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Lissaman AC, Girling JE, Cree LM, Campbell RE, Ponnampalam AP. Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad017. [PMID: 37171897 PMCID: PMC10663053 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad017] [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: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lynsey M Cree
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna P Ponnampalam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Pūtahi Manawa-Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand, Centre of Research Excellence, New Zealand
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Bisht A, Gururani R, Jain S, Shukla R, Dwivedi J, Sharma S. Cedrus deodara (Roxb. ex D.Don) G.Don bark fraction ameliorates metabolic, endocrine and ovarian dynamics in rats experiencing polycystic ovarian syndrome. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 306:116206. [PMID: 36690306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE In the Ayurvedic system of medicine, Cedrus deodara bark has been utilized as a folk medicine to remove ovarian cysts and treat infertility in females. AIM The present study is the first to investigate ameliorating potential of C. deodara bark on testosterone propionate and high-fat diet-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome in experimental rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS LC-MS analysis of the fraction selected through bioassay-guided approach employing uterine relaxant activity was performed to determine the bioactive constituents present in it. Further, the identified compounds were docked on the catalytic site of the androgen receptor and insulin receptor substrate-1. Later, the fraction was investigated against testosterone propionate and high-fat diet-induced PCOS in rats. RESULTS Chloroform fraction (F1) of the plant bark was found most active in uterine smooth muscle relaxant activity. LC-MS analysis of F1 indicated the presence of key flavonoids namely deodarin, cedrin, deodardione, and cedrusinin. Afterward, a molecular docking study of these compounds revealed impressive binding interactions with androgen receptor and insulin receptor substrate-1. Besides, in vivo studies, treatment with F1 significantly restored the estrous cycle in rats from the diestrus phase in a dose-dependent manner. Also, the disturbed metabolic and endocrine profile was markedly improved in rats. Later, histopathological analysis revealed the presence of a large number of mature follicles and corpora lutea in F1-treated rats. CONCLUSION In a nutshell, F1 exhibited promising beneficial effects in PCOS and associated conditions via amelioration of metabolic, endocrine, and ovarian dynamics in experimental rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akansha Bisht
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ritika Gururani
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India
| | - Smita Jain
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India
| | - Rahul Shukla
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jaya Dwivedi
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India
| | - Swapnil Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, Rajasthan, India.
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Persaud K, Zhao Q, Owusu-Akyaw A, Rameshwar P, Goldsmith LT, Morelli SS. Expression of glucocorticoid and androgen receptors in bone marrow-derived hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic murine endometrial cells. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:255-268. [PMID: 35717521 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether bone marrow (BM)-derived cells engrafting the murine endometrium express the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and androgen receptor (AR). Recent data demonstrate that BM is a long-term source of multiple hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic endometrial cell types. Important roles for glucocorticoids and androgens in regulating endometrial functions, including decidualization and early embryo attachment/invasion, have very recently emerged. Whether endometrial cells of BM origin express glucocorticoid or ARs has not been previously studied. DESIGN Animal study. SETTING Basic science laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Wild-type C57BL/6J male mice expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) and syngeneic wild-type C57BL/6J female mice aged 6-9 weeks. INTERVENTION(S) Murine bone marrow transplant. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Bone marrow cells were harvested from adult wild-type C57BL/6 mice and subjected to flow cytometry to identify the percentage of hematopoietic and nonhematopoietic cells expressing GR or AR. Uterine tissue sections from lethally irradiated syngeneic adult female C57BL/6 mice that had been recipients of BM transplants from adult male transgenic donor mice ubiquitously expressing GFP were studied. Immunohistochemistry was performed in the uterine tissue sections of the recipient mice at 5, 9, and 12 months after transplant using specific anti-GR, anti-AR, anti-GFP, anti-CD45 (pan leukocyte marker), and anti-F4/80 (murine macrophage marker) primary antibodies. Confocal laser microscopy was used to localize and quantitate BM-derived (GFP+) cell types in the endometrial stromal and epithelial compartments and determine whether BM-derived cell types in the murine endometrium express GR or AR. RESULT(S) Hematopoietic cells comprised 93.6%-96.6% of all cells in the BM, of which 98.1% ± 0.2% expressed GR and 92.2% ± 4.4% expressed AR. Nonhematopoietic cells comprised 0.4%-1.3% of BM, of which 52.8% ± 5.9% expressed GR and 48.9% ± 3.4% expressed AR. After BM transplant, the proportion of cells originating from BM in the endometrial stromal compartment increased over time, reaching 13.5% ± 2.3% at 12 months after transplant. In the epithelial compartments, <1% of the cells were of BM origin at 12 months after transplant. Most (60%-72%) GR+ and/or AR+ BM-derived cells in the stroma were hematopoietic (CD45+) cells, of which 37%-51% were macrophages. Nonetheless, 28%-33% of GR+ cells, and 28%-40% of AR+ BM-derived cells, were nonhematopoietic (CD45-) stromal cells of BM origin. CONCLUSION(S) A substantial number of BM-derived cells express GR and AR, suggesting a role for these cells in both glucocorticoid-regulated and androgen-regulated endometrial functions, such as proliferation and/or decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Persaud
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey.
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Amma Owusu-Akyaw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Pranela Rameshwar
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Laura T Goldsmith
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| | - Sara S Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
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Rafiee B, Karbalay-doust S, Tabei SMB, Azarpira N, Alaee S, Lohrasbi P, Bahmanpour S. Effects of N-acetylcysteine and metformin treatment on the stereopathological characteristics of uterus and ovary. Eur J Transl Myol 2022; 32. [PMID: 35535444 PMCID: PMC9295164 DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2022.10409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, the stereo-pathological effect of metformin and N-acetyl cysteine is evaluated on the uterus and ovary of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) mice. 96 mature females (8-weekold, weight of 20–30 gr) BALB/c mice were classified into 6 groups including the control group (n= 16), letrozole-induced PCOS group (n=16), PCOS + metformin (n=16), PCOS+NAC (n=16) and a separate control group for NAC (n=16). Another PCOS group was maintained for a month to make sure that features remain till the end of the study. Testosterone level, vaginal cytology and stereological evaluations were assessed. Vaginal cytology in letrozole-receiving mice showed a diestrus phase continuity. Testosterone level, body weight, uterine weight, endometrial volume, myometrial volume, gland volume, stromal volume, epithelial volume, vessel volume, daughter and conglomerate glands, endometrial thickness, and myometrial thickness exhibited an increasing trend in the uterus of PCOS mice. While normal gland and vessel length decreased in the PCOS group. Ovarian volume, corticomedullary volume, primary follicles, secondary follicles, and ovarian cysts were increased in PCOS ovaries. While corpus luteum, primordial, graafian, and atretic follicles showed a decline in the PCOS group. NAC and metformin, however, managed to restore the condition to normal. Given the prevalence of PCOS and its impact on fertility, the use of noninvasive methods is of crucial significance. NAC can control and treat pathological parameters and help as a harmless drug in the treatment of women with PCOS.
