of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system. Activation of these networks results in transient release of glucocorticoids (cortisol) and catecholamines (epinephrine) into circulation, as well as activation of sympathetic fibers innervating end organs. These interventions thus regulate numerous physiological processes, including energy metabolism, cardiovascular physiology, and immunity, thereby adapting to cope with the perceived stressors. The developmental trajectory of the stress-axis is influenced by a number of factors, including the gut microbiome, which is the community of microbes that colonizes the gastrointestinal tract immediately following birth. The gut microbiome communicates with the brain through the production of metabolites and microbially derived signals, which are essential to human stress response network development. Ecological perturbations to the gut microbiome during early life may result in the alteration of signals implicated in developmental programming during this critical window, predisposing individuals to numerous diseases later in life. The vulnerability of stress response networks to maladaptive development has been exemplified through animal models determining a causal role for gut microbial ecosystems in HPA axis activity, stress reactivity, and brain development. In this review, we explore the evolutionary significance of the stress-axis system for health maintenance and review recent findings that connect early-life microbiome disturbances to alterations in the development of stress response networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van A Ortega
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,International Microbiome Centre, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Emily M Mercer
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,International Microbiome Centre, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gerald F Giesbrecht
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Owerko Centre, The Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Marie-Claire Arrieta
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,International Microbiome Centre, Cumming School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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13
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Worsham W, Dalton S, Bilder DA. The Prenatal Hormone Milieu in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:655438. [PMID: 34276434 PMCID: PMC8280339 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.655438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Though the etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains largely unknown, recent findings suggest that hormone dysregulation within the prenatal environment, in conjunction with genetic factors, may alter fetal neurodevelopment. Early emphasis has been placed on the potential role of in utero exposure to androgens, particularly testosterone, to theorize ASD as the manifestation of an "extreme male brain." The relationship between autism risk and obstetric conditions associated with inflammation and steroid dysregulation merits a much broader understanding of the in utero steroid environment and its potential influence on fetal neuroendocrine development. The exploration of hormone dysregulation in the prenatal environment and ASD development builds upon prior research publishing associations with obstetric conditions and ASD risk. The insight gained may be applied to the development of chronic adult metabolic diseases that share prenatal risk factors with ASD. Future research directions will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney Worsham
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Susan Dalton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Deborah A Bilder
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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14
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Freedman R, Hunter SK, Noonan K, Wyrwa A, Christians U, Law AJ, Hoffman MC. Maternal Prenatal Depression in Pregnancies With Female and Male Fetuses and Developmental Associations With C-reactive Protein and Cortisol. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:310-320. [PMID: 33060035 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal depression has lasting effects on development in offspring, including later mental illness risk. Maternal responses to depression include inflammation and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis stimulation. Effects on development of cerebral inhibitory neurocircuits may differ for female and male fetuses. METHODS Mothers (N = 181) were assessed periodically, beginning at 16 weeks' gestation, using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale. Maternal prenatal C-reactive protein and hair cortisol and cortisone levels were determined. Cortisone was determined in neonatal hair. Development of cerebral inhibitory neurocircuits was assessed in 162 1-month-old newborns by inhibition of P50 electrophysiological responses to repeated sounds. RESULTS Maternal depression was associated with decreased newborn P50 inhibition in both sexes. Maternal C-reactive protein levels were significantly associated with depression only in pregnancies with male fetuses and with decreased newborn P50 inhibition only in male newborns. Maternal cortisol levels were significantly associated with depression only in pregnancies with female fetuses and with decreased newborn P50 inhibition only in female newborns. In pregnancies with male fetuses compared with pregnancies with female fetuses, cortisol was more robustly metabolized to cortisone, which does not activate cortisol receptors. CONCLUSIONS This study finds sex-specific associations of C-reactive protein and cortisol levels with prenatal depression in women and with decreased development of newborn P50 inhibition. Sex-based differences in maternal response to depression with inflammation or cortisol and their developmental effects may reflect evolutionary influences to promote survival in adversity. Decreased newborn P50 inhibition is associated with later childhood behavioral problems, and decreased P50 inhibition is a pathophysiological feature of several mental illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Freedman
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado.
| | - Sharon K Hunter
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kathleen Noonan
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Anna Wyrwa
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Uwe Christians
- Department of Psychiatry, iC42 Clinical Research and Development, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Amanda J Law
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado; Department of Anesthesiology, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
| | - M Camille Hoffman
- Institute for Children's Mental Disorders, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado; Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center F-546, Aurora, Colorado
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15
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Meyer JS, Novak MA. Assessment of prenatal stress-related cortisol exposure: focus on cortisol accumulation in hair and nails. Dev Psychobiol 2020; 63:409-436. [PMID: 32783213 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal stress adversely affects offspring development. Although cortisol is hypothesized to be a key mediator of stress-induced developmental deficits, determining the amount of fetal cortisol exposure produced by maternal stress has proved challenging. Current approaches, such as measuring cortisol concentrations in maternal plasma, saliva, or urine, amniotic fluid, fetal plasma, or cord blood, all have significant limitations for assessing cumulative fetal cortisol exposure over time. A recently emerging approach is to measure cortisol concentrations in maternal hair and/or newborn hair or nail samples. Maternal hair cortisol potentially shows long-term production across each trimester of pregnancy, whereas neonatal hair or nail cortisol is thought to reflect mainly third trimester hormone accumulation. This review first describes fetal adrenocortical development, placental cortisol metabolism, and the various sources of fetal cortisol exposure across pregnancy. We then summarize the results obtained from "classical" methods of assessing prenatal cortisol exposure prior to the advent of hair and nail cortisol measurement. Lastly, we discuss the initial development and validation of the hair cortisol methodology, its subsequent application to studies of chronic stress, and recent findings regarding maternal and neonatal hair or nail cortisol concentrations in relation to prenatal stress and other variables of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerrold S Meyer
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Melinda A Novak
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Neuroscience and Behavior Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
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16
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Fu L, Bo QL, Gan Y, Chen YH, Zhao H, Tao FB, Xu DX. Association among placental 11β-HSD2, PPAR-γ, and NF-κB p65 in small-for-gestational-age infants: A nested case-control study. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 83:e13231. [PMID: 32187412 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD2) catalyzes active glucocorticoids into their inactive products, preventing the passage of glucocorticoids into the fetus from maternal circulation. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily that regulates the expression of placental 11β-HSD2. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a transcription factor that regulates inflammatory signaling. This study aimed to investigate the association among 11β-HSD2, PPAR-γ, and NF-κB p65 in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. METHOD OF STUDY Forty-six SGA and 46 appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) infants were enrolled in this study. Both newborns and placentas were weighed. Placental 11β-HSD2 levels were measured using Western blotting. Placental PPAR-γ and NF-κB p65 were detected by immunohistochemistry. Placental inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS 11β-HSD2 levels were lower in SGA placentas than those in AGA placentas. Placental PPAR-γ-positive nuclei were less in SGA than those in AGA. By contrast, placental NF-κB p65-positive nuclei were more in SGA than those in AGA. The levels of CRP, TNF-α, IL-8, and IL-1β, several inflammatory cytokines, were higher in SGA placentas. Correlation analysis showed that neonatal weight was positively associated with PPAR-γ and 11β-HSD2 in SGA placentas. By contrast, neonatal weight was inversely correlated with NF-κB p65 in SGA placentas. 11β-HSD2 was positively correlated with PPAR-γ in SGA placentas. CONCLUSIONS Inflammation-associated downregulation of placental PPAR-γ and 11β-HSD2 may be involved in SGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Fu
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qing-Li Bo
- Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu Gan
- Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Hua Chen
- Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Fang-Biao Tao
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Population Health & Aristogenics, Hefei, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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17
