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Zhang W, Cheng W, Li J, Huang Z, Lin H, Zhang W. New aspects characterizing non-obese NAFLD by the analysis of the intestinal flora and metabolites using a mouse model. mSystems 2024; 9:e0102723. [PMID: 38421203 PMCID: PMC10949483 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01027-23] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major public health problem due to the high incidence affecting approximately one-third of the world's population. NAFLD is usually linked to obesity and excessive weight. A subset of patients with NAFLD expresses normal or low body mass index; thus, the condition is called non-obese NAFLD or lean NAFLD. However, patients and healthcare professionals have little awareness and understanding of NAFLD in non-obese individuals. Furthermore, preclinical results from non-obese animal models with NAFLD are unclear. Gut microbiota and their metabolites in non-obese/lean-NAFLD patients differ from those in obese NAFLD patients. Therefore, we analyzed the biochemical indices, intestinal flora, and intestinal metabolites in a non-obese NAFLD mouse model established using a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet. The significantly lean MCD mice had a remarkable fatty liver with lower serum triglyceride and free fatty acid levels, as well as higher alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase levels than normal mice. 16S RNA sequencing of fecal DNA showed that the overall richness and diversity of the intestinal flora decreased in MCD mice, whereas the Firmicutes:Bacteroidota ratio was increased. g_Tuzzerella, s_Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, and s_Faecalibaculum rodentium were the predominant species in non-obese NAFLD mice. Fecal metabolomics using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed the potential biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis of non-obese NAFLD, including high levels of tyramine glucuronide, 9,12,13-TriHOME, and pantetheine 4'-phosphate, and low levels of 3-carbamoyl-2-phenylpropionaldehyde, N-succinyl-L,L-2,6-diaminopimelate, 4-methyl-5-thiazoleethanol, homogentisic acid, and estriol. Our findings could be useful to identify and develop drugs to treat non-obese NAFLD and lean NAFLD. IMPORTANCE Patients and healthcare professionals have little awareness and understanding of NAFLD in non-obese individuals. In fact, about 40% of people with NAFLD worldwide are non-obese, and nearly one-fifth are lean. Lean NAFLD unfortunately may be unnoticed for years and remains undetected until hepatic damage is advanced and the prognosis is compromised. This study focused on the lean NAFLD, screened therapeutic agents, and biomarkers for the prognosis and diagnosis using MCD-induced male C57BL/6J mice. The metabolites tyramine glucuronide, 9,12,13-TriHOME, and pantetheine 4'-phosphate, together with the predominant flora including g_Tuzzerella, s_Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, and s_Faecalibaculum rodentium, were specific in non-obese NAFLD mice and might be used as targets for non-obese NAFLD drug exploration. This study is particularly significant for non-obese NAFLDs that need to be more actively noticed and vigilant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenji Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center for Tobacco Breeding and Comprehensive Utilization, Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement of Guangdong Province, Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenli Cheng
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - JingHui Li
- Ningbo Psychiatric Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhenrui Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center for Tobacco Breeding and Comprehensive Utilization, Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement of Guangdong Province, Crops Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjuan Zhang
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Amato KR, Pradhan P, Mallott EK, Shirola W, Lu A. Host-gut microbiota interactions during pregnancy. Evol Med Public Health 2024; 12:7-23. [PMID: 38288320 PMCID: PMC10824165 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoae001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian pregnancy is characterized by a well-known suite of physiological changes that support fetal growth and development, thereby positively affecting both maternal and offspring fitness. However, mothers also experience trade-offs between current and future maternal reproductive success, and maternal responses to these trade-offs can result in mother-offspring fitness conflicts. Knowledge of the mechanisms through which these trade-offs operate, as well as the contexts in which they operate, is critical for understanding the evolution of reproduction. Historically, hormonal changes during pregnancy have been thought to play a pivotal role in these conflicts since they directly and indirectly influence maternal metabolism, immunity, fetal growth and other aspects of offspring development. However, recent research suggests that gut microbiota may also play an important role. Here, we create a foundation for exploring this role by constructing a mechanistic model linking changes in maternal hormones, immunity and metabolism during pregnancy to changes in the gut microbiota. We posit that marked changes in hormones alter maternal gut microbiome composition and function both directly and indirectly via impacts on the immune system. The gut microbiota then feeds back to influence maternal immunity and metabolism. We posit that these dynamics are likely to be involved in mediating maternal and offspring fitness as well as trade-offs in different aspects of maternal and offspring health and fitness during pregnancy. We also predict that the interactions we describe are likely to vary across populations in response to maternal environments. Moving forward, empirical studies that combine microbial functional data and maternal physiological data with health and fitness outcomes for both mothers and infants will allow us to test the evolutionary and fitness implications of the gestational microbiota, enriching our understanding of the ecology and evolution of reproductive physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Amato