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Wei X, Roudier MP, Kwon OJ, Lee JD, Kong K, Dumpit R, True L, Morrissey C, Lin DW, Nelson PS, Xin L. Paracrine Wnt signaling is necessary for prostate epithelial proliferation. Prostate 2022; 82:517-530. [PMID: 35014711 PMCID: PMC8866211 DOI: 10.1002/pros.24298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Wnt proteins play key roles in the development, homeostasis, and disease progression of many organs including the prostate. However, the spatiotemporal expression patterns of Wnt proteins in prostate cell lineages at different developmental stages and in prostate cancer remain inadequately characterized. METHODS We isolated the epithelial and stromal cells in the developing and mature mouse prostate by flow cytometry and determined the expression levels of Wnt ligands. We used Visium spatial gene expression analysis to determine the spatial distribution of Wnt ligands in the mouse prostatic glands. Using laser-capture microscopy in combination with gene expression analysis, we also determined the expression patterns of Wnt signaling components in stromal and cancer cells in advanced human prostate cancer specimens. To investigate how the stroma-derived Wnt ligands affect prostate development and homeostasis, we used a Col1a2-CreERT2 mouse model to disrupt the Wnt transporter Wntless specifically in prostate stromal cells. RESULTS We showed that the prostate stromal cells are a major source of several Wnt ligands. Visium spatial gene expression analysis revealed a distinct spatial distribution of Wnt ligands in the prostatic glands. We also showed that Wnt signaling components are highly expressed in the stromal compartment of primary and advanced human prostate cancer. Blocking stromal Wnt secretion attenuated prostate epithelial proliferation and regeneration but did not affect cell survival and lineage maintenance. DISCUSSION Our study demonstrates a critical role of stroma-derived Wnt ligands in prostate development and homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Wei
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | | | - Oh-Joon Kwon
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Justin Daho Lee
- Molecular Engineering Ph.D. Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Kevin Kong
- Department of Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Ruth Dumpit
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Lawrence True
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Colm Morrissey
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Daniel W. Lin
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Peter S. Nelson
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Department of Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
| | - Li Xin
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA 98109
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Kit O, Frantsiyants E, Bandovkina V, Moiseenko T, Chernikova N, Adamyan M, Poryvaev Y, Cheryarina N, Tumanyan S, Kornienko S. Modifying effect of obesity on the content of sex hormones and their receptors in endometrial adenocarcinoma and its surrounding tissue. CARDIOMETRY 2022. [DOI: 10.18137/cardiometry.2022.21.3440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
To study the effect of comorbid pathology: obesity of degree 2-3 on the level of sex steroid hormones and their receptors in the tumor and its surrounding tissue in patients with endometrial cancer (EC). Materials and methods. In 30 patients with endometrioid adenocarcinoma T1-3N0-1M0 (the main group, 15 females with obesity grade 2-3 (BMI≥35); the reference group 15 females with normal BMI) in samples of the tumor and its perifocal zone taken after surgical treatment, the levels of estradiol (E2), estrone (E1), testosterone (T), progesterone (P4), androgen receptors (AR), progesterone receptors (RP4), estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) were determined by ELISA method. Statistical analysis was performed with STATISTICA 10.0. Results. Obese EC patients showed longer healing of postoperative wounds, slow recovery, and more frequent tumor metastasizing to regional lymph nodes. In the tumor samples in all patients, compared with the intact endometrium, the levels of estrogens, testosterone and their receptors were higher. Obesity accompanying the malignant process led to a local increase in the levels of estrogens, testosterone, progesterone and AR, ERα and ERβ in the tumor. In the tumor samples, there were no significant differences from the presence of obesity in the levels of RP4. In the perifocal zone of the tumor in patients with comorbid pathology, compared with the parameters in the reference group, the level of E2, P4 and T was also higher, but the content of all steroid receptors was lower. Conclusion. Obesity aggravates hyperestrogenism and progesterone deficiency in adenocarcinoma and increases its enrichment with the androgen and estrogen receptors with the prevalence of ERα over ERβ that may cause the autocrine-paracrine regulation of the growth and metastasizing of the malignant process in patients with endometrial cancer.
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Shaw IW, Kirkwood PM, Rebourcet D, Cousins FL, Ainslie RJ, Livingstone DEW, Smith LB, Saunders PT, Gibson DA. A role for steroid 5 alpha-reductase 1 in vascular remodeling during endometrial decidualization. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1027164. [PMID: 36465608 PMCID: PMC9709457 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1027164] [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: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidualization is the hormone-dependent process of endometrial remodeling that is essential for fertility and reproductive health. It is characterized by dynamic changes in the endometrial stromal compartment including differentiation of fibroblasts, immune cell trafficking and vascular remodeling. Deficits in decidualization are implicated in disorders of pregnancy such as implantation failure, intra-uterine growth restriction, and pre-eclampsia. Androgens are key regulators of decidualization that promote optimal differentiation of stromal fibroblasts and activation of downstream signaling pathways required for endometrial remodeling. We have shown that androgen biosynthesis, via 5α-reductase-dependent production of dihydrotestosterone, is required for optimal decidualization of human stromal fibroblasts in vitro, but whether this is required for decidualization in vivo has not been tested. In the current study we used steroid 5α-reductase type 1 (SRD5A1) deficient mice (Srd5a1-/- mice) and a validated model of induced decidualization to investigate the role of SRD5A1 and intracrine androgen signaling in endometrial decidualization. We measured decidualization response (weight/proportion), transcriptomic changes, and morphological and functional parameters of vascular development. These investigations revealed a striking effect of 5α-reductase deficiency on the decidualization response. Furthermore, vessel permeability and transcriptional regulation of angiogenesis signaling pathways, particularly those that involved vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), were disrupted in the absence of 5α-reductase. In Srd5a1-/- mice, injection of dihydrotestosterone co-incident with decidualization restored decidualization responses, vessel permeability, and expression of angiogenesis genes to wild type levels. Androgen availability declines with age which may contribute to age-related risk of pregnancy disorders. These findings show that intracrine androgen signaling is required for optimal decidualization in vivo and confirm a major role for androgens in the development of the vasculature during decidualization through regulation of the VEGF pathway. These findings highlight new opportunities for improving age-related deficits in fertility and pregnancy health by targeting androgen-dependent signaling in the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac W. Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Phoebe M. Kirkwood
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona L. Cousins
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J. Ainslie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn E. W. Livingstone
- Centre for Discovery Brain Science, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lee B. Smith
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T.K. Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas A. Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Douglas A. Gibson,
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Oh H, Wild RA, Manson JE, Bea JW, Shadyab AH, Pfeiffer RM, Saquib N, Underland L, Anderson GL, Xu X, Trabert B. Obesity, Height, and Serum Androgen Metabolism among Postmenopausal Women in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2021; 30:2018-2029. [PMID: 34446472 PMCID: PMC8568664 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-21-0604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anthropometric measures, including obesity, are important risk factors for breast and endometrial cancers in postmenopausal women. It is unknown whether these risk factors are associated with androgen metabolism, another risk factor for these cancers. METHODS Using baseline data from 1,765 postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis examining associations between anthropometric measures [current body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), height, and recalled BMI at age 18) and serum androgen metabolites. Twelve androgens/androgen metabolites were quantified using LC-MS/MS. Geometric means of androgen/androgen metabolite concentrations were estimated using linear regression, adjusting for potential confounders and stratified by hormone therapy (HT) use. RESULTS Regardless of HT use, higher current BMI (≥30 vs. <25 kg/m2) was associated with higher serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), 5α-reduced glucuronide metabolites [androsterone-glucuronide (ADT-G), 5α-androstane-3α,17β diol-3-glucuronide (3α-diol-3G), 3α-diol-17-glucuronide (3α-diol-17G)], and DHEAS:DHEA ratio (all P trend ≤ 0.02). BMI was also positively associated with unconjugated estrone:androstenedione and unconjugated estradiol:testosterone ratios among never/former HT users (all P trend < 0.001) but not among current users (P-int < 0.001). WHR was positively associated with adrenal androgens and 5α-reduced glucuronide metabolites in obese women only (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2; all P-trend ≤ 0.01). BMI at age 18 was inversely associated with adrenal androgens (DHEA, DHEAS, androstenedione, testosterone) and 5α-reduced glucuronide metabolites in never/former HT users (all P trend < 0.06). Height was not associated with androgen metabolites. CONCLUSIONS Current BMI is associated with androgen metabolism among postmenopausal women. IMPACT This study contributes to our understanding of the link between obesity and cancer risk in postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Oh
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Graduate School of Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Division of Health Policy and Management, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Robert A Wild
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Hudson College of Public Health, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - JoAnn E Manson
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jennifer W Bea
- Health Promotion Sciences Department, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Aladdin H Shadyab
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Ruth M Pfeiffer
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nazmus Saquib
- College of Medicine, Sulaiman Alrajhi University, Al Bukairiyah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lisa Underland
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, New York
| | - Garnet L Anderson
- Public Health Sciences Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Xia Xu
- Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Britton Trabert
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
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Bianchi VE, Bresciani E, Meanti R, Rizzi L, Omeljaniuk RJ, Torsello A. The role of androgens in women's health and wellbeing. Pharmacol Res 2021; 171:105758. [PMID: 34242799 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Androgens in women, as well as in men, are intrinsic to maintenance of (i) reproductive competency, (ii) cardiac health, (iii) appropriate bone remodeling and mass retention, (iii) muscle tone and mass, and (iv) brain function, in part, through their mitigation of neurodegenerative disease effects. In recognition of the pluripotency of endogenous androgens, exogenous androgens, and selected congeners, have been prescribed off-label for several decades to treat low libido and sexual dysfunction in menopausal women, as well as, to improve physical performance. However, long-term safety and efficacy of androgen administration has yet to be fully elucidated. Side effects often observed include (i) hirsutism, (ii) acne, (iii) deepening of the voice, and (iv) weight gain but are associated most frequently with supra-physiological doses. By contrast, short-term clinical trials suggest that the use of low-dose testosterone therapy in women appears to be effective, safe and economical. There are, however, few clinical studies, which have focused on effects of androgen therapy on pre- and post-menopausal women; moreover, androgen mechanisms of action have not yet been thoroughly explained in these subjects. This review considers clinical effects of androgens on women's health in order to prevent chronic diseases and reduce cancer risk in gynecological tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio E Bianchi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism, Clinical Center Stella Maris, Strada Rovereta 42, Falciano 47891, San Marino.