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Dowell J, Elser BA, Schroeder RE, Stevens HE. Cellular stress mechanisms of prenatal maternal stress: Heat shock factors and oxidative stress. Neurosci Lett 2019; 709:134368. [PMID: 31299286 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Development of the brain prenatally is affected by maternal experience and exposure. Prenatal maternal psychological stress changes brain development and results in increased risk for neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, multiple levels of prenatal stress mechanisms (offspring brain, placenta, and maternal physiology) are discussed and their intersection with cellular stress mechanisms explicated. Heat shock factors and oxidative stress are closely related to each other and converge with the inflammation, hormones, and cellular development that have been more deeply explored as the basis of prenatal stress risk. Increasing evidence implicates cellular stress mechanisms in neuropsychiatric disorders associated with prenatal stress including affective disorders, schizophrenia, and child-onset psychiatric disorders. Heat shock factors and oxidative stress also have links with the mechanisms involved in other kinds of prenatal stress including external exposures such as environmental toxicants and internal disruptions such as preeclampsia. Integrative understanding of developmental neurobiology with these cellular and physiological mechanisms is necessary to reduce risks and promote healthy brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Dowell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Benjamin A Elser
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Rachel E Schroeder
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
| | - Hanna E Stevens
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Human Toxicology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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18
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Beck KR, Thompson GR, Odermatt A. Drug-induced endocrine blood pressure elevation. Pharmacol Res 2019; 154:104311. [PMID: 31212012 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Patients with uncontrolled hypertension are at risk for cardiovascular complications. The majority of them suffers from unidentified forms of hypertension and a fraction has so-called secondary hypertension with an identifiable cause. The patient's medications, its use of certain herbal supplements and over-the-counter agents represent potential causal factors for secondary hypertension that are often overlooked. The current review focuses on drugs that are likely to elevate blood pressure by affecting the human endocrine system at the level of steroid synthesis or metabolism, mineralocorticoid receptor activity, or by affecting the catecholaminergic system. Drugs with known adverse effects but where benefits outweigh their risks, drug candidates and market withdrawals are reviewed. Finally, potential therapeutic strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina R Beck
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - George R Thompson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Davis, California, USA
| | - Alex Odermatt
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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19
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Kress V, Steudte-Schmiedgen S, Kopp M, Förster A, Altus C, Schier C, Wimberger P, Kirschbaum C, von Soest T, Weidner K, Junge-Hoffmeister J, Garthus-Niegel S. The Impact of Parental Role Distributions, Work Participation, and Stress Factors on Family Health-Related Outcomes: Study Protocol of the Prospective Multi-Method Cohort "Dresden Study on Parenting, Work, and Mental Health" (DREAM). Front Psychol 2019; 10:1273. [PMID: 31263435 PMCID: PMC6584823 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Dresden Study on Parenting, Work, and Mental Health (“DResdner Studie zu Elternschaft, Arbeit, und Mentaler Gesundheit”, DREAM) aims to prospectively investigate the relationship between parental work participation, role distribution, stress factors, and their effects on perinatal outcomes and long-term family mental and somatic health in a community sample targeting N = 4,000 individuals, i.e., 2,000 couples, expecting a child and residing in Dresden, Germany (interim sample of N = 1,410 participants, recruitment ongoing). Various questionnaires are completed at four measurement points from pregnancy to 2 years postpartum (prolongation into middle childhood planned). Applying a multi-method approach, long-term endocrinological data (analyses of hair cortisol concentrations and other endogenous hormones, “DREAMHAIR”) and qualitative interview data (regarding gender role attitudes and distribution of domestic work, child care, and paid employment; “DREAMTALK”) are obtained. In this study protocol, the theoretical background, methods, and preliminary results considering sociodemographic characteristics during pregnancy and birth-related factors at 8 weeks postpartum are presented. Additionally, there is a focus on our endocrinological sub-study DREAMHAIR. In this sub-study currently comprising N = 152 participants, i.e., 88 families (recruitment ongoing), we want to gain knowledge on the transgenerational processes of stress regulation and psychopathology in the whole family by analyzing hair cortisol concentrations in both parents and children during the course from pregnancy (or after birth regarding children) to at least 2 years postpartum. By comparing data of the community sample to a clinical sample of mothers with postpartum mental disorders, their children, and their partners during the period between admission and discharge from a mother-baby unit and post-treatment (“DREAMMBU”), the course of mothers' psychopathology, parent-infant interaction, and infant regulation disorders with special regard to long-term endocrine correlates will be examined. With previous studies neglecting the fathers or partners involved, a major advantage of DREAM is the use of a multi-method and multi-level approach by examining the whole family in a longitudinal design. Therefore, the DREAM study will contribute to a better understanding of the role of social, work, and stress factors for mental and somatic health and its long-term endocrine correlates in the natural course of becoming a family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Kress
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susann Steudte-Schmiedgen
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Institute of Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie Kopp
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anke Förster
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Caroline Altus
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Caroline Schier
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Pauline Wimberger
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Clemens Kirschbaum
- Institute of Biological Psychology, Faculty of Psychology of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Tilmann von Soest
- Department of Psychology, PROMENTA Research Center, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kerstin Weidner
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Juliane Junge-Hoffmeister
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Susan Garthus-Niegel
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine of the Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Department of Child Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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20
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Chen L, Guilmette J, Luo ZC, Cloutier A, Wang WJ, Yang MN, Fraser WD, Dubois J, Nuyt AM. Placental 11β-HSD2 and Cardiometabolic Health Indicators in Infancy. Diabetes Care 2019; 42:964-971. [PMID: 30833369 DOI: 10.2337/dc18-2041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetal excessive exposure to glucocorticoids may program cardiometabolic risk. Placental 11 β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD2) serves as a barrier to prevent fetal overexposure to maternal glucocorticoids. It has not been explored whether placental 11β-HSD2 levels are associated with cardiometabolic health in postnatal life. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS In a prospective birth cohort study of 246 mother-infant pairs, we measured placental 11β-HSD2 expression and maternal (32-35 weeks of gestation) and cord plasma cortisol concentrations. The primary outcomes were HOMA of insulin resistance (IR) and blood pressure (BP) in infants at age 1 year. Other outcomes included fasting insulin, HOMA β-cell function, carotid intima-media thickness, weight z score, and skinfold thickness (triceps and subscapular) at age 1 year. RESULTS Placental 11β-HSD2 expression was negatively correlated with HOMA-IR (r = -0.17, P = 0.021) and fasting insulin (r = -0.18, P = 0.017) and marginally negatively correlated with systolic BP (r = -0.16, P = 0.057) but was not correlated with HOMA of β-cell function, diastolic BP, carotid intima-media thickness, and skinfold thickness (all P > 0.1) in infants at age 1 year. Cord plasma cortisol was negatively correlated to skinfold thickness (r = -0.20, P = 0007) but was not correlated with other outcomes at age 1 year. Maternal plasma cortisol was positively correlated with maximal carotid intima-media thickness (r = 0.20, P = 0.03) but was not correlated with other outcomes. Adjusting for maternal and infant characteristics, the associations were similar. CONCLUSIONS The study is the first to show that higher placental 11β-HSD2 expression is associated with lower IR in infancy. Independent cohort studies are required to confirm this novel finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Prosserman Center for Population Health Research, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Julie Guilmette
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Pathology, Charles-Lemoyne Hospital, Longueuil, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zhong-Cheng Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Prosserman Center for Population Health Research, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada .,Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anik Cloutier
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Wen-Juan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Prosserman Center for Population Health Research, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Nan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Prosserman Center for Population Health Research, Mount Sinai Hospital, and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - William D Fraser
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Josée Dubois
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anne Monique Nuyt
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital and Research Center, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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21
