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Takeuchi F, Kato N. Ploidy inference from single-cell data: application to human and mouse cell atlases. Genetics 2024; 227:iyae061. [PMID: 38651869 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyae061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Ploidy is relevant to numerous biological phenomena, including development, metabolism, and tissue regeneration. Single-cell RNA-seq and other omics studies are revolutionizing our understanding of biology, yet they have largely overlooked ploidy. This is likely due to the additional assay step required for ploidy measurement. Here, we developed a statistical method to infer ploidy from single-cell ATAC-seq data, addressing this gap. When applied to data from human and mouse cell atlases, our method enabled systematic detection of polyploidy across diverse cell types. This method allows for the integration of ploidy analysis into single-cell studies. Additionally, this method can be adapted to detect the proliferating stage in the cell cycle and copy number variations in cancer cells. The software is implemented as the scPloidy package of the R software and is freely available from CRAN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Takeuchi
- Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Systems Genomics Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
- Department of Gene Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
| | - Norihiro Kato
- Department of Gene Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo 162-8655, Japan
- Department of Clinical Genome Informatics, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
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2
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Soman RR, Fabiszak MM, McPhee M, Schade P, Freiwald W, Brivanlou AH. High resolution dynamic ultrasound atlas of embryonic and fetal development of the common marmoset. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1319-1328. [PMID: 38446290 PMCID: PMC11143105 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03072-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) provides an ideal model to study early development of primates, and an in vivo platform to validate conclusions from in vitro studies of human embryos and embryo models. Currently, however, no established staging atlas of marmoset embryonic development exists. Using high-resolution, longitudinal ultrasound scans on live pregnant marmosets, we present the first dynamic in vivo imaging of entire primate gestation beginning with attachment until the last day before birth. METHODS Our study unveils the first dynamic images of an in vivo attached mammalian embryo developing in utero, and the intricacies of the delayed development period unique to the common marmoset amongst primates, revealing a window for somatic interventions. RESULTS Established obstetric and embryologic measurements for each scan were used comparatively with the standardized Carnegie staging of human development to highlight similarities and differences. Our study also allows for tracking the development of major organs. We focus on the ontogeny of the primate heart and brain. Finally, input ultrasound images were used to train deep neural networks to accurately determine the gestational age. All our ultrasounds and staging data recording are posted online so that the atlas can be used as a community resource toward monitoring and managing marmoset breeding colonies. CONCLUSION The temporal and spatial resolution of ultrasound achieved in this study demonstrates the promise of noninvasive imaging in the marmoset for the in vivo study of primate-specific aspects of embryonic and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan R Soman
- Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Laboratory of Synthetic Embryology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Margaret M Fabiszak
- Tri-Institutional MD-PhD Program, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Laboratory of Neural Systems, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael McPhee
- Laboratory of Neural Systems, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter Schade
- Laboratory of Neural Systems, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Winrich Freiwald
- Laboratory of Neural Systems, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ali H Brivanlou
- Laboratory of Synthetic Embryology, Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
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3
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Boyle P, Andralojc K, van der Velden S, Najmabadi S, de Groot T, Turczynski C, Stanford JB. Restoration of serum estradiol and reduced incidence of miscarriage in patients with low serum estradiol during pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study using a multifactorial protocol including DHEA. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 5:1321284. [PMID: 38239818 PMCID: PMC10794495 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1321284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Low serum estradiol in early pregnancy is associated with an elevated risk of miscarriage. We sought to determine whether efforts to restore low blood estradiol via estradiol or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation would reduce the risk of miscarriage as part of a multifactorial symptom-based treatment protocol. Methods This retrospective cohort study included women with low serum estradiol levels in early pregnancy, defined as ≤50% of reference levels by gestational age. Estradiol or DHEA were administered orally, and the primary outcome measure was serum estradiol level, in reference to gestational age. The secondary outcome measures included miscarriage, birth weight, and gestational age at birth. Results We found no significant effect of estradiol supplementation on serum estradiol levels referenced to gestational age, while DHEA supplementation strongly increased estradiol levels. For pregnancies with low estradiol, the miscarriage rate in the non-supplemented group was 45.5%, while miscarriage rate in the estradiol and DHEA supplemented groups were 21.2% (p = 0.067) and 17.5% (p = 0.038), respectively. Birth weight, size, gestational age, and preterm deliveries were not significantly different. No sexual abnormalities were reported in children (n = 29) of DHEA-supplemented patients after 5-7 years follow-up. Conclusions In conclusion, DHEA supplementation restored serum estradiol levels, and when included in the treatment protocol, there was a statistically significant reduction in miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phil Boyle
- International Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- NeoFertility Clinic, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karolina Andralojc
- NeoFertility Clinic, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Shahpar Najmabadi
- Office of Cooperative Reproductive Health, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Theun de Groot
- NeoFertility Clinic, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Craig Turczynski
- NeoFertility Clinic, Dublin, Ireland
- Billings Ovulation Method Association-USA, Saint Cloud, MN, United States
| | - Joseph B. Stanford
- International Institute for Restorative Reproductive Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Office of Cooperative Reproductive Health, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
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4
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Cai D, Li QQ, Mohammed Z, Chou WC, Huang J, Kong M, Xie Y, Yu Y, Hu G, Qi J, Zhou Y, Tan W, Lin L, Qiu R, Dong G, Zeng XW. Fetal Glucocorticoid Mediates the Association between Prenatal Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure and Neonatal Growth Index: Evidence from a Birth Cohort Study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:11420-11429. [PMID: 37494580 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid plays a key role in the growth and organ maturation of fetus. However, the effect of glucocorticoid on the association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure and fetal growth is still unknown. We detected cord cortisol (active glucocorticoid in human) and 34 PFAS concentrations in the maternal serum samples, which were collected from 202 mother-fetus pairs in the Maoming Birth Cohort from 2015 to 2018. The mediation effect of cord cortisol on the association between maternal PFAS and the neonatal growth index (NGI) was estimated. We found that higher PFAS concentrations were associated with lower NGI in terms of ponderal index, birth weight (BW), head circumference (HC), and its z-scores (BWZ and HCZ) (P < 0.05). Fetal cortisol could mediate 12.6-27.3% of the associations between PFAS and NGI. Specifically, cord cortisol mediated the association between branched perfluorooctane sulfonate (branched PFOS) and HCZ by 20.4% and between perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) and HCZ by 27.3%. Our findings provide the first epidemiological data evincing that fetal cortisol could mediate the association between prenatal PFAS exposure and fetal growth. Further investigations are recommended to elucidate the interactions among cord cortisol, PFAS, and fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Cai
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Qing-Qing Li
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Zeeshan Mohammed
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wei-Chun Chou
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611, United States
| | - Jinbo Huang
- Maoming Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Minli Kong
- Maoming Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Yanqi Xie
- Maoming Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Maoming 525000, China
| | - Yunjiang Yu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Guocheng Hu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Jianying Qi
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Health Risk Assessment, South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Weihong Tan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Genetics Center, The People's Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning 530021, China
| | - Lizi Lin
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Rongliang Qiu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guanghui Dong
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao-Wen Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Junhasavasdikul S, Panburana P, Bumrungphuet S, Dulyaphat W. The Correlation Between Three-Dimensional Ultrasound Measurement of Fetal Adrenal Gland and Maternal Serum Fructosamine Level in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Prospective Cohort Study. Int J Womens Health 2022; 14:1465-1476. [PMID: 36277447 PMCID: PMC9586166 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s373087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has an impact on fetal adrenal gland size and volume, which are greater in the GDM population. This study used 2D and 3D ultrasound scanning to determine the correlation of fetal adrenal gland size and volume with fructosamine levels, HbA1c levels, estimated fetal weight (EFW), and neonatal birth weight in GDM patients. METHODS This study included eighty singleton pregnant women diagnosed with GDM between 24-28 weeks of gestation. During weeks 32-34 of gestation, the length, width, and depth of the fetal zone and total adrenal gland were measured using transabdominal 2D ultrasound. Virtual organ computer-aided analysis (VOCAL) software was used to evaluate fetal zone and total adrenal gland volume in 3D ultrasound. All the participants were followed until delivery. Pearson's correlation analysis was conducted to examine the correlation between fetal adrenal gland ultrasound measurements and the factors of interest. RESULTS The study consisted of sixty-six (82.5%) pregnant women with diet-controlled GDM (GDMA1) and fourteen (17.5%) pregnant women with insulin-managed GDM (GDMA2). There was no difference in fetal adrenal gland measurements between the diet-controlled (GDMA1) and the insulin-managed (GDMA2) groups. All the participants had achieved optimal glucose levels at the time of ultrasound acquisition. The total adrenal gland length and fetal zone volume had statistically significant positive correlations with EFW (r = 0.69, p = 0.02 and r = 0.84, p = 0.01, respectively). After adjusting for EFW, only the fetal zone volume was significantly correlated with fructosamine levels (adjusted-OR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.5, 3.9, p = 0.01) and HbA1c levels (adjusted-OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6, 4.3, p = 0.01). CONCLUSION The fetal zone volume is correlated with EFW, fructosamine levels, and HbA1c levels. This non-invasive technique may be beneficial as an indirect marker for glycemic monitoring in GDM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saowapak Junhasavasdikul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Panyu Panburana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sommart Bumrungphuet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wirada Dulyaphat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mahidol University, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand,Correspondence: Wirada Dulyaphat, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand, Tel +66-873017028, Fax +66 02-2011416, Email
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Tamburello M, Altieri B, Sbiera I, Sigala S, Berruti A, Fassnacht M, Sbiera S. FGF/FGFR signaling in adrenocortical development and tumorigenesis: novel potential therapeutic targets in adrenocortical carcinoma. Endocrine 2022; 77:411-418. [PMID: 35583844 PMCID: PMC9385797 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03074-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