| | - Elena Bresciani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy.
| | - Ramona Meanti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy.
| | - Laura Rizzi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy.
| | - Robert J Omeljaniuk
- Department of Biology, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Rd, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7B 5E1, Canada.
| | - Antonio Torsello
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy.
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Zhang Y, Hu M, Yang F, Zhang Y, Ma S, Zhang D, Wang X, Sferruzzi-Perri AN, Wu X, Brännström M, Shao LR, Billig H. Increased uterine androgen receptor protein abundance results in implantation and mitochondrial defects in pregnant rats with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:1427-1446. [PMID: 34180022 PMCID: PMC8455403 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02104-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract In this study, we show that during normal rat pregnancy, there is a gestational stage-dependent decrease in androgen receptor (AR) abundance in the gravid uterus and that this is correlated with the differential expression of endometrial receptivity and decidualization genes during early and mid-gestation. In contrast, exposure to 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and insulin (INS) or DHT alone significantly increased AR protein levels in the uterus in association with the aberrant expression of endometrial receptivity and decidualization genes, as well as disrupted implantation. Next, we assessed the functional relevance of the androgen-AR axis in the uterus for reproductive outcomes by treating normal pregnant rats and pregnant rats exposed to DHT and INS with the anti-androgen flutamide. We found that AR blockage using flutamide largely attenuated the DHT and INS-induced maternal endocrine, metabolic, and fertility impairments in pregnant rats in association with suppressed induction of uterine AR protein abundance and androgen-regulated response protein and normalized expression of several endometrial receptivity and decidualization genes. Further, blockade of AR normalized the expression of the mitochondrial biogenesis marker Nrf1 and the mitochondrial functional proteins Complexes I and II, VDAC, and PHB1. However, flutamide treatment did not rescue the compromised mitochondrial structure resulting from co-exposure to DHT and INS. These results demonstrate that functional AR protein is an important factor for gravid uterine function. Impairments in the uterine androgen-AR axis are accompanied by decreased endometrial receptivity, decidualization, and mitochondrial dysfunction, which might contribute to abnormal implantation in pregnant PCOS patients with compromised pregnancy outcomes and subfertility. Key messages The proper regulation of uterine androgen receptor (AR) contributes to a
normal pregnancy process, whereas the aberrant regulation of uterine AR might
be linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-induced pregnancy-related
complications. In the current study, we found that during normal rat pregnancy there is
a stage-dependent decrease in AR abundance in the gravid uterus and that this
is correlated with the differential expression of the endometrial receptivity
and decidualization genes Spp1, Prl, Igfbp1,
and Hbegf. Pregnant rats exposed to 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and insulin (INS)
or to DHT alone show elevated uterine AR protein abundance and implantation
failure related to the aberrant expression of genes involved in endometrial
receptivity and decidualization in early to mid-gestation. Treatment with the anti-androgen flutamide, starting from
pre-implantation, effectively prevents DHT + INS-induced defects in endometrial
receptivity and decidualization gene expression, restores uterine mitochondrial
homeostasis, and increases the pregnancy rate and the numbers of viable
fetuses. This study adds to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying poor
pregnancy outcomes in PCOS patients and the possible therapeutic use of
anti-androgens, including flutamide, after spontaneous conception.
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00109-021-02104-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China.,Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 11, P. O. Box 434, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 11, P. O. Box 434, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China.,Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Yizhuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Shuting Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Dongqi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Amanda Nancy Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41345, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linus R Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 11, P. O. Box 434, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 11, P. O. Box 434, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Ohara M, Yoshida-Komiya H, Ono-Okutsu M, Yamaguchi-Ito A, Takahashi T, Fujimori K. Metformin reduces androgen receptor and upregulates homeobox A10 expression in uterine endometrium in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:77. [PMID: 34053455 PMCID: PMC8165781 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00765-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) causes anovulation and is associated with a reduced clinical pregnancy rate. Metformin, which is widely used for treating PCOS, can lead to successful pregnancy by restoring the ovulation cycle and possibly improving endometrial abnormality during the implantation period. However, the mechanism by which metformin improves endometrial abnormality remains unknown. Women with PCOS have an aberrant expression of steroid hormone receptors and homeobox A10 (HOXA10), which is essential for embryo implantation in the endometrium. METHODS In this study, we examined whether metformin affects androgen receptor (AR) and HOXA10 expression in PCOS endometrium in vivo and in human endometrial cell lines in vitro. Expression of AR and HOXA10 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, fluorescent immunocytochemistry, and western blot analysis. RESULTS AR expression was localized in both epithelial and stromal cells; however, HOXA10 expression was limited to only stromal cells in this study. In women with PCOS, 3 months after metformin treatment, the expression of AR was reduced in epithelial and stromal cells in comparison to their levels before treatment. In contrast, HOXA10 expression in the stromal cells with metformin treatment increased in comparison to its level before treatment. Further, we showed that metformin counteracted the testosterone-induced AR expression in both Ishikawa cells and human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs); whereas, metformin partly restored the testosterone-reduced HOXA10 expression in HESCs in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that metformin may have a direct effect on the abnormal endometrial environment of androgen excess in women with PCOS. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was approved by the Ethical Committee of Fukushima Medical University (approval no. 504, approval date. July 6, 2006), and written informed consent was obtained from all patients. https://www.fmu.ac.jp/univ/sangaku/rinri.html.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miki Ohara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University, School of Medicine, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Hiromi Yoshida-Komiya
- Center for Gender Specific Medicine, Fukushima Medical University, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan.