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Shallie PD, Naicker T. The placenta as a window to the brain: A review on the role of placental markers in prenatal programming of neurodevelopment. Int J Dev Neurosci 2019; 73:41-49. [PMID: 30634053 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During development, the placenta can be said to be the most important organ, however, the most poorly researched. There is currently a broader understanding of how specific insults during development affect the fetal brain, and also the importance of placental signaling in neurodevelopmental programming. Epigenetic responses to maternal and fetal signals are an obvious candidate for transforming early life inputs into long-term programmatic outcomes. As a mediator of maternal and environmental signals to the developing fetus, epigenetic processes within the placenta are particularly powerful such that alterations of placental gene expression, downstream function, and signalling during foetal development have the potential for dramatic changes in developmental programming. SUMMARY In this article, we reviewed emerging evidence for a placental role in prenatal neurodevelopmental programming with a specific focus on nutrient and prenatal stress signals integration into chromatin changes; this new understanding, we hope will provide the means for lowering developmentally based disorder risk, and new therapeutic targets for treatment in adulthood. KEY MESSAGES Based on this review, the placenta is a potent micro-environmental player in neurodevelopment as it orchestrates a series of complex maternal-foetal interactions. Maternal insults to this microenvironment will impair these processes and disrupt foetal brain development resulting in the prenatal programming of neurodevelopmental disorders. These findings should inspire advance animal model and human research drive to appraise gene-environment impacts during pregnancy that will target the developmental cause of adult-onset mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philemon Dauda Shallie
- Optics and Imaging Centre, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, Nelson Mandela Medical School, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics and Imaging Centre, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, Nelson Mandela Medical School, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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22
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Zhu P, Wang W, Zuo R, Sun K. Mechanisms for establishment of the placental glucocorticoid barrier, a guard for life. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:13-26. [PMID: 30225585 PMCID: PMC11105584 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-018-2918-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The fetus is shielded from the adverse effects of excessive maternal glucocorticoids by 11β-HSD2, an enzyme which is expressed in the syncytial layer of the placental villi and is capable of converting biologically active cortisol into inactive cortisone. Impairment of this placental glucocorticoid barrier is associated with fetal intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and development of chronic diseases in later life. Ontogeny studies show that the expression of 11β-HSD2 is initiated at a very early stage after conception and increases with gestational age but declines around term. The promoter for HSD11B2, the gene encoding 11β-HSD2, has a highly GC-rich core. However, the pattern of methylation on HSD11B2 may have already been set up in the blastocyst when the trophoblast identity is committed. Instead, hCG-initiated signals appear to be responsible for the upsurge of 11β-HSD2 expression during trophoblast syncytialization. By activating the cAMP/PKA pathway, hCG not only alters the modification of histones but also increases the expression of Sp1 which activates the transcription of HSD11B2. Adverse conditions such as stress, hypoxia and nutritional restriction can cause IUGR of the fetus. It appears that different causes of IUGR may attenuate HSD11B2 expression differentially in the placenta. While stress and nutritional restriction may reduce HSD11B2 expression by increasing its methylation, hypoxia may decrease HSD11B2 expression via alternative mechanisms rather than by methylation. Herein, we summarize the advances in the study of mechanisms underlying the establishment of the placental glucocorticoid barrier and the attenuation of this barrier by adverse conditions during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 401 Hospital, Qingdao, People's Republic of China
| | - Wangsheng Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Rujuan Zuo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Ram S, Howland MA, Sandman CA, Davis EP, Glynn LM. Prenatal Risk for ASD: Fetal Cortisol Exposure Predicts Child Autism-Spectrum Disorder Symptoms. Clin Psychol Sci 2018; 7:349-361. [PMID: 33758678 DOI: 10.1177/2167702618811079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is multifactorial and complex and likely involves interactions among genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. With respect to environmental influences, a growing literature implicates intrauterine experiences in the origin of this pervasive developmental disorder. In this prospective longitudinal design, we examine the hypothesis that fetal exposure to maternal cortisol may confer ASD risk. In addition, because ASD is four times more prevalent in males than females and because sexually dimorphic responses to intrauterine experiences are commonly observed, we examine whether or not any associations differ by fetal sex. Maternal plasma cortisol was measured at 15, 19, 25, 31, and 37 weeks' gestation in a sample of 84 pregnant women. ASD symptoms were assessed in their 5-year old children with the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Fetal exposure to lower levels of maternal cortisol was associated with higher levels of ASD symptoms among boys only. The observed hypocortisolemic profile exhibited by these mothers may indicate a risk factor that precedes the stress of caregiving for a child with ASD and may not be solely a consequence of the stress of caregiving as previously thought. Further, these findings confirm the value of examining prenatal hormone exposures as predictors of ASD risk and support the premise that altered prenatal steroid exposures may play a role in the etiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Ram
- Graduate School of Education and Psychology, Pepperdine University, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mariann A Howland
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Curt A Sandman
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Elysia Poggi Davis
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Laura M Glynn
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Psychology, Chapman University, Orange, CA USA
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24
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Travers S, Martinerie L, Boileau P, Xue QY, Lombès M, Pussard E. Comparative profiling of adrenal steroids in maternal and umbilical cord blood. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:127-134. [PMID: 29191401 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Fetal steroidome in late pregnancy receives multiple contributions from both maternal and fetal adrenals as well as from placenta. Depressed glucocorticoid levels have been reported in fetal blood at birth, yet studies on mineralocorticoid pathways are sparse. To investigate biosynthesis pathways at birth, adrenal steroids profiles were established in paired mothers and neonates. Forty-six paired healthy term newborns and their mothers from the Aldo cohort were assessed. Steroidomic profiles of mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids and adrenal androgens were established from umbilical cord and maternal blood at birth using a highly sensitive and specific LC-MS/MS methodology. As compared to maternal blood, umbilical cord blood exhibited high levels of steroids precursors (progesterone and 11-deoxycorticosterone) contrasting with a collapse in corticosterone levels. Consecutively, 18-hydroxycorticosterone and aldosterone levels were also depressed in neonates. Similarly, umbilical cord blood levels of both 17-hydroxyprogesterone and 11-deoxycortisol were higher while cortisol levels sharply decreased. The product-to-substrate ratios evaluating the 11-hydroxylation step (corticosterone/11-deoxycorticosterone and cortisol/11-deoxycortisol) fell for both pathways. As expected, cortisone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone levels exceed those of cortisol and corticosterone in umbilical cord blood reflecting the strong placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2) activity. Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulphate levels are higher in neonates, while both androstenedione and testosterone levels sharply fell. No significant difference in steroid levels could be observed according the gender except higher testosterone concentrations in umbilical cord of boys. Moreover, a strong and negative relationship between testosterone and progesterone levels was recorded in umbilical cord of boys. These adrenal steroidomic profiling demonstrate a deficit in mineralocorticoids (aldosterone, 18-hydroxycorticosterone and corticosterone) and glucocorticoids (cortisol) in term neonates, reflecting either a relative defect in 11-hydroxylase activity or more likely the strong placental 11-β-HSD2 activity. Collectively, these findings should be taken into account for a better understanding of regulatory interactions between placenta and fetal adrenal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Travers
- Inserm, U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Fac Med Paris-Sud, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, UMR-S 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Service de Génétique Moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94275, France
| | - Laetitia Martinerie
- Inserm, U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Service d'Endocrinologie Pédiatrique, Hôpital Robert Debré, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, F-75019, France; PremUp Foundation, Paris, F-75005, France; Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, F-75019, France
| | - Pascal Boileau
- PremUp Foundation, Paris, F-75005, France; Service de Réanimation Néonatale, CH Poissy St-Germain en-Laye, Poissy, F-78303, France; EA 7285, UFR des Sciences de la Santé, Simone Veil. Université Versailles St-Quentin en Yvelines, Montigny le Bretonneux F-78180, France
| | - Qiong-Yao Xue
- Inserm, U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Fac Med Paris-Sud, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, UMR-S 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; UMS 32, Institut Biomédical de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Marc Lombès
- Inserm, U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Fac Med Paris-Sud, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, UMR-S 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; PremUp Foundation, Paris, F-75005, France; Service d'Endocrinologie et Maladies de la Reproduction, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94275, France; UMS 32, Institut Biomédical de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France
| | - Eric Pussard
- Inserm, U1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Fac Med Paris-Sud, Univ. Paris-Sud, Université Paris Saclay, UMR-S 1185, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, F-94276, France; Service de Génétique Moléculaire, Pharmacogénétique et Hormonologie, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94275, France; UMS 32, Institut Biomédical de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre F-94276, France.