FGF/FGFR signaling regulates embryogenesis, angiogenesis, tissue homeostasis and wound repair by modulating proliferation, differentiation, survival, migration and metabolism of target cells. Understandably, compelling evidence for deregulated FGF signaling in the development and progression of different types of tumors continue to emerge and FGFR inhibitors arise as potential targeted therapeutic agents, particularly in tumors harboring aberrant FGFR signaling. There is first evidence of a dual role of the FGF/FGFR system in both organogenesis and tumorigenesis, of which this review aims to provide an overview. FGF-1 and FGF-2 are expressed in the adrenal cortex and are the most powerful mitogens for adrenocortical cells. Physiologically, they are involved in development and maintenance of the adrenal gland and bind to a family of four tyrosine kinase receptors, among which FGFR1 and FGFR4 are the most strongly expressed in the adrenal cortex. The repeatedly proven overexpression of these two FGFRs also in adrenocortical cancer is thus likely a sign of their participation in proliferation and vascularization, though the exact downstream mechanisms are not yet elucidated. Thus, FGFRs potentially offer novel therapeutic targets also for adrenocortical carcinoma, a type of cancer resistant to conventional antimitotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Tamburello
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Iuliu Sbiera
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Sigala
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alfredo Berruti
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Martin Fassnacht
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehenssive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Silviu Sbiera
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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Aoki M, Uehara S, Nishimaki H, Aoki R, Kayama K, Nagano N, Urakami T, Morioka I. Adrenal cytomegaly with elevated serum androgen levels in a patient with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. Endocr J 2022; 69:919-926. [PMID: 35321987 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej21-0261] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is infrequently associated with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) or non-hormone-producing adrenal cytomegaly, but we recently, encountered a single case of adrenal cytomegaly in a patient with BWS, which was difficult to distinguish from androgen-producing adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). Here, we describe the case of a 4-month-old female who presented with clitoromegaly, hemihypertrophy, and an adrenal mass identified during the prenatal period. The mass was located in detected at the left suprarenal region and detected at 20 weeks of gestational age. At birth, she also presented with clitoromegaly and elevated serum levels of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and testosterone at birth and experienced hyper-insulinemic hypoglycemia, which improved following diazoxide therapy. We initially suspected androgen-producing ACC with metastasis and the left adrenal mass was resected accordingly when the patient reached 4 months of age. However, histological examination revealed adrenal cytomegaly. Genetic analysis revealed paternal uniparental disomy, and the patient was finally diagnosed as having BWS. Resection of the left adrenal gland restored the serum androgen levels to normal physiological levels without any recurrence. While it is reasonably well known that BWS is sometimes accompanied by virilization due to androgen-producing ACC, our findings are among the first to suggest that adrenal cytomegaly can also increase androgen hormone production. Thus, we propose that adrenal cytomegaly should be considered one of the differential diagnoses when accompanied with hyperandrogenism in BWS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masako Aoki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuichiro Uehara
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Haruna Nishimaki
- Department of Pathology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryoji Aoki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kayama
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Nagano
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuhiko Urakami
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ichiro Morioka
- Department of Pediatrics, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Dwivedi D, Chander B. Tissue concentration of aldosterone in fetal adrenals of intrauterine death cases. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 35:998-1002. [PMID: 35700451 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2022-0031] [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: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Fetal adrenals are one of the main organs responsible for maturation and survival. Extant literature is not clear about whether second trimester fetal adrenals are capable of synthesizing secreting aldosterone. METHODS We have taken 20 adrenals from fetuses of intrauterine death cases. None of the fetuses had any external malformations and obstetric history was unremarkable. The organs were weighed and homogenized. The supernatant was used for aldosterone estimation by ELISA. RESULTS We consistently detected aldosterone in all the cases including second trimester. However, we did not see any correlation between aldosterone concentration and gestational age. It is striking to note that there are wide variations in the tissue levels of aldosterone across different gestational ages and also same period. CONCLUSIONS Tissue aldosterone levels in second trimester can be possibly induced by stress preceding intrauterine deaths. It is possible that functional status of adrenal is different in intrauterine death cases as opposed to elective abortions in second trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Dwivedi
- Anatomy, Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Government Medical College and Hospital, Chamba, India
| | - Bal Chander
- Pathology, Professor, Department of Pathology, Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, Himachal Pradesh, Kangra, India
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9
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Lalli E, Figueiredo BC. Prolactin as an adrenocorticotropic hormone: Prolactin signalling is a conserved key regulator of sexually dimorphic adrenal gland function in health and disease. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200109. [PMID: 36000778 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A large number of previous reports described an effect of the pituitary hormone prolactin (PRL) on steroid hormone production by the adrenal cortex. However, those studies remained anecdotal and were never converted into a conceptual and mechanistic framework, let alone being translated into clinical care. In the light of our recently published landmark study where we described PRL signalling as a pivotal regulator of the sexually dimorphic adrenal phenotype in mouse and of adrenal androgen production in humans, we present here the overarching hypothesis that PRL signalling increases the activity of Steroidogenic Factor-1 (SF-1/NR5A1), a transcription factor that has an essential role in adrenal gland development and function, to regulate adrenal cortex growth and hormonal production in physiological and pathological conditions. PRL can then be considered as a bona fide adrenocorticotropic hormone synergizing with ACTH in the endocrine control of adrenal cortex function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Lalli
- EXPOGEN-CANCER CNRS International Research Project, 660 route des Lucioles, Sophia Antipolis, Valbonne, 06560, France.,Inserm, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France.,Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Valbonne, France.,Pelé Pequeno Principe Research Institute, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Bonald C Figueiredo
- EXPOGEN-CANCER CNRS International Research Project, 660 route des Lucioles, Sophia Antipolis, Valbonne, 06560, France.,Pelé Pequeno Principe Research Institute, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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10
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Cook I, Leyh TS. The N-Terminus of Human Sulfotransferase 2B1b─a Sterol-Sensing Allosteric Site. Biochemistry 2022; 61:843-855. [PMID: 35523209 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.1c00740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Among human cytosolic sulfotransferases, SULT2B1b is highly specific for oxysterols─oxidized cholesterol derivatives, including nuclear-receptor ligands causally linked to skin and neurodegerative diseases, cancer and atherosclerosis. Sulfonation of signaling oxysterols redirects their receptor-binding functions, and controlling these functions is expected to prove valuable in disease prevention and treatment. SULT2B1b is distinct among the human SULT2 isoforms by virtue of its atypically long N-terminus, which extends 15 residues beyond the next longest N-terminus in the family. Here, in silico studies are used to predict that the N-terminal extension forms an allosteric pocket and to identify potential allosteres. One such allostere, quercetin, is used to confirm the existence of the pocket and to demonstrate that allostere binding inhibits turnover. The structure of the pocket is obtained by positioning quercetin on the enzyme, using spin-label-triangulation NMR, followed by NMR distance-constrained molecular dynamics docking. The model is confirmed using a combination of site-directed mutagenesis and initial-rate studies. Stopped-flow ligand-binding studies demonstrate that inhibition is achieved by stabilizing the closed form of the enzyme active-site cap, which encapsulates the nucleotide, slowing its release. Finally, endogenous oxysterols are shown to bind to the site in a highly selective fashion─one of the two immediate biosynthetic precursors of cholesterol (7-dehydrocholesterol) is an inhibitor, while the other (24-dehydrocholesterol) is not. These findings provide insights into the allosteric dialogue in which SULT2B1b participates in in vivo and establishes a template against which to develop isoform-specific inhibitors to control SULT2B1b biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Cook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461-1926, United States
| | - Thomas S Leyh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461-1926, United States
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Jimenez C, Armaiz-Pena G, Dahia PLM, Lu Y, Toledo RA, Varghese J, Habra MA. Endocrine and Neuroendocrine Tumors Special Issue—Checkpoint Inhibitors for Adrenocortical Carcinoma and Metastatic Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma: Do They Work? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030467. [PMID: 35158739 PMCID: PMC8833823 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Adrenocortical cancers and metastatic pheochromocytomas are the most common malignancies originating in the adrenal glands. Metastatic paragangliomas are extra-adrenal tumors that share similar genetic and molecular profiles with metastatic pheochromocytomas and, subsequently, these tumors are studied together. Adrenocortical cancers and metastatic pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas are orphan diseases with limited therapeutic options worldwide. As in any other cancers, adrenocortical cancers and metastatic pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas avoid the immune system. Hypoxia-pseudohypoxia, activation of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, and/or microsatellite instability suggest that immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors could be a therapeutic option for patients with these tumors. The results of clinical trials with checkpoint inhibitors for adrenocortical carcinoma or metastatic pheochromocytoma or paraganglioma demonstrate limited benefits; nevertheless, these results also suggest interesting mechanisms that might enhance clinical responses to checkpoint inhibitors. These mechanisms include the normalization of tumor vasculature, modification of the hormonal environment, and vaccination with specific tumor antigens. Combinations of checkpoint inhibitors with classical therapies, such as chemotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, radiopharmaceuticals, and/or novel therapies, such as vaccines, should be evaluated in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Jimenez
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.V.); (M.A.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Gustavo Armaiz-Pena
- Division of Endocrinology, Department Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA;
| | - Patricia L. M. Dahia
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA;
- Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Yang Lu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Rodrigo A. Toledo
- CIBERONC, Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors, Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Centro Cellex, 08035 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Jeena Varghese
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.V.); (M.A.H.)
| | - Mouhammed Amir Habra
- Department of Endocrine Neoplasia and Hormonal Disorders, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (J.V.); (M.A.H.)