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Priyanka Pradhan
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Elizabeth K Mallott
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Wesley Shirola
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Amy Lu
- Department of Anthropology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
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3
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Campbell BC, Hackman JV, Kramer KL. Development of adiposity among Ju/'Hoansi Hunter-Gatherers. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2023; 181:173-181. [PMID: 36811167 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize the development of childhood adiposity among the Ju'/Hoansi, a well-known hunter-gather group, to compare our results to U.S. references and to recently published results from Savanna Pume' foragers of Venezuela, with the goal of expanding our understanding of adipose development among human hunter-gatherers. METHODS Triceps, subscapular, and abdominal skinfolds, along with height and weight from ~120 Ju'/Hoansi girls and ~103 boys, ages 0 to 24 years, collected in 1967-1969 were analyzed using best-fit polynomial models and penalized spines to characterize age-specific patterns of adiposity and their relationship to changes in height and weight. RESULTS Overall, Ju/'Hoansi boys and girls exhibit small skinfolds with a decline in adiposity from 3 to 10 years, with no consistent differences among the three skinfolds. Increases in adiposity during adolescence precede peak height and weight velocities. Adiposity declines during young adulthood for girls and remains largely constant for boys. DISCUSSION Compared to U.S. standards, the Ju/'Hoansi show a strikingly different pattern of adipose development, including the lack of an adiposity rebound at the onset of middle childhood, and clear increases in adiposity only at adolescence. These findings are consistent with published results from the Savanna Pumé hunter-gatherers of Venezuela, a group with a very different selective history, suggesting that the adiposity rebound does not characterize hunter-gathering populations more generally. Similar analyses in other subsistence populations are called for to confirm our results, and help distinguish the impact of specific environmental and dietary factors on adipose development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C Campbell
- Department of Anthropology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
| | - Joe V Hackman
- Department of Anthropology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
| | - Karen L Kramer
- Department of Anthropology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
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Dehghan A, Vasan SK, Fielding BA, Karpe F. A prospective study of the relationships between change in body composition and cardiovascular risk factors across the menopause. Menopause 2021; 28:400-406. [PMID: 33534433 PMCID: PMC8284369 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001721] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Menopause increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) which in part has been attributed to the rise in cholesterol and blood pressure (BP). This study examined the hypothesis that menopausal changes in body composition and regional fat depots relate to the change in CVD risk factors. METHODS A prospective recall study was designed to capture premenopausal women to be re-examined soon after menopause. A total of 97 women from the Oxford Biobank underwent dual x-ray absorptiometry, blood biochemistry, and BP readings pre- and postmenopause. RESULTS Despite minimal changes in body weight over the 5.1 ± 0.9 year follow-up period, there was an increase in total fat mass and a decline in lean mass, where the proportional change of regional fat mass was the greatest for the visceral fat depot (+22%, P < 0.01). Plasma ApoB (+12%, P < 0.01) and C-reactive protein (+45%, P < 0.01) increased as did systolic (+7%, P < 0.001) and diastolic BP (+5%, P < 0.001). Plasma nonesterified fatty acids decreased (-20%, P < 0.05) which may reflect on a change in adipose tissue function across the menopause. PCSK-9 decreased (-26%, P < 0.01) which suggests a compensation for the postmenopausal reduction in low-density lipoprotein receptor activity. Using multilinear regression analyses the changes in ApoB and diastolic BP were associated with visceral fat mass change, but this association was lost when adjusted for total fat mass change. CONCLUSION The increase in CVD risk factor burden across menopause may not be driven by changes in body composition, rather by functional changes in end organs such as adipose tissue and liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Dehghan