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25
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Iijima S. Sonographic evaluation of adrenal size in neonates (23 to 41 weeks of gestation). BMC Pediatr 2018; 18:60. [PMID: 29444643 PMCID: PMC5813359 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-018-1056-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fetal adrenal gland size is known to have a positive correlation with both gestational age and estimated body weight. In contrast, some clinical observations suggest that maturation of the adrenal stress response occurs after 30 weeks of gestation. In this study, adrenal gland size at birth in extremely preterm to term neonates was investigated using ultrasonography to evaluate the adrenal developmental pattern and the impact of prematurity and perinatal factors. Methods The area of the right adrenal gland was measured in the first 3 h of life in 350 neonates and corrected for birth weight (BW) to determine the corrected adrenal area index (cAI). The neonates were subdivided into three groups: group 1 (before 30 weeks of gestation), group 2 (30 to 36 weeks), and group 3 (after 37 weeks). Differences in the cAI among the 3 groups were compared to estimate the impact of perinatal factors. Results The adrenal gland size was measurable in all neonates with gestational age ranging from 23 to 41 weeks. Right adrenal gland area was highly correlated with BW (r = 0.75, p < 0.01). cAI showed a significant negative correlation with gestational age in group 1 (r = − 0.67, p < 0.01), whereas it showed no correlation with gestational age in both groups 2 and 3. As for the impact of perinatal parameters on cAI, only gestational age in group 1 and only fetal distress in group 2 were correlated with cAI. In group 3, perinatal parameters such as fetal distress and low Apgar score were correlated with cAI. Conclusions The present study demonstrated that the developmental pattern of fetal adrenal gland was different before and after 30 weeks of gestation, suggesting that the magnitude of adrenal stress response might mature after 30 weeks of gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeo Iijima
- Department of Neonatology, Toho University Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan.
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26
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Stirrat LI, Sengers BG, Norman JE, Homer NZM, Andrew R, Lewis RM, Reynolds RM. Transfer and Metabolism of Cortisol by the Isolated Perfused Human Placenta. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:640-648. [PMID: 29161409 PMCID: PMC5800837 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Fetal overexposure to glucocorticoids in utero is associated with fetal growth restriction and is postulated to be a key mechanism linking suboptimal fetal growth with cardiovascular disease in later life. OBJECTIVE To develop a model to predict maternal-fetal glucocorticoid transfer. We hypothesized placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-type 2 (11β-HSD2) would be the major rate-limiting step in maternal cortisol transfer to the fetus. DESIGN We used a deuterated cortisol tracer in the ex vivo placental perfusion model, in combination with computational modeling, to investigate the role of interconversion of cortisol and its inactive metabolite cortisone on transfer of cortisol from mother to fetus. PARTICIPANTS Term placentas were collected from five women with uncomplicated pregnancies, at elective caesarean delivery. INTERVENTION Maternal artery of the isolated perfused placenta was perfused with D4-cortisol. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES D4-cortisol, D3-cortisone, and D3-cortisol were measured in maternal and fetal venous outflows. RESULTS D4-cortisol, D3-cortisone, and D3-cortisol were detected and increased in maternal and fetal veins as the concentration of D4-cortisol perfusion increased. D3-cortisone synthesis was inhibited when 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) activity was inhibited. At the highest inlet concentration, only 3.0% of the maternal cortisol was transferred to the fetal circulation, whereas 26.5% was metabolized and 70.5% exited via the maternal vein. Inhibiting 11β-HSD activity increased the transfer to the fetus to 7.3% of the maternal input, whereas 92.7% exited via the maternal vein. CONCLUSIONS Our findings challenge the concept that maternal cortisol diffuses freely across the placenta and confirm that 11β-HSD2 acts as a major "barrier" to cortisol transfer to the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura I. Stirrat
- Tommy’s Centre for Maternal and Fetal Health, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Bram G. Sengers
- Bioengineering Science Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jane E. Norman
- Tommy’s Centre for Maternal and Fetal Health, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Z. M. Homer
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Edinburgh Clinical Research Facility, University of Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Andrew
- Mass Spectrometry Core, Edinburgh Clinical Research Facility, University of Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Rohan M. Lewis
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton S016 6BD, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca M. Reynolds
- Tommy’s Centre for Maternal and Fetal Health, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom
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Vasku M, Kleine-Eggebrecht N, Rath W, Mohaupt M, Escher G, Pecks U. Apparent systemic 11ß-dehydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 activity is increased in preeclampsia but not in intrauterine growth restriction. Pregnancy Hypertens 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Howland MA, Sandman CA, Glynn LM. Developmental origins of the human hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2017; 12:321-339. [PMID: 30058893 PMCID: PMC6334849 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2017.1356222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The developmental origins of disease or fetal programming model predicts that intrauterine exposures have life long consequences for physical and psychological health. Prenatal programming of the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is proposed as a primary mechanism by which early experiences are linked to later disease risk. Areas covered: This review describes the development of the fetal HPA axis, which is determined by an intricately timed cascade of endocrine events during gestation and is regulated by an integrated maternal-placental-fetal steroidogenic unit. Mechanisms by which stress-induced elevations in hormones of maternal, fetal, or placental origin influence the structure and function of the emerging fetal HPA axis are discussed. Recent prospective studies documenting persisting associations between prenatal stress exposures and altered postnatal HPA axis function are summarized, with effects observed beginning in infancy into adulthood. Expert commentary: The results of these studies are synthesized, and potential moderating factors are discussed. Promising areas of further research highlighted include epigenetic mechanisms and interactions between pre and postnatal influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann A. Howland
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Curt A. Sandman
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Laura M. Glynn
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA
- Department of Psychology, Chapman University, Orange, CA, USA
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Langlois F, Lim DST, Fleseriu M. Update on adrenal insufficiency: diagnosis and management in pregnancy. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2017; 24:184-192. [PMID: 28288009 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy, although relatively rare, has significant clinical implications on both maternal and fetal outcomes. Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis dynamics and physiological changes are complex, thus diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy remain challenging. RECENT FINDINGS Studies consistently demonstrate a rise in total serum cortisol with pregnancy, but less data are available on free cortisol levels. Salivary cortisol values have been measured in normal pregnancy and in a few studies using healthy nonpregnant women controls. Although this adds to our current knowledge of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis changes in pregnancy, clear-cut cortisol reference ranges are yet to be established. Serum cortisol and the cosyntropin stimulation test (albeit with higher peak cortisol thresholds) are currently the diagnostic tests of choice. Hydrocortisone is the preferred glucocorticoid replacement in pregnancy as it is inactivated by placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2; dose titration may be required, but should be individualized depending on clinical course and mode of delivery. SUMMARY Further studies on the long-term effects of maternal glucocorticoid regimens on the fetus and potential modulators of fetal glucocorticoid sensitivity and placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 are needed and will be useful in guiding clinical management strategies in pregnant women with adrenal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Langlois