| | - Miho Ono-Okutsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University, School of Medicine, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Akiko Yamaguchi-Ito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University, School of Medicine, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Toshifumi Takahashi
- Fukushima Medical Center for Children and Women, Fukushima Medical University, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Keiya Fujimori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University, School of Medicine, 1 Hikarigaoka, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
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12
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Simão VA, Lupi Júnior LA, Adan Araujo Leite G, Cherici Camargo IC, de Almeida Chuffa LG. Nandrolone decanoate causes uterine injury by changing hormone levels and sex steroid receptors in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 102:98-108. [PMID: 33984419 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Different doses of nandrolone decanoate (ND) were used to investigate the expression of uterine sex steroid receptors (AR, ER-α, and ER-β) and the levels of serum sex hormones after treatment and recovery periods in adult rats. ND doses of 1.87, 3.75, 7.5, or 15 mg/kg b.w. or mineral oil (control group) were injected subcutaneously for 15 days, and the experimental groups were divided into three periods of evaluation: (a) ND treatment for 15 days, (b) ND treatment followed by 30-day-recovery and (c) ND treatment followed by 60-day-recovery. Estrous cycle was monitored daily. At the end of each experimental period, rats were euthanized for the collection of serum samples and uterine tissues. All animals showed persistent diestrus and only the highest ND dose was capable of inducing persistent diestrus until 60-day-recovery. Immunoexpression of uterine sex steroid receptors varied in a time-dependent manner. While AR expression was increase after treatment period, ER-α and ER-β expressions decreased after 60- and 30-day-recovery, respectively. ND also increased the serum levels of testosterone, 17β-estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone, especially at the highest doses of 7.5 and 15 mg ND/kg until 30 days of recovery. The levels of progesterone were significantly reduced in all ND-treated animals. No significant difference was observed in the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, whereas the levels of luteinizing hormone varied according to specific dose and period. We conclude that uterine sex steroid receptors and sex hormones are affected by ND administration and these alterations can be only restored following lower doses and long recovery periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinícius Augusto Simão
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences and Letters of Assis, FCL/UNESP, SP, 19806-900, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Antonio Lupi Júnior
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, IBB/UNESP, SP, 16618-689, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Adan Araujo Leite
- Department of Cell Biology, Embryology and Genetics, Biological Sciences Center, UFSC, SC, 88040-900, Brazil.
| | | | - Luiz Gustavo de Almeida Chuffa
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, IBB/UNESP, SP, 16618-689, Brazil.
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Sharma CR, Balasinor NH, Inamdar Doddamani LS. High, not low-dose of stanozolol (Anabolic - androgenic steroid) impedes embryo implantation by attenuating endometrial receptivity in the mouse, Mus musculus. Steroids 2021; 165:108752. [PMID: 33098822 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2020.108752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The present investigation is aimed at evaluating the efficacy of one of the anabolic -androgenic steroids, stanozolol (ST), on establishment and maintenance of pregnancy in mice. A total of 40 female mice were assigned to three experimental groups. Stanozolol was dosed subcutaneously (low-dose, 0.5 mg/kg bwt; high-dose, 5.0 mg/kg bwt or 1% alcohol-baseline control) for 30 consecutive days. On the 31st day, treatment was withdrawn. The estrous cycle was disrupted in both treatment groups and its resumption was dose dependent. Following estrous resumption, mice were allowed to mate. Results reveal that the low-dose ST-treated mice maintained gestation until term with reduced litter size, while high-dose-treated mice divulged vaginal plug at frequent intervals, indicating conception failure. Because pregnancy failure was noticed in high-dose-treated mice, they were autopsied on GD1.5 and 4.5. Interestingly, neither dose of stanozolol affected early embryonic development or blastocyst hatching. A decrease in the number of corpora lutea in both treated groups suggests it affects either ovulation or recruitment of follicles that occurs in each cycle for maturation. In high-dose-treated mice, decreased serum levels of estradiol, progesterone and increased testosterone along with downregulated endometrial expression of ERα and PR suggest the deficiency of steroid hormones and their respective receptors. Decreased ovarian expression of ERα, hyperexpression of PRLR, AR and abated progesterone secretion led to luteal dysfunction, consequently attenuating endometrial receptivity. Therefore, in high-dose-treated mice, decreased maternal estradiol and progesterone levels and their receptors during implantation hindered signaling to LIF and Hoxa-10, resulting in pragmatic implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaitra R Sharma
- Molecular Endocrinology, Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad 580 003, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Laxmi S Inamdar Doddamani
- Molecular Endocrinology, Reproduction and Development Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Karnatak University, Dharwad 580 003, India.
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Hosseinzadeh P, Barsky M, Gibbons WE, Blesson CS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Forgotten Uterus. F&S REVIEWS 2021; 2:11-20. [PMID: 34423324 PMCID: PMC8378802 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder that affects various facets of fertility. Although the ovarian and metabolic aspects of the disease is well studied, its role in uterine dysfunction is not well understood. Our objective was to review the features of endometrial and uterine aberrations in women with PCOS. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library databases for papers published in English up to March 2020. The following key words were used for the search: polycystic ovary syndrome, poly cystic ovarian disease, polycystic ovaries, PCOS, PCOD, PCO, PCOM, oligoovulation, anovulation, oligomenorrhea, amenorrhea, hyperandrogenism and this was combined with terms; endometrium, infertility, uterus, progesterone resistance, endometrial hyperplasia, pregnancy outcomes, preterm delivery. In this review, we highlight various uterine pathologies that are associated with PCOS and explore its impact on fertility. We also discuss key uterine molecular pathways that are altered in PCOS that may be related to infertility, endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pardis Hosseinzadeh
- Division for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Maya Barsky
- Division for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - William E. Gibbons
- Division for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Chellakkan S. Blesson
- Division for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030
- Family Fertility Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030
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15
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Gisela S B, M Virginia A, Gabriela A A, M Virginia T, Enrique H L, Laura K, Véronica L B. Androgen receptor and uterine histoarchitecture in a PCOS rat model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110973. [PMID: 32781251 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with hyperandrogenemia and uterine abnormalities. Our aim was to investigate the uterine effects of PCOS that are mediated through the androgen receptor (AR). After weaning, female rats were treated with sesame oil (Control), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), or DHEA + flutamide (FLU, an AR antagonist) for 20 consecutive days. On postnatal day 41, serum, ovarian and uterine tissues were collected. DHEA and DHEA + FLU rats showed increased testosterone levels. DHEA rats showed increased epithelial height, glandular density, subepithelial stroma and myometrial thickness, associated with decreased nuclei density. These rats also showed increased uterine water content, with decreased aquaporin (AQP) 3, 7 and 8 expression in the uterine epithelium and increased AQP8 expression in the myometrium. DHEA rats also showed decreased uterine collagen remodeling, decreased cell proliferation in the subepithelial stroma, and increased apoptosis in the luminal and glandular epithelium and in the myometrium. They also showed an increase in insulin-like growth factor-1 and a decrease in phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-trisphosphate 3-phosphatase. The uterine stroma of DHEA rats showed no changes in progesterone receptor or estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and increased AR expression. DHEA + FLU rats showed a smaller increase in the myometrial thickness, an increase in the uterine water content without AQP8 induction and a smaller decrease in collagen remodeling. These rats also showed no apoptosis induction and decreased proliferation in the myometrium, decreased ERα in the subepithelial stroma and myometrium and no modifications in AR. Our results demonstrate that the uterine cell turnover and collagen remodeling in DHEA rats are regulated through AR, directly or indirectly associated with ERα expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bracho Gisela S
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Acosta M Virginia
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Altamirano Gabriela A
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Tschopp M Virginia
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Luque Enrique H
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Kass Laura
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Bosquiazzo Véronica L
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina; Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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16
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Milesi MM, Durando M, Lorenz V, Gastiazoro MP, Varayoud J. Postnatal exposure to endosulfan affects uterine development and fertility. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 511:110855. [PMID: 32437785 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Endosulfan is an organochlorine pesticide (OCP) used in large-scale agriculture for controlling a variety of insects and mites that attack food and non-food crops. Although endosulfan has been listed in the Stockholm Convention as a persistent organic pollutant to be worldwide banned, it is still in use in some countries. Like other OCPs, endosulfan is bioaccumulative, toxic and persistent in the environment. Human unintentional exposure may occur through air inhalation, dietary, skin contact, as well as, via transplacental route and breast feeding. Due to its lipophilic nature, endosulfan is rapidly absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract and bioaccumulates in the fatty tissues. Similar to other OCPs, endosulfan has been classified as an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC). Endocrine action of endosulfan on development and reproductive function of males has been extensively discussed; however, endosulfan effects on the female reproductive tract have received less attention. This review provides an overview of: i) the fate and levels of endosulfan in the environment and human population, ii) the potential estrogenic properties of endosulfan in vitro and in vivo, iii) its effects on uterine development, and iv) the long-term effects on female fertility and uterine functional differentiation during early gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Milesi
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina.