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12
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Wang Y, Guo B, Guo Y, Qi N, Lv Y, Ye Y, Huang Y, Long X, Chen H, Su C, Zhang L, Zhang Q, Li M, Liao J, Yan Y, Mao X, Zeng Y, Jiang J, Chen Z, Guo Y, Gao S, Cheng J, Jiang Y, Mo Z. A spatiotemporal steroidogenic regulatory network in human fetal adrenal glands and gonads. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1036517. [PMID: 36465633 PMCID: PMC9713933 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1036517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Human fetal adrenal glands produce substantial amounts of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is one of the most important precursors of sex hormones. However, the underlying biological mechanism remains largely unknown. Herein, we sequenced human fetal adrenal glands and gonads from 7 to 14 gestational weeks (GW) via 10× Genomics single-cell transcriptome techniques, reconstructed their location information by spatial transcriptomics. Relative to gonads, adrenal glands begin to synthesize steroids early. The coordination among steroidogenic cells and multiple non-steroidogenic cells promotes adrenal cortex construction and steroid synthesis. Notably, during the window of sexual differentiation (8-12 GW), key enzyme gene expression shifts to accelerate DHEA synthesis in males and cortisol synthesis in females. Our research highlights the robustness of the action of fetal adrenal glands on gonads to modify the process of sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifu Wang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Bingqian Guo
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yajie Guo
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Nana Qi
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yufang Lv
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yu Ye
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Emergency, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xinyang Long
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- School of Public Health of Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hongfei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Cheng Su
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Liying Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qingyun Zhang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Minxi Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinling Liao
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yunkun Yan
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xingning Mao
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yanyu Zeng
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinghang Jiang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhongyuan Chen
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Shuai Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiwen Cheng
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yonghua Jiang
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedicine (Guangxi-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Collaborative Innovation Center for Major Disease Prevention and Treatment), Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Life Sciences Institute, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- *Correspondence: Zengnan Mo, ; Yonghua Jiang,
| | - Zengnan Mo
- Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Collaborative Innovation Center for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Genomic and Personalized Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Guangxi, China
- Institute of Urology and Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- *Correspondence: Zengnan Mo, ; Yonghua Jiang,
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13
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Josephsen JB, Hemmann BM, Anderson CD, Hemmann BM, Buchanan PM, Williams HL, Lubsch LM, Hillman NH. Presumed adrenal insufficiency in neonates treated with corticosteroids for the prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. J Perinatol 2022; 42:65-71. [PMID: 34725449 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-01251-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if extremely preterm (EPT) neonates receiving dexamethasone for the prevention of BPD have a higher incidence of presumed adrenal insufficiency (PAI). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study of neonates <28 weeks gestation examining PAI after dexamethasone use and PAI after intratracheal budesonide with surfactant administration. RESULT Of 332 neonates, 38% received dexamethasone. The incidence of PAI was higher in neonates who had received dexamethasone (20.8% vs 2.9%, p < 0.001). However, for intubated babies receiving surfactant, dexamethasone was not independently associated with increased PAI after adjusting for gestational age, birthweight, and race (aOR 2.92, 95% CI: 0.79-10.85). Dexamethasone was independently associated with increased PAI in infants previously receiving budesonide/surfactant treatment (aOR 5.38, 95% CI: 1.38-20.90). CONCLUSION The use of dexamethasone alone was not associated with increased PAI, when adjusted for prematurity-related factors. The combination of budesonide with dexamethasone was significantly associated with increased PAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin B Josephsen
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Brianna M Hemmann
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Connie D Anderson
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Brett M Hemmann
- The Christ Hospital Health Network, Department of Pharmacy, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Paula M Buchanan
- Department of Health and Clinical Outcomes Research, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Howard L Williams
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, Department of Pharmacy, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lisa M Lubsch
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, Department of Pharmacy, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Edwardsville, IL, USA
| | - Noah H Hillman
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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14
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Becker SA, Kothe TB, Josephsen JB, Jackson K, Williams HL, Hillman NH. Early Physiological and Adrenal Effects of Budesonide Mixed with Surfactant in Large Observational Preterm Cohort Study. Neonatology 2022; 119:474-482. [PMID: 35598595 DOI: 10.1159/000524614] [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: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The combination of surfactant and budesonide has been shown to decrease BPD rates and severity. Budesonide may be released systemically from lungs, and the effects on the immature adrenal glands are not known. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine if adrenal suppression rates are higher in preterm infants receiving budesonide with surfactant compared to surfactant alone. METHODS A retrospective chart review of 608 infants ≤1,250 g received intubation for surfactant therapy from 2013 through 2020. In August 2016, budesonide was added to surfactant for these infants. Indicators of adrenal suppression, including mean blood pressures, plasma electrolyte levels, hydrocortisone use, and the use of vasoactive medications, were analyzed for the first 14 days after birth. Respiratory variables, biochemical signs of adrenal insufficiency, and neonatal morbidities were analyzed. RESULTS There was no difference in hydrocortisone administration in the first 14 days between infants receiving budesonide with surfactant (n = 314) or surfactant alone (n = 294) (23% vs. 19%, p = 0.38). Budesonide exposed infants received hydrocortisone 3 days later than surfactant only infants (median DOL 5 vs. 2, p < 0.001). Infants receiving budesonide had higher blood pressures, required less dopamine (19% vs. 39%, p < 0.001) and dobutamine (2% vs. 6%, p = 0.02). Budesonide exposed infants were discharged home after a shorter NICU stay (85 days vs. 94 days, p = 0.02) and at a younger gestational age (39 vs. 40 weeks, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The use of surfactant and budesonide does not alter the rate of hydrocortisone use, but does delay the timing of treatment initiation and decreases the use of vasoactive medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A Becker
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - T Brett Kothe
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin B Josephsen
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kathryn Jackson
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Howard L Williams
- SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Noah H Hillman
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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15
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Глазова ОВ, Воронцова МВ, Шевкова ЛВ, Сакр Н, Онянов НА, Казиахмедова СА, Волчков ПЮ. [Adrenal glands stem cells: general signaling pathways]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2021; 67:90-97. [PMID: 35018765 PMCID: PMC9753809 DOI: 10.14341/probl12819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays stem cells of adult type are attractive in case of active development of cell and genome technologies. They are the target of new therapeutic approaches, which are based on correction of mutations or replenishment of organs, that were damaged by autoimmune reactions, aging or other pathological processes. Also stem cells, including patient-specific (induced Pluripotent Stem Cells, iPSCs), and obtained by differentiation from them tissue cultures and organoids are the closest models to in vivo researches on humans, which gives an opportunity to get more relevant data while testing different therapeutic approaches and pharmacological drugs. The main molecular pathways, that are essential for homeostasis of a cortex of a adrenal gland - compound, structurally and functionally heterogeneous organ, is described the presented review. The adrenal cortex is renewing during the organism's ontogenesis at the expense of the pool of stem and progenitors cells, which are in tight junctions with differentiated steroidogenic cells and which are under constant control of endocrine and paracrine signals. The understanding of signaling pathways and interactions of different cell types will give an opportunity to develop the most suitable protocols for obtaining cells of adrenal gland cortex in a different stages of differentiation to use them in scientific and medical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- О. В. Глазова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии;
Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
| | - М. В. Воронцова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии
| | - Л. В. Шевкова
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии;
Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
| | - Н. Сакр
- Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
| | - Н. А. Онянов
- Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
| | - С. А. Казиахмедова
- Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
| | - П. Ю. Волчков
- Национальный медицинский исследовательский центр эндокринологии;
Московский физико-технический институт (национальный исследовательский университет)
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16
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Melau C, Riis ML, Nielsen JE, Perlman S, Lundvall L, Thuesen LL, Hare KJ, Hammerum MS, Mitchell RT, Frederiksen H, Juul A, Jørgensen A. The effects of selected inhibitors on human fetal adrenal steroidogenesis differs under basal and ACTH-stimulated conditions. BMC Med 2021; 19:204. [PMID: 34493283 PMCID: PMC8425147 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-021-02080-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disordered fetal adrenal steroidogenesis can cause marked clinical effects including virilization of female fetuses. In postnatal life, adrenal disorders can be life-threatening due to the risk of adrenal crisis and must be carefully managed. However, testing explicit adrenal steroidogenic inhibitory effects of therapeutic drugs is challenging due to species-specific characteristics, and particularly the impact of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation on drugs targeting steroidogenesis has not previously been examined in human adrenal tissue. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of selected steroidogenic inhibitors on human fetal adrenal (HFA) steroid hormone production under basal and ACTH-stimulated conditions. METHODS This study used an established HFA ex vivo culture model to examine treatment effects in 78 adrenals from 50 human fetuses (gestational weeks 8-12). Inhibitors were selected to affect enzymes critical for different steps in classic adrenal steroidogenic pathways, including CYP17A1 (Abiraterone acetate), CYP11B1/2 (Osilodrostat), and a suggested CYP21A2 inhibitor (Efavirenz). Treatment effects were examined under basal and ACTH-stimulated conditions in tissue from the same fetus and determined by quantifying the secretion of adrenal steroids in the culture media using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Statistical analysis was performed on ln-transformed data using one-way ANOVA for repeated measures followed by Tukey's multiple comparisons test. RESULTS Treatment with Abiraterone acetate and Osilodrostat resulted in potent inhibition of CYP17A1 and CYP11B1/2, respectively, while treatment with Efavirenz reduced testosterone secretion under basal conditions. ACTH-stimulation affected the inhibitory effects of all investigated drugs. Thus, treatment effects of Abiraterone acetate were more pronounced under stimulated conditions, while Efavirenz treatment caused a non-specific inhibition on steroidogenesis. ACTH-stimulation prevented the Osilodrostat-mediated CYP11B1 inhibition observed under basal conditions. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that the effects of steroidogenic inhibitors differ under basal and ACTH-stimulated conditions in the HFA ex vivo culture model. This could suggest that in vivo effects of therapeutic drugs targeting steroidogenesis may vary in conditions where patients have suppressed or high ACTH levels, respectively. This study further demonstrates that ex vivo cultured HFAs can be used to evaluate steroidogenic inhibitors and thereby provide novel information about the local effects of existing and emerging drugs that targets steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Melau
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malene Lundgaard Riis
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John E Nielsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Signe Perlman
- Department of Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lene Lundvall
- Department of Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lea Langhoff Thuesen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre and Amager Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Kristine Juul Hare
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre and Amager Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Mette Schou Hammerum
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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17
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Angiogenesis in the Normal Adrenal Fetal Cortex and Adrenocortical Tumors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051030. [PMID: 33804534 PMCID: PMC7957756 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays an important role in several physiological and pathological processes. Pharmacological angiogenesis modulation has been robustly demonstrated to achieve clinical benefits in several cancers. Adrenocortical carcinomas (ACC) are rare tumors that often have a poor prognosis. In addition, therapeutic options for ACC are limited. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate adrenocortical angiogenesis along the embryonic development and in ACC could provide important clues on how these processes could be pharmacologically modulated for ACC treatment. In this report, we performed an integrative review on adrenal cortex angiogenesis regulation in physiological conditions and ACC. During embryonic development, adrenal angiogenesis is regulated by both VEGF and Ang-Tie signaling pathways. In ACC, early research efforts were focused on VEGF signaling and this pathway was identified as a good prognostic factor and thus a promising therapeutic target. However, every clinical trial so far conducted in ACC using VEGF pathway- targeting drugs, alone or in combination, yielded disappointing results. In contrast, although the Ang-Tie pathway has been pointed out as an important regulator of fetal adrenocortical angiogenesis, its role is yet to be explored in ACC. In the future, further research on the role and efficacy of modulating both Ang-Tie and VEGF pathways in ACC is needed.