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Senthil K. Vasan
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Fredrik Karpe
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Centre, Oxford University Hospital Trust and University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Oyola MG, Johnson RC, Bauman BM, Frey KG, Russell AL, Cho‐Clark M, Buban KN, Bishop‐Lilly KA, Merrell DS, Handa RJ, Wu TJ. Gut microbiota and metabolic marker alteration following dietary isoflavone-photoperiod interaction. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab 2021; 4:e00190. [PMID: 33532621 PMCID: PMC7831223 DOI: 10.1002/edm2.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The interaction between isoflavones and the gut microbiota has been highlighted as a potential regulator of obesity and diabetes. In this study, we examined the interaction between isoflavones and a shortened activity photoperiod on the gut microbiome. Methods Male mice were exposed to a diet containing no isoflavones (NIF) or a regular diet (RD) containing the usual isoflavones level found in a standard vivarium chow. These groups were further divided into regular (12L:12D) or short active (16L:8D) photoperiod, which mimics seasonal changes observed at high latitudes. White adipose tissue and genes involved in lipid metabolism and adipogenesis processes were analysed. Bacterial genomic DNA was isolated from fecal boli, and 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing was performed. Results NIF diet increased body weight and adipocyte size when compared to mice on RD. The lack of isoflavones and photoperiod alteration also caused dysregulation of lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), glucose transporter type 4 (Glut-4) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg) genes. Using 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing, we found that mice fed the NIF diet had a greater proportion of Firmicutes than Bacteroidetes when compared to animals on the RD. These alterations were accompanied by changes in the endocrine profile, with lower thyroid-stimulating hormone levels in the NIF group compared to the RD. Interestingly, the NIF group displayed increased locomotion as compared to the RD group. Conclusion Together, these data show an interaction between the gut bacterial communities, photoperiod length and isoflavone compounds, which may be essential for understanding and improving metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario G. Oyola
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative MedicineUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Ryan C. Johnson
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Bradly M. Bauman
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Kenneth G. Frey
- Genomics and Bioinformatics DepartmentBiological Defense Research DirectorateNaval Medical Research Center – FrederickFort DetrickMDUSA
| | - Ashley L. Russell
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative MedicineUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Madelaine Cho‐Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Katelyn N. Buban
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military MedicineBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Kimberly A. Bishop‐Lilly
- Genomics and Bioinformatics DepartmentBiological Defense Research DirectorateNaval Medical Research Center – FrederickFort DetrickMDUSA
- Program in Emerging Infectious DiseasesUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - D. Scott Merrell
- Program in Emerging Infectious DiseasesUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Robert J. Handa
- Department of Biomedical SciencesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsCOUSA
| | - T. John Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative MedicineUniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaMDUSA
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Bai M, Susic D, O'Sullivan AJ, Henry A. Reproducibility of Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis in Pregnancy and the Association of Body Composition with the Risk of Gestational Diabetes: A Substudy of MUMS Cohort. J Obes 2020; 2020:3128767. [PMID: 33029392 PMCID: PMC7528004 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3128767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a rapid and noninvasive method of body composition analysis; however, reproducibility between BIA instruments in pregnancy is uncertain. Adverse maternal body composition has been linked to pregnancy complications including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This study aimed to evaluate the reproducibility of three BIA instruments in pregnancy and analyse the relationship between the body composition and the GDM risk. Methods A prospective cohort (n = 117) of women with singleton pregnancies participating in the Microbiome Understanding in Maternity Study (MUMS) at St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia. Anthropometric measurements and BIA body composition were measured at ≤13 weeks (T1), 20-24 weeks (T2), and 32-36 weeks (T3) of gestation. Body fat percentage (BFP), total body water (TBW), and impedance were estimated by three BIA instruments: Bodystat 1500, RJL Quantum III, and Tanita BC-587. GDM status was recorded after 75 g oral glucose tolerance test was performed at 28 weeks or earlier. Agreement between BIA