| | - M Durando
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - V Lorenz
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - M P Gastiazoro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - J Varayoud
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Casilla de Correo 242, 3000, Santa Fe, Argentina; Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina
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17
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Wiwatpanit T, Murphy AR, Lu Z, Urbanek M, Burdette JE, Woodruff TK, Kim JJ. Scaffold-Free Endometrial Organoids Respond to Excess Androgens Associated With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5588091. [PMID: 31614364 PMCID: PMC7112974 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent disorder in reproductive aged women associated with a number of endocrine and metabolic complications, including increased risk of endometrial cancer. OBJECTIVE To study the effect of the characteristic increased androgen levels in PCOS on the endometrium, a novel scaffold-free multicellular endometrial organoid was established. DESIGN Human endometrial organoids were constructed using primary endometrial epithelial and stromal cells from endometrial tissues. Organoids were treated for 14 days with physiologic levels of estradiol and testosterone to mimic a normal follicular phase or PCOS hormone profiles. Organoids were harvested for immunostaining and ribonucleic acid sequencing. SETTING Academic institution. PATIENTS Endometrial tissues from 10 premenopausal women undergoing hysterectomy for benign pathologies were obtained following written consent. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Organoid architecture, cell specific markers, functional markers, proliferation, and gene expression were measured. RESULTS A method to generate scaffold-free endometrial organoids containing epithelial and stromal cells was established. These organoids exhibited distinct organization with epithelial cells lining the outer surface and stromal cells in the center of the organoids. Epithelial cells were polarized, organoids expressed cell type specific and functional markers, as well as androgen, estrogen, and progesterone receptors. Treatment with PCOS hormones increased cell proliferation and dysregulated genes in endometrial organoids. CONCLUSIONS A new multicellular, scaffold-free endometrial organoid system was established that resembled physiology of the native endometrium. Excess androgens in PCOS promoted cell proliferation in endometrial organoids, revealing new mechanisms of PCOS-associated with risk of endometrial neoplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teerawat Wiwatpanit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, US
| | - Alina R Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, US
| | - Zhenxiao Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, US
| | - Margrit Urbanek
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, US
| | - Joanna E Burdette
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, US
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, US
| | - J Julie Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, US
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: J. Julie Kim, PhD, Susy Y. Hung Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, 4-117, Chicago, IL 60611. E-mail:
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18
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Wang X, Wang C, Cong J, Bao H, Liu X, Hao C. Regenerative Potential of Menstrual Blood-Derived Stem Cells and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor in Endometrial Injury. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e919251. [PMID: 32112554 PMCID: PMC7063849 DOI: 10.12659/msm.919251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial regeneration is essential for normal endometrial function; however, it is unclear whether and how menstrual blood-derived stem cells (MenSCs) and platelet-derived growth factor (PGDF) are associated with this phenomenon. The present study explored this topic. Material/Methods EM-E6/E7/hTERT cells were divided into 5 groups: control group, NC group, PDGF group, MenSCs group, and PDGF+MenSCs group. The effects of MenSCs and PDGF on cell proliferation, invasion, and microvascular formation of endometrial epithelium were investigated by CCK-8, Transwell, and tube formation assays, respectively. Mouse endometrial injury models were established and mice were randomly divided into control, model, PDGF, MenSCs, and PDGF+MenSCs groups. Pathological change was examined with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Microvessel formation of endometrial epithelium was estimated by detecting the expression of CD34 protein with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Western blot analysis was used to detect the activation of Akt and Bad proteins in endometrial tissue. Results MenSCs, PDGF, and the combination treatments significantly promoted the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of endometrial epithelium compared to the control and NC group. The combination of MenSCs and PDGF remarkably promoted re-epithelialization and endometrial repair. IHC staining analysis showed significant increases in CD34 expression of the endometrial tissue following treatment with PDGF and MenSCs. The combination treatments also markedly enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt and Bad in endometrial tissue. Conclusions These results suggest that MenSCs and PDGF may be candidate substances for endometrial injury repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrong Wang
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Chengde Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Jianxiang Cong
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Hongchu Bao
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
| | - Cuifang Hao
- Department of Reproduction Medicine, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China (mainland)
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19
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Ferreira SR, Goyeneche AA, Heber MF, Abruzzese GA, Telleria CM, Motta AB. Prenatally androgenized female rats develop uterine hyperplasia when adult. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 499:110610. [PMID: 31589912 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal hyperandrogenization (PH) is hypothesized as one of the main factors contributing to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of prenatal exposure to androgen excess on the uterus when animals reach their adulthood. We found that PH altered the morphology of the uteri that show a hyperplastic morphology with increased total uterine thickness as well as luminal epithelium thickness, with both enhanced and altered distribution of glands as compared with controls. Morphological alterations were associated with an unbalanced homeostasis as assessed by the expression of regulators of cell cycle progression and cell death dynamics. PH also causes disturbances in the cell cycle of the uterine tissue and dysregulates cell death and survival pathways leading to the development of uterine hyperplasia. These findings suggest that PH may have a deleterious effect on the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Rocío Ferreira
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina.
| | - Alicia Alejandra Goyeneche
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 3775 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - María Florencia Heber
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina
| | - Giselle Adriana Abruzzese
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina
| | - Carlos Marcelo Telleria
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 3775 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Alicia Beatriz Motta
- Laboratorio de Fisio-Patología Ovárica, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina
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20
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Dulohery K, Trottmann M, Bour S, Liedl B, Alba-Alejandre I, Reese S, Hughes B, Stief CG, Kölle S. How do elevated levels of testosterone affect the function of the human fallopian tube and fertility?-New insights. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:30-44. [PMID: 31705839 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Excess testosterone levels affect up to 20% of the female population worldwide and are a key component in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. However, little is known about how excess testosterone affects the function of the human fallopian tube-the site of gamete transport, fertilization, and early embryogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize alterations caused by long-term exposure to male testosterone levels. For this purpose, the Fallopian tubes of nine female-to-male transsexuals, who had been undergoing testosterone treatment for 1-3 years, were compared with the tubes of 19 cycling patients. In the ampulla, testosterone treatment resulted in extensive luminal accumulations of secretions and cell debris which caused ciliary clumping and luminal blockage. Additionally, the percentage of ciliated cells in the ampulla was significantly increased. Transsexual patients, who had had sexual intercourse before surgery, showed spermatozoa trapped in mucus. Finally, in the isthmus complete luminal collapse occurred. Our results imply that fertility in women with elevated levels of testosterone is altered by tubal luminal obstruction resulting in impaired gamete transport and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Dulohery
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Susanne Bour
- Department of Urology, Klinikum Grosshadern, LMU Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Liedl
- Department of Urogenital Surgery, Clinic for Surgery Munich-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Sven Reese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Barbara Hughes
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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21
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Simitsidellis I, Esnal-Zuffiaure A, Kelepouri O, O’Flaherty E, Gibson DA, Saunders PTK. Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) have specific impacts on the mouse uterus. J Endocrinol 2019; 242:227-239. [PMID: 31319382 PMCID: PMC6690265 DOI: 10.1530/joe-19-0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) have been proposed as therapeutics for women suffering from breast cancer, muscle wasting or urinary incontinence. The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed in the uterus but the impact of SARMs on the function of this organ is unknown. We used a mouse model to compare the impact of SARMs (GTx-007/Andarine®, GTx-024/Enobosarm®), Danazol (a synthetic androstane steroid) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on tissue architecture, cell proliferation and gene expression. Ovariectomised mice were treated daily for 7 days with compound or vehicle control (VC). Uterine morphometric characteristics were quantified using high-throughput image analysis (StrataQuest; TissueGnostics), protein and gene expression were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR, respectively. Treatment with GTx-024, Danazol or DHT induced significant increases in body weight, uterine weight and the surface area of the endometrial stromal and epithelial compartments compared to VC. Treatment with GTx-007 had no impact on these parameters. GTx-024, Danazol and DHT all significantly increased the percentage of Ki67-positive cells in the stroma, but only GTx-024 had an impact on epithelial cell proliferation. GTx-007 significantly increased uterine expression of Wnt4 and Wnt7a, whereas GTx-024 and Danazol decreased their expression. In summary, the impact of GTx-024 and Danazol on uterine cells mirrored that of DHT, whereas GTx-007 had minimal impact on the tested parameters. This study has identified endpoints that have revealed differences in the effects of SARMs on uterine tissue and provides a template for preclinical studies comparing the impact of compounds targeting the AR on endometrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Arantza Esnal-Zuffiaure