- aDivision of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine bDepartment of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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30
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Ozmen A, Unek G, Korgun ET. Effect of glucocorticoids on mechanisms of placental angiogenesis. Placenta 2017; 52:41-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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31
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Yates N, Crew RC, Wyrwoll CS. Vitamin D deficiency and impaired placental function: potential regulation by glucocorticoids? Reproduction 2017; 153:R163-R171. [PMID: 28137896 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 01/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Maternal vitamin D deficiency has been implicated in a range of pregnancy complications including preeclampsia, preterm birth and intrauterine growth restriction. Some of these adverse outcomes arise from alterations in placental function. Indeed, vitamin D appears critical for implantation, inflammation, immune function and angiogenesis in the placenta. Despite these associations, absence of the placental vitamin D receptor in mice provokes little effect. Thus, interactions between maternal and fetal compartments are likely crucial for instigating adverse placental changes. Indeed, maternal vitamin D deficiency elicits changes in glucocorticoid-related parameters in pregnancy, which increase placental and fetal glucocorticoid exposure. As in utero glucocorticoid excess has a well-established role in eliciting placental dysfunction and fetal growth restriction, this review proposes that glucocorticoids are an important consideration when understanding the impact of vitamin D deficiency on placental function and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachael C Crew
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Caitlin S Wyrwoll
- School of Human SciencesThe University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Beck KR, Bächler M, Vuorinen A, Wagner S, Akram M, Griesser U, Temml V, Klusonova P, Yamaguchi H, Schuster D, Odermatt A. Inhibition of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 by the fungicides itraconazole and posaconazole. Biochem Pharmacol 2017; 130:93-103. [PMID: 28131847 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2017.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Impaired 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2)-dependent cortisol inactivation can lead to electrolyte dysbalance, hypertension and cardiometabolic disease. Furthermore, placental 11β-HSD2 essentially protects the fetus from high maternal glucocorticoid levels, and its impaired function has been associated with altered fetal growth and a higher risk for cardio-metabolic diseases in later life. Despite its important role, 11β-HSD2 is not included in current off-target screening approaches. To identify potential 11β-HSD inhibitors among approved drugs, a pharmacophore model was used for virtual screening, followed by biological assessment of selected hits. This led to the identification of several azole fungicides as 11β-HSD inhibitors, showing a significant structure-activity relationship between azole scaffold size, 11β-HSD enzyme selectivity and inhibitory potency. A hydrophobic linker connecting the azole ring to the other, more polar end of the molecule was observed to be favorable for 11β-HSD2 inhibition and selectivity over 11β-HSD1. The most potent 11β-HSD2 inhibition, using cell lysates expressing recombinant human 11β-HSD2, was obtained for itraconazole (IC50 139±14nM), its active metabolite hydroxyitraconazole (IC50 223±31nM) and posaconazole (IC50 460±98nM). Interestingly, experiments with mouse and rat kidney homogenates showed considerably lower inhibitory activity of these compounds towards 11β-HSD2, indicating important species-specific differences. Thus, 11β-HSD2 inhibition by these compounds is likely to be overlooked in preclinical rodent studies. Inhibition of placental 11β-HSD2 by these compounds, in addition to the known inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes and P-glycoprotein efflux transport, might contribute to elevated local cortisol levels, thereby affecting fetal programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina R Beck
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmazentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Murielle Bächler
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmazentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Anna Vuorinen
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmazentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Sandra Wagner
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Muhammad Akram
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Ulrich Griesser
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Veronika Temml
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Petra Klusonova
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmazentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Hideaki Yamaguchi
- Department of Applied Biological Chemistry, Meijo University, Nagoya 468-8502, Japan.
| | - Daniela Schuster
- Institute of Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Computer Aided Molecular Design Group, University of Innsbruck, Innrain 80/82, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Alex Odermatt
- Swiss Center for Applied Human Toxicology and Division of Molecular and Systems Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmazentrum, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 50, 4056 Basel, Switzerland.
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Henley D, Brown S, Pennell C, Lye S, Torpy DJ. Evidence for central hypercortisolism and elevated blood pressure in adolescent offspring of mothers with pre-eclampsia. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2016; 85:583-9. [PMID: 27144974 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maternal total and free cortisol concentrations are reduced in pre-eclampsia (PE) and gestational hypertension (GH). However, the effect of this on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function in the offspring is unknown. We examined the basal HPA axis activity in adolescent offspring of mothers with pre-pregnancy hypertension/GH/PE. DESIGN AND SUBJECTS A total of 1182 participants (mean age 17·1 years) recruited from the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study provided fasting morning blood samples for basal HPA axis and concomitant clinical assessments, including blood pressure. MEASUREMENTS Plasma ACTH, total cortisol, corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) and free cortisol calculated by Coolens' equation were measured from the blood samples collected at home before 10:00 am. RESULTS Total plasma cortisol (689 ± 153 nmol/l vs 583 ± 172 nmol/l, P = 0·024), ACTH (15·5 ± 13 pmol/l vs 10·8 ± 5·1 pmol/l, P = 0·040) and calculated free cortisol (52 ± 21 nmol/l vs 42 ± 22 nmol/l, P = 0·052) were higher in the PE offspring than in controls. The pre-pregnancy hypertension group had evidence of a lower ACTH/plasma free cortisol ratio (0·22 vs 0·33 P = 0·020) and lower CBG (713 nmol/l vs 821 nmol/l, P = 0·004) compared with controls. Systolic blood pressure was elevated in the GH/PE group compared with controls (120 mmHg vs 116 mmHg, P = 0·006). CONCLUSIONS Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity is increased in the adolescent offspring of mothers with pre-eclampsia. This may be an adaptation resulting from the reduced maternal cortisol during foetal life. The resulting mild hypercortisolism may have implications for long-term health outcomes and warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Henley
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia.