instruments was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis. Logistic regression modelling explored associations of BFP with GDM. Results Method comparison reproducibility between Bodystat and RJL was stronger than between Bodystat and Tanita for both BFP and TBW% at all three time points. RJL overestimated BFP on average by 3.3% (p < 0.001), with limits of agreement within ±5% for all trimesters. Average BFP was not significantly different between Tanita and Bodystat although limits of agreement exceeded ±5%. GDM diagnosis was independently associated with increased BFP in T1 (adjusted OR 1.117 per 1% increase; 95% CI 1.020-1.224; p=0.017) and in T2 (adjusted OR 1.113 per 1% increase; 95% CI 1.010-1.226; p=0.031) and with Asian ethnicity in all models (OR 7.4-8.1). Conclusion Reproducibility amongst instruments was moderate; therefore, interchangeability between instruments, particularly for research purposes, cannot be assumed. In this cohort, GDM risk was modestly associated with increasing BFP and strongly associated with Asian ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Bai
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, Australia
| | - Daniella Susic
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Anthony J. O'Sullivan
- Department of Endocrinology, St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- St. George and Sutherland Clinical School, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amanda Henry
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- The George Institute for Global Health, UNSW Medicine, Sydney, Australia
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XX sex chromosome complement promotes atherosclerosis in mice. Nat Commun 2019; 10:2631. [PMID: 31201301 PMCID: PMC6643208 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-10462-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Men and women differ in circulating lipids and coronary artery disease (CAD). While sex hormones such as estrogens decrease CAD risk, hormone replacement therapy increases risk. Biological sex is determined by sex hormones and chromosomes, but effects of sex chromosomes on circulating lipids and atherosclerosis are unknown. Here, we use mouse models to separate effects of sex chromosomes and hormones on atherosclerosis, circulating lipids and intestinal fat metabolism. We assess atherosclerosis in multiple models and experimental paradigms that distinguish effects of sex chromosomes, and male or female gonads. Pro-atherogenic lipids and atherosclerosis are greater in XX than XY mice, indicating a primary effect of sex chromosomes. Small intestine expression of enzymes involved in lipid absorption and chylomicron assembly are greater in XX male and female mice with higher intestinal lipids. Together, our results show that an XX sex chromosome complement promotes the bioavailability of dietary fat to accelerate atherosclerosis. Men and women differ in their risk of developing coronary artery disease, in part due to differences in their levels of sex hormones. Here, AlSiraj et al. show that the XX sex genotype regulates lipid metabolism and promotes atherosclerosis independently of sex hormones in mice.
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Della Torre S, Mitro N, Meda C, Lolli F, Pedretti S, Barcella M, Ottobrini L, Metzger D, Caruso D, Maggi A. Short-Term Fasting Reveals Amino Acid Metabolism as a Major Sex-Discriminating Factor in the Liver. Cell Metab 2018; 28:256-267.e5. [PMID: 29909969 PMCID: PMC6084280 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2018.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Sex impacts on liver physiology with severe consequences for energy metabolism and response to xenobiotic, hepatic, and extra-hepatic diseases. The comprehension of the biology subtending sex-related hepatic differences is therefore very relevant in the medical, pharmacological, and dietary perspective. The extensive application of metabolomics paired to transcriptomics here shows that, in the case of short-term fasting, the decision to maintain lipid synthesis using amino acids (aa) as a source of fuel is the key discriminant for the hepatic metabolism of male and female mice. Pharmacological and genetic interventions indicate that the hepatic estrogen receptor (ERα) has a key role in this sex-related strategy that is primed around birth by the aromatase-dependent conversion of testosterone into estradiol. This energy partition strategy, possibly the result of an evolutionary pressure enabling mammals to tailor their reproductive capacities to nutritional status, is most important to direct future sex-specific dietary and medical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Della Torre
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Nico Mitro
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Clara Meda
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Federica Lolli
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Silvia Pedretti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Matteo Barcella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Ottobrini
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniel Metzger
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, INSERM U964/CNRS UMR 7104, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Donatella Caruso
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy
| | - Adriana Maggi
- Center of Excellence on Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Via Balzaretti 9, Milan 20133, Italy.