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Olympia Kelepouri
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elisabeth O’Flaherty
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, UK
- Correspondence should be addressed to P T K Saunders:
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22
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Wang Y, Yao Y, Zhang C, Guo Y, Zhang H, Han Y, Yuan Z, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of COX-1, COX-2 and EP4 in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus). Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2019; 143:106343. [PMID: 31195125 DOI: 10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2019.106343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandins (PGs) play a pivotal role in uterine reproductive process including maternal recognition of pregnancy, cell proliferation, and myometrium contractions in mammals. In this study, we investigated the immunolocalizations and expression levels of Prostaglandin E2 synthases cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2, as well as one of PGE2 receptor subtypes 4 (EP4) in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) during the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Histologically, the thickness of endometrium: myometrium ratio in the uteri of the breeding season was higher than that of the non-breeding season. The immunostainings of COX-1, COX-2 and EP4 were observed in stromal cells, glandular cells and myometrium cells in the breeding and non-breeding seasons. The protein and mRNA expression levels of COX-1, COX-2 and EP4 were higher in the uteri of the breeding season than those of in the non-breeding season. The mean mRNA levels of COX-1, COX-2 and EP4 were positively correlated with uterine weights. In addition, the PGE2 concentration of uterine tissues as well as plasma PGE2, 17β-estradiol, progesterone, LH and FSH levels were also significantly higher in the breeding season compared to those of the non-breeding season. These results suggested that PGE2 might play an important autocrine or paracrine role in the regulation of seasonal changes in the uterine functions of the wild Daurian ground squirrels during the breeding and non-breeding seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuchen Yao
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Chunjiao Zhang
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yuanyuan Guo
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Haolin Zhang
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yingying Han
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Zhengrong Yuan
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qiang Weng
- College of Biological Science and Technology, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
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23
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Aktas S, Un I, Omer Barlas I, Ozturk AB, Ilkay Karagul M. Evaluation of the Rho A/Rho-kinase pathway in the uterus of the rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:45-54. [PMID: 30704840 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of RhoA/Rho-kinase in the uterus and the effect of Rho-kinase inhibitors on uterine contractions of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rats. Forty-four female Sprague-Dawley (21 days old) rats divided into three groups: The control group (n = 14, any procedure was not performed), vehicle group (n = 14, 0.2 ml of sesame oil, subcutaneous injection, 20 days) and PCOS group (n = 16, DHEA 6 mg/100 g in 0.2 ml of sesame oil, subcutaneous injection, 20 days). The myometrium thickness and uterine wet weight were assessed. The mRNA and protein expressions of Rho A, the effect of Rho-kinase inhibitors (fasudil and Y-27632) on KCl, carbachol, and PGF2α induced contractions were evaluated in the uterus. In the PCOS group, the myometrium thickness and uterine wet weight significantly increased compared to the control group and vehicle group. The mRNA expression level and the immunoreactive score of Rho A, ROCK 1, ROCK 2 were similar in all groups. In the PCOS group, KCl, carbachol, and PGF2α induced uterine contractions significantly increased compared to the control group and vehicle group. Fasudil and Y-27632 significantly inhibited KCl, carbachol, and PGF2α induced uterine contractions in all groups. In conclusion, the expression of Rho A, ROCK 1, ROCK 2 not changed although myometrium thickness, uterine wet weight and the contractile responses of uterus increased in the PCOS group. The results suggest that the Rho-kinase inhibitors effectively suppressed increased contractions in the PCOS group they might be potential therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savas Aktas
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey.
| | - Ismail Un
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Ibrahim Omer Barlas
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Ayla Batu Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Meryem Ilkay Karagul
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mersin University, Mersin, Turkey
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24
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Glandular defects in the mouse uterus with sustained activation of TGF-beta signaling is associated with altered differentiation of endometrial stromal cells and formation of stromal compartment. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209417. [PMID: 30550590 PMCID: PMC6294433 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine gland development, also known as adenogenesis, is a key uterine morphogenic process indispensable for normal uterine function and fertility. Our earlier studies have reported that overactivation of TGFB receptor 1 (TGFBR1) in the mouse uterus using progesterone receptor (Pgr)-Cre recombinase causes female infertility, defective decidualization, and reduced uterine gland formation, a developmental milestone of postnatal uterus. To understand mechanisms that underpin the disrupted uterine gland formation in mice with sustained activation of TGFBR1, we raised the question of whether early postnatal adenogenesis was compromised in these mice. Experiments were designed using mice with constitutive activation of TGFBR1 driven by Pgr-Cre to determine the timing of adenogenic defects and potential mechanisms associated with dysregulation of adenogenic genes, luminal epithelial cell proliferation and endometrial fibrotic changes. Uterine tissues from mice with constitutive activation of TGFBR1 were collected during the critical time window of adenogenesis and analyzed together with age-matched controls. Multiple approaches including immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Trichrome staining, quantitative real-time PCR, western blot, conditional knockout and human endometrial cell culture were utilized. TGFBR1 activation in the mouse uterus suppressed adenogenesis during postnatal uterine development, concomitant with the aberrant differentiation of uterine stromal cells. Analysis of transcript expression of WNT pathway components revealed dysregulation of adenogenesis-associated genes. Notably, the adenogenic defects occurred in spite of the increased proliferation of uterine luminal epithelial cells, accompanied by increased expression of genes associated with fibrotic changes. Moreover, the adenogenic defects were alleviated in mice where TGFBR1 was activated in presumably half of the complement of uterine cells. Our results suggest that altered differentiation of endometrial stromal cells and formation of stromal compartment promote adenogenic defects.
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25
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Bracho GS, Altamirano GA, Kass L, Luque EH, Bosquiazzo VL. Hyperandrogenism Induces Histo-Architectural Changes in the Rat Uterus. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:657-668. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118783881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Soledad Bracho
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Anahí Altamirano
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Laura Kass
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Cátedra de Patología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Enrique Hugo Luque
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Cátedra de Fisiología Humana, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Verónica Lis Bosquiazzo
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral (ISAL UNL-CONICET), Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica y Cuantitativa, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, Argentina
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26
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Androgens have been implicated in prostate growth; however, the role of androgens in prostate cancer development is not clear. Furthermore, studies suggest a role for androgens in female-hormone-dependent cancers and common nonhormone dependent cancers. This study aims to review key studies and more recent studies of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and cancer risk. RECENT FINDINGS Epidemiological studies are reassuring as they have not associated endogenous androgens with prostate cancer risk. Intraprostatic regulation of DHT is becoming recognized as an important area of research to clarify the role of DHT in prostate cancer development. In females, further understanding of intracrine regulation of sex hormones and interactions between androgens and estrogens in influencing breast and endometrial cancer risk are required. Studies show a signal for DHT in modulating lung and colorectal cancer growth; however, research in this area is relatively scarce and further studies are required to clarify these associations. SUMMARY Although concerns of prostate cancer risk remain, there is also potential for androgens to modulate the growth and development of other common cancers. Further research is required as this may have clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi X Chan
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Bu B Yeap
- School of Medicine, University of Western Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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27
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Simitsidellis I, Saunders PTK, Gibson DA. Androgens and endometrium: New insights and new targets. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 465:48-60. [PMID: 28919297 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [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: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are synthesised in both the ovary and adrenals in women and play an important role in the regulation of female fertility, as well as in the aetiology of disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis and endometrial cancer. The endometrium is an androgen target tissue and the impact of AR-mediated effects has been studied using human endometrial tissue samples and rodent models. In this review we highlight recent evidence that endometrial androgen biosynthesis and intracrine action is important in preparation of a tissue microenvironment that can support implantation and establishment of pregnancy. The impact of androgens on endometrial cell proliferation, in repair of the endometrial wound at the time of menstruation and in endometrial disorders is discussed. Future directions for research focused on AR function as a therapeutic target are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Simitsidellis
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK.