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Wang T, Cook I, Leyh TS. The molecular basis of OH-PCB estrogen receptor activation. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100353. [PMID: 33524392 PMCID: PMC7949139 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Polychlorinated bisphenols (PCBs) continue to contaminate food chains globally where they concentrate in tissues and disrupt the endocrine systems of species throughout the ecosphere. Hydroxylated PCBs (OH-PCBs) are major PCB metabolites and high-affinity inhibitors of human estrogen sulfotransferase (SULT1E1), which sulfonates estrogens and thus prevents them from binding to and activating their receptors. OH-PCB inhibition of SULT1E1 is believed to contribute significantly to PCB-based endocrine disruption. Here, for the first time, the molecular basis of OH-PCB inhibition of SULT1E1 is revealed in a structure of SULT1E1 in complex with OH-PCB1 (4ʹ-OH-2,6-dichlorobiphenol) and its substrates, estradiol (E2), and PAP (3’-phosphoadenosine-5-phosphosulfate). OH-PCB1 prevents catalysis by intercalating between E2 and catalytic residues and establishes a new E2-binding site whose E2 affinity and positioning are greater than and competitive with those of the reactive-binding pocket. Such complexes have not been observed previously and offer a novel template for the design of high-affinity inhibitors. Mutating residues in direct contact with OH-PCB weaken its affinity without compromising the enzyme’s catalytic parameters. These OH-PCB resistant mutants were used in stable transfectant studies to demonstrate that OH-PCBs regulate estrogen receptors in cultured human cell lines by binding the OH-PCB binding pocket of SULT1E1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Ian Cook
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Thomas S Leyh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA.
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Arima M, Fujii Y, Sonoda KH. Translational Research in Retinopathy of Prematurity: From Bedside to Bench and Back Again. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020331. [PMID: 33477419 PMCID: PMC7830975 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a vascular proliferative disease affecting preterm infants, is a leading cause of childhood blindness. Various studies have investigated the pathogenesis of ROP. Clinical experience indicates that oxygen levels are strongly correlated with ROP development, which led to the development of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) as an animal model of ROP. OIR has been used extensively to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying ROP and to evaluate the efficacy of new drug candidates. Large clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents to treat ROP, and anti-VEGF therapy is presently becoming the first-line treatment worldwide. Anti-VEGF therapy has advantages over conventional treatments, including being minimally invasive with a low risk of refractive error. However, long-term safety concerns and the risk of late recurrence limit this treatment. There is an unmet medical need for novel ROP therapies, which need to be addressed by safe and minimally invasive therapies. The recent progress in biotechnology has contributed greatly to translational research. In this review, we outline how basic ROP research has evolved with clinical experience and the subsequent emergence of new drugs. We discuss previous and ongoing trials and present the candidate molecules expected to become novel targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuru Arima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan; (Y.F.); (K.-H.S.)
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-92-642-5648
| | - Yuya Fujii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan; (Y.F.); (K.-H.S.)
| | - Koh-Hei Sonoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan; (Y.F.); (K.-H.S.)
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20
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Lammertink F, Vinkers CH, Tataranno ML, Benders MJNL. Premature Birth and Developmental Programming: Mechanisms of Resilience and Vulnerability. Front Psychiatry 2021; 11:531571. [PMID: 33488409 PMCID: PMC7820177 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.531571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The third trimester of pregnancy represents a sensitive phase for infant brain plasticity when a series of fast-developing cellular events (synaptogenesis, neuronal migration, and myelination) regulates the development of neural circuits. Throughout this dynamic period of growth and development, the human brain is susceptible to stress. Preterm infants are born with an immature brain and are, while admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, precociously exposed to stressful procedures. Postnatal stress may contribute to altered programming of the brain, including key systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the autonomic nervous system. These neurobiological systems are promising markers for the etiology of several affective and social psychopathologies. As preterm birth interferes with early development of stress-regulatory systems, early interventions might strengthen resilience factors and might help reduce the detrimental effects of chronic stress exposure. Here we will review the impact of stress following premature birth on the programming of neurobiological systems and discuss possible stress-related neural circuits and pathways involved in resilience and vulnerability. Finally, we discuss opportunities for early intervention and future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Lammertink
- Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Christiaan H. Vinkers
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Anatomy & Neurosciences, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maria L. Tataranno
- Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Manon J. N. L. Benders
- Department of Neonatology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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21
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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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22
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Nunes-Souza E, Silveira ME, Mendes MC, Nagashima S, de Paula CBV, da Silva GGVC, Barbosa GS, Martins JB, de Noronha L, Lenzi L, Barbosa JRS, Donin RDF, de Moura JF, Custódio G, Machado-Souza C, Lalli E, de Figueiredo BC. From adrenarche to aging of adrenal zona reticularis: precocious female adrenopause onset. Endocr Connect 2020; 9:1212-1220. [PMID: 33112833 PMCID: PMC7774755 DOI: 10.1530/ec-20-0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Adaptive changes in DHEA and sulfated-DHEA (DHEAS) production from adrenal zona reticularis (ZR) have been observed in normal and pathological conditions. Here we used three different cohorts to assess timing differences in DHEAS blood level changes and characterize the relationship between early blood DHEAS reduction and cell number changes in women ZR. MATERIALS AND METHODS DHEAS plasma samples (n = 463) were analyzed in 166 healthy prepubertal girls before pubarche (<9 years) and 324 serum samples from 268 adult females (31.9-83.8 years) without conditions affecting steroidogenesis. Guided by DHEAS blood levels reduction rate, we selected the age range for ZR cell counting using DHEA/DHEAS and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), tumor suppressor and cell stress marker, immunostaining, and hematoxylin stained nuclei of 14 post-mortem adrenal glands. RESULTS We confirmed that overweight girls exhibited higher and earlier DHEAS levels and no difference was found compared with the average European and South American girls with a similar body mass index (BMI). Adrenopause onset threshold (AOT) defined as DHEAS blood levels <2040 nmol/L was identified in >35% of the females >40 years old and associated with significantly reduced ZR cell number (based on PTEN and hematoxylin signals). ZR cell loss may in part account for lower DHEA/DHEAS expression, but most cells remain alive with lower DHEA/DHEAS biosynthesis. CONCLUSION The timely relation between significant reduction of blood DHEAS levels and decreased ZR cell number at the beginning of the 40s suggests that adrenopause is an additional burden for a significant number of middle-aged women, and may become an emergent problem associated with further sex steroids reduction during the menopausal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuelle Nunes-Souza
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Mônica Evelise Silveira
- Laboratório Central de Análises Clínicas, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Monalisa Castilho Mendes
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Seigo Nagashima
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, General Carneiro, Alto da Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, PUC-PR, Prado Velho, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Caroline Busatta Vaz de Paula
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, General Carneiro, Alto da Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, PUC-PR, Prado Velho, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Guilherme Vieira Cavalcante da Silva
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, General Carneiro, Alto da Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, PUC-PR, Prado Velho, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Silva Barbosa
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, General Carneiro, Alto da Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, PUC-PR, Prado Velho, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Julia Belgrowicz Martins
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Lúcia de Noronha
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, General Carneiro, Alto da Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, PUC-PR, Prado Velho, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Luana Lenzi
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - José Renato Sales Barbosa
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Rayssa Danilow Fachin Donin
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Juliana Ferreira de Moura
- Pós Graduação em Microbiologia, Parasitologia e Patologia, Departamento de Patologia Básica – UFPR, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Gislaine Custódio
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Laboratório Central de Análises Clínicas, Hospital de Clínicas, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Centro, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Cleber Machado-Souza
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Enzo Lalli
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire CNRS, Sophia Antipolis, Valbonne, France
| | - Bonald Cavalcante de Figueiredo
- Pelé Pequeno Príncipe Research Institute, Água Verde, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe, Rebouças, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Centro de Genética Molecular e Pesquisa do Câncer em Crianças (CEGEMPAC) at Universidade Federal do Paraná, Agostinho Leão Jr., Glória, Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
- Departamento de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Correspondence should be addressed to B C de Figueiredo:
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23
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Kim JH, Choi MH. Embryonic Development and Adult Regeneration of the Adrenal Gland. Endocrinol Metab (Seoul) 2020; 35:765-773. [PMID: 33397037 PMCID: PMC7803617 DOI: 10.3803/enm.2020.403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The adrenal gland plays a pivotal role in an organism's health span by controlling the endocrine system. Decades of research on the adrenal gland have provided multiscale insights into the development and maintenance of this essential organ. A particularly interesting finding is that founder stem/progenitor cells participate in adrenocortical development and enable the adult adrenal cortex to regenerate itself in response to hormonal stress and injury. Since major advances have been made in understanding the dynamics of the developmental process and the remarkable regenerative capacity of the adrenal gland, understanding the mechanisms underlying adrenal development, maintenance, and regeneration will be of interest to basic and clinical researchers. Here, we introduce the developmental processes of the adrenal gland and discuss current knowledge regarding stem/progenitor cells that regulate adrenal cortex remodeling and regeneration. This review will provide insights into the fascinating ongoing research on the development and regeneration of the adrenal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hoon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul,
Korea
| | - Man Ho Choi
- Molecular Recognition Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul,
Korea
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24
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Sherlock M, Scarsbrook A, Abbas A, Fraser S, Limumpornpetch P, Dineen R, Stewart PM. Adrenal Incidentaloma. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:bnaa008. [PMID: 32266384 PMCID: PMC7431180 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
An adrenal incidentaloma is now established as a common endocrine diagnosis that requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. The majority of patients can be reassured and discharged, but a personalized approach based upon image analysis, endocrine workup, and clinical symptoms and signs are required in every case. Adrenocortical carcinoma remains a real concern but is restricted to <2% of all cases. Functional adrenal incidentaloma lesions are commoner (but still probably <10% of total) and the greatest challenge remains the diagnosis and optimum management of autonomous cortisol secretion. Modern-day surgery has improved outcomes and novel radiological and urinary biomarkers will improve early detection and patient stratification in future years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Sherlock
- Department of Endocrinology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrew Scarsbrook
- Department of Radiology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Afroze Abbas
- Department of Endocrinology, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Sheila Fraser
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, St James University Hospital, Leeds, UK
| | - Padiporn Limumpornpetch
- Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of Leeds, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds, UK
| | - Rosemary Dineen
- Department of Endocrinology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Paul M Stewart
- Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of Leeds, Worsley Building, Clarendon Way, Leeds, UK
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25
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Davio A, Woolcock H, Nanba AT, Rege J, O’Day P, Ren J, Zhao L, Ebina H, Auchus R, Rainey WE, Turcu AF. Sex Differences in 11-Oxygenated Androgen Patterns Across Adulthood. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5851527. [PMID: 32498089 PMCID: PMC7340191 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The gonads are the major source of sex steroids during reproductive ages. The gonadal function declines abruptly in women and gradually in men. The adrenals produce 11-oxygenated androgens (11-oxyandrogens), which start rising during adrenarche. Following menopause, 11-oxyandrogens levels remain similar to reproductive ages. OBJECTIVE To compare the circulating 11-oxyandrogen concentrations in men and women across adult ages. METHODS We used mass spectrometry to measure testosterone (T), androstenedione (A4), 11β-hydroxytestosterone (11OHT), 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4), 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4), cortisol, and cortisone in morning sera obtained from adults in outpatient setting. We performed double immunofluorescence of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 and cytochrome b5 in adrenal tissue from 19 men, age 23-78 years. RESULTS We included 590 patients (319 men), aged 18 to 97 years, and 84% white. 11KT and 11KA4 were stable across ages in women, but they declined in men (0.21 and 0.06 ng/dL/year, respectively; P < 0.05). 11OHA4 and 11OHT increased modestly with age in women (0.6 and 0.09 ng/dL/year, respectively; P < 0.01), and both remained stable across ages in men. As body mass index (BMI) increased, 11KA4 decreased in women, and 11KT increased in men, both suggesting higher 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in obese individuals. A4 and T declined with age and A4 with BMI in both sexes; T declined with BMI in men. Adrenal androgenic enzyme expressions in aging men were similar to those observed in women. CONCLUSIONS In contrast with traditional androgens, the production of 11OHA4 and 11OHT is sustained with aging in both sexes. The bioactive androgen 11KT declines in aging men but not in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Davio