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Lauretta R, Sansone M, Sansone A, Romanelli F, Appetecchia M. Gender in Endocrine Diseases: Role of Sex Gonadal Hormones. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:4847376. [PMID: 30420884 PMCID: PMC6215564 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4847376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Gender- and sex- related differences represent a new frontier towards patient-tailored medicine, taking into account that theoretically every medical specialty can be influenced by both of them. Sex hormones define the differences between males and females, and the different endocrine environment promoted by estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, and their precursors might influence both human physiology and pathophysiology. With the term Gender we refer, instead, to behaviors, roles, expectations, and activities carried out by the individual in society. In other words, "gender" refers to a sociocultural sphere of the individual, whereas "sex" only defines the biological sex. In the last decade, increasing attention has been paid to understand the influence that gender can have on both the human physiology and pathogenesis of diseases. Even the clinical response to therapy may be influenced by sex hormones and gender, but further research is needed to investigate and clarify how they can affect the human pathophysiology. The path to a tailored medicine in which every patient is able to receive early diagnosis, risk assessments, and optimal treatments cannot exclude the importance of gender. In this review, we have focused our attention on the involvement of sex hormones and gender on different endocrine diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Lauretta
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Endocrinology Unit, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Sansone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - A. Sansone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - F. Romanelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Medical Pathophysiology, Food Science and Endocrinology, Sapienza Università di Roma, Rome, Italy
| | - M. Appetecchia
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Endocrinology Unit, Rome, Italy
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Davis GK, Roberts L, Mangos G, Henry A, Pettit F, O’Sullivan A, Homer CS, Craig M, Harvey SB, Brown MA. Postpartum physiology, psychology and paediatric follow up study (P4 Study) – Study protocol. Pregnancy Hypertens 2016; 6:374-379. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2016.08.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Laughlin MR, Bantle JP, Havel PJ, Parks E, Klurfeld DM, Teff K, Maruvada P. Clinical research strategies for fructose metabolism. Adv Nutr 2014; 5:248-59. [PMID: 24829471 PMCID: PMC4013177 DOI: 10.3945/an.113.005249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fructose and simple sugars are a substantial part of the western diet, and their influence on human health remains controversial. Clinical studies in fructose nutrition have proven very difficult to conduct and interpret. NIH and USDA sponsored a workshop on 13-14 November 2012, "Research Strategies for Fructose Metabolism," to identify important scientific questions and parameters to be considered while designing clinical studies. Research is needed to ascertain whether there is an obesogenic role for fructose-containing sugars via effects on eating behavior and energy balance and whether there is a dose threshold beyond which these sugars promote progression toward diabetes and liver and cardiovascular disease, especially in susceptible populations. Studies tend to fall into 2 categories, and design criteria for each are described. Mechanistic studies are meant to validate observations made in animals or to elucidate the pathways of fructose metabolism in humans. These highly controlled studies often compare the pure monosaccharides glucose and fructose. Other studies are focused on clinically significant disease outcomes or health behaviors attributable to amounts of fructose-containing sugars typically found in the American diet. These are designed to test hypotheses generated from short-term mechanistic or epidemiologic studies and provide data for health policy. Discussion brought out the opinion that, although many mechanistic questions concerning the metabolism of monosaccharide sugars in humans remain to be addressed experimentally in small highly controlled studies, health outcomes research meant to inform health policy should use large, long-term studies using combinations of sugars found in the typical American diet rather than pure fructose or glucose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren R. Laughlin
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD,To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| | - John P. Bantle
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
| | - Peter J. Havel
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Department of Nutrition, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Elizabeth Parks
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, Institute for Clinical Translational Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO; and
| | | | - Karen Teff
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD
| | - Padma Maruvada
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD
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Abstract
This review will discuss the concept of reproductive aging, which includes the definition of menopause, its symptoms, and predisposing conditions. It will elaborate upon the contributory factors implicated in the pathogenesis of menopause, focusing most prominently on oxidative stress. Specifically, this paper will explain how oxidative stress, in the form of free radicals and antioxidant deficiencies, has been directly linked to the decline of estrogen during reproductive aging. Additionally, this paper will elaborate upon the treatment options aimed at mitigating the menopausal symptoms and hormonal deficiencies that can lead to various disease processes. Treatment options such as hormonal therapy, antioxidant supplementation, and lifestyle modification have been explored for their effectiveness in treating and preventing the symptoms and sequelae of menopause. The majority of information in this review was obtained through PubMed and the National Library of Medicine. While most references in this paper are original research articles, a limited number of references are comprehensive reviews on the topic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sejal B. Doshi
- Department of Andrology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Andrology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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13
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Sex differences in energy metabolism need to be considered with lifestyle modifications in humans. J Nutr Metab 2011; 2011:391809. [PMID: 21773020 PMCID: PMC3136178 DOI: 10.1155/2011/391809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2011] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Women have a higher proportion of body fat compared to men. However, women consume fewer kilojoules per kilogram lean mass and burn fat more preferentially during exercise compared with men. During gestation, women store even greater amounts of fat that cannot be solely attributed to increased energy intake. These observations suggest that the relationship between kilojoules consumed and kilojoules utilised is different in men and women. The reason for these sex differences in energy metabolism is not known; however, it may relate to sex steroids, differences in insulin resistance, or metabolic effects of other hormones such as leptin. When considering lifestyle modifications, sex differences in energy metabolism should be considered. Moreover, elucidating the regulatory role of hormones in energy homeostasis is important for understanding the pathogenesis of obesity and perhaps in the future may lead to ways to reduce body fat with less energy restriction.