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28
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Gibson DA, Simitsidellis I, Kelepouri O, Critchley HOD, Saunders PTK. Dehydroepiandrosterone enhances decidualization in women of advanced reproductive age. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:728-734.e2. [PMID: 29397924 PMCID: PMC5908781 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the impact of the androgen precursor dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on the decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells isolated from women of advanced reproductive age. Design In vitro study. Setting University research institute. Patient(s) Proliferative phase primary human endometrial stromal fibroblasts (hESFs) were isolated from women of advanced reproductive age (n = 16; mean age, 44.7 ± 2.3). None of the women were receiving hormone therapy or had endometriosis. Intervention(s) Isolated hESFs were decidualized in vitro by incubation with P (1 μM) and cAMP (0.1 mg/mL) in the presence, or absence, of DHEA (10 nM, 100 nM). Main Outcome Measure(s) Secretion of androgens was assessed by ELISA. Expression of decidualization markers and endometrial receptivity markers was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and ELISA. Result(s) Decidualization responses were retained in hESF isolated from women of advanced reproductive age. Supplementation with DHEA increased androgen biosynthesis and concentrations of T and dihydrotestosterone were ∼3× greater after coincubation with DHEA compared with hESF stimulated with decidualization alone. Addition of DHEA to decidualized hESF increased expression of the decidualization markers IGFBP1 and PRL and the endometrial receptivity marker SPP1. DHEA enhanced secretion of IGFBP1, PRL, and SPP1 proteins maximally by day 8 of the decidualization time course concomitant with peak androgen concentrations. Conclusion(s) These novel results demonstrate DHEA can enhance in vitro decidualization responses of hESF from women of advanced reproductive age. Supplementation with DHEA during the receptive phase may augment endometrial function and improve pregnancy rates in natural or assisted reproductive cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Gibson
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Ioannis Simitsidellis
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Olympia Kelepouri
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Hilary O D Critchley
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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29
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Wang Y, Wang Z, Yu W, Sheng X, Zhang H, Han Y, Yuan Z, Weng Q. Seasonal expressions of androgen receptor, estrogen receptors and cytochrome P450 aromatase in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus). Eur J Histochem 2018; 62:2889. [PMID: 29569876 PMCID: PMC5820527 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2018.2889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The reproductive tissues including the uterus undergo dramatic changes in seasonal breeders from the breeding to non-breeding seasons. Classically, sex steroid hormones play important roles in the uterine morphology and functions. To clarify the relationship between sex steroid hormones and seasonal changes in the uterine morphology and functions, the wild Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) were used as seasonal breeder model. And the immunolocalizations and expression levels of androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptors α and β (ERα and ERβ) and cytochrome P450 aromatase (P450arom) were investigated in the uteri of the wild Daurian ground squirrels in the breeding (April) and the non-breeding (June) seasons via immunohistochemistry, Western blot and RT-PCR. Histologically, the uterine weight, the thickness of endometrium and the glandular density were significantly higher in the uteri of the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season. In both seasons, the immunostaining of AR was only presented in stromal cells of the uteri; the positive staining of ERα and ERβ were localized in stromal cells and glandular cells; P450arom was merely immunolocalized in glandular cells. The protein and mRNA expression levels of ERα, ERβ and P450arom were higher in the uteri of the breeding season than those of the non-breeding season; conversely, the expressions of AR were higher in the uteri of the non-breeding season comparing with those of the breeding season in both protein and mRNA levels. The AR: ER ratio in the uteri of the non-breeding season exceeded the AR: ER ratio in the uteri of the breeding season in the wild Daurian ground squirrels. These results suggested that seasonal changes in the expression levels of AR, ERs and P450arom might be correlated with the uterine morphology and histology changes, and estrogen may play an important autocrine/paracrine role in regulating the uterine functions of the wild Daurian ground squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Beijing Forestry University, College of Biological Science and Technology.
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30
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Divyashree S, Yajurvedi HN. Chronic stress effects and their reversibility on the Fallopian tubes and uterus in rats. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:380-390. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The durational effects of chronic stress on the Fallopian tubes and uterus were studied by exposing rats to stressors in the form of restraint (1 h) and forced swimming (15 min) daily for 4, 8 or 12 weeks. One group of stressed rats from each time period was then maintained without exposure to stressors for a further 4 weeks to assess their ability to recover from stress. All time periods of stress exposure resulted in decreased weight of the body and Fallopian tubes; however, the relative weight of the uterus and serum concentrations of oestradiol and insulin increased significantly. The antioxidant potential was decreased with increased malondialdehyde concentrations in the Fallopian tubes following all durations of exposure and after 4 and 8 weeks of stress exposure in the uterus. Interestingly, rats stressed for 12 weeks showed an increase in serum testosterone concentration and antioxidant enzyme activities with a decrease in malondialdehyde concentration in the uterus. The antioxidant enzyme activities and malondialdehyde concentration in the Fallopian tubes of all recovery group rats were similar to stressed rats. However, in the uterus these parameters were similar to controls in recovery group rats after 4 weeks or 8 weeks of exposure, but after 12 weeks of stress exposure these parameters did not return to control levels following the recovery period. These results reveal, for the first time, that chronic stress elicits an irreversible decrease in antioxidant defence in the Fallopian tubes irrespective of exposure duration, whereas the uterus develops reversible oxidative stress under short-term exposure but increased antioxidant potential with endometrial proliferation following long-term exposure.
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31
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Plaza-Parrochia F, Romero C, Valladares L, Vega M. Endometrium and steroids, a pathologic overview. Steroids 2017; 126:85-91. [PMID: 28827068 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Normal endometrial function requires of cell proliferation and differentiation; therefore, disturbances in these processes could lead to pathological entities such as hyperplasia and endometrial adenocarcinoma, where cell proliferation is increased. The development of these pathologies is highly related to alterations in the levels and/or action of sexual steroids. In the present review, it has been analyzed how steroids, particularly estrogens, androgens and progestagens are involved in the etiopathogenesis of hyperplasia and endometrial endometrioid adenocarcinoma. The emphasis is given on pathological and pharmacological conditions that are presented as risk factors for endometrial pathologies, such as obesity, polycystic ovarian syndrome and hormone replacement postmenopausal women therapy, among others. Steroids alterations may promote changes at molecular level that enhance the development of hyperplasia and endometrioid cancer. In fact, there are solid data that indicate that estrogens stimulate cell-proliferation in this tissue; meanwhile, progestagens are able to stop cell proliferation and to increase differentiation. Nevertheless, the role of androgens is less clear, since there is contradictory information. It is most likely that the major contribution of steroids to the development of cell proliferation pathologies in endometria would be in early stages, where there is a high sensitivity to these molecules. This phenomenon is present even in stages previous to the occurrence of hyperplasia, like in the condition of polycystic ovarian syndrome, where the endometria have a greater sensitivity to steroids and high expression of cell cycle molecules. These abnormalities would contribute to the pathogenesis of hyperplasia and then in the progression to endometrioid adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Plaza-Parrochia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Clinical Hospital, Santos Dumont # 999, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Carmen Romero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Clinical Hospital, Santos Dumont # 999, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Valladares
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, University of Chile, Macul #5540, Chile
| | - Margarita Vega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Clinical Hospital, Santos Dumont # 999, Santiago, Chile.