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Helen Woolcock
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Aya T Nanba
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Juilee Rege
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Patrick O’Day
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Jianwei Ren
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Lili Zhao
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Hiroki Ebina
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Richard Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
- Department of Pathology, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - William E Rainey
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
| | - Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, US
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Adina F. Turcu, MD, MS, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, 1150 W Medical Center Drive, MSRB II, 5570B, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109. E-mail:
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26
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Wang WS, Guo CM, Sun K. Cortisol Regeneration in the Fetal Membranes, A Coincidental or Requisite Event in Human Parturition? Front Physiol 2020; 11:462. [PMID: 32523541 PMCID: PMC7261858 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal membranes are equipped with high capacity of cortisol regeneration through the reductase activity of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1 (11β-HSD1). The expression of 11β-HSD1 in the fetal membranes is under the feedforward induction by cortisol, which is potentiated by proinflammatory cytokines. As a result, the abundance of 11β-HSD1 increases with gestational age and furthermore at parturition with an escalation of cortisol concentration in the fetal membranes. Accumulated cortisol takes parts in a number of crucial events pertinent to the onset of labor in the fetal membranes, including extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and stimulation of prostaglandin output. Cortisol remodels the ECM through multiple approaches including induction of collagen I, III, and IV degradation, as well as inhibition of their cross-linking. These effects of cortisol are executed through activation of the autophagy, proteasome, and matrix metalloprotease 7 pathways, as well as inhibition of the expression of cross-linking enzyme lysyl oxidase in mesenchymal cells of the membranes. With regard to prostaglandin output, cortisol not only increases prostaglandin E2 and F2α syntheses through induction of their synthesizing enzymes such as cytosolic phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase 2, and carbonyl reductase 1 in the amnion, but also decreases their degradation through inhibition of their metabolizing enzyme 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase in the chorion. Taking all together, data accumulated so far denote that the feedforward cortisol regeneration by 11β-HSD1 in the fetal membranes is a requisite event in the onset of parturition, and the effects of cortisol on prostaglandin synthesis and ECM remodeling may be enhanced by proinflammatory cytokines in chorioamnionitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang-Sheng Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun-Ming Guo
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Kang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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27
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Sen A, Hoffmann HM. Role of core circadian clock genes in hormone release and target tissue sensitivity in the reproductive axis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 501:110655. [PMID: 31756424 PMCID: PMC6962569 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Precise timing in hormone release from the hypothalamus, the pituitary and ovary is critical for fertility. Hormonal release patterns of the reproductive axis are regulated by a feedback loop within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The timing and rhythmicity of hormone release and tissue sensitivity in the HPG axis is regulated by circadian clocks located in the hypothalamus (suprachiasmatic nucleus, kisspeptin and GnRH neurons), the pituitary (gonadotrophs), the ovary (theca and granulosa cells), the testis (Leydig cells), as well as the uterus (endometrium and myometrium). The circadian clocks integrate environmental and physiological signals to produce cell endogenous rhythms generated by a transcriptional-translational feedback loop of transcription factors that are collectively called the "molecular clock". This review specifically focuses on the contribution of molecular clock transcription factors in regulating hormone release patterns in the reproductive axis, with an emphasis on the female reproductive system. Specifically, we discuss the contributions of circadian rhythms in distinct neuronal populations of the female hypothalamus, the molecular clock in the pituitary and its overall impact on female and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aritro Sen
- Department of Animal Science and the Reproductive and Developmental Science Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Hanne M Hoffmann
- Department of Animal Science and the Reproductive and Developmental Science Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
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Conradt E, Shakiba N, Ostlund B, Terrell S, Kaliush P, Shakib JH, Crowell SE. Prenatal maternal hair cortisol concentrations are related to maternal prenatal emotion dysregulation but not neurodevelopmental or birth outcomes. Dev Psychobiol 2020; 62:758-767. [PMID: 32002996 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Hair cortisol concentrations measured during pregnancy have emerged as a novel biomarker for prenatal stress exposure. However, associations between prenatal stress and distress, broadly defined, and hair cortisol concentrations during pregnancy are inconsistent. We examined relations among hair cortisol concentrations during the third trimester with (a) emotion dysregulation and (b) detailed measures of maternal prenatal stress. We also examined the predictive validity of maternal hair cortisol during pregnancy for adverse newborn health outcomes. Cortisol concentrations were derived from 6 cm of hair during the third trimester of pregnancy. Mothers reported on their emotion dysregulation and stress at this time. A standardized newborn neurobehavioral exam was conducted shortly after birth and newborn birth weight and gestational age were assessed from medical records. All hypotheses were preregistered on the Open Science Framework (osf.io/279ng). High levels of emotion dysregulation, but not stress, were predictive of high hair cortisol concentrations. Maternal prenatal BMI mediated the relation between maternal prenatal emotion dysregulation and hair cortisol concentrations. There was no association between hair cortisol and infant birth outcomes. This research supports the notion that transdiagnostic markers of psychopathology are important correlates of hair cortisol concentrations during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Conradt
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of OB/GYN, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Nila Shakiba
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Brendan Ostlund
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sarah Terrell
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Parisa Kaliush
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Julie H Shakib
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sheila E Crowell
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of OB/GYN, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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29
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Thayer ZM, Rutherford J, Kuzawa CW. The Maternal Nutritional Buffering Model: an evolutionary framework for pregnancy nutritional intervention. EVOLUTION MEDICINE AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 2020:14-27. [PMID: 32015877 PMCID: PMC6990448 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoz037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Evidence that fetal nutrition influences adult health has heightened interest in nutritional interventions targeting pregnancy. However, as is true for other placental mammals, human females have evolved mechanisms that help buffer the fetus against short-term fluctuations in maternal diet and energy status. In this review, we first discuss the evolution of increasingly elaborate vertebrate strategies of buffering offspring from environmental fluctuations during development, including the important innovation of the eutherian placenta. We then present the Maternal Nutritional Buffering Model, which argues that, in contrast to many micronutrients that must be derived from dietary sources, the effects of short-term changes in maternal macronutrient intake during pregnancy, whether due to a deficit or supplementation, will be minimized by internal buffering mechanisms that work to ensure a stable supply of essential resources. In contrast to the minimal effects of brief macronutrient supplementation, there is growing evidence that sustained improvements in early life and adult pre-pregnancy nutrition could improve birth outcomes in offspring. Building on these and other observations, we propose that strategies to improve fetal macronutrient delivery will be most effective if they modify the pregnancy metabolism of mothers by targeting nutrition prior to conception and even during early development, as a complement to the conventional focus on bolstering macronutrient intake during pregnancy itself. Our model leads to the prediction that birth weight will be more strongly influenced by the mother’s chronic pre-pregnancy nutrition than by pregnancy diet, and highlights the need for policy solutions aimed at optimizing future, intergenerational health outcomes. Lay summary: We propose that strategies to improve fetal macronutrient delivery will be most effective if they modify the pregnancy metabolism of mothers by targeting nutrition prior to conception and even during early development, as a complement to the conventional focus on bolstering macronutrient intake during pregnancy itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaneta M Thayer
- Department of Anthropology, Dartmouth College, Hinman Box 6047, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Julienne Rutherford
- Department of Women, Children and Family Health Science, University of Illinois Chicago, 845 S. Damen Ave., MC 802, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Christopher W Kuzawa
- Department of Anthropology and Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, 1810 Hinman Ave, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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30
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Gao X, Yu Z, Yang J, Gao Y, Li S, Zhang W. An integrated RNA-Seq and network study reveals the effect of nicotinamide on adrenal androgen synthesis. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2020; 47:821-830. [PMID: 31954074 PMCID: PMC7187356 DOI: 10.1111/1440-1681.13258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin resulting from androgen‐induced increased sebum production and altered keratinization. Nicotinamide (NAM), an amide form of vitamin B3 with a well‐established safety profile, has shown good therapeutic potential in treating acne and its complications. NAM has anti‐inflammatory effects and reduces sebum but its function in androgen biosynthesis remains unknown. In this study, we used a widely used cell model, starved human adrenal NCI‐H295R cells, to examine the effects of NAM in androgen production and its mediated network changes. By treating NCI‐H295R cells with 1‐25 mmol/L of NAM, we found that cell viability was only slightly inhibited at the highest dose (25 mmol/L). NAM reduced testosterone production in a dose‐dependent manner. Transcriptomic analysis demonstrated that key enzymes of androgen biosynthesis were significantly decreased under NAM treatment. In addition, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that gene sets of cell cycle, steroid biosynthesis, TGFβ signalling, and targets of IGF1 or IGF2 were enriched in NAM‐treated cells. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and Gene ontology (GO) analysis of the differentially expressed genes also suggested that steroidogenesis and SMAD signalling were affected by NAM. Overall, these crucial genes and pathways might form a complex network in NAM‐treated NCI‐H295R cells and result in androgen reduction. These findings help explain the potential molecular actions of NAM in acne vulgaris, and position NAM as a candidate for the treatment of other hyperandrogenic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiheng Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yutong Gao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shumin Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
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31
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Bilder DA, Esplin MS, Coon H, Burghardt P, Clark EAS, Fraser A, Smith KR, Worsham W, Chappelle K, Rayner T, Bakian AV. Early Second Trimester Maternal Serum Steroid-Related Biomarkers Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4572-4583. [PMID: 31410696 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04162-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies link increased autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk to obstetrical conditions associated with inflammation and steroid dysregulation, referred to as prenatal metabolic syndrome (PNMS). This pilot study measured steroid-related biomarkers in early second trimester maternal serum collected during the first and second trimester evaluation of risk study. ASD case and PNMS exposure status of index offspring were determined through linkage with autism registries and birth certificate records. ASD case (N = 53) and control (N = 19) groups were enriched for PNMS exposure. Higher estradiol and lower sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were significantly associated with increased ASD risk. Study findings provide preliminary evidence to link greater placental estradiol activity with ASD and support future investigations of the prenatal steroid environment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Bilder
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA. .,Utah Autism Research Program, University of Utah, 650 Komas Drive, Suite 206, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - M Sean Esplin
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Hilary Coon
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | | | | | - Alison Fraser
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ken R Smith
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Abstract
Adrenarche, the post-natal rise of DHEA and DHEAS, is unique to humans and the African Apes. Recent findings have linked DHEA in humans to the development of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (LDPFC) between the ages of 4-8 years and the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ) from 7 to 12 years of age. Given the association of the LDLPFC with the 5-to-8 transition and the rTPJ with mentalizing during middle childhood DHEA may have played an important role in the evolution of the human brain. I argue that increasing protein in the diet over the course of human evolution not only increased levels of DHEAS, but linked meat consumption with brain development during the important 5- to-8 transition. Consumption of animal protein has been associated with IGF-1, implicated in the development of the adrenal zona reticularis (ZR), the site of DHEAS production. In humans and chimps, the zona reticularis emerges at 3-4 years, along with the onset of DHEA/S production. For chimps this coincides with weaning and peak synaptogenesis. Among humans, weaning is completed around 2 ½ years, while synaptogenesis peaks around 5 years. Thus, in chimpanzees, early cortical maturation is tied to the mother; in humans it may be associated with post-weaning provisioning by others. I call for further research on adrenarche among the African apes as a critical comparison to humans. I also suggest research in subsistence populations to establish the role of nutrition and energetics in the timing of adrenarche and the onset of middle childhood.