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Hall N, White C, O'Sullivan AJ. The relationship between adiponectin, progesterone, and temperature across the menstrual cycle. J Endocrinol Invest 2009; 32:279-83. [PMID: 19542749 DOI: 10.1007/bf03346467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms regulating adiponectin, a highly abundant adipokine produced by adipocytes, have not been fully elucidated. Adiponectin levels are significantly higher in women when compared to men, suggesting sex-hormone involvement in its regulation. Previously, we have observed an inverse association between adiponectin and basal body temperature in pregnant women. These findings suggest that states where progesterone and temperature fluctuate, such as the menstrual cycle, could be associated with fluctuating adiponectin levels. AIM The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between adiponectin, progesterone, and temperature across the menstrual cycle. SUBJECTS AND METHODS A prospective study was performed. Fifteen non-obese pre-menopausal female subjects, all with regular cycles, and on no medication recorded a daily temperature and underwent blood sampling, indirect calorimetry, and bio-impendence studies in both the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. RESULTS Serum adiponectin levels did not vary significantly across the menstrual cycle or between those who did and did not ovulate. No correlation was found between adiponectin levels and sex steroids, insulin and glucose levels or basal energy expenditure and body composition. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that adiponectin is not related to sex steroids or body composition in healthy premenstrual women.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hall
- Department of Medicine and Endocrinology, St. George Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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15
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O'Sullivan AJ, Kriketos AD, Martin A, Brown MA. Serum adiponectin levels in normal and hypertensive pregnancy. Hypertens Pregnancy 2007; 25:193-203. [PMID: 17065040 DOI: 10.1080/10641950600912976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to quantify adiponectin levels in women with normal and hypertensive pregnancies to determine whether there is an independent association, while controlling for body fat and insulin sensitivity. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in the following categories: 12 normotensive non-pregnant women, 10 normotensive, 12 gestational hypertensive, 13 essential hypertensive, and 12 preeclamptic women. All subjects underwent measurements of body fat by bio-impedance analysis and blood sampling. RESULTS Percentage of body fat and insulin resistance were greater in all pregnant groups compared with non-pregnant women. Adiponectin concentrations were significantly lower in women with normal pregnancies (18.6 +/- 1.4 microg/mL, p = 0.02) compared with non-pregnant women (24.0 +/- 1.5 microg/mL). However, adiponectin levels were not significantly different among normal pregnancy, gestational hypertension (19.0 +/- 3.1 microg/mL), essential hypertension (24.0 +/- 3.7 microg/mL) and pre-eclampsia (22.4 +/- 2.5 microg/mL) groups. Adiponectin levels were inversely related to percent body fat and insulin resistance. When adiponectin levels were corrected for percent body fat and insulin resistance, no significant differences were seen among the study groups. CONCLUSIONS Adiponectin levels are decreased in normal pregnancy, however this difference disappears when adiponectin levels are corrected for the pregnancy-related increases in body fat and insulin resistance. Adiponectin levels are not altered significantly in states of hypertension in pregnancy compared with normal pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J O'Sullivan
- Department of Medicine, University of New South Wales and St. George Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
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16
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Veldhuis JD, Roemmich JN, Richmond EJ, Rogol AD, Lovejoy JC, Sheffield-Moore M, Mauras N, Bowers CY. Endocrine control of body composition in infancy, childhood, and puberty. Endocr Rev 2005; 26:114-46. [PMID: 15689575 DOI: 10.1210/er.2003-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Body composition exhibits marked variations across the early human lifetime. The precise physiological mechanisms that drive such developmental adaptations are difficult to establish. This clinical challenge reflects an array of potentially confounding factors, such as marked intersubject differences in tissue compartments; the incremental nature of longitudinal intrasubject variations in body composition; technical limitations in quantitating the unobserved mass of mineral, fat, water, and muscle ad seriatim; and the multifold contributions of genetic, dietary, environmental, hormonal, nutritional, and behavioral signals to physical and sexual maturation. From an endocrine perspective (reviewed here), gonadal sex steroids and GH/IGF-I constitute prime determinants of evolving body composition. The present critical review examines hormonal regulation of body composition in infancy, childhood, and puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes D Veldhuis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Medical and Graduate Schools of Medicine, General Clinical Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