- School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia.
| | - Suzanne Brown
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, WA, Australia
| | - Craig Pennell
- School of Women's and Infants' Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Stephen Lye
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David J Torpy
- Endocrine and Metabolic Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Abstract
Fetal programming describes long-term adaptive changes that an organism undergoes in response to an intrauterine insult. This term was coined to describe the increased incidence of adult disease, such as cardiovascular disease, seen among populations that suffered an intrauterine insult. While changes induced by such an insult may be initially beneficial, they can have deleterious long-term effects. Cardiac programming effects can be induced by maternal diet alterations, fetal exposure to increased levels of corticosteroids, chronic fetal hypoxia and anemia, and maternal use of nicotine or cocaine. These stimuli result in a variety of changes in cardiac function and gene expression, many of which persist into adulthood. A possible mediator of these changes is an alteration in the DNA methylation pattern of the cardiomyocytes. This review gives an overview of the changes that have been observed in the heart in response to various programming stimuli and potential programming mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Meyer
- Center for Perinatal Biology, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Loma Linda University, School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California 92350, USA.
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Konstantakou P, Mastorakos G, Vrachnis N, Tomlinson JW, Valsamakis G. Dysregulation of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases: implications during pregnancy and beyond. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016; 30:284-293. [PMID: 27018008 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2016.1171308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucococorticoids play a critical role in the developmental programing and fetal growth. Key molecules mediating and regulating tissue-specific glucocorticoid actions are 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11beta-HSD) type 1 and 2 isozymes, both of which are expressed in the placenta and the fetal membranes. 11beta-HSD1 is implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome and its dysregulation has been observed in pregnancy-related complications (pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction). Interestingly, preliminary clinical data have associated certain 11beta-HSD1 gene polymorphisms with hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, suggesting, if confirmed by further targeted studies, it's potential as a putative prognostic marker. Animal studies and observations in humans have confirmed that 11beta-HSD2 insufficiency is related with pregnancy adversity (pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth). Importantly, down-regulation or deficiency of placental 11beta-HSD2 is associated with significant restriction in fetal growth and low-birth weight, and unfavorable cardio-metabolic profile in adulthood. The potential association of 11beta-HSD1 tissue-specific dysregulation with gestational diabetes, as well as the plausible utility of 11beta-HSD2, as a biomarker of pregnancy adversity and later life morbidity, are emerging areas of intense scientific interest and future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Konstantakou
- a Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, Aretaieio Hospital , Athens , Greece
| | - G Mastorakos
- a Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, Aretaieio Hospital , Athens , Greece
| | - N Vrachnis
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieio Hospital , Athens , Greece
| | - J W Tomlinson
- c Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital , Headington , UK
| | - G Valsamakis
- a Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, Aretaieio Hospital , Athens , Greece
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Bivol S, Owen SJ, Rose'Meyer RB. Glucocorticoid-induced changes in glucocorticoid receptor mRNA and protein expression in the human placenta as a potential factor for altering fetal growth and development. Reprod Fertil Dev 2016; 29:RD15356. [PMID: 26844822 DOI: 10.1071/rd15356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids (GCs) control essential metabolic processes in virtually every cell in the body and play a vital role in the development of fetal tissues and organ systems. The biological actions of GCs are mediated via glucocorticoid receptors (GRs), the cytoplasmic transcription factors that regulate the transcription of genes involved in placental and fetal growth and development. Several experimental studies have demonstrated that fetal exposure to high maternal GC levels early in gestation is associated with adverse fetal outcomes, including low birthweight, intrauterine growth restriction and anatomical and structural abnormalities that may increase the risk of cardiovascular, metabolic and neuroendocrine disorders in adulthood. The response of the fetus to GCs is dependent on gender, with female fetuses becoming hypersensitive to changes in GC levels whereas male fetuses develop GC resistance in the environment of high maternal GCs. In this paper we review GR function and the physiological and pathological effects of GCs on fetal development. We propose that GC-induced changes in the placental structure and function, including alterations in the expression of GR mRNA and protein levels, may play role in inhibiting in utero fetal growth.
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Abstract
Stress is an integral part of life. Activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the adult can be viewed as mostly adaptive to restore homeostasis in the short term. When stress occurs during development, and specifically during periods of vulnerability in maturing systems, it can significantly reprogram function, leading to pathologies in the adult. Thus, it is critical to understand how the HPA axis is regulated during developmental periods and what are the factors contributing to shape its activity and reactivity to environmental stressors. The HPA axis is not a passive system. It can actively participate in critical physiological regulation, inducing parturition in the sheep for instance or being a center stage actor in the preparation of the fetus to aerobic life (lung maturation). It is also a major player in orchestrating mental function, metabolic, and cardiovascular function often reprogrammed by stressors even prior to conception through epigenetic modifications of gametes. In this review, we review the ontogeny of the HPA axis with an emphasis on two species that have been widely studied-sheep and rodents-because they each share many similar regulatory mechanism applicable to our understanding of the human HPA axis. The studies discussed in this review should ultimately inform us about windows of susceptibility in the developing brain and the crucial importance of early preconception, prenatal, and postnatal interventions designed to improve parental competence and offspring outcome. Only through informed studies will our public health system be able to curb the expansion of many stress-related or stress-induced pathologies and forge a better future for upcoming generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Wood
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Claire-Dominique Walker
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Entringer S, Buss C, Wadhwa PD. Prenatal stress, development, health and disease risk: A psychobiological perspective-2015 Curt Richter Award Paper. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 62:366-75. [PMID: 26372770 PMCID: PMC4674548 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The long-term consequences of exposure to excess stress, particularly during sensitive developmental windows, on the initiation and progression of many complex, common physical and mental disorders that confer a major global burden of disease are well established. The period of intrauterine life represents among the most sensitive of these windows, at which time the effects of stress may be transmitted inter-generationally from a mother to her as-yet-unborn child. As explicated by the concept of fetal or developmental programming of health and disease susceptibility, a growing body of evidence supports the notion that health and disease susceptibility is determined by the dynamic interplay between genetic makeup and environment, particularly during intrauterine and early postnatal life. Except in extreme cases, an adverse intrauterine exposure may not, per se, 'cause' disease, but, instead, may determine propensity for disease(s) in later life (by shaping phenotypic responsivity to endogenous and exogenous disease-related risk conditions). Accumulating evidence suggests that maternal psychological and social stress during pregnancy represents one such condition that may adversely affect the developing child, with important implications for a diverse range of physical and mental health outcomes. In this paper we review primarily our own contributions to the field of maternal stress during pregnancy and child mental and physical health-related outcomes. We present findings on stress-related maternal-placental-fetal endocrine and immune/inflammatory processes that may mediate the effects of various adverse conditions during pregnancy on the developing human embryo and fetus. We enunciate conceptual and methodological issues related to the assessment of stress during pregnancy and discuss potential mechanisms of intergenerational transmission of the effects of stress. Lastly, we describe on-going research and some future directions of our program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Entringer
- Department of Medical Psychology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Luisenstraβe 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, 3117 Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health Sciences Road Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Claudia Buss
- Department of Medical Psychology, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Luisenstraβe 57, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Departments of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, 3117 Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health Sciences Road Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