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Sabbi KH, Muller MN, Machanda ZP, Otali E, Fox SA, Wrangham RW, Emery Thompson M. Human-like adrenal development in wild chimpanzees: A longitudinal study of urinary dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and cortisol. Am J Primatol 2019; 82:e23064. [PMID: 31709585 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The development of the adrenal cortex varies considerably across primates, being most conspicuous in humans, where a functional zona reticularis-the site of dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA/S) production-does not develop until middle childhood (5-8 years). Prior reports suggest that a human-like adrenarche, associated with a sharp prepubertal increase in DHEA/S, may only occur in the genus Pan. However, the timing and variability in adrenarche in chimpanzees remain poorly described, owing to the lack of longitudinal data, or data from wild populations. Here, we use urine samples from East African chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) collected over 20 years at Kanyawara in Kibale National Park, Uganda, to trace the developmental trajectories of DHEAS (n = 1,385 samples, 53 individuals) and cortisol (n = 12,726 samples, 68 individuals). We used generalized additive models (GAM) to investigate the relationship between age, sex, and hormone levels. Adrenarche began earlier in chimpanzees (~2-3 years) compared with what has been reported in humans (6-8 years) and, unlike humans, male and female chimpanzees did not differ significantly in the timing of adrenarche nor in DHEAS concentrations overall. Similar to what has been reported in humans, cortisol production decreased through early life, reaching a nadir around puberty (8-11 years), and a sex difference emerged with males exhibiting higher urinary cortisol levels compared with females by early adulthood (15-16 years). Our study establishes that wild chimpanzees exhibit a human-like pattern of cortisol production during development and corroborates prior reports from captive chimpanzees of a human-like adrenarche, accompanied by significant developmental increases in DHEAS. While the role of these developmental hormone shifts are as yet unclear, they have been implicated in stages of rapid behavioral development once thought unique to humans, especially in regard to explaining the divergence of female and male social behavior before pubertal increases in gonadal hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kris H Sabbi
- Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Martin N Muller
- Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- The Kibale Chimpanzee Project, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | - Zarin P Machanda
- The Kibale Chimpanzee Project, Fort Portal, Uganda
- Department of Anthropology, Tufts University, Massachusetts
| | - Emily Otali
- The Kibale Chimpanzee Project, Fort Portal, Uganda
| | - Stephanie A Fox
- Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Richard W Wrangham
- The Kibale Chimpanzee Project, Fort Portal, Uganda
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Melissa Emery Thompson
- Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- The Kibale Chimpanzee Project, Fort Portal, Uganda
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Ma L, Xia Y, Wang L, Liu R, Huang X, Ye T, Zhang L, Zhu Q, Li J, Jiang Y. Sonographic features of the testicular adrenal rests tumors in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: a single-center experience and literature review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2019; 14:242. [PMID: 31694673 PMCID: PMC6836335 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-019-1231-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Testicular adrenal rests tumor (TART) is a rare kind of benign tumor in the testis. It usually occurred secondary to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a hormonal disorder caused by hydroxylase deficiency. As the first-line examination method, ultrasound provides crucial diagnostic information for TART, although misdiagnosis to malignancy is quite common because of its rare prevalence. We aimed to summarize the sonographic manifestations of TART to improve the diagnostic accuracy and specificity. METHODS Eight CAH patients with TART identified by ultrasound in our medical center were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and hormonal profile, semen analysis and treatment choices were collected. Sonographic examinations were performed at the first evaluation and interpreted by experienced radiologists individually. All patients received regular follow-up, and 5 patients undertook repeated scrotal ultrasound. A literature review of TART in CAH patients was conducted, with 123 patients from 23 articles since 1990 included. RESULTS A total of 8 patients aged between 4 to 27 years old were enrolled. 7 of 8 (87.5%) patients exhibited bilateral testicular lesions. The sizes of the testicular lesions were between 0.18 ml to 5.68 ml, and all showed a clear boundary. 10/15 (66.7%) lesions were homogenously hypoechoic, 4/15 (26.7%) were heterogeneously iso-hypoechoic, and 1/15 (6.7%) were homogenously isoechoic. 10/15 (66.7%) lesions were hyper-vascular. The longitudinal follow-up of 5 patients showed testicular lesions changed in terms of size, echogenicity, and vascularity after steroid treatment. A potential correlation may exist between ACTH levels and tumor size (p = 0.066). From the literature review, 100/123 (81%) patients got bilateral lesions, and 95% of them were located near the mediastinum. 80/103 (78%) lesions exhibited a clear boundary, and predominant lesions (74%) were hypoechogenic. Vascularity was with great diversity. Seventy-nine lesions of 44 patients were followed-up by scrotal ultrasound, among which 29 (37%) remained unchanged, 29(37%) shrank, and 21(27%) disappeared. CONCLUSIONS Key sonographic characteristics of TART are: resembled lesions on both testes, located near the mediastinum, clear boundary, and changed in size or echogenicity after steroid treatment. These features can help radiologists to make an accurate diagnosis of TART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Harrison International Peace Hospital, Hebei, China
| | - Ruifeng Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xuepei Huang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Tiantian Ye
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Qingli Zhu
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jianchu Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shuaifuyuan 1, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Balogun KA, Guzman Lenis MS, Papp E, Loutfy M, Yudin MH, MacGillivray J, Walmsley SL, Silverman M, Serghides L. Elevated Levels of Estradiol in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Pregnant Women on Protease Inhibitor-Based Regimens. Clin Infect Dis 2019; 66:420-427. [PMID: 29020282 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected pregnant women on protease inhibitor (PI)-based combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) have a greater risk for adverse birth outcomes, and an association with steroid hormone levels has been implicated. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between PI-cART and estradiol levels in pregnancy. Methods Fifty-five HIV-infected and 49 HIV-uninfected Canadian pregnant women were followed prospectively throughout gestation. All HIV-infected women were on a PI-based cART regimen. Maternal plasma samples were collected at 12-18 weeks, 24-28 weeks, 34-38 weeks, at delivery, and from the cord. Birth outcomes were recorded. Levels of estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), cortisol, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results (median [interquartile range] for cord estradiol: 23.9 ng/mL [16.4-36.4] for HIV-infected exposed to PI-cART and 15.7 ng/mL [12.2-21.2] for HIV-negative; P = .0025). HIV-infected women had higher DHEAS levels in cord plasma that correlated with cord and maternal delivery estradiol levels. Cortisol and ACTH levels did not differ between groups. In the HIV-infected women, cord estradiol levels correlated negatively with birth weight centile (r = -0.47, P = .0016). Conclusions Our data suggest that PI-cART exposure in pregnancy is associated with elevated levels of estradiol, likely driven by higher fetal DHEAS production. Cord estradiol levels were inversely correlated with birth weight centile in infants born to PI-cART-exposed women, suggesting that fetal exposure to high estradiol levels may be contributing to cART-associated fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayode A Balogun
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Canada
| | | | - Eszter Papp
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Canada
| | - Mona Loutfy
- Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada.,St Michael's Hospital, Canada
| | - Mark H Yudin
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada.,St Michael's Hospital, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Sharon L Walmsley
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Lena Serghides
- Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Canada.,Department of Immunology and Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada
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Li H, Lampe JN. Neonatal cytochrome P450 CYP3A7: A comprehensive review of its role in development, disease, and xenobiotic metabolism. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 673:108078. [PMID: 31445893 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.108078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The human cytochrome P450 CYP3A7, once thought to be an enzyme exclusive to fetal livers, has more recently been identified in neonates and developing infants as old as 24 months post-gestational age. CYP3A7 has been demonstrated to metabolize two endogenous compounds that are known to be important in the growth and development of the fetus and neonate, namely dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and all-trans retinoic acid (atRA). In addition, it is also known to metabolize a variety of drugs and xenobiotics, albeit generally to a lesser extent relative to CYP3A4/5. CYP3A7 is an important component in the development and protection of the fetal liver and additionally plays a role in certain disease states, such as cancer and adrenal hyperplasia. Ultimately, a full understanding of the expression, regulation, and metabolic properties of CYP3A7 is needed to provide neonates with appropriate individualized pharmacotherapy. This article summarizes the current state of knowledge of CYP3A7, including its discovery, distribution, alleles, RNA splicing, expression and regulation, metabolic properties, substrates, and inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixing Li
- Sino-German Joint Research Institute Nanchang University, 235 East Nanjing Road, Nanchang, 330047, Jiangxi, PR China
| | - Jed N Lampe
- University of Colorado, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mail Stop C238, 12850 E. Montview Blvd., Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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37
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Abstract
The adrenal cortex is an endocrine organ comprised of three histological zones, the outermost zona glomerulosa, the intermediate zona fasciculata, and the innermost zona reticularis. High plasticity of the adrenal gland is supported by pools of stem and progenitor cells that are deployed to sustain physiological and homeostatic demands. In recent decades, exciting new discoveries elucidating the identity, function, and fate of these cell populations have emerged. In this review, we describe paracrine and endocrine signaling loops that are crucial for adrenal biology, focusing on recent studies unpacking the enigmatic nature of adrenal stem and progenitor cell populations.