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Ose J, Poole EM, Schock H, Lehtinen M, Arslan AA, Zeleniuch-Jacquotte A, Visvanathan K, Helzlsouer K, Buring JE, Lee IM, Tjønneland A, Dossus L, Trichopoulou A, Masala G, Onland-Moret NC, Weiderpass E, Duell EJ, Idahl A, Travis RC, Rinaldi S, Merritt MA, Trabert B, Wentzensen N, Tworoger SS, Kaaks R, Fortner RT. Androgens Are Differentially Associated with Ovarian Cancer Subtypes in the Ovarian Cancer Cohort Consortium. Cancer Res 2017; 77:3951-3960. [PMID: 28381542 PMCID: PMC5512110 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-16-3322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Invasive epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. The etiology of EOC remains elusive; however, experimental and epidemiologic data suggest a role for hormone-related exposures in ovarian carcinogenesis and risk factor differences by histologic phenotypes and developmental pathways. Research on prediagnosis androgen concentrations and EOC risk has yielded inconclusive results, and analyses incorporating EOC subtypes are sparse. We conducted a pooled analysis of 7 nested case-control studies in the Ovarian Cancer Cohort Consortium to investigate the association between pre-diagnosis circulating androgens [testosterone, free testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)], sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), and EOC risk by tumor characteristics (i.e., histology, grade, and stage). The final study population included 1,331 EOC cases and 3,017 matched controls. Multivariable conditional logistic regression was used to assess risk associations in pooled individual data. Testosterone was positively associated with EOC risk (all subtypes combined, ORlog2 = 1.12; 95% confidence interval 1.02-1.24); other endogenous androgens and SHBG were not associated with overall risk. Higher concentrations of testosterone and androstenedione associated with an increased risk in endometrioid and mucinous tumors [e.g., testosterone, endometrioid tumors, ORlog2 = 1.40 (1.03-1.91)], but not serous or clear cell. An inverse association was observed between androstenedione and high grade serous tumors [ORlog2 = 0.76 (0.60-0.96)]. Our analyses provide further evidence for a role of hormone-related pathways in EOC risk, with differences in associations between androgens and histologic subtypes of EOC. Cancer Res; 77(14); 3951-60. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Ose
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Department of Population Sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Elizabeth M Poole
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Helena Schock
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Matti Lehtinen
- Karolinska Institutet, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Alan A Arslan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University School of Medicine; Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University, New York, New York
- Department of Population Health and Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine; Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Anne Zeleniuch-Jacquotte
- Department of Population Health and Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine; Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University, New York, New York
| | - Kala Visvanathan
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kathy Helzlsouer
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Julie E Buring
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - I-Min Lee
- Division of Preventive Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anne Tjønneland
- Unit of Diet, Genes and Environment, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laure Dossus
- INSERM, Centre for Research in Epidemiology and Population Health (CESP), U1018, Nutrition, Hormones and Women's Health Team, Villejuif, France
| | - Antonia Trichopoulou
- Hellenic Health Foundation, Athens, Greece
- WHO Collaborating Center for Nutrition and Health, Unit of Nutritional Epidemiology and Nutrition in Public Health, Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Giovanna Masala
- Molecular and Nutritional Epidemiology Unit, Cancer Research and Prevention Institute - ISPO, Florence, Italy
| | - N Charlotte Onland-Moret
- Department of Epidemiology, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Elisabete Weiderpass
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Genetic Epidemiology Group, Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eric J Duell
- Unit of Nutrition and Cancer, Cancer Epidemiology Research Program, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO-IDIBELL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Annika Idahl
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umea University, Umea, Sweden
| | - Ruth C Travis
- Cancer Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sabina Rinaldi
- Section of Nutrition and Metabolism, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Lyon, France
| | - Melissa A Merritt
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Britton Trabert
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, Department of Health and Human Services, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Nicolas Wentzensen
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, Department of Health and Human Services, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Shelley S Tworoger
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Rudolf Kaaks
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Renée T Fortner
- Division of Cancer Epidemiology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
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Zhang Y, Hu M, Meng F, Sun X, Xu H, Zhang J, Cui P, Morina N, Li X, Li W, Wu XK, Brännström M, Shao R, Billig H. Metformin Ameliorates Uterine Defects in a Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. EBioMedicine 2017; 18:157-170. [PMID: 28336389 PMCID: PMC5405166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2017.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult rats treated concomitantly with insulin and human chorionic gonadotropin exhibit endocrine, metabolic, and reproductive abnormalities that are very similar to those observed in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. In this study, we used this rat model to assess the effects of metformin on PCOS-related uterine dysfunction. In addition to reducing androgen levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and correcting the reproductive cycle, metformin treatment induced morphological changes in the PCOS-like uterus. At the molecular and cellular levels, metformin normalized the androgen receptor-mediated transcriptional program and restored epithelial–stromal interactions. In contrast to glucose transport, uterine inflammatory gene expression was suppressed through the PI3K–Akt–NFκB network, but without affecting apoptosis. These effects appeared to be independent of AMPK subunit and autophagy-related protein regulation. We found that when metformin treatment partially restored implantation, several implantation-related genes were normalized in the PCOS-like rat uterus. These results improve our understanding of how metformin rescues the disruption of the implantation process due to the uterine defects that result from hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Our data provide insights into the molecular and functional clues that might help explain, at least in part, the potential therapeutic options of metformin in PCOS patients with uterine dysfunction. The therapeutic dose of metformin sufficiently suppresses hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. Metformin inhibits uterine androgen receptor (AR)-dependent gene expression to restore epithelial–stromal interactions. Metformin reduces uterine inflammation through the PI3K–Akt–NFκB pathway. Metformin partially restores implantation in PCOS-like rats.
The systemic benefits of metformin therapy for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are widely appreciated, but knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of its action and to what extent it beneficially affects uterine function is limited. Using a PCOS-like rat model, we show that treatment with metformin can reverse the negative effects of androgenic and inflammatory conditions in the rat uterus. Importantly, we find that the sustained benefit of metformin is to rescue implantation failure in some PCOS-like rats. Thus, our data will be of translational value in the clinical management of metformin treatment in PCOS patients with uterine dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China; Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Fanci Meng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Hongfei Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Second Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150001 Harbin, China
| | - Peng Cui
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, State Key Lab of Medical Neurobiology, Shanghai Medical College, Institute of Acupuncture Research (WHO Collaborating Center for Traditional Medicine), Institute of Brain Science, Fudan University, 200032 Shanghai, China
| | - Njomeza Morina
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, 200011 Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, 200011 Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Xiao-Ke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, 150040 Harbin, China
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41345 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ruijin Shao
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Billig
- Department of Physiology/Endocrinology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Sex hormone-binding globulin regulation of androgen bioactivity in vivo: validation of the free hormone hypothesis. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35539. [PMID: 27748448 PMCID: PMC5066276 DOI: 10.1038/srep35539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is the high-affinity binding protein for androgens and estrogens. According to the free hormone hypothesis, SHBG modulates the bioactivity of sex steroids by limiting their diffusion into target tissues. Still, the in vivo physiological role of circulating SHBG remains unclear, especially since mice and rats lack circulating SHBG post-natally. To test the free hormone hypothesis in vivo, we examined total and free sex steroid concentrations and bioactivity on target organs in mice expressing a human SHBG transgene. SHBG increased total androgen and estrogen concentrations via hypothalamic-pituitary feedback regulation and prolonged ligand half-life. Despite markedly raised total sex steroid concentrations, free testosterone was unaffected while sex steroid bioactivity on male and female reproductive organs was attenuated. This occurred via a ligand-dependent, genotype-independent mechanism according to in vitro seminal vesicle organ cultures. These results provide compelling support for the determination of free or bioavailable sex steroid concentrations in medicine, and clarify important comparative differences between translational mouse models and human endocrinology.
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35
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Cousins FL, Kirkwood PM, Murray AA, Collins F, Gibson DA, Saunders PTK. Androgens regulate scarless repair of the endometrial “wound” in a mouse model of menstruation. FASEB J 2016; 30:2802-11. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201600078r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L. Cousins
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Inflammation ResearchThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Phoebe M. Kirkwood
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Inflammation ResearchThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Alison A. Murray
- MRC Centre for Reproductive HealthThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Frances Collins
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Inflammation ResearchThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Douglas A. Gibson
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Inflammation ResearchThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Philippa T. K. Saunders
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Inflammation ResearchThe University of Edinburgh, Queen's Medical Research InstituteEdinburghUnited Kingdom
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