| | - Pathik D. Wadhwa
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, 3117
Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health Sciences Drive, Mail
Code: 4260, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of California,
Irvine, 3117 Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health Sciences
Drive, Mail Code: 4260, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,Department of Epidemiology, University of California, Irvine, 3117
Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health Sciences Drive, Mail
Code: 4260, Irvine, CA 92697, USA,Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior, University of
California, Irvine, 3117 Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility (GNRF), 837 Health
Sciences Drive, Mail Code: 4260, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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Murphy SE, Braithwaite EC, Hubbard I, Williams KV, Tindall E, Holmes EA, Ramchandani PG. Salivary cortisol response to infant distress in pregnant women with depressive symptoms. Arch Womens Ment Health 2015; 18:247-253. [PMID: 25352317 PMCID: PMC4516861 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-014-0473-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis has been proposed as a potential underlying biological mechanism linking prenatal depression with adverse offspring outcomes. However, it is unknown whether the reactivity of this system to stress is altered in pregnant women experiencing depression. The objective of this study was to investigate whether salivary cortisol response to a distressed infant film is enhanced in pregnant women with symptoms of depression compared with non-depressed controls. Salivary cortisol and subjective mood responses to the film were measured in 53 primiparous women, between 11 and 18 weeks gestation. Both groups showed similar increases in state anxiety in response to the film, but there was a significantly increased cortisol response in women experiencing symptoms of depression. Depression during pregnancy is associated with increased reactivity of the HPA axis. This is consistent with altered HPA axis functioning being a key mechanism by which prenatal mood disturbance can impact upon fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isabelle Hubbard
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, North East Somerset, United Kingdom
| | - Kate V. Williams
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, North East Somerset, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Tindall
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, North East Somerset, United Kingdom
| | - Emily A. Holmes
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul G. Ramchandani
- Academic Unit of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Lock M, McGillick EV, Orgeig S, McMillen IC, Morrison JL. Regulation of fetal lung development in response to maternal overnutrition. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2014; 40:803-16. [PMID: 24033542 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.12166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
With the worldwide obesity epidemic, the proportion of women entering pregnancy overweight or obese has increased significantly in recent years. Babies born to obese women are at an increased risk of respiratory complications at birth and in childhood. In addition to maternal diabetes, there are a number of metabolic changes that the fetus of an overnourished mother experiences in utero that may modulate lung development and represent the mechanisms underlying the increased risk of respiratory complications. Herein we highlight a series of factors associated with the intrauterine environment of an overnourished mother that may impact on fetal lung development and lead to an increased risk of complications at birth or in postnatal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Lock
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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41
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Hill M, Pašková A, Kančeva R, Velíková M, Kubátová J, Kancheva L, Adamcová K, Mikešová M, Žižka Z, Koucký M, Šarapatková H, Kačer V, Matucha P, Meloun M, Pařízek A. Steroid profiling in pregnancy: a focus on the human fetus. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 139:201-22. [PMID: 23583279 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 03/24/2013] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In this review we focused on steroid metabolomics in human fetuses and newborns and its role in the physiology and pathophysiology of human pregnancy and subsequent stages of human life, and on the physiological relevance of steroids influencing the nervous systems with regards to their concentrations in the fetus. Steroid profiling provides valuable data for the diagnostics of diseases related to altered steroidogenesis in the fetal and maternal compartments and placenta. We outlined a potential use of steroid metabolomics for the prediction of reproductive disorders, misbalance of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and impaired insulin sensitivity in subsequent stages of human life. A possible role of steroids exhibiting a non-genomic effect in the development of gestational diabetes and in the neuroprotection via negative modulation of AMPA/kainate receptors was also indicated. Increasing progesterone synthesis and catabolism, declining production of tocolytic 5β-pregnane steroids, and rising activities of steroid sulfotransferases with the approaching term may be of importance in sustaining pregnancy. An increasing trend was demonstrated with advancing gestation toward the production of ketones (and 3β-hydroxyl groups in the case of 3α-hydroxy-steroids) was demonstrated in the fetus on the expense of 3α-hydroxy-, 17β-hydroxy-, and 20α-hydroxy-groups weakening in the sequence C17, C3, and C20. There was higher production of active progestogen but lower production of active estrogen and GABAergic steroids with the approaching term. Rising activities of placental CYP19A1 and oxidative isoforms of HSD17B, and of fetal CYP3A7 with advancing gestation may protect the fetus from hyperestrogenization. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Pregnancy and Steroids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Hill
- Institute of Endocrinology, Národní třída 8, Prague CZ 116 94, Czech Republic.
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Chapman K, Holmes M, Seckl J. 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases: intracellular gate-keepers of tissue glucocorticoid action. Physiol Rev 2013; 93:1139-206. [PMID: 23899562 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00020.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 538] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid action on target tissues is determined by the density of "nuclear" receptors and intracellular metabolism by the two isozymes of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) which catalyze interconversion of active cortisol and corticosterone with inert cortisone and 11-dehydrocorticosterone. 11β-HSD type 1, a predominant reductase in most intact cells, catalyzes the regeneration of active glucocorticoids, thus amplifying cellular action. 11β-HSD1 is widely expressed in liver, adipose tissue, muscle, pancreatic islets, adult brain, inflammatory cells, and gonads. 11β-HSD1 is selectively elevated in adipose tissue in obesity where it contributes to metabolic complications. Similarly, 11β-HSD1 is elevated in the ageing brain where it exacerbates glucocorticoid-associated cognitive decline. Deficiency or selective inhibition of 11β-HSD1 improves multiple metabolic syndrome parameters in rodent models and human clinical trials and similarly improves cognitive function with ageing. The efficacy of inhibitors in human therapy remains unclear. 11β-HSD2 is a high-affinity dehydrogenase that inactivates glucocorticoids. In the distal nephron, 11β-HSD2 ensures that only aldosterone is an agonist at mineralocorticoid receptors (MR). 11β-HSD2 inhibition or genetic deficiency causes apparent mineralocorticoid excess and hypertension due to inappropriate glucocorticoid activation of renal MR. The placenta and fetus also highly express 11β-HSD2 which, by inactivating glucocorticoids, prevents premature maturation of fetal tissues and consequent developmental "programming." The role of 11β-HSD2 as a marker of programming is being explored. The 11β-HSDs thus illuminate the emerging biology of intracrine control, afford important insights into human pathogenesis, and offer new tissue-restricted therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Chapman
- Endocrinology Unit, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Rose'meyer R. A review of the serotonin transporter and prenatal cortisol in the development of autism spectrum disorders. Mol Autism 2013; 4:37. [PMID: 24103554 PMCID: PMC3852299 DOI: 10.1186/2040-2392-4-37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during early childhood has a profound effect not only on young children but on their families. Aside from the physical and behavioural issues that need to be dealt with, there are significant emotional and financial costs associated with living with someone diagnosed with ASD. Understanding how autism occurs will assist in preparing families to deal with ASD, if not preventing or lessening its occurrence. Serotonin plays a vital role in the development of the brain during the prenatal and postnatal periods, yet very little is known about the serotonergic systems that affect children with ASD. This review seeks to provide an understanding of the biochemistry and physiological actions of serotonin and its termination of action through the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). Epidemiological studies investigating prenatal conditions that can increase the risk of ASD describe a number of factors which elevate plasma cortisol levels causing such symptoms during pregnancy such as hypertension, gestational diabetes and depression. Because cortisol plays an important role in driving dysregulation of serotonergic signalling through elevating SERT production in the developing brain, it is also necessary to investigate the physiological functions of cortisol, its action during gestation and metabolic syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roselyn Rose'meyer
- School of Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Parklands Drive, Southport, Queensland 4222, Australia.