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17
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Lephart ED, Porter JP, Lund TD, Bu L, Setchell KDR, Ramoz G, Crowley WR. Dietary isoflavones alter regulatory behaviors, metabolic hormones and neuroendocrine function in Long-Evans male rats. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2004; 1:16. [PMID: 15617573 PMCID: PMC544860 DOI: 10.1186/1743-7075-1-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2004] [Accepted: 12/23/2004] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Phytoestrogens derived from soy foods (or isoflavones) have received prevalent usage due to their 'health benefits' of decreasing: a) age-related diseases, b) hormone-dependent cancers and c) postmenopausal symptoms. However, little is known about the influence of dietary phytoestrogens on regulatory behaviors, such as food and water intake, metabolic hormones and neuroendocrine parameters. This study examined important hormonal and metabolic health issues by testing the hypotheses that dietary soy-derived isoflavones influence: 1) body weight and adipose deposition, 2) food and water intake, 3) metabolic hormones (i.e., leptin, insulin, T3 and glucose levels), 4) brain neuropeptide Y (NPY) levels, 5) heat production [in brown adipose tissue (BAT) quantifying uncoupling protein (UCP-1) mRNA levels] and 6) core body temperature. Methods This was accomplished by conducting longitudinal studies where male Long-Evans rats were exposed (from conception to time of testing or tissue collection) to a diet rich in isoflavones (at 600 micrograms/gram of diet or 600 ppm) vs. a diet low in isoflavones (at approximately 10–15 micrograms/gram of diet or 10–15 ppm). Body, white adipose tissue and food intake were measured in grams and water intake in milliliters. The hormones (leptin, insulin, T3, glucose and NPY) were quantified by radioimmunoassays (RIA). BAT UCP-1 mRNA levels were quantified by PCR and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis while core body temperatures were recorded by radio telemetry. The data were tested by analysis of variance (ANOVA) (or where appropriate by repeated measures). Results Body and adipose tissue weights were decreased in Phyto-600 vs. Phyto-free fed rats. Food and water intake was greater in Phyto-600 animals, that displayed higher hypothalamic (NPY) concentrations, but lower plasma leptin and insulin levels, vs. Phyto-free fed males. Higher thyroid levels (and a tendency for higher glucose levels) and increased uncoupling protein (UCP-1) mRNA levels in brown adipose tissue (BAT) were seen in Phyto-600 fed males. However, decreased core body temperature was recorded in these same animals compared to Phyto-free fed animals. Conclusions This study demonstrates that consumption of a soy-based (isoflavone-rich) diet, significantly alters several parameters involved in maintaining body homeostatic balance, energy expenditure, feeding behavior, hormonal, metabolic and neuroendocrine function in male rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwin D Lephart
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
- The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - James P Porter
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
- The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Trent D Lund
- Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Lihong Bu
- Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
- The Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Kenneth DR Setchell
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Gina Ramoz
- Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - William R Crowley
- Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Utah, College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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18
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Abstract
GH plays a pivotal role in regulating body growth and development, which is modulated by sex steroids. A close interplay between estrogen and GH leads to attainment of gender-specific body composition during puberty. The physiological basis of the interaction is not well understood. Most previous studies have focused on the effects of estrogen on GH secretion. There is also strong evidence that estrogen modulates GH action independent of secretion. Oral but not transdermal administration of estrogen impairs the metabolic action of GH in the liver, causing a fall in IGF-I production and fat oxidation. This results in a loss of lean tissue and a gain of body fat in postmenopausal women and an impairment of GH effect in hypopituitary women on GH replacement. The negative metabolic sequelae are potentially important because of the widespread use of oral estrogen and estrogen-related compounds. Estrogen affects GH action at the level of receptor expression and signaling. More recently, estrogen has been shown to inhibit Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling by GH via the induction of suppressor of cytokine signaling-2, a protein inhibitor for cytokine signaling. This represents a novel paradigm of steroid regulation of cytokine receptors and is likely to have significance for a diverse range of cytokine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kin-Chuen Leung
- Pituitary Research Unit, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St. Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales 2010, Australia
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