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38
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Nanba AT, Rege J, Ren J, Auchus RJ, Rainey WE, Turcu AF. 11-Oxygenated C19 Steroids Do Not Decline With Age in Women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:2615-2622. [PMID: 30753518 PMCID: PMC6525564 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-02527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The ovaries and adrenals are sources of androgens in women. Although dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), and testosterone (T) all decline with age, these C19 steroids correlate poorly with parameters of androgen action in postmenopausal women. OBJECTIVE To comprehensively compare the androgen profiles of pre- and postmenopausal women. METHODS We quantified 19 steroids-including DHEA; DHEAS; T; androstenedione (A4); and the following adrenal-specific 11-oxygenated C19 steroids (11oxyandrogens): 11β-hydroxytestosterone (11OHT), 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4), and 11-ketoandrostenedione (11KA4)-using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry in morning serum obtained from 100 premenopausal (age 20 to 40 years) and 100 postmenopausal (age ≥ 60 years) women. Double immunofluorescence of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (HSD3B2) with cytochrome b5 (CYB5A) or sulfotransferase 2A1 (SULT2A1) was performed in normal adrenal glands obtained from eight premenopausal and eight postmenopausal women. RESULTS DHEA, DHEAS, A4, and T were significantly higher in pre- than in postmenopausal women (2.9, 2.8, 2.9, and 1.6-fold, respectively; P < 0.0001). In contrast, the 11-oxyandrogens did not decrease with aging, and the 11OHT/T and 11OHA4/A4 ratios showed strong positive correlations with age (r = 0.5 and 0.8, respectively; P < 0.0001). Double immunofluorescence analysis showed that with the involution of the zona reticularis in the old adrenals, the sharp zonal segregation of HSD3B2 and CYB5A becomes less distinct, and areas of HSD3B2 and CYB5A overlap are observed. CONCLUSIONS Unlike DHEA, DHEAS, A4, and T, the 11oxyandrogens do not decline in aging women. Structural changes within the adrenal cortex might explain the evolution of androgen profiles in aging women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya T Nanba
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Juilee Rege
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Jianwei Ren
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - William E Rainey
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
| | - Adina F Turcu
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Adina F. Turcu, MD, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes, University of Michigan, 1150 W Medical Center Drive, MSRB II, 5570B, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109. E-mail:
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Jones SL, Dufoix R, Laplante DP, Elgbeili G, Patel R, Chakravarty MM, King S, Pruessner JC. Larger Amygdala Volume Mediates the Association Between Prenatal Maternal Stress and Higher Levels of Externalizing Behaviors: Sex Specific Effects in Project Ice Storm. Front Hum Neurosci 2019; 13:144. [PMID: 31156408 PMCID: PMC6528106 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2019.00144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The amygdala is a brain structure involved in emotional regulation. Studies have shown that larger amygdala volumes are associated with behavioral disorders. Prenatal maternal depression is associated with structural changes in the amygdala, which in turn, is predictive of an increase in behavioral problems. Girls may be particularly vulnerable. However, it is not known whether disaster-related prenatal maternal stress (PNMS), or which aspect of the maternal stress experience (i.e., objective hardship, subjective distress, and cognitive appraisal), influences amygdala volumes. Nor is it known whether amygdala volumes mediate the effect of PNMS on behavioral problems in girls and boys. Aims: To assess whether aspects of PNMS are associated with amygdala volume, to determine whether timing of exposure moderates the effect, and to test whether amygdala volume mediates the association between PNMS and internalizing and externalizing problems in 11½ year old children exposed in utero, to varying levels of disaster-related PNMS. Methods: Bilateral amygdala volumes (AGV) and total brain volume (TBV) were acquired using magnetic resonance imaging, from 35 boys and 33 girls whose mothers were pregnant during the January 1998 Quebec Ice Storm. The mothers' disaster-related stress was assessed in June 1998. Child internalizing and externalizing problems were assessed at 11½ years using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Hierarchical regression analyses and mediation analyses were conducted on boys and girls separately, controlling for perinatal and postnatal factors. Results: In boys, subjective distress was associated with larger right AGV/TBV when mothers where exposed during late pregnancy, which in turn explained higher levels of externalizing behavior. However, when adjusting for postnatal factors, the effect was no longer significant. In girls, later gestational exposure to the ice storm was associated with larger AGV/TBV, but here, higher levels of objective PNMS were associated with more externalizing problems, which was, in part, mediated by larger AGV/TBV. No effects were detected on internalizing behaviors. Conclusion: These results suggest that the effects of PNMS on amygdala development and externalizing symptoms, as assessed in boys and girls in early adolescence, can be influenced by the timing of the stress in pregnancy, and the particular aspect of the mother's stress experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherri Lee Jones
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Romane Dufoix
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David P. Laplante
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Guillaume Elgbeili
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Raihaan Patel
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory (CoBrA Lab), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - M. Mallar Chakravarty
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory (CoBrA Lab), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Suzanne King
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Laboratory of Suzanne King, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jens C. Pruessner
- Laboratory of Jens Pruessner, Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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Ryu KY, Roh J. The Effects of High Peripubertal Caffeine Exposure on the Adrenal Gland in Immature Male and Female Rats. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11050951. [PMID: 31035471 PMCID: PMC6566528 DOI: 10.3390/nu11050951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of high levels of dietary caffeine has increased in children and adolescents. Human and animal studies have shown that chronic intake of high doses of caffeine affects serum glucocorticoid levels. Given that glucocorticoids play a role in peripubertal organ growth and development, chronic high doses of caffeine during puberty might impair maturation of the adrenal glands. To evaluate any effects of caffeine exposure on growing adrenal glands, 22-day-old male (n = 30) and female Sprague Dawley rats (n = 30) were divided into three groups (n = 10/group); group 1 received tap water (control) and groups 2 and 3 received water containing 120 and 180 mg/kg/day caffeine, respectively, via gavage for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, adrenal glands were weighed and processed for histological analysis. Relative adrenal weights increased in both groups of caffeine-fed males and females, whereas absolute weights were decreased in the females. In the female caffeine-fed groups the adrenal cortical areas resembled irregularly arranged cords and the medullary area was significantly increased, whereas no such effects were seen in the male rats. Our results indicate that the harmful effects of caffeine on the adrenal glands of immature rats differ between females and males. Although female rats seemed to be more susceptible to damage based on the changes in the microarchitecture of the adrenal glands, caffeine affected corticosterone production in both female and male rats. In addition, increased basal adrenocorticotropic hormone levels in caffeine-fed groups may reflect decreased cortical function. Therefore, caffeine may induce an endocrine imbalance that disturbs the establishment of the hypothalamo–pituitary adrenal axis during puberty, thereby leading to abnormal stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Young Ryu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, Korea.
| | - Jaesook Roh
- Dept. of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 133-791, Korea.