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Selvaratnam J, Guan H, Koropatnick J, Yang K. Metallothionein-I- and -II-deficient mice display increased susceptibility to cadmium-induced fetal growth restriction. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2013; 305:E727-35. [PMID: 23880315 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00157.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Maternal cadmium exposure induces fetal growth restriction (FGR), but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. The placenta is the main organ known to protect the fetus from environmental toxins such as cadmium. In this study, we examine the role of the two key placental factors in cadmium-induced FGR. The first is placental enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), which is known to protect the fetus from exposure to high cortisol levels and subsequently FGR, and the second the cadmium binding/sequestering proteins metallotheionein (MT)-I and -II. Using the MT-I/II(-/-) mouse model, pregnant mice were administered cadmium, following which pups and placentas were collected and examined. MT-I/II(-/-) pups exposed to cadmium were significantly growth restricted, but neither placental weight nor 11β-HSD2 was altered. Although cadmium administration did not result in any visible structural changes in the placenta, increased apoptosis was detected in MT-I/II(-/-) placentas following cadmium exposure, with a significant increase in levels of both p53 and caspase 3 proteins. Additionally, glucose transporter (GLUT1) was significantly reduced in MT-I/II(-/-) placentas of pups exposed to cadmium, whereas zinc transporter (ZnT-1) remained unaltered. Taken together, these results demonstrate that MT-I/II(-/-) mice are more vulnerable to cadmium-induced FGR. The present data also suggest that increased apoptosis and reduced GLUT1 expression in the placenta contribute to the molecular mechanisms underlying cadmium-induced FGR.
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Ghaemmaghami P, Dainese SM, La Marca R, Zimmermann R, Ehlert U. The association between the acute psychobiological stress response in second trimester pregnant women, amniotic fluid glucocorticoids, and neonatal birth outcome. Dev Psychobiol 2013; 56:734-47. [PMID: 23775363 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The underlying biological mechanism of prenatal stress in humans is poorly understood, but maternal cortisol (F) excess seems to play an important role. In pregnant rats, acute stress causes an up-regulation of placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2), an enzyme present throughout the body (e.g., placenta, salivary glands) that inactivates F to cortisone (E), thereby protecting the fetus from maternal F overexposure. Whether acute stress influences human 11β-HSD2 is unclear. We aimed to explore the association between the maternal stress reactivity and amniotic fluid F, E, and the E/(E + F) ratio as a marker of fetoplacental 11β-HSD2. The predictive value of all markers for birth outcome was investigated. We examined 34 healthy pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis, which served as a standardized, real-life stressor. F, E, and E/(E + F) were determined from a single aliquot of amniotic fluid, and from saliva samples collected repeatedly. Subjects filled out state questionnaires repeatedly and were re-examined in a control condition after notification of a normal amniocentesis result. During amniocentesis, psychological stress, salivary F (SalF), and salivary E (SalE) increased significantly, whereas SalE/(E + F) decreased. The SalF reactivity was positively associated with amniotic E, while SalE/(E + F) was inversely associated with amniotic E/(E + F). SalF and SalE predicted lower and SalE/(E + F) higher birth weight. Psychological and amniotic fluid variables were unrelated to birth outcome. Findings indicate that maternal F is inactivated to E in the human fetoplacental unit during acute stress. Increased 11β-HSD2 activity within the maternal salivary glands following acute stress may mirror further stress protective mechanisms worthwhile investigating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pearl Ghaemmaghami
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich, Binzmuehlestrasse 14/Box 26, CH-8050, Zurich, Switzerland
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Affiliation(s)
- Alois Gessl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Buss C, Entringer S, Wadhwa PD. Fetal programming of brain development: intrauterine stress and susceptibility to psychopathology. Sci Signal 2012; 5:pt7. [PMID: 23047922 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.2003406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The fetal brain is highly plastic and is not only receptive to but requires cues from its environment to develop properly. Based on an understanding of evolutionary biology, developmental plasticity, and life history theory, one can predict that stressors are an important environmental condition that may influence brain development. In fact, the available empirical evidence appears to support the notion that exposure to excess stress in intrauterine life has the potential to adversely affect short- and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes with implications for altered susceptibility for mental health disorders in childhood and adult life. In this presentation, we provide a rationale for proposing that endocrine and inflammatory stress mediators are key candidate pathways for programming brain development. These mediators are responsive to a diverse set of intrauterine perturbations and alter key signaling pathways critical for brain development, including but not limited to mammalian target of rapamycin, Wnt (wingless), Sonic hedgehog, and reelin signaling. We suggest that recent advances in neuroimaging and other methods now afford us an unprecedented opportunity to advance our understanding of this important topic. Additionally, we provide empirical evidence from two recently published papers for fetal programming of human brain development. We conclude by suggesting some future directions for expanding this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Buss
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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Howerton CL, Bale TL. Prenatal programing: at the intersection of maternal stress and immune activation. Horm Behav 2012; 62:237-42. [PMID: 22465455 PMCID: PMC3568743 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to prenatal insults such as maternal stress and pathogenic infections has been associated with an increased risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. The mechanisms by which these programing events occur likely involve complex interactions between the maternal hormonal milieu, the placenta, and the developing fetus, in addition to compounding factors such as fetal sex and gestational stage of development. Despite the diverse biological processes involved, examination of common pathways in maternal stress and immune activation offers intriguing possibilities for elucidation of mechanistic insight. Further, the endocrine and sex-specific placenta is a tissue poised to be a key mediator in fetal programing, located at the intersection of the maternal and embryonic environments. In this review, we will discuss the potential shared mechanisms of maternal stress and immune pathway activation, with a particular focus on the important contribution and role of the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L. Howerton
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Tracy L. Bale
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Glynn LM, Sandman CA. Sex moderates associations between prenatal glucocorticoid exposure and human fetal neurological development. Dev Sci 2012; 15:601-10. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-7687.2012.01159.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Maternal cortisol over the course of pregnancy and subsequent child amygdala and hippocampus volumes and affective problems. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:E1312-9. [PMID: 22529357 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1201295109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 406] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress-related variation in the intrauterine milieu may impact brain development and emergent function, with long-term implications in terms of susceptibility for affective disorders. Studies in animals suggest limbic regions in the developing brain are particularly sensitive to exposure to the stress hormone cortisol. However, the nature, magnitude, and time course of these effects have not yet been adequately characterized in humans. A prospective, longitudinal study was conducted in 65 normal, healthy mother-child dyads to examine the association of maternal cortisol in early, mid-, and late gestation with subsequent measures at approximately 7 y age of child amygdala and hippocampus volume and affective problems. After accounting for the effects of potential confounding pre- and postnatal factors, higher maternal cortisol levels in earlier but not later gestation was associated with a larger right amygdala volume in girls (a 1 SD increase in cortisol was associated with a 6.4% increase in right amygdala volume), but not in boys. Moreover, higher maternal cortisol levels in early gestation was associated with more affective problems in girls, and this association was mediated, in part, by amygdala volume. No association between maternal cortisol in pregnancy and child hippocampus volume was observed in either sex. The current findings represent, to the best of our knowledge, the first report linking maternal stress hormone levels in human pregnancy with subsequent child amygdala volume and affect. The results underscore the importance of the intrauterine environment and suggest the origins of neuropsychiatric disorders may have their foundations early in life.
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