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41
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Mesiano SA, Peters GA, Amini P, Wilson RA, Tochtrop GP, van Den Akker F. Progestin therapy to prevent preterm birth: History and effectiveness of current strategies and development of novel approaches. Placenta 2019; 79:46-52. [PMID: 30745115 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.01.018] [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: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In the 1930s the "progestin" hormone produced by the corpus luteum was isolated and found to be a Δ4-keto-steroid. It was aptly named progesterone (P4) and in the following 30 years the capacity of P4 and derivatives to prevent preterm birth (PTB) was examined. Outcomes of multiple small studies suggested that progestin prophylaxis beginning at mid-gestation decreases the risk for PTB. Subsequent larger trials found that prophylaxis with weekly intramuscular injections of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17HPC) beginning at mid-gestation decreased PTB risk in women with a history of PTB. Other trials found that daily vaginal P4 prophylaxis, also beginning at mid-gestation decreased PTB risk in women with a short cervix. Currently, prophylaxis with 17HPC (in women with a history of PTB) or vaginal P4 (in women with a short cervix) are used to prevent PTB. Recent advances in understanding the molecular biology of P4 signaling in uterine cells is revealing novel progestin-based targets for PTB prevention. One possibility is to use selective P4 receptor (PR) modulators (SPRMs) to boost PR anti-inflammatory activity that blocks labor, while simultaneously preventing PR phosphorylation that causes loss of P4/PR anti-inflammatory activity. This may be achieved by SPRMs that induce a specific PR conformation that prevents site-specific serine phosphorylation that inhibits anti-inflammatory activity. Further advances in understanding how P4 promotes uterine quiescence and how its labor blocking actions are withdrawn to trigger parturition will reveal novel therapeutic targets to more effectively prevent PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam A Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Gregory A Peters
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peyvand Amini
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rachel A Wilson
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gregory P Tochtrop
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Focco van Den Akker
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
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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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Seccia TM, Caroccia B, Gomez-Sanchez EP, Gomez-Sanchez CE, Rossi GP. The Biology of Normal Zona Glomerulosa and Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma: Pathological Implications. Endocr Rev 2018; 39:1029-1056. [PMID: 30007283 PMCID: PMC6236434 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The identification of several germline and somatic ion channel mutations in aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) and detection of cell clusters that can be responsible for excess aldosterone production, as well as the isolation of autoantibodies activating the angiotensin II type 1 receptor, have rapidly advanced the understanding of the biology of primary aldosteronism (PA), particularly that of APA. Hence, the main purpose of this review is to discuss how discoveries of the last decade could affect histopathology analysis and clinical practice. The structural remodeling through development and aging of the human adrenal cortex, particularly of the zona glomerulosa, and the complex regulation of aldosterone, with emphasis on the concepts of zonation and channelopathies, will be addressed. Finally, the diagnostic workup for PA and its subtyping to optimize treatment are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa M Seccia
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua PD, Italy
| | | | - Elise P Gomez-Sanchez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Celso E Gomez-Sanchez
- Division of Endocrinology, G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.,University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Gian Paolo Rossi
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua PD, Italy
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Developmental Programming of Capuchin Monkey Adrenal Dysfunction by Gestational Chronodisruption. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9183053. [PMID: 30186871 PMCID: PMC6109991 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9183053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
In the capuchin monkey (Cebus apella), a new-world nonhuman primate, maternal exposure to constant light during last third of gestation induces precocious maturation of the fetal adrenal and increased plasma cortisol in the newborn. Here, we further explored the effects of this challenge on the developmental programming of adrenal function in newborn and infant capuchin monkeys. We measured (i) plasma dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHAS) and cortisol response to ACTH in infants with suppressed endogenous ACTH, (ii) plasma DHAS and cortisol response to ACTH in vitro, and (iii) adrenal weight and expression level of key factors in steroid synthesis (StAR and 3β-HSD). In one-month-old infants from mothers subjected to constant light, plasma levels of cortisol and cortisol response to ACTH were twofold higher, whereas plasma levels of DHAS and DHAS response to ACTH were markedly reduced, compared to control conditions. At 10 months of age, DHAS levels were still lower but closer to control animals, whereas cortisol response to ACTH was similar in both experimental groups. A compensatory response was detected at the adrenal level, consisting of a 30% increase in adrenal weight and about 50% reduction of both StAR and 3β-HSD mRNA and protein expression and the magnitude of DHAS and cortisol response to ACTH in vitro. Hence, at birth and at 10 months of age, there were differential effects in DHAS, cortisol production, and their response to ACTH. However, by 10 months of age, these subsided, leading to a normal cortisol response to ACTH. These compensatory mechanisms may help to overcome the adrenal alterations induced during pregnancy to restore normal cortisol concentrations in the growing infant.
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45
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Agnew EJ, Ivy JR, Stock SJ, Chapman KE. Glucocorticoids, antenatal corticosteroid therapy and fetal heart maturation. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R61-R73. [PMID: 29720513 PMCID: PMC5976079 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are essential in mammals to mature fetal organs and tissues in order to survive after birth. Hence, antenatal glucocorticoid treatment (termed antenatal corticosteroid therapy) can be life-saving in preterm babies and is commonly used in women at risk of preterm birth. While the effects of glucocorticoids on lung maturation have been well described, the effects on the fetal heart remain less clear. Experiments in mice have shown that endogenous glucocorticoid action is required to mature the fetal heart. However, whether the potent synthetic glucocorticoids used in antenatal corticosteroid therapy have similar maturational effects on the fetal heart is less clear. Moreover, antenatal corticosteroid therapy may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Here, we present a narrative review of the evidence relating to the effects of antenatal glucocorticoid action on the fetal heart and discuss the implications for antenatal corticosteroid therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma J Agnew
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jessica R Ivy
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sarah J Stock
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Karen E Chapman
- University/BHF Centre for Cardiovascular ScienceUniversity of Edinburgh, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to K E Chapman:
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Kotler J, Haig D. The tempo of human childhood: a maternal foot on the accelerator, a paternal foot on the brake. Evol Anthropol 2018; 27:80-91. [PMID: 29575348 PMCID: PMC5947556 DOI: 10.1002/evan.21579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Relative to the life history of other great apes, that of humans is characterized by early weaning and short interbirth intervals (IBIs). We propose that in modern humans, birth until adrenarche, or the rise in adrenal androgens, developmentally corresponds to the period from birth until weaning in great apes and ancestral hominins. According to this hypothesis, humans achieved short IBIs by subdividing ancestral infancy into a nurseling phase, during which offspring fed at the breast, and a weanling phase, during which offspring fed specially prepared foods. Imprinted genes influence the timing of human weaning and adrenarche, with paternally expressed genes promoting delays in childhood maturation and maternally expressed genes promoting accelerated maturation. These observations suggest that the tempo of human development has been shaped by consequences for the fitness of kin, with faster development increasing maternal fitness at a cost to child fitness. The effects of imprinted genes suggest that the duration of the juvenile period (adrenarche until puberty) has also been shaped by evolutionary conflicts within the family.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Haig
- Harvard University, Department of Organismic & Evolutionary Biology
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47
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Tatsi C, Stratakis CA. Neonatal Cushing Syndrome: A Rare but Potentially Devastating Disease. Clin Perinatol 2018; 45:103-118. [PMID: 29406000 PMCID: PMC5806137 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal Cushing syndrome (CS) is most commonly caused by exogenous administration of glucocorticoids and rarely by endogenous hypercortisolemia. CS owing to adrenal lesions is the most common cause of endogenous CS in neonates and infants, and adrenocortical tumors (ACTs) represent most cases. Many ACTs develop in the context of a TP53 gene mutation, which causes Li-Fraumeni syndrome. More rarely, neonatal CS presents as part of other syndromes such as McCune-Albright syndrome or Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. Management usually includes resection of the primary tumor with or without additional medical treatment, but manifestations may persist after resolution of hypercortisolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Tatsi
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Developmental Endocrine Oncology and Genetics Group, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA,Pediatric Endocrinology Inter-institute Training Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Constantine A. Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Developmental Endocrine Oncology and Genetics Group, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA,Pediatric Endocrinology Inter-institute Training Program, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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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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Johnston ZC, Bellingham M, Filis P, Soffientini U, Hough D, Bhattacharya S, Simard M, Hammond GL, King P, O'Shaughnessy PJ, Fowler PA. The human fetal adrenal produces cortisol but no detectable aldosterone throughout the second trimester. BMC Med 2018; 16:23. [PMID: 29429410 PMCID: PMC5808459 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-018-1009-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human fetal adrenal glands are highly active and, with the placenta, regulate circulating progesterone, estrogen and corticosteroids in the fetus. At birth the adrenals are essential for neonate salt retention through secretion of aldosterone, while adequate glucocorticoids are required to prevent adrenal insufficiency. The objective of this study was to carry out the first comprehensive analysis of adrenal steroid levels and steroidogenic enzyme expression in normal second trimester human fetuses. METHODS This was an observational study of steroids, messenger RNA transcripts and proteins in adrenals from up to 109 second trimester fetuses (11 weeks to 21 weeks) at the Universities of Aberdeen and Glasgow. The study design was balanced to show effects of maternal smoking. RESULTS Concentrations of 19 intra-adrenal steroids were quantified using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Pregnenolone was the most abundant steroid while levels of 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and progesterone were also high. Cortisol was present in all adrenals, but aldosterone was undetected and Δ4 androgens were low/undetected. CYP17A1, CYP21A2 and CYP11A1 were all highly expressed and the proteins localized to the adrenal fetal zone. There was low-level expression of HSD3B and CYP11B2, with HSD3B located mainly in the definitive zone. Maternal smoking altered fetal plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) (P = 0.052) and intra-adrenal progesterone, 17α-hydroxyprogesterone and 16α-hydroxyprogesterone, but not plasma or intra-adrenal cortisol, or intra-adrenal DHEAS. Fetal adrenal GATA6 and NR5A1 were increased by maternal smoking. CONCLUSIONS The human fetal adrenal gland produces cortisol but very low levels of Δ4 androgens and no detectable aldosterone throughout the second trimester. The presence of cortisol in fetal adrenals suggests that adrenal regulation of circulating fetal ACTH remains a factor in development of congenital adrenal hyperplasia during the second trimester, while a relative lack of aldosterone explains the salt-wasting disorders frequently seen in extreme pre-term neonates. Finally, maternal smoking may alter fetal adrenal sensitivity to ACTH, which could have knock-on effects on post-natal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe C Johnston
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Michelle Bellingham
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Panagiotis Filis
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Ugo Soffientini
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Denise Hough
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Marc Simard
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Geoffrey L Hammond
- Department of Cellular and Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Peter King
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London, Queen Mary University of London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Peter J O'Shaughnessy
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health & Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary & Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Paul A Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK.
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50
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Dumontet T, Sahut-Barnola I, Septier A, Montanier N, Plotton I, Roucher-Boulez F, Ducros V, Lefrançois-Martinez AM, Pointud JC, Zubair M, Morohashi KI, Breault DT, Val P, Martinez A. PKA signaling drives reticularis differentiation and sexually dimorphic adrenal cortex renewal. JCI Insight 2018; 3:98394. [PMID: 29367455 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.98394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The adrenal cortex undergoes remodeling during fetal and postnatal life. How zona reticularis emerges in the postnatal gland to support adrenarche, a process whereby higher primates increase prepubertal androgen secretion, is unknown. Using cell-fate mapping and gene deletion studies in mice, we show that activation of PKA has no effect on the fetal cortex, while it accelerates regeneration of the adult cortex, triggers zona fasciculata differentiation that is subsequently converted into a functional reticularis-like zone, and drives hypersecretion syndromes. Remarkably, PKA effects are influenced by sex. Indeed, testicular androgens increase WNT signaling that antagonizes PKA, leading to slower adrenocortical cell turnover and delayed phenotype whereas gonadectomy sensitizes males to hypercorticism and reticularis-like formation. Thus, reticularis results from ultimate centripetal conversion of adult cortex under the combined effects of PKA and cell turnover that dictate organ size. We show that PKA-induced progenitor recruitment is sexually dimorphic and may provide a paradigm for overrepresentation of women in adrenal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Typhanie Dumontet
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Amandine Septier
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Ingrid Plotton
- Molecular Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University Hospital, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
| | - Florence Roucher-Boulez
- Molecular Endocrinology and Rare Diseases, University Hospital, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Bron, France
| | - Véronique Ducros
- Unit of Hormone and Nutrition, Department of Biochemistry, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University Hospital, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Mohamad Zubair
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichirou Morohashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - David T Breault
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pierre Val
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Antoine Martinez
- GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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